Elaine Marie Gulutzan (née Brataschuk)
August 31, 1941 - August 14, 2025
With grace, wisdom, and a heart full of love, Elaine Marie Gulutzan (née Brataschuk) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Born on a warm harvest evening, Sunday, August 31, 1941, in Spalding, Saskatchewan, Elaine was the beloved daughter of Harry and Anne Brataschuk. She grew up as the middle sister to Eunice and Sonia, in a home where the values of education, hard work, and heritage were deeply rooted. From a young age, Elaine found joy in the pages of books, nurturing a lifelong love of reading that would shape her journey. Her childhood was spent helping on the family farm, tending the garden, and assisting her Babunya—experiences that instilled in her a profound respect for the land and a deep connection to her Ukrainian heritage.
Elaine’s life took a beautiful turn when she met her soulmate, Will. They married on November 23, 1961, while Elaine was pursuing her nursing degree at the University of Saskatchewan. She proudly became a Registered Nurse in 1963, and together they welcomed two children: Susan and Robert. Elaine and Will built a life filled with love, laughter, and tradition in Spalding and later the farm in the home Will constructed with his own hands. Her kitchen was the heart of the home, where she lovingly prepared generous pies, traditional Ukrainian dishes, quiche, and her famous Black Midnight Cake. The island Will built for her became a gathering place for family, friends, and stories shared over meals.
After Will’s passing in 1992, Elaine embraced a new chapter with courage. She moved to Toronto to continue her education, earning her status as a Diaconal Minister and completing Clinical Pastoral Education. Her passion for learning led her back to Saskatoon, where she earned her Master of Theological Studies in 1999. Elaine’s calling as a caregiver extended beyond her nursing career. Her work in palliative and pastoral care brought comfort and compassion to many. She was a source of strength and solace, always ensuring those around her felt seen, heard, and loved. In her later years, Elaine found joy in music, movies, and discovering new books. But her happiest moments were spent at the farm, surrounded by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved dogs. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she upheld, and the love she gave so freely.
Elaine is predeceased by her husband Will, her parents Harry and Anne, and her brothers-in-law Don Anderson and Dennis Pylatuik, along with many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins. She will be deeply missed by her children Susan (Victor) Hawryluk and Rob (Kerrie) Gulutzan; her sisters Eunice and Sonia; her grandchildren Alyssa (Jason), Spencer (Emma), Colby, and Ryan; her great-granddaughters Claire, Vayda, Ava, and Lily; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Elaine will be remembered for her gracious heart, her unwavering pursuit of knowledge, and her devotion to family. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Vichnaya Pamyat (Вічная Пам'ять) – Eternal Memory.
A Private Graveside Service was held at Dovre Lutheran Cemetery, Spalding District. Memorial donations in Elaine’s memory may be directed to Quill Plains Centennial Lodge Building Fund or Rose Valley Community Spirit Manor.
This notice placed courtesy of
Malinoski & Danyluik Funeral Home & Crematorium
Phone: 682-1622