It is with great sadness, the family announces the passing of Sophia Wlad (nee Badiuk) on Sunday, May 26, 2019, at the age of 100 years, at the Spirit River Long Term Care Center.

Sophia was born on October 13, 1918, in Arbakka, Manitoba, to father George Badiuk and mother Wasylyna Badiuk. Sophia was raised in Arbakka, MB where she attended school. Her father, mother and family made the move from Manitoba to the Ksituan district and then Yellow Creek area 20 miles north of Spirit River to begin farming in 1930.

Sophia married Sam Wlad in the fall of 1938 where they farmed in the Deep Valley area. They raised three children: Ed, Lillian (Zurock), and Margaret (Van Someren). Farm life was hard work both in the home and outside working alongside with Sam to make things better. She always had a big garden and loved growing flowers. There was always time for preparing the traditional Ukrainian foods and dinners with family.

Sophia and Sam retired to Grande Prairie in 1978 where they resided in their home until 1999. Sophia then lived in Heritage Lodge until 2018 where she enjoyed playing bingo and other games with the many new friends she made while living there. She also enjoyed having a flower garden outside her window, feeding and watching the birds.

Sophia is survived by her children: Ed, Lillian and Margaret; grandchildren: Russell, Deanna, Randy, Terry, Shauna, and Trevor; great-grandchildren: Carley, Robyn, Regan, Anika, Elias, Michaela, Eilysh, Madeline, Avery, Kody, Alexis, Levi, Lydia and Sage.

Sophia was predeceased by her husband in 2002, father George, mother Wasylyna, brothers Pete and John, and sisters Maria and Annie.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2019, at 1:00pm, at the Spirit of Peace United Church in Spirit River (4904 45 Ave.). Interment to follow in the Devale Cemetery.

Sophia’s family would like to thank Wendy, Janice, staff and volunteers at Heritage Lodge for their kind support throughout the years. Thanks to the Spirit River Long Term Care Center and Dr. Eva Kitagawa who made her comfortable in the final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Arthritis Society (430, Garneau Professional Centre, 11044 82 Ave. NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 0T2) or a charity of one’s choice.