Love on Annie Ewaskiw’s 103th Birthday

Love on Annie Ewaskiw’s 103th Birthday

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

Annie Ewaskiw’s family and friends had a birthday party for her on her 103th birthday.

Annie was born on May 4, 1919 and grew up on a farm north of Mundare.

Annie said with a chuckle in her voice that she turned 103-years-old on May 4, 2022, and that maybe old.

She credited her long life to working hard, never giving up as well as taking care of and enjoying flowers. She especially loves geraniums. “You know it is surprising what I can still do for a 103-year-old woman. The best part of my life was doing housework as I always kept my house nice and clean. I also liked to watch hockey.”

In front row is Annie Ewaskiw. Back row L-R. Leo Lessard, Marshall Ewaskiw, Georgina Frankiw, Mary Lessard and Elsie Kawulych.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Annie lives with her son Marshall at his home in Vegreville where he helps to take care of her. Her husband Bill passed away in 1998 and her other son, Norman also passed away.

Annie’s son Marshall said some of her challenges now are that she has a bit of trouble hearing, and with age, she has become forgetful. But she always remembers to dress up and get her hair done.

He credited his mom’s long life to working hard and having no time to get sick. “I think when you are busy you don’t worry as much,” said Marshall.

He added that his mom was special because she took good care of her children and has always been there for him. “Mom loved gardening and flowers were her life. She also volunteered with the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hilliard and sang in the choir at the Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chipman, Hilliard, Vegreville and Borshiw.”

Annie’s next door neighbours Mary and Leo Lessard said Annie and her family have been their neighbours for 45 years and they cannot ask for better neighbours. “Annie is a very warm and lovely lady.”

Annie’s friend Elsie Kawulych said she met Annie when they got their hair done and they would have coffee together. “Annie is a very kind and nice lady. She is always appreciative and always thinking of someone else.”

Georgina Frankiw said Annie is always friendly, loving, and appreciative to everyone. “She is just like a mother to me.”