GRUNENKO, Natalie (January 17, 1952 – January 22, 2021) – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Natalie Grunenko. Natalie passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 69, surrounded by her family.
Natalie is survived by her husband of 46 years George Grunenko and daughters, Kristin Dziuba (Jurij Dziuba) and Katherine Grunenko (Michael MacLellan). Cherished Baba to her beautiful grandchildren, Nicholas, Emily, Tessa, with another grandchild on the way. She will be missed by a wide circle of family and friends, as well as her two cat companions, Gizmo and Zoe.
Natalie loved her Ukrainian heritage, culture and community. She was a strong believer in commitment and involvement, volunteering her time in supporting various Ukrainian organiziations throughout the years. She enjoyed embroidering Ukrainian blouses and shirts, passing down Ukrainian cooking lessons to her daughters as well as reading and singing with her grandchildren. These memories of Natalie will be remembered and held in the hearts of her family and many friends.
A special thank you to her team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Toronto Western Hospital, especially Dr. W. Mason and Dr. M. Bernstein for their care. Thank you to the home care doctor, nurses and support workers who provided great care in making Natalie comfortable in her final days. Her medical team often referred to her as an incredibly strong woman during her health battle, and that she was.
Her family will remember Natalie as a devoted and loving Mama that sacrificed a lot of herself for the benefit of her family and those she loved the most. She will be deeply missed by all who truly knew her.
The family would like to thank everyone for their immense love and support. A private family service has taken place
In lieu of flowers, donations in Natalie’s memory can be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
Vichnaya Pamyat.