Mrs. Loretta MacKesey of Yorkton, formerly of Kamsack, beloved wife of Norman passed away peacefully at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre with family by her side on June 28, 2014. She was 77 years of age. Loretta (nee Popoff) MacKesey, second daughter of John J.P. and Ann (nee Baulin) Popoff, was born on July 7, 1936, in the Veregin District of Saskatchewan. Loretta received her education at Spring Valley School and Kamsack Collegiate Institute, graduating with her grade twelve diploma in 1955. Loretta began working for the Bank of Montreal in Kamsack in 1956. During this time Loretta met Norman MacKesey, his brown eyes stealing her heart at first sight. Loretta married her precious love, Norman, on July 29, 1960, and the couple began their life on a homestead near Veregin. They were blessed with three sons, Robert (1962), Larry (1969), and Bryan (1972). As the boys were growing up, Loretta re-entered the workforce as an employee at ShopRite Bakery in Kamsack. In the fall of 2012, Norman and Loretta relocated from the family farm to Yorkton to be closer to their children. Loretta had a love of gardening and took great pride in her expansive flower garden, earning the admiration of all who visited the farm. She had a passion for cooking, loved trying new recipes, and spent countless hours canning. Loretta also enjoyed curling, crocheting, and playing her accordion. Loretta followed the Toronto Blue Jays and watched each and every game with Norman. When the ball season was over, Loretta could often be found at her computer communicating with family and friends on Facebook. She looked forward to family gatherings and spending quality time with her grandchildren. Loretta was a loving, generous, compassionate, and understanding individual. The family has many happy memories to hold dear in their hearts and will cherish them deeply. Predeceased by her parents, John J.P. and Ann Popoff, her brother Johnny (in infancy), and her sister Annlee Horkoff, Loretta leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved husband, Norman; three sons, Robert (Barbara) of Yorkton, Larry of Yorkton, and Bryan (Gwen) of Ebenezer; four grandchildren, Brooke Velestuk-MacKesey (Larry), Wyatt Melnyk-MacKesey (Bryan), Tyson and Dylan Kentz (Gwen); one sister, Elizabeth Remezoff (Harold); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. The Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 at Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Crystal Bailey B.Th, Certified Celebrant as the Officiant. The candle lighter was Brooke Velustuk - MacKesey. Tributes & Words of Remembrance were shared by Loretta's sons - Bryan, Larry and Robert. Special musical selections, Amazing Grace by Allan Jackson and Till We Meet Again by Johnny Reid were included in the service. The interment took place in the Garden of Gethsemane at Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Wayne Horkoff, Murray Horkoff, Norman MacKesey, Harold MacKesey, Wyatt Melnyk - MacKesey and Spencer Remezoff serving as the casket bearers. Memorials honouring Loretta's life may be made to a Charity of Choice. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.baileysfuneralhome.com.
