Obituary of Darlene Patricia Cenaiko
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In Loving Memory of Darlene Cenaiko (Holoien)
December 18, 1945 - November 23, 2023
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Darlene Patricia Cenaiko (nee Holoien), a cherished sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, on November 23, 2023. Born in Melfort, SK, on December 18, 1945, as one of the triplets with brother Doug and sister Dianne, Darlene's journey of 77 years was marked by love, resilience, and a vibrant spirit.
Darlene's life was enriched by her family, including her sister Muriel (and husband Murray), brother Herb (and partner Susan), brother Leonard (and wife Evelyn), sister Shirley (and husband Jim), brother Lester (and wife Caroline), brother Doug (and wife Maxine), sister Dianne (and husband Blaine), and their respective families. Her daughter Kelli Samoleski (Glenn) and son Shane Guiltner (and wife Shannon), her granddaughter Ashley (and husband Aulden) and their children Audrey and Amelia, her grandson Joel (and partner Ashley Polishchuk), her grandsons Brody and Brayden, stepchildren Brian, Debbie, Rick, and Lori, and their families. Family brought such immense joy to her life. Darlene was predeceased by her husband Bill, her parents Peder and Martha, and siblings Muriel, Leonard, Lester, and Shirley.
A journey that began on a farm near Melfort saw Darlene venture to Prince Albert to enroll in Business College after graduating high school. Upon completion, she returned to Melfort and was hired at SaskTel. After some time, she made the move to Estevan and then back to Melfort before settling in Saskatoon in 1972 where she embraced various customer service positions. Customer service was a natural fit for her engaging personality. Her friendly and welcoming demeanor put customers at ease, and many became her friends.
Her early years as a young mother were spent nurturing and providing for her children Kelli and Shane. In 1975 she met her life partner, and much later to be husband, Bill Cenaiko. Together they made homes in both Saskatoon and on the farm near Quill Lake. The family split time between the two depending on the season and work to be done on the farm. The home on the farm was where she seemed to be most alive. Whether she was spending time in the garden, working in the yard, or painting miles of fence, she was, as Bill would often say, “the hardest working woman I know”. Her skill in making everyone feel at home, coupled with her love for singing and playing piano, turned her house into a hub for fun and laughter for many.
Darlene's life was a testament to her resiliency. From an early divorce to overcoming personal challenges, her spirit remained unyielding. Her sobriety later in life, supported by her family and faith, brought her peace, and reunited her with Bill. The two would be married in 2003 beginning a new life together deepened by faith and their involvement in the Quill Lake Evangelical Church. It was there where the words spoken by Pastor Ernie resonated deeply with her and comforted her right up until her final days.
A sports enthusiast, Darlene's love for softball, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, curling, and hockey, reflected her spirited and passionate nature. Whether she was hitting it over the fence herself or watching her siblings, children, grandkids, or nieces and nephews play ball, hockey, or soccer, she enjoyed every minute of it. As a hockey fan, she was even happy to switch teams and cheer for those loved by her children and grandchildren. It’s hard to imagine being a Leafs, Flames, and Oilers fan and yet she would call each of us on many occasions to talk about our favourite team and say, “Wasn’t that a game!”.
Darlene’s heart was filled with love, not only for her family and friends, but also for her cherished pets. Throughout the years, she created a nurturing home for cats that were drawn to her warmth, offering them companionship and care, especially during her time in the city. Her beloved dogs, Charlie and Snowy, were also a significant part of her life. These loyal companions were a source of comfort for her on the farm, becoming even more precious after Bill’s passing.
Her candid opinions, witty humor, and empathetic listening made her a treasured friend and confidante. Right up until the end she remained true to character and would say something she knew would get a reaction, whether it be a tear, a smile, a laugh, or even a headshake.
As we bid farewell to Dee, we remember her fiery personality, unwavering friendship, and the love she generously shared. Her legacy will continue to inspire and comfort those who were privileged to know her.
Memorial Service
Date: Saturday, December 9, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Melfort Evangelical Covenant Church
Note: The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to a charity of your choice
in Darlene's memory would be greatly appreciated.
Darlene, your memory will be cherished forever. We love you.