CHRISTINE BOYCZUK-RENSBY
December 17th, 1946 – February 10th, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christine Boyczuk-Rensby, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, educator, mentor, and tireless community leader. Christine passed away at the age of 78 on Monday, February 10th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and lifelong learning. Born in Moose Jaw, SK on December 17th, 1946, Christine’s passion for education and community involvement began early in life. She graduated from Artisan School in Spring Valley, SK, attended Teachers College in Regina, SK and continued her education at the University of Regina, constantly striving to learn and grow throughout her life.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald Rensby, and her parents, Joan and Victor Boyczuk. Christine is survived by her cherished daughter, Vanessa Boyczuk-Cowan (Kris); brother, Duncan Boyczuk (Judy), and sister, Paula Boyczuk-Green (Darrel). Christine’s family also includes her grandchildren: Meghan (Mason), Evan (Kass), and Madisan (Chase); and great-grandson, Jett. She was also a loving stepmother to Chris Rensby (Melissa), Jeff Rensby (Angela), and Rebecca Livingstone (Martin); and a step-grandmother to: Zach, Tess, Taisley (Rebecca), Rafe, Dawson, Harrison, Spencer, Dylan, Taylor, Jonathon, and Sarah; as well as numerous godchildren, extended family, and friends.
Christine’s career as an educator spanned decades, impacting countless lives. She began as a teacher, later becoming a Reading Consultant with the Moose Jaw Public School Board. Her expertise led her to roles such as superintendent of curriculum and gifted education with the Moose Jaw School Division, director of the Davidson School Division, and trustee and vice-chair of the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division’s Board of Education. Her work with LEADS, including her role as regional intersectoral coordinator, further exemplified her commitment to the betterment of her community, where she advocated for poverty alleviation and worked to establish the HUB in Moose Jaw — an intervention program for at-risk individuals. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Christine dedicated herself to numerous community groups, committees, and initiatives. She served on the John Howard Provincial Board, chaired the Age-Friendly Moose Jaw Committee, co-chaired the Community Mental Wellness Committee, and was a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Church and the Catholic Women’s League. She was actively involved with the Optimist Club, Rotary Club, Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce, Family Resource Centre, and Square One Community Inc. Christine also led over 50 provincial and national conferences, including youth forums and early childhood education conferences, leaving an indelible mark on all who worked with her. Christine’s contributions to her community did not go unnoticed. She was the proud recipient of many prestigious awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal (2002), Saskatchewan Centennial Medal (2005), Moose Jaw City Police Community Safety Award (2014), PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award (2016), Moose Jaw Citizen of the Year (2018), Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal (2019), and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022), among others. Known for her infectious energy, vibrant spirit, and dedication to those around her, Christine truly had a heart of gold. Christine and Don’s home was a welcoming haven, where they joyfully hosted family and friends. Christine took great pride in her garden, cooking, and creating unforgettable memories. She will be remembered for her impeccable sense of style — always put together, with her signature funky hair, stylish glasses, and fantastic shoes — as well as her infectious laughter and love of life. Her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “GG,” will forever cherish the memories of her fun-loving personality and her ability to make every gathering special. From playing the accordion at family events to dressing up for hilarious skits in a nose and glasses, Christine ensured that everyone felt included in the joy she so freely gave. Christine’s remarkable life was a testament to the power of kindness, service, and the importance of community. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Christine was, without a doubt, a true gem. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain with us.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 1064 3rd Ave NW in Moose Jaw. Father Bert Lillo will be the presiding celebrant and interment will take place in the Moose Jaw Funeral Home Columbarium at a later date. A Prayer Service will be held on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to consider donations in Christine’s name to the Our Lady of Hope Library Fund for literacy and learning. Link for donation https://www.htcsd.ca/apps/form/olhlibrary. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
It is with profound sadness to read about Christines passing.
I along with five other girls graduated high school together in Spring Valley. We had a lot of fun growing up together ….our sincere condolences to the family from the Peakman family, Jim, Linda, Rita and Janet.
My condolences to the family on the passing of Christine.
She was obviously very accomplished. I remember her from my days in education. My sister Darla Cornish taught in the Moose Jaw school system, too, where I first started my career.
Dear Vanessa
So sorry to hear of Christine’s passing. Much too soon in her busy schedule I’m sure. She will be missed by many. Thinking of you
Sending my deepest condolences to Christine’s family and siblings. I grew up in Spring Valley and went to school with Christine. My brother Gordon Peakman and Duncan were best of friends and were until Gordon’s passing. On behalf of the Peakman Clan we are sending our love and prayers and remember all the good times.
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Christine. I first met her when I did volunteer work at Prince Arthur School many years ago. Christine was very stylish and had such an energetic, bubbly personality. She was such a beautiful soul and I am sure she will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Our deepest sympathy to all. Heaven has gained another angel. Take care.
Deepest condolences to the Rensby family, all of Christine’s family and her many many friends and coworkers. A great loss. May she rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Glennys Peterson Burns and family (Edith Triggs’ daughter)
Being part of the Artesian School , and on to Uof R later, Christine Always was busy at another project! The words written about her life are as she lived…to the fullest. A terrible shock to all of us. Peace to the family, we will miss her.
Vannesa and family I am so sorry to hear about your Mother. She was a great lady. She did so much for Moose Jaw and community. I belonged to the Hospital Aux. and had seen her at the gift shop a few times. Take care. Elaine Ivany
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to you Vanessa and all the family. Christine was an amazing person and loved by all who were lucky enough to meet her. She will be greatly missed but always remembered with loving thoughts.
It was such a shock to hear of Christine’s untimely passing. My deepest condolences to the family. Her life’s work touched so many lives in such profound ways. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will forever live on…
Cathy Fieldgate
Vanessa and all the family. Our heartfelt condolences on this very sad occasion. She was one special lady did so much for so many. This city and all who she helped will miss her very much..
Our deepest heartfelt condolences big hugs and prayer
. Lloyd, Trevor, Ruth Thiele
I was saddened to hear of Christine’s passing and extend my deepest condolences to Vanessa, family and friends. It was my honour to work for Christine when she served as⁷ the SIAST Board Chair in Saskatoon. She was very dedicated, thoughtful, and kind to all. We continued our friendship for years and I will treasure the many memories we shared. RIP my dear friend.
I am so saddened to hear of Christine’s passing. She was an amazing person. She will always be Miss Kenney to me. She was my kindergarten teacher at Prince Arthur School, many many years ago and I have never forgotten her. She left a mark on my life with her compassion and care. She will be missed.
To Vanessa, family and friends. Christine was a well respected, kind lady with boundless energy. She was so helpful during my first years of teaching. Her love of people and education was abundantly clear. She had that positive attitude that left you feeling good about yourself and what you trying to accomplish. She will be terribly missed and impossible to replace. Rest in peace Christine.
Dear Paula (Darrell); Duncan (Judy); Vanessa & families,
Thinking of you all at this sad time. Another wonderful soul gone too soon.
May she rest peacefully in heaven. May God bless you all with peace & comfort in the days ahead.
Lorraine Ludwar (nee – Harlos)
Vanessa and family,
I was sorry to hear of the loss of your mom. Working with your mom over the years was a privilege and a joy,she will be greatly missed.
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
We never had a chance to meet Christine but reading about her, we can feel what a special lady she was to you all. Our deepest Condolences and prayers for all of you.
Dear Paula (Darrell); Duncan (Judy); Vanessa & families,
Thinking of you all at this sad time. A wonderful soul gone too soon.
May she rest peacefully in heaven. May you find peace & comfort in all your memories of her.
Lorraine Ludwar (nee-Harlos)
Vanessa and Clan,
I regret but being able to come to the celebration of Christine’s life. She is my hero, she lived her life meaning ferociously and led us as we were willing and able. I feel her strong presence as forcefully as ever. In her honour I will reach out to help in someway that isn’t part of my routine, As Christine led us through her example. We are all united today in her huge loving energy❤️
I had the pleasure of getting to know Christine through my work with the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation and her work working with Moose Jaw Literacy and Square One. I admired her a great deal, as not only was she so gifted in bringing community and people together to do good work, she also was so engaging and charismatic you just wanted to be near her. My sincere condolences Christine’s family and friends. May the causes that she furthered so passionately in her life continue to have impact in her memory.
Our dearest Vanessa, Duncan, Paula, and family,
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Your mom and sister was an incredible woman, full of warmth and light, and she will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We will truly miss the Boyzchuk family matriarch.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Randy and Brenda Ludwar