Annie Demenoff, aged 96, passed away peacefully at Boundary Hospital on July 18, 2010. Annie was born on September 25, 1913, at the Christovoye Community now known as the Outlook District of Grand Forks, to the Doukhobor family of Peter and Dora Horkoff. Dora’s maiden name was Makortoff. Her life began in the communal village of Makortoff, where the Doukhobor Mountain View Museum stands today. She grew up in the Boundary area with her younger brother Pete and sister Tina. At an early age, Annie attended different meetings (sobraniyes) where she learned many traditional psalms, hymns and Russian folk songs. From her mother and other elders she learned the art of spinning wool, knitting, weaving, quilting and sewing, all skills that were necessary throughout her lifetime. In her teen years Annie together with her elders, worked communally in the fields, orchards and gardens around their home helping out with different chores.
Annie later met Peter Demenoff whom she married in February of 1932. They were blessed with three children: Harry, Peter and George. Peter had passed away shortly after his birth.
Annie was blessed with a full and vibrant life. She was always working side by side with her husband, Peter in the carpentry shop and in the summer time, working in the orchards in the Okanagan. She loved gardening, canning, cooking, sewing, and much more. Annie always made time to spend with family. She was a lifetime member of the USCC and was actively involved in the choirs. She was most happy when she was singing, and strived not to miss a function. You would often hear her singing as she was preparing meals or doing her daily chores. Annie was devoted to her family and her faith. Her quiet and gentle spirit welcomed everyone, with which she also nurtured her loved ones by practicing the loving acceptance of all.
After Peter passed away in 1975 Annie lived on her own for a few years caring for her family. Later she met Mike Astoforoff at one of the practice choir meetings she attended, and they became dear friends. Together they enjoyed choir, gardening and learning new songs and prayers.
Annie is predeceased by her husband, Peter; her parents, Pete and Dora Horkoff; her sons: Harry, Peter and George; daughter-in-law, Olga Demenoff; and brother, Pete Horkoff. She is survived by her grandchildren: Marcie Jancic, Larry (Natalie) Demenoff, Kathy (Alex) McKee; great-grandchildren: Diana, Jake, Mark and Selena; and great-great-grandchildren, Aleena and Cole; her sister, Tina Demoskoff; her sisters-in-law, Helen Horkoff and Helen Nevokshonoff; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Friday, July 23, 2010, at the USCC Community Centre and burial followed at the USCC Cemetery. Grand Forks Funeral Home was in care of arrangements.
Annie will always be remembered as a gracious and gentle lady, who treated everyone with respect and courtesy. She will be deeply missed and her love will remain with us always. May she rest in peace in God’s heavenly kingdom.