March 8, 1943 – March 18, 2026

Peacefully, at the age of 83, Baba has reunited with Grandpa in the stars.

Marie was pre-deceased by her husband Paul and leaves to mourn her daughters Chris (Terry), Kim (Gord), grand-children Terra (Luke), Meagan (Nick), Lauren, and great-grandchildren Rolan, Kashtyn, Hazel and Sage.

Always adding her own flair to everything she did, Baba was incredibly creative, talented, and resourceful. From painting to pysanky, sewing to home renovation projects, hairstyling to being a Master Angler, Baba’s talents were bountiful. But where she really thrived was in her gardens – her solace was having her hands in the soil. Her incredible self-taught ability to breed unique garden species, fashion beautiful arrangements and be the family’s designated ‘plant-rescuer’ earned her endless accolades and Ag Fair ribbons. Second to gardening came cooking, with intricate and laborious dishes made from traditions and a bit of flair that we’d call ‘fusion cuisine’ today. Nothing was ever wasted – a nod to her humble upbringing and the decades before us. The traditional Christmas Eve feast will always be one of my favourite memories with the table set just so, the many dishes prepared with love and the laughs that surrounded her and Grandpa’s table.

The best part of Baba was seeing her look up and smile at any of her great-grandkids running down the hall towards her. Seeing her eyes light up at the sight of them was the greatest gift from her.

Whether you knew Baba or not, my wish is that you don’t spend today being sad for any reason…Instead, grab a drink and enjoy it with the people you love.

Baba, may you be free of pain, dance forevermore with Grandpa and be reunited with your kitties.

As per Marie’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal celebration will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to East Gate Lodge in Beausejour.

Our family would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the angels at East Gate who provided exceptional care for our Baba, and reigniting her sense of community these last years.

Have you ever had bird in the nest?
My favorite breakfast, Baba made the best.
Ketchup on my eggs in a real silly smile.
She was always so goofy, that was her style.

Arts and crafts, with love and care.
A creative mind with thoughts to share.
A talent unmatched, she was the best.
Anything you could imagine, she’d accept the test.
Decoupage, painting, bedazzling too.
Whatever you asked, she’d make it for you.

Haircuts, sewing, gardening, she did it all.
Foraging for mushrooms every spring and fall.
From the banks of Bird River to the beach of Mexico.
The life of the party wherever she’d go.
Ice fishing, boating, a Pike master angler.
Marie before Martha, a real hobby wrangler.

Her door was always open, her stove always on.
I miss the savory smell, now that it’s gone.
Cabbage rolls, perishke, pepenki and more.
Comfort and warmth when you walked through the door.
A true host with the most, the details just so.
Doing for others was how her love showed.

An amazing homemaker, and proud entertainer.
Heaven is beyond lucky to gain her.
The best Baba that there ever could be.
I’m so grateful she was mine, and for every memory.

Poem written by: Grand-daughter Terra Smyk

Obituary and memories written by:

Grand-daughter’s Meagan Essar and Lauren Halowaty

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Marie’s memorial page using the comment field below.