On March 1, 2017 we lost the last of our matriarchs, known to many as “Sophia Loren.” She was the 12th of 13 children born to Nicolas and Cecile Chmelyk. Born in Vilna, Alberta on December 5, 1926, Sophia was raised in an environment without cell phones, electricity, or running water – a place where entertainment was playing guitar, banjo or violin, singing, and playing cards, creating strong bonds with siblings and extended family members.
Sophia was raised working hard, and it was these strengths that she passed on to her children in half of their DNA. The other, equally strong half came from George Flondra who she married on March 26, 1943; together, they had four children. Unfortunately their first son (Stanley) died when he was four, but they were blessed with twins Diana and David on May 12, 1946 and later another daughter Elaine on December 14, 1951.
Sophia’s life centred around her children, of whom she was extremely proud, and she was rewarded with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. We were lucky to celebrate her 90th birthday in December, and now we all feel a big hole in our hearts. A celebration of her life will be held at Fischer’s Funeral Services, 4060 1st Ave SW @ TC Hwy in Salmon Arm on Friday March 10, 2017 at 1:00 pm.
Share memories and condolences through Sophia’s obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.