Janice Somerville (Zurbyk)

It is with broken but grateful hearts that we announce the passing of Janice Rose Somerville with family at her side in the early morning hours of August 29, 2023. Janice was born on November 20, 1968 at the Women’s Pavilion to Dianna (Manuliak) and Rudy Zurbyk. She grew up on the family farm near Elphinstone Manitoba and was involved with helping out with milking cows, feeding calves, gathering eggs and plucking chickens. She loved playing with her brother Brent and sister Lisa. Her elementary education was at Elphinstone Elementary and she attended high school in Strathclair, Manitoba. Janice participated in 4-H and Ukrainian dancing as well as school sports like track and field, baseball and volleyball.

After completing her high school education Janice worked as a waitress in various locations. It was while working at the Sandy Lake Hotel in 1985 that she met Darwin Somerville and soon after moved to the Souris/Hartney area so she could be closer to Darwin. Here again she helped out on the farm and tended to her much-loved flowers and garden. Janice was so proud of her Ukrainian heritage and loved to practise her culinary skills that she learned from her mom, babas and aunts. She loved celebrating all holidays. Ukrainian Christmas and all the festivities that were a part of it was one of her favourites. This included the Seech carollers that would visit the house. Animals held a special place in her heart, especially her dog Lady. Janice loved to camp and loved LOUD rock and roll music. Shopping and buying jewellery were high on her list of priorities. While living near Hartney she took part in the demolition derbies at the Hartney Hopper Days.

On May 20, 1993, Janice and Darwin were blessed with the arrival of their beautiful daughter, Jaydene. On July 15, 2000 Janice and Darwin tied the knot on their farm near Hartney.
In May, 1994 Janice suffered an accident which resulted in her having multiple back surgeries. Her condition worsened over the years and in 2007 she required personal care. She lived her last few months at Morley House in Shoal Lake Manitoba. She loved her time there, maintaining a positive attitude and striving to live every day to the fullest, never giving up. She loved her daughter, family and friends with a passion.

Janice was predeceased by grandparents, Bill and Pearl Manuliak and Nick and Mary Zurbyk, Uncles Freddie Manuliak and Harry Kawchuk and cousin, Murray Kawchuk.

She is survived by her daughter Jaydene, parents Dianna and Rudy Zurbyk, brother Brent (Erin), sister Lisa (Dave), nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and so many friends.

Our family thanks all of the healthcare workers that cared for Mom (Janice) over the years. Thank you to family and friends for your compassion, your prayers and the unwavering support you showed right up until the end. We will be forever grateful.

Fly high and free Sweet Angel.