“An angel on earth – now has her wings.”
The family of Natalie (Horychuk) Cherkas is deeply saddened to announce her peaceful passing following a short illness on January 11, 2026, at the age of 95.
Natalie was a loving mother to Joy (John) Janicki of Winnipeg; Cynthia Prince (Jeff Beitz) of Thunder Bay; Mark (Janine) Cherkas of Vancouver; and Bobbi-Jane Drebit of Thunder Bay. She was a cherished grandmother to Sunny (Tim) Giesbrecht, Steven (Erin) Janicki, Spencer Janicki, Devon Cherkas, Skylar Marks, Leland Prince, and Scott (Tanya) Prince. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Aubrey, Harper, and Archer Giesbrecht; Kinley and Cruz Janicki; Ava Cherkas; and Trenton and Tristan Prince. She was a dear sister to Ivan Horychuk of Pittsburg, California. She also leaves behind her close friends Maggie Siciliano and Jodi Roehrig, who were beloved by Natalie and shared a special bond with her daughters and family. She will be deeply missed by her many family members and friends.
Natalie fulfilled her lifelong passion for helping others through both her career and her many years of volunteer work.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband and soulmate, Steve Cherkas (1999); her brother, Steve Horychuk; her parents, John and Olga Horychuk; and her in-laws, Joseph and Katherine Cherkas.
Cremation has taken place in accordance with Natalie’s wishes. There will be no visitation or funeral service. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. While Natalie loved flowers, the family respectfully declines floral tributes at this time.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Paramed Home Care whose dedicated care allowed Natalie to remain in her home and live independently until the age of 95. Their compassion and exceptional support meant more than words can express. Sincere thanks are also extended to the hospice staff during Natalie’s final days, whose compassion and care provided comfort, kindness, and love.
All the angels above have welcomed a newcomer with open arms.
Heaven, we know, has just become a little nicer.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
