With appreciation for a long and fulfilling life, the family of Nellie (Nastatia) Jakubowski shares the news of her passing on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the age of 106. She was one of five siblings, born on December 31, 1919, to John and Wasylena Zaychuk in the Pohortowetz district south of Sheho, Saskatchewan. Nellie attended school there and later took jobs with farming families in her community. A true pioneer, she set off on a new journey eastward and made her home in Fort William, now known as Thunder Bay. It was here that she met Vincent, who had recently come from Poland, and together they started their family. Their life began in the East End before moving to the city’s outskirts where they built a new house and continued raising their children.
Nellie found joy in many things but nothing meant more to her than family. She devoted herself to her children and grandchildren-who affectionately called her Baba-and cherished every moment spent with them.
Her love for travel brought her back west to visit relatives and attend family events. The highlight for her was discovering newfound family members in Los Angeles, California. They welcomed her warmly and created special memories with trips to Las Vegas as well as visits with relatives in Argentina.
Nellie was dedicated to sharing her Ukrainian culture and traditions with younger generations, particularly during Christmas and Easter celebrations. She mastered cooking all traditional Ukrainian dishes like paska, babka, medivnyk, perohy, and houlbtsi. Her ability to prepare these meals by herself was truly “mind boggling.”
As she moved into retirement gracefully, she left behind a strong reputation as a Domestic Worker followed by a role as a short order cook at Confederation College’s cafeteria.
A passion for gardening filled her days-one that everyone in the family enjoyed benefiting from. Whenever needed, she readily helped out at events held by Canadian Legion 149. Her love for Bingo shone through during weekly visits to the Church Hall where even small wins were thrilling for her.
Faith played an essential role in her daily life; she felt God’s presence wherever she went. Nellie was known for being kind-hearted and generous-a lovely lady whose absence will be profoundly felt by those who loved her dearly. Her strength and commitment will inspire those close to her forever.
Nellie was preceded in death by her parents John and Bella Zaychuk; husband Vincent; eldest brother George; sisters Pearl Bezborotko; Mary Skehar; Anne Skehar along with their spouses.
She is survived by sons Edward; Larry (Pat); Phil; daughter Holly Lynn; grandchildren Wayne; Heather; Aaron; Megan; great-grandchildren Taylor; Hailey; Kingston; Cashlynn along with their families: numerous nieces/nephews as well as close friends like Paul and Shelagh.
The family expresses heartfelt thanks for the care received over the years from Drs. Mary Valente, Gleason & Heather Mc Lean alongside special appreciation for caregivers who provided comfort during this time. It’s worth mentioning that Nellie received exceptional care at Hogarth Riverview Manor where staff members Caitlin & Kylie embraced her warm spirit without complaint.
Vichnaya Pamyat!
Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Church of the Holy Cross located at 415 Victoria Avenue W., followed by interment at Mountain View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider making memorial donations either to Church of Holy Cross or St Joseph’s Foundation instead would be appreciated greatly! Arrangements have been handled by Blake Funeral Chapel situated at 200 May Street S.
You can send online condolences through www. blakefuneralchapel. com.
