In Memory of Mary Smoly

Pioneer of Val-d’Оr

Smoly, Mary – Peacefully with family and friends by her side, Mary (Sup) Smoly passed away on February 18, 2011, in Sarnia, Ontario in her 90th year. She was born on March 23, 1921. Mary was predeceased by her husband, John (1999). They were married for 59 years. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter Jennie Smoly Caruthers (2006). No mother should have to bury her child. Mary is survived by her devoted daughter Sally of Sarnia, as well as her “favourite” son-in-law, the late Jennie’s husband, Marvin Caruthers of Boulder, Colorado. Mary was a cherished grandmother (Baba) to Jonathan Caruthers (Boulder) and Andrew Caruthers (Vancouver). She is also survived by her precious great-grandson Alexander Caruthers, along with the Sholette Family. Baba holds close to her heart Amy Nafziger, Fiona Caruthers and Ellie Young. Mary is also survived by her sister Josephine Storozuk, her sister-in-law Sophie Sup, her godchildren Terry Sup and Bill Lesyk as well as many members of the Sup, Storozuk, Smoly and Zownir Families. She will also be missed by her “Val-d’Or” family made up of many friends and relatives now living in various locations.  

In Mary’s later life, her greatest love and joy was Cheryl-the-boy-cat who was her constant companion!

Mary was born in La Macaza, Quebec, to her late parents Dmietro and Teresa Sup. She was also predeceased by all her 7 brothers. Mary spent most of her youth living in Lac Castagnier, Quebec. She later moved to Val-d’Or, Quebec.

Mary was very proud of her Ukrainian heritage - she attended the Ukrainian Catholic Church both in Val-d’Or and later in Sarnia. She was a life member of the Ukrainian National Federation, Val-d’Or Branch.

Mary stayed at home to raise her family. Later, she worked as head cashier at Montemurro, a large grocery store in Val-d’Or. She also worked as secretary and repair lady at the Necchi sewing machine company in Val-d’Or. Her favourite past times were sewing, crocheting, as well as a large variety of other crafts. Mary also taught Ukrainian Dance to the youth of Val-d’Or.

Special thanks to Karin Meier, Kim Marshall, and Bonnie O’Rae who became Mary’s friends and companions over the many years.