Obituary of Ellen Theresa Bayer
Bayer, Ellen Theresa [Kowal]
Ellen passed away peacefully on May 4th, 2022 at Niagara Gardens Residence in St. Catharines., Born April 28, 1926 in Honeymoon Saskatchewan to Walter and Anne [Bukszak] Kowal. She was the oldest of 8 children. Ellen is predeceased by her husband Thomas [2021] and her son Thomas Jr [2008], her brothers: Walter Jr. [Grace], Stan, Steven [Yvonne] and Johnny. Brother in laws: Paul Yachetti and John Liebrecht and also sister in law Vera [Bob] King. She is survived by her son Larry [Debbie], daughter in law Sandra McPherson, sister’s Fran [Lino Giavedoni], Josie Yachetti, Ann Liebrecht and sister in laws Evelyn and Audrey Kowal.
Babca will be greatly missed by her beloved 4 grandchildren and spouses: Lynsey [Justin Warkentin], Lawrence [Mindi], Kelsey [Brock Storin] and Theresa [Matt Emburgh] She was also blessed with great grand children, Dexter, Alex, Maeva, Lily, Whitney, Navy and Connor.
Ellen moved to Ontario in 1943 and worked at St Catharines Steel where she met the love of her life Tom and began to dance life away together. She was a devoted housewife that loved to cook and bake, especially all of Tom’s and her family’s favourite ethnic dishes which she mastered very well. She could pinch perogies and roll cabbage rolls with the best of them! She and Tom loved to dance any chance they got, whirling around to polkas and waltzes as if on air!
Ellen also worked at Stokes Seeds and many farms in the area part time when help was needed. She enjoyed selling Beauty Counsellor [Vanda] Cosmetics part time and made many long term friendships along the way while doing this.
She spent a lot of her time meticulously gardening and probably had one of the greenest thumbs known as she could and did grow almost everything in her huge garden into her 90’s. She loved the outdoors and even did some pheasant hunting and fishing with Tom in their early years.
Forever in our hearts , you will be remembered for your embracing love, compassion and zest for life!
The family appreciates how all the staff and residents at Niagara Gardens made her feel part of their family and were of great assistance and very compassionate to her needs when required. Thanks for being there for Ellen!
As per her request there will be no visitation or service. Cremation has been arranged by George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St, St Catharines. The family will have a private burial for Ellen and Tom at a later date. Donations may be made in her memory to St John’s Ukrainian Church.
