Stella Sturko

Gary and Candy Sturko would like to thank the kind people of Fairview Home, and the medical professionals who helped Mom as she ascended into Heaven.

Stella Sturko was born in Brandon. Mom was a lifelong member of Ukrainian Orthodox Church on Stickney. Father Skrumeda was Mom’s lifelong friend. In later years, Mom resided in Fairview. Mom was extremely popular in Fairview.

Mom worked in Winnipeg as a teenager for a while, becoming a renowned singer. She cut a popular radio single. However, Mom loved Brandon, moving home at 19.

Mom married Walter Sturko. Soon came children. Our prairie house on 30-23 St. had a garden with peas and corn, the meadow beside our home filled with wildflowers. Palidwar’s Corner Store nearby. The Sturko house was Grand Central Station. During the 1979 Winter Games Mom had coffee with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.

Loved ones included sister Olga, niece Kathy, brother John and Margaret, nephews Peter and Michael, next door’s fun-loving Nick Sturko, and neighbours the Borotsiks. Friends included Barry Condy, Dave Campbell, Jeff Cristall, Tom Thompson, Mrs. Bradley, Tom and Karen Baker, Principal Colin Mailer, Teacher Mr. Jolly, Valdy (folksinger) and Gary’s future wife Candy. Candy became Mom’s most beloved friend. Friendly dogs were Taffy, then Hermie.

Mom was very proud of sons Gary Patrick (Sheridan College, Art Fundamentals Alumni), Michael (Brandon University Alumni), Derek (Brandon University Alumni), and beloved Daughter-In-Law Candy (Brandon University Alumni). Candy was the daughter that Mom never had.

Mom’s favorite job was at Wilson’s Stationery in historic Laplont Block. One year, Mom sold more “Bic pens” than anyone in Canada, winning a 1970 purple Iverson 10 Speed. Mom gifted the bicycle to Beloved Son Gary.

The last person Mom heard was beloved son Gary. Gary was able to play his 1970 Linda Manzer Acoustic guitar for Mom for about 10 minutes before she happily passed. Mom is now young again in Heaven, enjoying perogies, holubsi, and Khrustyky.

Mom: From your beloved Son Gary

Mom, a shadow has crossed my heart. But one fine day you will see me coming. You will be waiting for me with Jesus Christ.

Surrounded by sparkling stars and Angels, I will stand tall. I will walk the Golden Stairway. I will not be afraid.

I will embrace you Mom with purest love. My beautiful wife Candy and I will be with you for all of eternity.

My beautiful Mother.