February 4, 1937 - April 18, 2021
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Mary Zaitsoff (nee Kazakoff). Mom passed away suddenly in her home at Castle Wood Village on April 18, 2021 at the age of 84.
Mary was born in Shoreacres, BC on February 4, 1937 to John J Kazakoff & Mary Kazakoff (nee Arishenkoff).
1955 to 1966 Mary was married to Bill Makortoff. Together they had 3 children: Gary, Sandra and Lena. 1972 to 1976 she was married to Harry Zaitsoff. Together they had Melissa.
Mary had a great love for her family and friends and always kept in contact with them. In her earlier years, she enjoyed gardening, baking, canning, knitting, crocheting, making quilts, attending craft fairs to display her beautiful creations, visiting with family and friends and occasional trips to casinos with friends.
In her final years Mary struggled with serious health issues but she persevered even with the added challenges of Covid-19 restrictions. She was fortunate and very grateful to call Castle Wood Village her home.
There she was blessed to be with her friends and acquaintances and managed to enjoy the many activities, events and entertainment the facility provided. She especially enjoyed Bingo and building jigsaw puzzles with her life-long friend Winnie Watson.
She was also blessed to have some genuine kind-hearted relationships with some caregivers at Castle Wood Village and we cannot thank them enough for their compassionate care they gave her.
Mary was predeceased by her mother Mary Kazakoff - 1972, Step-son Larry Zaitsoff - 1974, Son Gary Makortoff - 1982, Father John J Kazakoff - 1986 and Sister Helen Makortoff - 1991.
Left to mourn her are 3 Daughters: Sandra Belanger (Allan), Lena Keller (Jamie), and Melissa Miller.
6 Grandchildren: David Belanger, Dylan Belanger, Patrick Keller, Kristie Ehman (Greg), Amelia Miller (River), Jennifer Miller. 6 Great Grandchildren: Roman Belanger, Cole Keller, Madison, Jamie, Tysen & Alena Ehman and many nieces, nephews, cousins and so many friends.
We would like to express our sincere thank you to Dr. Vasil and to the compassionate caregivers of Castle Wood Village. We would also like to thank Janet & associates at the Castlegar Funeral Chapel for their exceptional care, guidance and compassion.
Mary's ashes will be laid to rest with her beloved son Gary at Kinnaird Park Memorial Cemetery. There will be a private Celebration Of Life to honor Mary at a later date.
Rest In Peace Mom
Always and Forever in our Hearts