In Celebration of

Maria Teslevic

June 29, 1929 -  April 17, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Teslevic. She passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by the love of her family at the age of 93. Maria is pre-deceased by the love of her life, her husband Michael (2007), after a beautiful, strong marriage of 58 years. They were devoted parents to their daughter Lydia. They immigrated to Canada from France in 1956 and they both worked hard to give Lydia a better life. Having little formal education, Maria started taking night classes while working at a factory to end up as an insurance adjustor on Bay Street.

Throughout her life she provided generosity, support and not to mention excellent food to her family. She was also diligent about staying in contact with extended family in Ukraine, France and Czech and leaves many touched by her thoughtfulness and hospitality. She was happiest being a much loved and adored grandmother (Babtsia); she celebrated each of her grandchildren’s accomplishments with enthusiasm, encouraged lifelong learning and passed along her love for Canada and passion for Ukraine. She had an aptitude for languages and enjoyed reading non-fiction books in multiple languages even deep into her senior years.

Maria’s legacy of resilience and gratitude lives on through her daughter, Lydia (Sev Falcomer) and her granddaughters Stephanie (Colin), Natalka (David) and Kristina.

Friends may visit Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel (2357 Bloor St West, Toronto ON M6S 1P4) on Friday, April 21 from 6-9pm. A panakhyda will be held from 7-7:30. A Funeral Service will be held at All Saints of Ukraine Chapel (1280 Dundas St W, Oakville, ON L6M 4H9) on Saturday, April 22 at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to TUFoundation.ca for Holodomor education or to CUF for humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

Guestbook 

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Jamie & Lorraine Chiarotto and family (Close friend of the family)

Entered April 20, 2023 from Toronto

Our deepest condolences. I can hear her cheerful voice greeting us with warmth and kindness every time she saw us. A wonderful woman, wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. God bless.

Lisa Kovacevic (Cousin)

Entered April 20, 2023

Our deepest condolences. Thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.

xoxo
Lisa, Ivan and Mia Kovacevic

Reiner Jaakson (Next-door neighbour for 28 fond years.)

Entered April 20, 2023 from Oakville

A woman of culture and courage, with an abundance of love. She and Michael were the best neigbours you could dream of. Mike had “golden hands” - he could repair everything, not just wiring and plumbing but also the most complicated mechanical and electrical equipment.
My wife Anne (deceased 2008) and I spent many emjoyable winters with her and Mike in Zihuataneo, Mexico.
How tragic for her - as a proud Ukrainian - to see her beloved Ukraine being destroyed by Russia. As an Estonian I share your pain as your homeland is in peril.

Reiner Jaakson and wife Anne (deceased in 2008) and daughters Catherine in Quebec and Irene in Britist Columbia.

Nadia & Taras Tataryn (Friends)

Entered April 20, 2023 from Mississauga

Our deepest condolences. May your dear mother, mother-in-law and grandmother rest in peace. Vichnaya pamyat.

Ona & Rod McDonald (Friends of the Family)

Entered April 20, 2023 from Markham, ON

Memories of Maria and Michael go back 58 years, when I (Ona) met Lydia in high school.
Maria always welcomed me, and later Rod, with open arms, energetic discussions and delicious foods. I admired this strong, vivacious, powerful woman who stood strong in her beliefs. Family came first in every respect. Her warmth and caring nature could be felt by all that met her. She will be missed dearly by Lydia, her grandchildren and her extended family and friends.
Maria was blessed, living a very eventful but beautiful life with challenges she took on with her heart and soul. May she now find peace with her beloved husband, Michael, in heaven with angels all around them.

Photos 

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