Adrian Boyko was born in Norquay, Saskatchewan, to Pete and Elizabeth Boyko (née Balysky) grew up in Winnipeg and returned to Saskatchewan in 1986. He and wife Sonia, now married for 40 years, raised three children, Kathryn, Tara and Ryan.

As a Certified Financial Planner CFP, Chartered Financial Consultant CH.F.C., and Chartered Life Underwriter CLU, Adrian has been employed in the financial services industry for the past 38 years. He currently is the Regional Marketing Manager for Equitable Life (Saskatchewan). He received National Management Awards leading his company as the recipient of the Lighthouse Trophy, symbolic of having the top region within Equitable Life.

Pro-active on matters Ukrainian, Adrian became the Vice-President of Manitoba Parents for Ukrainian Education when they took on three school divisions to expand acceptance of bilingual education. He served on Government of Saskatchewan Committees on Multiculturalism which resulted in new multicultural legislation for the province of Saskatchewan in June 1997. The Committee on restructuring of the Cultural Division of Saskatchewan Lotteries Trust was chaired by Adrian and it delivered its report in November of 1993.The report became the cornerstone upon which restructuring took place.

In 1996, Adrian accepted the position of Chair of the Government Relations Committee of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress National at a time when UCC National formulated its position on the World War I Internment of Ukrainian Canadians file. Adrian was Chair of the Shevchenko Foundation Task force on Multicultural Arts.

Adrian served as President of UCC Saskatchewan Provincial Council and under his leadership many new initiatives were implemented. In particular, UCC-SPC became the first provincial council or affiliate organization to have permanent representation in Ukraine through their office in Chernivtsi. Further, through a partnership agreement between the Government of Saskatchewan and UCC-SPC, the Saskatchewan-Ukraine Advisory Committee was established by order in council. Also, and of special note, Adrian Boyko and his colleagues in Saskatchewan established the Nation Builders Awards to recognize the contributions of community leaders and volunteers.

Adrian has been recognized for his efforts with the Canada 125 Medal, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, and the Shevchenko Medal.

Adrian Boyko continues to be a member of local, provincial and national Ukrainian organizations and is currently President of the Saskatoon Ukrainian Professional Business Club.

Ken is one of six children born to Peter and Annie Krawetz. He has continued to live and work in the Canora area. He earned his B. Ed. degree at the University of Saskatchewan and while there, Ken was actively involved in Ukrainian activities, including dancing, choir, concert tours, Christmas carolling and student excursions.

Ken’s eleven-year teaching career began in Invermay. He was elected to the Canora School Division Board of Education (1985) where he served as Chairperson for nine years. An election to the Executive of Saskatchewan Trustees Association followed (1988). In due course, he served as the Association’s President for two terms.

Ken’s genuine interest in community and the general well-being of people encouraged him to enter politics. He was elected MLA for Canora-Pelly Constituency in 1995. During his years in Opposition he served as critic for a number of major portfolios including Education, Labour, Health and Finance. He was interim leader of the Saskatchewan Party and Leader of the Opposition from 1997-1999. Ken is the current Deputy Leader of the Saskatchewan Party and serves in government as the current Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance.

He is very proud that Saskatchewan was the first province in Canada to recognize the genocide of Ukrainian people with the introduction of The Holodomor Act in 2008. Ken refers to that as his proudest moment.

Ken’s extensive dedication and volunteer work have earned him awards including the Canada 125 Award (1993), the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal (2002) and the Centennial Medal (2005). In 2009 Viktor Yushchenko, President of Ukraine, awarded Ken Ukraine’s highest honour that a non-citizen of Ukraine can receive. The Order of Kniaz (Prince) Yaroslav the Wise recognizes Ken’s efforts in the passage of the Ukrainian Famine and Genocide Act and for promoting awareness of the Holodomor.

Ken is an avid sports fan and has played hockey and fastball for many years. He is also a provincially registered volleyball official.

He and his wife, Gail, have been married 40 years. They reside on the family farm near Invermay and are members of St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Rama, the same church that Ken attended during his youth. Two children, Bryce (wife Olivia), daughter Lindsay and granddaughters Willow and Scarlet complete their family.

Delivered by a midwife on the family farm near Goodeve, Steve ranks third in the birth order of eight children of Nick and Sophie (Olynyk) Pillipow. While living on the farm, Steve completed his elementary and high school education in a one room school. He furthered his education at the University of Saskatchewan – Regina Campus graduating in Human Resources Administration.

Steve was employed by the Government of Saskatchewan for thirty-six years as Field Supervisor and Personnel Administrator with the Department of Highways, Labour Relations Officer with the Saskatchewan Public Service Commission, and concluded his career in the capacity of Director of Human Resources for the Department of Highways. Upon retirement in 1993, Steve established his own consulting firm specializing in negotiations, arbitration, mediation and human resources consulting.

Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1995, Steve tackled his affliction by developing a strong knowledge base of the disease to help others through counselling, fundraising and becoming a powerful role model in cancer awareness, support and research. He currently serves as the Chair of the Task Force of the Prostate Cancer Canada Network.

Steve is a member of the Descent of the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Regina in which he twice served as President, and continues to serve as a member of the Brotherhood. Steve’s contributions to the Ukrainian community include serving as the Chair of the Regina Ukrainian Orthodox Auditorium Building Committee, Past President and member of UOMA/TYC Regina for four decades, Past President of the Ukrainian Self-Reliance Association (TYC) of Canada, Past President Ukrainian Society of Prosvita, General Manager and Ambassador of the Kyiv Pavilion, and current Director of the CYC Foundation of Canada.

Awards earned by Steve include: Mayor’s award “Building a Better Community” for services rendered on the Board of Revision, City of Regina, Certificate of Recognition from Saskatchewan Minister of Labour for exemplary service as an Adjudicator, Award of Excellence from the Ukrainian Self-Reliance League of Canada, Certificate of Recognition from the Government of Canada for contribution to the Governing Council of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control, and related certificates of merit.

Steve and his wife, Aileen, are proud parents of four children, Zane, Daniel, Leeann and James, and grandparents of eleven grandchildren.

Julian was the son of Joseph and Olga (Kachmarski) Sadlowski. He was a teacher by profession. He earned a B. Ed. degree (1969) and a B.A. degree (1971) from the University of Saskatchewan.

In 1962, his teaching career brought him to North Battleford where he served as Principal of St. Mary Elementary School for 29 years.

As his education career wound down, Julian’s career in politics was just beginning. His tenure as a city councillor was cut short by a bout with cancer. Successful treatments allowed for his election as Mayor of North Battleford in 2003. He is the first Ukrainian mayor elected in that city.

Julian was a staunch supporter of the Trans-Canada Yellowhead Association and was instrumental in pressing for the twinning of the Yellowhead Highway from Saskatoon to Lloydminster.

A competent and energetic mayor, Julian contributed a legacy of successful initiatives. He steered the city through the challenge of a water crisis in 2001, and much needed upgrades to the city’s public works took place during his time in office. Perhaps his greatest legacy was his leadership in establishing a multi-purpose recreation complex in his city.

Another passion in Julian’s life was his interest in art and painting. According to the Saskatchewan Network for Art Collecting (NACX) Artists, he is listed as a renowned artist whose work incorporated “oil and acrylic paints and pen illustrations…” In 1991 his work was included in a group exhibition that toured Canada, the United States and Russia. His works are included in collections at the Canadian Museum of Civilization (Hull, Quebec), the Ukrainian Museum of Canada (Saskatoon), and the Vatican (Rome, Italy) as well as in many private collections.

Julian had a passion for and knowledge of his Ukrainian heritage. Julian’s pen and ink drawings depict the Kozaks in all their glory, the churches, the poets and the people who brought their culture to Canada.

In 2009, Julian began writing and illustrating a photo book about the history of North Battleford to be completed for the city’s centennial in 2013.The completed book will serve as Julian’s lasting legacy to his community.

Julian and Olga have three children, JoAnn, Terry and Shawn as well as five grandchildren.

Julian passed away in North Battleford on April 27, 2012.

Cultural Preservation & Development

Doris Makowsky was born to Peter and Anna (née Derow) Krunek in the Drobot District near Springside. After completing high school, Doris attended and completed a commercial course in Yorkton, finding employment as a secretary. Doris went on to attend teacher’s college and began her teaching career in rural Saskatchewan.

In 1960, Doris returned to enhance her education studying at the R.J. Staple School of Music. She used her skills not only to set up music (choir and band) programs within the school, but also organized and directed Ukrainian youth choirs and mandolin orchestras in the community of Mazeppa. She worked tirelessly in the Ukrainian community teaching Ukrainian school, Sunday School and helping to improve the quality of life for the youth in her community. She volunteered as Camp Director, and served as Administrator of Camp Trident at Crystal Lake for many years. She created and organized cultural and religious programming and activities for the edification of the campers. As a 55-year member of the Ukrainian Women’s Association, Mazeppa Branch, she served as President along with holding other executive positions. Her talents were also utilized as she served on the provincial executive of the organization.

Her involvement reached beyond the Ukrainian community as Doris found time to volunteer in the local 4-H Club, helping children and young adults. Doris and her husband hosted 4-H students and exchange students from New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec and the Philippines. Many of those who were paired with the Makowskys have retained their ties with the family and the community.

Doris has nurtured her community, imparting strong family and religious values and sharing with many the wonderful experiences of unity. She has always believed that a strong family makes strong individuals and that strong religious values allow a family to continue to grow with grace and fortitude. Doris embraces today’s changing environment and she is always ready for a new challenge. She is always ready to lend a helping hand, particularly when the focus is the development and preservation of Ukrainian culture.

Doris was married to Leonard, her life partner, in 1951. She is mother to four sons, Michael, Father Taras, Merlin and Andrian. She is also Baba to seven grandchildren.

Cultural Preservation & Development

Gerald was born to August and Katherine (Kyba) Yaholnitsky and was raised on the family farm in the Dneiper District, north of Rhein, Saskatchewan. He attended school with his six siblings at Cedric School.

Gerald’s varied career as a farmer and businessman included proprietorship as an owner/operator of Case Power and Equipment Company along with the establishment of Atlas Building Systems and Sales Ltd. His career took him to various parts of the province, but he always managed to travel back to fulfill his cantoring/choir duties. He would drive hundreds of miles to return to his community to direct a choir practice or sing at a liturgy. The next day, he would turn around and was back on the road again!

Gerald is very proud of his Ukrainian heritage and has supported various Ukrainian organizations, cultural and charitable institutions. The legacy he leaves as a role model for future cantors will leave a lasting imprint on so many individuals. Gerald is a devoted and dedicated member of the Canadian Ukrainian community and is instrumental to the work and mission of the Church. His contributions have helped to guide and sustain congregations throughout the Mission District in Saskatchewan as well as in Manitoba for many years.

Gerald’s involvement in the Ukrainian community is ongoing as he is presently President of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Elias in Wroxton, Saskatchewan. He is devoted to his home parish in Mazeppa and active as the Choir Director of the Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Yorkton. Gerald has worked tirelessly to teach other congregation members the art form of cantoring.

Gerald plays a vital role on the Board of Directors for Camp Trident at Crystal Lake. As one of the founding members of the Order of St. Andrew – Yorkton Branch in 1994, he has promoted the cultural and spiritual aspects of the organization.

Gerald also continues his work as a valued member of TYC/UOMA (Ukrainian Orthodox Men’s Association) with the Canora Branch.

Gerald holds a passion for cantoring—his vision has never been clearer, his heart guides his dedication and his devotion continues to encourage others to follow his gift of singing.

Gerald and his partner, Mary, continue to reside in the rural area of Yorkton.

Leadership

Gene was born in 1973 to Boris and Mae Makowsky in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Following completion of Grade 12 at Walter Murray Collegiate, Gene earned a Bachelor of Education degree with distinction at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) in 1996. During his time as a university student, Gene’s prowess on the football field was instrumental in helping the U of S Huskies win two Hardy Cup Championships, as well as his being named to the Canada West All-Star team in 1994.

Gene is best known for his seventeen years as a Canadian football offensive lineman in the Canadian Football League (CFL), all of which were played with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Gene made Rider history for the most games played. He played his 272nd game in August of 2011. On October 18, 2012, Gene was honoured at a pre-game ceremony for this remarkable achievement. During his football career with the Riders, Gene was named the Most Outstanding CFL Lineman twice and a CFL All-Star five times. In 2007, when the Riders won the Grey Cup by defeating the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Gene was presented the Grey Cup on behalf of the Riders by CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon.

In the CFL off-season he worked as a substitute teacher in the Regina Public School System from 1997 to 2011. In 2008, Gene was hired by the provincial government to help aspiring Saskatchewan minor football players at the grassroots level to excel on the football field.

Known as a quiet leader, Gene is committed to giving back to his community. Upon his retirement from the CFL in February 2012, Gene has continued to be involved in football, coaching minor and flag football in Regina. He attends many charity and community events. His interests are coaching youth sports, politics, woodworking, and golf as well as spending time with his young family.

Gene was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature as a Saskatchewan Party MLA in the 2011 provincial election. He currently sits on the Legislative Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies and the Caucus Committee on Crown and Central Agencies. Premier Brad Wall appointed Gene as Deputy Whip in May 2012.

As a youth, Gene was very involved at the All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Saskatoon.

Gene and his wife, Tami, call Regina home with their family of three sons, Nicholas, Ryan and Blake.

Wayne Miles Hydeman was born on May 15, 1949, the seventh child born to Nick and Annie (Adam) Hydeman. His parents farmed near Glen Elder, Saskatchewan. Wayne attended Canora Elementary and Canora Composite High Schools. He received a certificate of Architectural Design Drafting from Red River College in 1969 and a certificate of Business Administration from the University of Regina in 1998.

Professionally, Wayne worked in mechanical engineering consulting and mechanical engineering sales and property development. Wayne is the owner/partner of several property developments and managements, including Centre Square Developments and Hydeman Property Management Inc.

Wayne has been a member of the Descent of the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Regina since 1995 and has supported his church as a board member, parish property manager and Ukrainian Orthodox Auditorium operations committee chair. Mr. Hydeman was the primary advisor on engineering and financial matters during the planning and construction of Selo Gardens Personal Care Home and continues to do so.

Wayne was president of the Ukrainian Orthodox Housing Corporation, a 68-unit seniors’ complex.

Mr. Hydeman is a member of the Ukrainian Orthodox Men’s Association/TYC since 1995. He has served as Director, Secretary and Vice-President. He has also served as Director and Treasurer of National TYC and President of Saskatchewan Provincial TYC and President of Provincial CYC.

Wayne has served as a director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Regina. He participated in the Kyiv Ukrainian Pavilion of Mosaic Festival in various capacities. Wayne is also a member of the UCC Regina’s Immigration Committee and has helped newcomers by collecting furniture and household furnishings as well as finding jobs for them, and helped upgrading certifications to improve their salaries.

Wayne is presently the President of the Ukrainian National Federation (Regina). He has been instrumental in bringing life to many programs provided by the UNF. Wayne is also a director on the National board and director of the UNF Foundation. The Ukrainian Canadian Professional and Business Association of Regina has also benefited from Wayne’s generosity of time and effort. He has helped raise funds for orphanages in Ukraine and educational scholarships. He has participated in the Ukrainian language program (AULIC) as an organizer and a student.

Wayne married Mary Ellen Murphy in 1972. They have been blessed with two daughters, Catherine and Tracy.

Jean Saranchuk (Mudry) was born and raised on a farm near Watrous-Venn, Saskatchewan. She has had a long and busy life as a teacher, community leader, volunteer and lifelong member of the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League of Canada (UCWLC).

Jean completed high school by correspondence, received a Teaching Certificate from Saskatoon Teachers’ College and credit classes from the University of Saskatchewan. She taught in Ituna, Broadacres, Alvena and Cudworth. As a dedicated teacher and active community member, she took part in many after-school, social and community projects. Jean joined the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League (UCWL) in 1950, while in Cudworth.

Jean and her husband, Fred, moved the family to Saskatoon in 1952. Jean joined the Cathedral Branch of the UCWL and continued as a substitute teacher while raising her young family. During the second Diocesan Conference, Jean became more interested in the organizational life of the UCWL. Later, she presented reports on behalf of the Cathedral Parish UCWL and acted as the Provincial Correspondence Secretary. In 1955 she worked with others to establish the Museum of Ukrainian Culture, becoming one of its founding members.

As a UCWL member, Jean helped establish scholarships for students of Ukrainian studies; visited the sick; took part in parish varenyky and holubtsi work bees; taught Ukrainian language courses for youths and adults at St. George’s Youth Centre; organized and demonstrated contemporary crafts, traditional pysanka-writing and embroidery.

She enjoyed fundraising for Sheptytsky Institute and St. George’s Senior Citizens residence. She served as Chair of the Board of Directors of the seniors’ organization for 16 years.

Jean was elected as the Second Vice-President of the provincial UCWL at the 11th Diocesan Convention in 1961; the Eparchial Press Convenor in 1966; and Eparchial President in 1971. She was recognized for her contributions with an Honorary Life Membership at the 1995 National UCWL(C) conference in Edmonton.

Although not yet a senior, Jean spearheaded the formation of the Ukrainian Senior Social Club. The facility became reality in 1980. Jean continues to attend club events when possible and heads the list of its Founding Members.

Jean was a devoted wife of 69 years to Fred Saranchuk. They had four children, Dennis, Donna, Jaqueline and Janice.