Irene Yanishewski

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Irene Yanishewski on March 3, 2025, at the age of 88.  She died peacefully in her sleep at the Fairview Health Complex’s Long-Term Care unit. 

Irene was born on December 5, 1936, in Blueberry Mountain, Alberta, to Frank and Katherine Buchmeier, pioneers of the area.  She was the fourth of six children. 

From an early age, Irene loved being around children and at the age of 14, began working for teachers at the local school, caring for their children and homes.  At 16, she moved to Spirit River, working first in the hospital’s kitchen before becoming a popular server at the local Chinese café.

She married Alex Yanishewski on October 21, 1955 and together they built a home and a life.  They purchased her parents’ farm and expanded it over the years.  They raised their five children, instilling in them the values of generosity, honesty, and hard work.

A talented and resourceful woman, Irene was known for her delicious cooking and baking, her large gardens, and her skillful sewing, knitting, and needlepoint. She would often stay up late to make outfits for her children or gifts for loved ones.  She was always eager to try new recipes and experiment with growing different vegetables and fruits in her garden.  Her home was a gathering place, where family and friends were welcomed with warmth, laughter, and delicious meals.  Many who visited timed their arrival to coincide with one of her famous coffee breaks or lunches, knowing they’d be treated to something wonderful. 

Irene’s heart overflowed with generosity.  She quietly gave to those in need, whether it was passing down clothing and toys to families with young children, providing vegetables from her garden to the seniors’ lodge, or lending a helping hand in her community. She was always available to help prepare meals for weddings, funerals, and community events, always ensuring that those around her were cared for.  She could be counted on to bring cabbage rolls and perogies of various types to family gatherings and make bags of frozen perogies for her grandchildren.  To the very end, she always made sure she had treats with her to share with a child.

In her later years, Irene faced the challenges of Parkinson’s Disease with tremendous strength and dignity.  Despite the illness, her love for children never faded, and she remained happiest when surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Even in her final months, a child’s presence would brighten her day. 

After Alex’s passing in 2003, Irene moved to a new home in Spirit River built by her son, Terry, where she embraced a new chapter of life with the support of her family and friends.  She eventually moved into the Pleasant View Lodge before moving to Fairview’s Long-Term Care in 2023, where she was cared for with great compassion. 

Irene’s life was one of love, service, and devotion to family and friends.  She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unwavering strength.  Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. 

Irene is survived by her children Ken (Joyce) Yanishewski, Doug (Lyla) Yanishewski, Roxanne (Glen Nicholson) Yanishewski, and Terry (Annette) Yanishewski; grandchildren Michael (Cat) Yanishewski, Janelle (Jim) Yanishewski, Jonathan (Hazel) Yanishewski, Derek (Traci) Yanishewski, Cody (Mirielle) Yanishewski, Calvin (Lisa) Yanishewski, Brooke (Jessey) Yanishewski, Candace (Cody) Dolen, Blaine Yanishewski, Kristen (Reid) Smith, and Jaclyn (Blaine) Rogers; as well as 23 great grandchildren.

Irene is predeceased by her husband Alex Yanishewski, daughter Penny, and great grandson Gus.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bob Irvine, the nurses (especially Holly), the many nursing aides, and all the staff who provided comfort and kindness to Irene throughout her journey. 

A funeral mass will be held to celebrate her life on March 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Spirit River.  Interment to follow at 4 p.m. at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in Ksituan.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Pleasant View Lodge in Spirit River. 

She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Care entrusted to Peace Valley Funeral Home Fairview (Kristi Heck) 780-835-3306

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