Josie (Yagilnicky) Gerelus

Josephine Ann Gerelus (nee Yagilnicky), affectionately known as Josie, passed away, surrounded by her loving family on December 4, 2025, at the age of 63, in Hamiota, MB, after a courageous and long battle with cancer. Born on June 29, 1962, in Shoal Lake, MB, to the late Peter and Marie Yaginlicky (nee Kwaitkowski), Josie's life was a testament to the power of strength, laughter, and selflessness.

Josie's journey began in the humble surroundings of the RM of Park, growing up on a farm her vibrant personality, compassionate spirit and hard-work ethic quickly became evident. She dedicated 29 years of her life to caring for others as a Health Care Aide in Hamiota and spent several additional years serving her communities as an EMS and Home care attendant along with some other jobs to always keep her busy. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others was reflected in her work and the countless lives she touched.

Josie's legacy includes her beloved partner, Allan Burns, her adoring daughter Denise and son-in-law Yannick Rasmussen, her dear brother Larry Yagilnicky and his partner Cathy Tall, as well as her cherished nieces Katherine Berezniak (Ireney), her goddaughter Vanessa Perreault (Rob), Addie Wilson (Corey), Maxine Campkin (Wade) and late Melissa Yagilnicky. She also leaves behind a close-knit family comprising Bill & Marlene Gerelus, Kim & Ken Dupuis, Sandra Fehr, Karen Morden, and Mavis Yakiwchuk and many other relatives. Her memory will be treasured by her dear friends Maurine L, Nydia K, Lorrie A, Sandy L, Karen W, Donna S, Reina E, Pat G, Charlene L, Lucy G and so many others who all shared in the joy and warmth of her friendship.

Outside of her professional life, Josie's passions were diverse and heartfelt. She enjoyed the simplicity of walking and bike rides, the tranquility of gardening, the satisfaction of knitting and the curiosity of any murder mystery show. Her voice was a source of joy, both in song and in conversation, as she loved visiting with friends and family and spending time with her pets. Josie's involvement in the Hamiota Lions Club and the Dolyny Church showcased her dedication to service and her faith.

As we bid farewell to Josie, we celebrate a life that was rich in joy, love, and service. Her laughter, kindness, and unwavering spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Josie's journey on earth has ended, but her story—written in the lives she touched—will endure forever.

Prayers will be held at Campbell Funeral Chapel, Hamiota on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 7:00pm.

A graveside service will be held at Dolyny St. John The Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Municipality of Harrison Park on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 1:00pm. Bring a lawn chair if you wish and please dress accoringly to the weather.

Following the service, a reception will be held at 3:30pm at the Hamiota Community Centre, Hamiota, MB.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a donation in Josie's memory to the Hamiota CancerCare Program, payable to Prairie Mountain Health, Box 751, Hamiota, MB, R0M 0T0 or to My Gut Feeling (Stomach Cancer Foundation of Canada), 720 King St W, Suite 323, Toronto, ON, M5V 3S5 (www.mygutfeeling.ca); or to the Dolyny St. John The Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Box 534, Erickson, MB, R0J 0P0.

Messages of condolence may be shared or candles can be lit using the Tribute Wall link.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Josie (Yagilnicky) Gerelus, please visit our floral store.