1927-2011
Blessed with 84 years of life, Molly Minnaert, our beloved mother, Baba, relative and friend passed peacefully on September 28th, 2011.
Her “heart of Gold” radiated warmth, sincerity and acceptance of all who had the privilege of knowing her. “Look for the Good in Everyone” was among her favourite mottos.
Molly was born on July 22, 1927 in Grand Forks to parents Sergei (Charles) and Nastia (Jane) Esouloff. She was the youngest of five siblings.
Times were difficult during the Great Depression but the importance
of Family set the philosophy mom/Baba followed throughout her life.
Molly married Gus Minnaert on February 26, 1944 and moved to Winlaw, where they raised their children and were instrumental in the care of Gus’s Aunt for 11 years. Later, Mom felt it an honor,to be the primary care-giver for her father for two years.
Molly was proud of the home..which she and Gus designed/built and where she continued to live until two years ago when she moved in with her daughter, Linda in Nelson.
Mom/Baba worked hard all her life. Devoted to family, tending to huge vegetable and flower gardens, cows, chickens and household responsibilities.She preserved large quantities of vegetables, fruit, jams, and pickles.
Molly was an active Community member in the Slocan Valley assisting with weddings, funerals, children’s Doukhobor Sunday schools and supporting fund-raising ventures.
Embroidering, crocheting, reading, dancing were some of her leisure passions. She always took the time to marvel about Nature.
In recent years, she was a fan of Hockey (Go Canucks,) plus Game and Dance shows,
Her greatest joy, however, was her family and friends. Her hospitality and “open door policy” is legendary, not only for delicious meals but for unconditional love and acceptance of people of all ages and backgrounds.
She delighted in the accomplishments/milestones of family and friends alike, sharing in both the joys and sorrows of their lives. She offered “words of wisdom” but then said:
“It’s up to you to be yourself ...to do what’s best for you.”.
Following the death of husband Gus in 1972, Molly opened a new chapter in her life with partner of 20 years, Fred Hlookoff. Prior to his passing in 1999, they enjoyed gardening, rides up mountains & wood-carving projects.
Molly was also predeceased by her parents, sister in infancy, in-laws Gustave and Maggie Minnaert, and other family members
Left to mourn her loss and Celebrate her life are:
Family of son John (Anne) Minnaert; Juanita (Roger) Barrie and daughters Kimberly and Melissa; Crystal Minnaert Baba was very proud to be part of 5 Generations with the birth of Skyler Borody, son of Kim.
Family of daughter Corinne (Peter) Postnikoff; Ben (Elana) Chloe; Jennifer (Travis) Tagg, Ken Postnikoff, Christina Postnikoff.
Family of daughter Linda Harfman. Rob(Suzanne)Chiveldave and son Ryan. Hailey (Jarvis) Cederholm and daughters Kennedy and Taylor.
Also survived by Sister Polly Chutskoff, sister-in-law Nellie, extended family including nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends and all those who fondly referred to her as Baba.
Traditional Doukhobor Services were held at the Castlegar Funeral Chapel on October 3rd. and at the Appledale Community Hall on October 4th. with burial in the Perry Siding Cemetery.
Heartfelt thanks to all who assisted Mom with her care, and offered words of comfort, hugs, cards of sympathy, food, floral tributes and other “acts of kindness” to her family. We appreciate Sid Malakoff for conducting the service, the singers, cooks, grave-diggers..and all who attended the services.
Mom/Baba – Dance The Tennessee Waltz a few times before you Rest in Peace. Your reassuring words “Everything will
be Alright” are helping us through our grief.
Your Legacy Lives On