“An angel on earth – now has her wings.”
The family of Natalie (Horychuk) Cherkas is heartbroken to share that she peacefully passed away after a brief illness on January 11, 2026, at the age of 95.
Natalie was a devoted mother to Joy (John) Janicki of Winnipeg; Cynthia Prince (Jeff Beitz) of Thunder Bay; Mark (Janine) Cherkas of Vancouver; and Bobbi-Jane Drebit of Thunder Bay. She was a loving grandmother to Sunny (Tim) Giesbrecht, Steven (Erin) Janicki, Spencer Janicki, Devon Cherkas, Skylar Marks, Leland Prince, and Scott (Tanya) Prince. Additionally, she took pride in being a great-grandmother to Aubrey, Harper, and Archer Giesbrecht; Kinley and Cruz Janicki; Ava Cherkas; and Trenton and Tristan Prince. She also had a special bond with her brother Ivan Horychuk from Pittsburg, California. Her close friends Maggie Siciliano and Jodi Roehrig were dear to her as well and shared meaningful connections with her daughters and family. Many will miss her dearly.
Natalie dedicated her life to helping others through both her job and numerous volunteer efforts over the years.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Steve Cherkas (1999); her brother Steve Horychuk; her parents John and Olga Horychuk; along with her in-laws Joseph and Katherine Cherkas.
In line with Natalie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or funeral service. She will rest beside her husband at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
For those wishing to express sympathy, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. While Natalie appreciated flowers, the family kindly requests no floral tributes at this time.
The family sincerely thanks Paramed Home Care for their devoted assistance that allowed Natalie to live independently in her home until she turned 95. Their kindness and exceptional support meant more than words can say. They also extend heartfelt appreciation to the hospice staff who cared for Natalie during her last days with compassion and love.
All the angels above have welcomed a newcomer with open arms.
Heaven, we know, has just become a little nicer.
Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
