February 10, 1927 - April 19, 2019
Our Mom, Kay Ryan Heffner, peacefully passed away April 19th at Crestview Village in Creston, B.C. Mom was 92 years old, born on February 10th, 1927 to Margaret and William Dobrowolsky. She was the oldest of eight and at a young age left home and ended up in Luseland, Sask as a telephone operator. Here she met and married Leo Ryan whose family owned the local hotel. In 1950 Mom and Dad took over the hotel and ran it until Dad passed away in 1977.
It was a busy hard-working life for them and Mom was cleaner, chef, bartender as well as Mom to four children. Many will remember how she decorated the bar and hotel for Christmas and the annual Christmas smorgasbord she put on.
Her pickled eggs were always a hit and made in many households. Our home was open to all and many of our friends felt comfortable spending time there, Mom and Dad also provided employment to many young people in the community and a home for many bachelors during winter months. Mom sold the hotel in 1977 and moved next door to enjoy and well-deserved retirement. She married Joe Heffner and they spent 13 years together participating in the activities of the large Heffner family, countless card parties and travelling.
During this time, she also became a farm wife. After Joe's passing, she moved to Creston, B.C. to be closer to her daughter Peggy. For the next 26 years she enjoyed her life in the Creston Valley participating in whist, bridge, pancake breakfasts, and the TAPS group. She was always busy.
Mom resided at Crestview Village for the last 3 years. Mom was a member of the CWL and the Legion. Mom was predeceased by our Dad Leo Ryan, second husband Joe Heffner, son Dennis Ryan, and many other relatives. Mom will be lovingly missed by her children Peggy (Rick) Lazorko of Creston, B.C., Sandie (Cliff) Wilson of Saskatoon, SK, Laury (Rhonda) Ryan of Wilcox, Sk, grandchildren Grandchildren Julie (Josh) Wilson, Jay Lazorko, Mackenzie Ryan, Emily Ryan, Marshall Ryan, and Molly Ryan, Great Granchild Cadence Wilson-Mackinnion.
Mom will also be missed by her sisters Barbara (Terry) Kushniruk and Patsy Dobrowolsky and brother Rick (June) Dobrow and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass was held at the Creston Catholic Church on April 26th. A memorial Service and burial will be held in Luseland, SK in July.
The Family would like to thank the staff & management at Crestview Care Village for their time and dedication to our Mother.