It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Anna Duma’s (née Zamrij) passing on August 12, 2023. She died suddenly in her home at the age of 93, with her family and caregivers at her side.

Beloved wife of the late William (Bill) Duma (2013) for 62 years; devoted mother to Helen (late Bill Kowaltchuk), Oksana (Brian Storey), and Irene; adored and cherished ‘Baba’ to Adam, Adriana, Alexa (Anthony Derbish), and Daniel, Anna leaves behind a legacy of care and warmth that will forever be treasured.

Anna was born on March 9, 1930, in Zeleniy Hai, Lviv oblast, Ukraine. She bravely immigrated from Germany to Canada alone in 1948, worked tirelessly, and while still a teenager, she sponsored her mother, stepfather, and brother Joseph to come to Canada. The family was reunited when her brother, William Zamrij, joined them from England. Anna was predeceased by all of her eight siblings, the most recent of whom was Joseph Burchowycz (July 29).

Anna's marriage to Bill in May 1951 marked the beginning of a beautiful partnership. They bought their first house near Trinity Bellwoods Park in Toronto, and in 1960, they moved to their home in Bloor West Village where Anna lived until her passing. Anna made sure that this home became a haven of celebrations, fun, and special memories. In the late 1960s, Anna and Bill bought land at Cawaja Beach, Ontario, and together built a cottage of which both were extremely proud, and which was open to all who wanted good food and a good time.

After Bill passed away in 2013, Anna’s health began a long, slow decline due to Alzheimer’s disease. Although she faced many challenges, her spirit remained strong and resilient right to the end. The family is deeply grateful to the many compassionate PSWs and caregivers for their care of ‘Mama’ in her later years. A special mention goes out to her long-time primary caregiver, Marta Voloshchuk, for her exceptional care and the ability to put a smile on Anna’s face.

Visitation to honour Anna's life will take place at Turner and Porter-Yorke Chapel (2357 Bloor St. West, Toronto) on Sunday, August 20, from 6-8 p.m. Panakhyda will be at 6:30 p.m. A Funeral Rite will be held at The All Saints of Ukraine Chapel, 1280 Dundas St. W., Oakville, ON, L6M 4H9 on Monday, August 21, at 11 a.m., with interment to follow at St. Volodymyr Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest, reunited once again with her dear Bill.

Anna will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory be eternal.
Vichnaya Pamyat!