Natalie Ball Yaremko

We are saddened to announce the passing of Natalie on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 in her 85th year. Cherished mother of Leanne (Richard Solecki). Natalie “Auntie” will be fondly missed by her niece Natalie (Ken Foster) of Regina, Saskatchewan, her nephew Peter Sachatsky (Linda) of Edmonton, and their families. She is predeceased by her parents Joseph and Malanka (neé Huchak) Yaremko, and her sister, Mary (late Bill Sachatsky).

Natalie came from humble roots, born and living her first few years at the farm in Arran, Saskatchewan before moving to Regina as a young child. After finishing school she married, had her only child, and soon after packed up and moved East when a new office opened in Toronto at North American Life & Casualty in 1966. Her office and administrative work continued until 2006 when she retired, closer to home, from Columbian Chemicals Canada in Burlington and Hamilton offices.

Natalie worked tirelessly at whatever job she took on. After moving to Ontario she joined the St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church community in Hamilton and served for decades in various positions, on church executive, for the Ukrainian Women’s Association of Canada/Lesia Ukrainka Branch and on the Board of the Taras Shevchenko Home for the Aged.

She stepped up where there was a need, often in leadership roles but preferring to avoid the spotlight and serve quietly in supportive ones, as was her nature. Also in her nature was a no-nonsense approach that those who worked with her would come to recognize and appreciate.

Retirement opened up more time to do the things she enjoyed, like gardening, theatre trips with friends, but mostly travel, especially with Leanne. Bags backed and itineraries drawn up on a spreadsheet she’d be ready to go explore new places. In later years when her health made travel more difficult she’d look forward to emailed photos and stories from whatever part of the world Leanne and Rich ended up in. She will be missed by many. Vichnaya Pamyat.

Visitation at SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stop light north of QEW), BURLINGTON (905-632-3333), on Sunday, December 7 from 5-7 p.m. followed by a short Panachyda service for those who wish to stay. Funeral Prayers will be held in the Chapel on Monday, December 8 at 1 p.m. with burial to follow at White Chapel Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church would be sincerely appreciated by the family