Obituary of Jean Betty Tutkaluke

TUTKALUKE: It is with saddened hearts and many tears that we mourn the passing of our beloved mom, grandma, and partner, Jean Betty, after a brief illness on October 28th, 2014. Jean was born in Miniota, MB on March 13, 1937. On November 10, 1956, she married Mike Tutkaluke. Their family expanded with the arrival of Deb in 1957. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Brandon where they purchased their first home. In 1962, Rod arrived and their family was complete. They resided in their family home and enjoyed their time together until Mike passed away in 2000. After surviving cancer later in 2000, Jean concentrated on being a loving mother and grandma to her four granddaughters whom she absolutely adored. But life had more in store for Jean. She soon started attending bingo again, an outing she always looked forward to, and it was at bingo in 2002 when love again found its way to Jean when she met Garth Bowering. Garth and Jean had 12 wonderful years together, and Jean enjoyed her extended family. They were regulars at all the bingos, enjoyed going on holidays/cruises together, doting on their families, and fixing up the family home. Jean will lovingly be remembered for her warm demeanor and huge heart. She spent her life caring for others and putting their needs first, as a mom, a grandma, and also a loving companion to Garth. Everyone looked forward to family gatherings where they could feast on Jean's perogies and cabbage rolls, as Jean loved to prepare food for those she loved. Even in her final days, Jean was more concerned about the welfare of those she loved rather than addressing her own needs. She was the mom, grandma and partner that everyone loved. Jean was predeceased by her dad and mom, Phillip and Elizabeth Tomiski, husband Mike and brother Jack Tomiski (Anne). Left to mourn are family Deb Maguire (Trevor), Rod Tutkaluke (Janet), and Garth Bowering, life partner and love. Granddaughters include Brianna Cullen, Meghan Maguire, and Beth and Paula Tutkaluke. Brothers and sister include Bill Tomiski (Audrey), Stan Tomiski (Faye), Marion Tomiski, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, Jean would welcome a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or The Brandon Humane Society in her name. In keeping with Jean's wishes, there will be a private graveside service for family only. All family and friends are invited to celebrate Jean's life at the George Brockie Fellowship Centre (Brockie Donovan), 332-8th Street, on Saturday, November 1st at 1:30 p.m. The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. P. Van Rensburg and the staff at the Brandon Clinic, Melissa and staff from Palliative Care, and Christie and home care staff for their care and concern during mom's illness. A special thanks to Garth for his love, patience and selflessness during mom's time of need.