Eileen Margaret (Riste) Ostafichuk

In Loving Memory of Eileen Ostafichuk (née Riste)
April 8, 1939 – November 8, 2025

Surrounded by family, Eileen Ostafichuk passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, to Emily and Ole Riste, Eileen was the eldest of three children and the only daughter. She grew up on a farm near Iddesleigh, Alberta, alongside her brothers Earl and David. Proud of her Norwegian heritage, Eileen carried forward her family’s values of hard work, faith, and kindness throughout her life.

In her young adult years, Eileen enjoyed her independence and worked at the local chip factory before eventually meeting the love of her life, John Ostafichuk, at a dance in Iddesleigh. The two knew each other for a long while before they married; prior to asking for her hand, John wanted to build Eileen the home and life he felt she deserved. Once he was certain he could offer her the comfort, stability, and security of a good life together, he asked her father for permission to marry her. They wed on a golden autumn day, on October 27, 1962, in Brooks, and settled in the home that John built along the banks of the Red Deer River, near Patricia, Alberta. Together they raised two beautiful daughters, Sonja and Susan, who were the light of their world and the pride of their hearts.

Eileen was a true cowboy’s wife, loving with her whole heart and ever committed to keeping the home fires burning. Her affection was unconditional, her humour dry, and her honesty refreshing, you always knew where you stood. Eileen loved the colour purple; bright, bold, and unique, just like she was.

In her final years, Eileen made her home in the Long Term Care Unit at the Brooks Health Centre, where she was cared for with compassion, dignity, and kindness. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the nurses, healthcare aides, and Dr. Thompson whose gentle hearts and steady hands made those years comfortable and filled with care. In honour of Eileen, the family encourages others to support the Long Term Care unit, whether through a momentary contribution or a lasting commitment of volunteer service, in recognition of the unsung heroes who bring comfort to the most vulnerable and often forgotten members of our communities.

Eileen was predeceased by her husband John (2022), daughter Susan (2016), parents Emily and Ole, and brothers Earl and David. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Sonja (Tracey); granddaughters Nicole (Jordan) and Maddison (Ryan); bonus granddaughters Paige (Baxter) and Brooke; and by Blaine, Susan’s beloved husband.

A memorial for Eileen was held on November 13 at Thom’s Funeral Home in Duchess, Alberta. Following the service, her family gathered to lay her to rest beside the love of her life, Johnny, in a private graveside ceremony. Everyone wore purple.

For further information, to light a memorial candle or to leave a message of sympathy, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.

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