PIDKOWICH, Mary (nee HOWIKA), BA, BPaed, AMM, ARCT -
June 22, 1929 - June 17, 2024
With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Mary Pidkowich (nee Howika), at Baycrest Hospital in Toronto after a lengthy illness.
She was predeceased by her loving husband of 52 years, Dr. Peter Gordon Pidkowich (2011), and infant son, Murray (1960). Mary leaves behind her adored son, John and daughter, Anne Sidora (late Greg), cherished grandchildren, William and Yvanna Sidora, sister-in-law, Helen Tkachyk (late Walter) in Winnipeg; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and godchildren across Canada and in Ukraine. Also predeceased by her loving parents, William and Anne Howika, and infant sister, Melanie. Mary was born in Rosochacz (Chortkiw), Poland, present Ukraine.
She emigrated with her parents to London, UK, and arrived in Canada in 1938, and was raised and educated in Winnipeg. An accomplished violinist and an early member of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Mary completed her teacher's certificate for primary and intermediate collegiate education, and further specialized in (vocal/instrumental) music instruction and obtained certification as Supervisor of Music from the Toronto Board of Education, where she taught in area schools for 25 years.
Mary took upon leadership roles in professional and educational groups, as well as in the Ukrainian Canadian community, women's, and world organizations. Among many positions, she was the first woman elected President of the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada, and Olzhych Foundation.
Among her accomplishments and awards, Mary was awarded the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Taras Shevchenko Medal in 2016, and Ukrainian World Congress St. Volodymyr the Great Medal in 2023, for her outstanding national contribution to education, and cultural and artistic development of the Ukrainian Canadian community, and exceptional leadership in education and development of Ukrainian Culture.
Mary was devoted to her family and was a loving wife and mother within a caring home. She was committed to her faith, practised in the Ukrainian Catholic Church, and a strong supporter of the Women's League.
Visitation will take place at the Glen Oaks Funeral Home, 3164 Ninth Line, Oakville, on Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., with Panachyda at 7 p.m. Funeral Liturgy for the Repose of the Soul, will occur on Monday, June 24, 2024, at 11 a.m., with a visitation prior, from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., at St. Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Church, 15 Church Lane (near John St.), Thornhill, ON. Interment to follow at York Cemetery, Toronto.
Donations may be made to the UNF Foundation and Sunnybrook Foundation - Odette Cancer Centre. Eternal Memory - Vichna Iy Pam'yat'!
