Cecilia Balez

 It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of our Mother, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Aunt and Friend Cecilia Balez on January 23, 2022 at the age of 93 years. Cecilia leaves to mourn her children Tom, Lynda (Merle) Ross, Cathy (Gary) Heidt, Marney (Dave) Kuntz and Paul (Donna); grandchildren Devin (Stephanie) Ross, Tana Ross Kloster, Jessi McBride (James), Jaymie (Jordan) Walker, Sara (Ryan) Norris, Lauren Allan, Jared Kuntz, Anthony Balez and Amanda (Randy) Brown; great-grandchildren Jade, Kenzie, Haley, James, Syla, Carter, Dylan, Jordan, RJ, Emily, Mason, Leo, Violet, Emmitt and Arlo; as well as her brother Orest (Judy) Pastachak, sisters-in-law Norma, Olga, Irene and Gloria. She was loved and is sadly missed by numerous friends, nieces, nephews and their families. Mom was predeceased by her husband Paul in 2020; her parents Joseph and Anna (Rivokoski) Pastachak; her brothers Walter (Alicia), Bill, Steve (Pauline), Tom and Frank; her sisters Stella, Mary (Roman) and recently Verna (Bill) Couttie.

 Cecilia was born on November 28, 1928 in Galilee, Saskatchewan. The family farmed in the Pelly, Saskatchewan area and then moved to Radville, Saskatchewan. Cecilia married Paul on May 19, 1949. They moved to Regina in 1952 where they raised their 5 children. Cecilia excelled at everything she did, working as a statistician most of her working life. Mom’s greatest love was her family. She was an exceptional cook, loved to garden and travel whenever she could. One of her fondest trips was when the family drove to Mexico for 3 weeks to celebrate Christmas in 1969… memories to last a lifetime. Mom’s selflessness and devotion to her family took us all on our first Caribbean cruise in 1995… a memory the whole family will forever remember as the best holiday ever. Nothing can ever take away the love our hearts hold. We will miss your special phone call singing Happy Birthday every year to each and every one of us.  Our dear, fond memories will linger every day. We love you Mom. Our world will never be the same without you. 

 There are no words to express our appreciation and thanks to our brother Tom who was Mom’s caregiver for many years allowing her to stay in her home that she cherished so she could continue to spend quality time with her family. Special Thanks is extended to the Regina General Hospital staff for the exceptional care given to Mom during her short stay. 

 The family will hold a Private Graveside Service with a Celebration of Mom’s Life to follow in the summer of 2022. 

 “I often sit in my garden and think of you awhile, remembering wonderful moments; my sadness becomes a smile, for sitting in my garden is my favourite place to be; for I know in my heart you’ll be sitting next to me” (Author unknown).