With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Okanski, a beloved mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who left us on April 23, 2025, at the age of 92. Mary's life was a tapestry of love, resilience, and joy, woven through her dedication to family, community, and the simple pleasures that brought people together.

Born in London, Ontario, Mary moved with her parents, Thomas and Genevieve Miller, to Thunder Bay, where she graduated as a nurse from McKellar Hospital. In the early 1950s, her family relocated to Red Lake, where her parents taught at Red Lake District High School. Mary's nursing career flourished at the Red Cross Hospital in Red Lake and later at Cochenour Hospital and Clinic. It was in Red Lake that she met the love of her life, Paul Okanski, sparking a lifelong partnership filled with love and laughter.

In 1967, Mary and Paul embarked on their "Centennial Project," moving to Red Lake to run the P&M What Not Shop. Mary's sharp business acumen shone as she deftly handled salesmen, ensuring the store's shelves were stocked with care, while Paul managed the back office. Her warmth and savvy made the shop a cherished community hub.

Mary's spirit was indomitable. In the early 1960s, she faced Steven Johnson Syndrome, which brought significant health challenges and gradual blindness. Yet, Mary's strength and grace carried her forward, never dimming her love for life. She remained a pillar of her community, actively involved in the Youth Church Group, where she inspired young hearts with her kindness. Mary also treasured her time with the Ladies Bridge Club, where luncheons, laughter, and cherished memories with friends filled her days with joy. Above all, she was a loving and giving mother and a devoted wife, delighting in Saturday nightdances with Paul at the Polish Hall, where they twirled through life's joys together.

Mary is survived by her children: Tom (MaryAnn Hodge and daughter Samantha), Marianne Robertson (David), Jennifer Takeda (Yutaka), and Peter (Sandra McFetridge). She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Everett and Warren Okanski, James and Emma Robertson, Liam and Logan Okanski; and great-grandchildren: Isla, Seraphina, and Freya Okanski, Dahlia and Lachlan Fiset-Robertson, and former daughter-in-law, Lynn. Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, Paul; her parents, Thomas and Genevieve Miller; her brother, Ken Miller; and her granddaughter, Haley Takeda.

Special people in Mary's life are Marilou Pacatang who assisted giving Mary an extended freedom of independent living in her senior years. Thanks to the staff of Northwood Lodge for their continuous care.

A funeral service to celebrate Mary's remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11 AM at the Red Lake United Church. Friends and family are warmly invited to gather afterward in the Community Support Room at the lower level of Northwood Lodge to share stories and memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CNIB Guide Dogs or a charity of your choice through the Red Lake Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box 237, Red Lake, ON P0V 2M0.

Mary's light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her. May her memory be a blessing.