Maria Del Carmen Olinyk
December 29th, 2021
OLINYK, MARIA DEL CARMEN (nee Di Pilla)
March 31, 1968 – December 29, 2021
Mary made her grand entrance into heaven to be with Jesus on Wednesday, December 29, 2021. Mary had fought cancer for the third time in seven years and our beautiful Warrior was ready to go home and be comforted by our Heavenly Father.
Mary will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Kent of 17 years; her three children, Olivia, Sheridan (Alex) and Brett. She is survived by her mother, Anna Di Pilla; and her sister, Patricia Di Pilla (Jose); and her brother, Oscar. She was predeceased by her father, Michele Di Pilla; loving in-laws; nieces; nephews; and numerous loving friends who have been impacted greatly by her life.
Mary was born on March 31, 1968, in Rosario, Argentina and her family emigrated to Montreal, Quebec when she was five. Mary made lifelong friends quickly and easily, enjoyed family trips back to Argentina, Italy and anywhere else her Dad wanted to go. Mary was very inquisitive, thoughtful, kind, smart and able to speak fluently in four languages. Mary completed all her education in Montreal including her degree at University of Concordia.
Mary had a successful career working as a Director of Sales at Carswell (Thomson Reuters) where she met Kent and eventually moved from Toronto to Calgary where they were married. Once Olivia was born Mary chose to be a stay-at-home mom. When she was ready to go back to work, she accepted a role at Kingdom City Church where she spent the last 10 years supporting the executive and day-to-day operations of the church while connecting, supporting, and mentoring many. She had a special calling for lifting others up and motivating people to be the best versions of themselves, and left lasting impressions on anyone who crossed her path.
Mary had many passions. She loved to cook, which came naturally as her father loved to cook, and was famous for amazing meals and the supporting pictures that ended up on social media. Mary loved travelling and enjoyed going back to familiar places like Phoenix and visiting new locations with the goal of enjoying great food, meeting new people, having new adventures, and going to Christian music concerts. One of Mary's ministry highlights at the church was working with a great team of ladies to plan Renovare women’s retreats for many years.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, especially Pam Sweeny, Dr. Gregory Nelson, and his team as well as the nurses on Unit 42, Dr. Kin Leung and Dr. Ryan Lees. Also, the many relatives, friends, neighbours, and health care aides who cared for Mary. Whether it was a text, phone call, card, words of encouragement, visits, food, or prayer, all were appreciated, and Mary felt loved.
Mary was a glimmer of hope, she was joy, and she was so full of life. Mary’s faith was strong whether on the mountain top or in the valley and was open to share her story, lifting up and giving strength and motivation to others.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, January 6th at 1:00pm. Due to COVID restrictions, a livestream link is attached for anyone who feels compelled to pay their respects; https://youtu.be/CkOXfkeBlzk . Individuals will be invited by the family to attend in person. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, c/o Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 – 29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N2.
Messages:
Dear Kent and Family, My deepest condolences to you’re family at this time of sorrow. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. Eternal rest grant unto Mary, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she Rest In Peace. Amen.
Kent and family Our deepest condolences to you and all of your and Mary's family. We will continue to pray for all in this loss. Heaven has certainly gained a new angel who certainly made her community a much better place.
My condolences to Kent and family. Mary was a wonderful person and will be missed. She was a bright light and will not be forgotten.
My sincere condolences to Mary's family. May she give you the strength you need to get through these tough times. Heaven has gained another angel, yet gone too soon. May you rest in peace my dear friend.
Deepest and sincerest condolences to Kent and family. I had the privilege to work for Mary many years ago and will never forget the wisdom she shared, her passion and that incredible smile. Mary inspired so many. What an honor and blessing to have the opportunity to know her. Mary, Kent and her family are in my thoughts and prayers.
I was so shocked and devastated to learn of Mary's passing. I'll never forget the women's retreats, her smile, her laugh and of course her hair! Mary had to have the most beautiful, thick and long hair I'd ever seen. The first day we met I thought she was the most confident, beautiful and smartest people I've ever met. It was clear she lived her life to build others up, not because it was her Christian duty but because it's who she was. I'll always remember her love for Christ and passion for life. Oh Mary, I'll miss you so much. My deepest condolences go to Ken, Olivia, Sheridan and Brett.
Although we didn’t know Mary well, we were neighbors for years and I don’t think I ever saw her without a smile. Our girls used to disappear to each others backyards and we always shared a laugh when collecting them over the years. Condolences to Kent, Olivia, Sheridan and Brett, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
I had the honour of getting to know Mary when I taught her daughter. She was always smiling and ready to help. I’m very sorry for your loss. Please know that I’m thinking of you and your family in these difficult times. Olivia, I’m sending you big hugs. Corine Bergeron
To Kent, Olivia, Sheridan, Brett and Mary’s Montreal fam & close friends. A more authentically loving and pure woman doesn’t exist than your Mary. The service was just beautiful and thank you for allowing us from afar to share it with you all. Blessings on you all, Karen
I was so very sorry to hear about Mary's passing. I have not been able to stop thinking of her since I heard the news. She was a beautiful person, inside and out. She was a pleasure to work with so many years ago at Carswell. My condolences to Kent and their families. Rest in peace Mary. Gone to soon.
To Kent and Olivia, Sheridan and Brett, Mary brought joy and laughter wherever she went. Her love for Jesus was contagious, and her life touched many. I have so may wonderful memories of her enthusiastic leadership at Renovare, and we both cherish the connections we had with her at church. Though we will all miss her, we will forever treasure her memory in our hearts. May God's loving presence be a very real comfort to all of you at this time. Paul and Carol Holmes, Airdrie
To Kent, Olivia, Sheridan & Brett! Sending you all our deepest condolences & prayers! Hugs to you all!
I got to know Mary through a few Ladies’ Retreats and she was a bright light, always sharing her joy and authentic faith! My heart and prayers go out to her family.
Dear Kent and family, My sincere condolences to you and your family. Mary exuded such beauty, inside and out! My thoughts are with you all.
Everything Mary did, who she was in the very fibre of her being, stemmed from her enormous heart. Starting with her family, extending to friends, colleagues, casual acquaintances, even virtual strangers - whoever she came into contact with was warmed by the glow of her radiant smile and built up by her words and actions. She was a born leader with a servant's heart. She was truly the woman written about in Proverbs chapter 31 verses 10-31. Our hearts grieve with you at this incalculable loss, Kent and family; but we know that you do not mourn as those who have no hope. And as for Mary? I think the Message captures so well how she lived her life: "Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand.. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand - shine! Keep open house, be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14-16) She is there now, shining in the light of her heavenly Father. A life well lived.
Dear Kent and Family, Mary made me the woman I am today. She believed in me and was always there for me. I was blessed to cross her path 24 years ago. My deepest condolences.
Dear Kent and family, my deepest condolences for your loss. I only knew Mary briefly many years ago, but remember her as a very lovely woman.
To know Mary is to have loved her. We shared a lifetime of memories together. She lit up every room she walked into. May her light shine in the heavens like her smile did on earth. My memories of her will be forever in my heart. I love you, BF, may you Rest In Peace. To Kent, Olivia, family and friends, our deepest condolences to you. May her loving spirit live on. Tiziana and family xoxoxo
Only met Mary once but she was definitely a bright spirit, so very sorry for your loss and the struggles and challenges you have faced and will continue to face. Keep her alive by remembering all the wonderful experiences you all had the privilege enjoying. With heartfelt sympathy, Julie & Don
Dios te recibe en sus brazos, extrañaremos mucho esa enorme sonrisa con la que iluminabas todos los lugares y los corazones. Muchas gracias por tus palabras y por esos abrazos que me llenaban de energía. Gracias
To Kent and Olivia, Sheridan and Brett, Mary brought joy and laughter wherever she went. Her love for Jesus was contagious, and her life touched many. I have so may wonderful memories of her enthusiastic leadership at Renovare, and we both cherish the connections we had with her at church. Though we will all miss her, we will forever treasure her memory in our hearts. May God's loving presence be a very real comfort to all of you at this time. Paul and Carol Holmes
Kent, Olivia, Sheridan and Brett my deepest condolences and sorrow for your loss. I met Mary at the very beginning of my career at Carswell where I first experienced the positive energy, drive and compassion for others that would be constant throughout many years of knowing her. She was simply an incredible person. It was impossible to leave a conversation with Mary without a smile and feeling uplifted. While I feel a tremendous sense of sadness I know that I am truly blessed to have known this wonderful soul. Her memory and encouraging words will be with me always.
Kent and family… I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Mary as an energetic spirit who was full of life. May her spirit live on in your memories.
We are so very sorry to learn about Mary. We rejoice in the hope of the wonderful reunion you will have with her in Heaven. Mary was a vibrant beautiful woman with a bright smile and a warmth that instantly drew people to her. Praying for God’s comfort at this sad time.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kent, Olivia, Sheridan and family, we are honoured to have known such a beautiful soul.
I wish to share my deepest condolences to the whole family and my thoughts go especially to Olivia. Mary was a generous woman with a heart of gold. I send you thoughts filled with affection and empathy.
Kent and family Mary and I had a friendship that picked up wherever we left off despite the many months in between. I loved her smile and admired her humble strength in Jesus. An inspiration to me and I’m certain to everyone she met. I will miss her. I already do! God bless you all.
Such tragic news. Mary was a beautiful person taken far too soon. Kent, Olivia and family, you have my sincerest condolences on your tragic loss. I have many fond memories of Mary at Carswell -- her spark, her smile, her laughter, and her strong sense of ethics, collegiality and fun. I still shake my head wondering how Kent won her heart. Actually, nope, but he was still a very fortunate man. And I suspect Mary felt pretty fortunate too for the life you two had and the family you created together. I hope you find consolation in memories of happier times you shared together, and in the knowledge that she will not be forgotten but remains in our thoughts and hearts. Kasia and I are thinking of you and wish you peace in your grief.
Our hearts have been struck with sadness this week as we heard the news of the passing of our great dear friend and neighbour Mary Olinyk. Our sincere condolences go out to Kent, Olivia, Brett, Sheridan (Alex) as well to the extended families. May cherished memories bring you peace and comfort during this difficult time❤️❤️
Mary was a warm light in any room. Her generous heart was manifested by that big smile that lit her face. Your loss will be real and deeply felt. I am sorry for that loss and pray her light and warmth will always be a part of her husband , children and mother's life. God hold you all tightly in the palm of His hand until you meet her again. Prayers for family and friends at this sad time.
Dear family, My heart breaks for you all. Mary was literally a walking angel on earth. She brought joy and would light up the room. I will dearly miss her hugs and our conversations about food (especially Italian food and the best restaurants). She impacted everyone she met, and I know she was a mentor to me in so many ways. She was encouraging and loving through some tough times. May you be lifted up and feel the presence of the father. May Holy Spirit cover you in a veil of his love and comfort. Love to you all and God bless!
I won’t ever forget the first day I saw Mary.. I didn’t even get to meet her that day, as she was giving a presentation at a sales conference in Montreal… but I remember being in awe of her - I was fresh out of university, new to Carswell and basically had no clue how to adult.. but when I saw her I remember thinking that she was stunning. And it wasn’t just her beauty and poise that made her stunning - it was her presence. She drew people in. She had command over a room full of people. People stopped and listened when she spoke because they were truly interested in what she had to say. She inspired people. She inspired me. I’m not sure if you were even aware or not, but Mary and I kept in touch over the past few years…After my son was diagnosed with Battens, Mary reached out to me and offered her support. She helped me immensely - especially in the days and months soon after he was diagnosed, when I was mad at the world… It was during that time that she shared with me how her connection to God had such a huge impact on the way she approached her own health challenges. Much of what she said resonated with me and impacted me significantly. She helped me to bring faith into the chaos I was feeling. I won’t ever forget the many ways she impacted my life. I remain forever grateful to her for sharing her perspective with me… it truly helped. Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. She was rare and beautiful and so incredibly special.
Kent and Family, so sorry for the loss of such an amazing human being. I was honoured to meet her. Know you’re not alone. May you all find comfort in our Heavenly Father. Amen!
Dear Kent and Family, Our deepest condolences to all.Her wonderful smile always made us feel better..anytime we saw her at Church...May God give you Peace until you meet again...Love and Prayers Mary and John Gallant
Dear Ken and family, you have my deepest condolences. Mary was a very special person, it was an honour to have known her. My thoughts are with you all. Rachel
Our deepest condolences and prayers, may you be at peace in the Kingdom of God
Kent, Olivia, Sheridan, Brett & family: We are truly sorry for your loss. Mary was a bright light, that shone on everyone she met. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly. Sending you all love, sympathy & a million hugs. ❤
I was so heartbroken to hear of Mary’s passing. Having known her warm and infectious smile that came with a big loving personality. We shared some great times in our youth. To her family and friends, my deepest condolences. May God give you strength in this time of need. God bless you all. Sincerely, Josie Cammalleri
Nuestro más sentido pésame a toda la Familia, nunca te olvidaremos Mary fuiste una persona extraordinaria, que has dado mucho amor a tus familiares y amigos. Estarás siempre en nuestros corazones ♥️
It is with deep sadness I that I heard of the passing of this wonderful vibrant woman. But I will always remember her joyful spirit and bright smile
Our deepest condolences to Kent, Olivia, Sheridan, Brett, Mary’s mom and Sister and all of family. Mary was always a joy and her personality and beautiful smile always captivated you. She will be missed dearly. Prayers and hugs to you all.
Dear Kent, Olivia and the entire family, please accept our sincere condolences and know that we are grieving with you. We will miss Mary terribly and cherish all the wonderful times spent together. Big hug to you all... Melina, Sebastian and Gabriella xoxo
I am truly honoured and blessed to have known our beautiful Mary.She was truly a blessing in my life and my family. I will miss her tremendously , she will forever remain in our hearts. May she rest in peace!
I knew Mary briefly from various interactions through the church…she truly was larger than life, had a deep love for God and helping others. I will miss her joyous smile! She left a huge impact on people. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Our earthly hearts ache for her loss while heaven rejoices to welcome her home.
Mary was a beautiful lady with a heart that encompassed so many. Her big smile and cheerful demeanour will be missed. The season of life where I was blessed to spend time with Mary is filled with memories of her love first and foremost for her Saviour Jesus Christ (she spoke often of her faith) and for her family. My condolences to Kent and the rest of the family and what a comfort to know that while Mary will be missed here on earth. She is smiling big in her heavenly home.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Prayers. Mary is an awesome person to anyone she meets. God bles.
To the family of Mary I’m sorry to all of you she was such an awesome person and a beautiful soul. May god give you strength and comfort at this time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
We feel blessed to have been your neighbors and friends, Mary made everyone feel special and loved, she left a lasting impression on us and everyone she met. Our love to all of you, may you find comfort in all the wonderful memories we made
Dear Kent and family, my sincere condolences. May you take comfort in the memories you shared.
Our paths crossed for a brief moment in time. Maria was kind, funny, and lively. My random discovery of her passing has made me very melancholy. I extend my deepest and most sincere condolences to her family and closest friends. May you continue to find courage and strength to deal with this great loss. Maria Del Carmen, que en paz descanses entre los angeles.