In Celebration of
Evelyn Elizabeth Elexis Cleal
October 28, 1952 - March 7, 2026
Evelyn Elizabeth Elexis Cleal, aged 73, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, after a courageous twenty year journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was surrounded throughout the day by her loving family — her husband Marvin Cleal and his partner Carol Mann, her sister and brother in law Lynn and Ken Lewis, her son Brent Cleal, her daughter Allison Cleal with her husband Adam Bates, and their son Arlo Bates. Each was able to say goodbye in a way that was meaningful to them, creating a day that was both tender and deeply moving. A moment that will be forever remembered came when two year old Arlo softly said, “Goodbye Grandma Evelyn,” and blew her a kiss.
Evelyn was predeceased by her parents Nick and Mary Machuik, her sister Lillian Suwala (Joe), and her brother Alan Machuik (Dorothy).
All who were present at her passing will hold her memory close. She is also survived by her sisters Donna Bannman (Lyle Knobbe), Gloria (Dave) Collins, and Jeannette (Ray) Heil, who will likewise cherish her memory.
Evelyn spent the last thirteen years of her life at Cawthra Long Term Care Home, where she lived in three of the home’s six neighbourhoods and became a beloved presence among staff. Her warmth, spirit, and gentle nature left a lasting impression on the many caregivers who supported her with extraordinary compassion. When the funeral home arrived, staff from across the building formed an honour guard and accompanied her with a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace, offering a dignified and profoundly touching farewell. Throughout the day, staff members stopped by to share memories and express their affection — a testament to the second family she found there.
Evelyn’s life was shaped by her Ukrainian heritage, her kindness, and her ability to bring people together. Even as the years grew more difficult, she carried with her a quiet spark — a sense of humour that surfaced at unexpected moments, and a deep love of music and dance that never fully left her. She was also the chief cheerleader for her children’s participation in life, school, and recreation, encouraging them from the sidelines and contributing countless volunteer hours in support of their interests. She role modelled sportsmanship in badminton, squash, and tennis, showing them how to compete with grace, fairness, and joy. Her family will honour her memory with a Celebration of Life in the spring, embracing a Ukrainian theme in recognition of the culture she loved — though, as the family lovingly notes, without the vodka this time. They feel the loss of their leader, but carry forward her spirit with gratitude, love, and the many memories she leaves behind.
Details about the service will be shared once arrangements are finalized.
Evelyn was predeceased by her parents Nick and Mary Machuik, her sister Lillian Suwala (Joe), and her brother Alan Machuik (Dorothy).
All who were present at her passing will hold her memory close. She is also survived by her sisters Donna Bannman (Lyle Knobbe), Gloria (Dave) Collins, and Jeannette (Ray) Heil, who will likewise cherish her memory.
Evelyn spent the last thirteen years of her life at Cawthra Long Term Care Home, where she lived in three of the home’s six neighbourhoods and became a beloved presence among staff. Her warmth, spirit, and gentle nature left a lasting impression on the many caregivers who supported her with extraordinary compassion. When the funeral home arrived, staff from across the building formed an honour guard and accompanied her with a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace, offering a dignified and profoundly touching farewell. Throughout the day, staff members stopped by to share memories and express their affection — a testament to the second family she found there.
Evelyn’s life was shaped by her Ukrainian heritage, her kindness, and her ability to bring people together. Even as the years grew more difficult, she carried with her a quiet spark — a sense of humour that surfaced at unexpected moments, and a deep love of music and dance that never fully left her. She was also the chief cheerleader for her children’s participation in life, school, and recreation, encouraging them from the sidelines and contributing countless volunteer hours in support of their interests. She role modelled sportsmanship in badminton, squash, and tennis, showing them how to compete with grace, fairness, and joy. Her family will honour her memory with a Celebration of Life in the spring, embracing a Ukrainian theme in recognition of the culture she loved — though, as the family lovingly notes, without the vodka this time. They feel the loss of their leader, but carry forward her spirit with gratitude, love, and the many memories she leaves behind.
Details about the service will be shared once arrangements are finalized.