Obituary of Eva Costescu

COSTESCU, Eva

October 12, 1922 – June 23, 2021

Eva was born on her parent’s homestead (George and Magdalena Paun) near Dysart. In 1939, she moved to Windsor, Ontario to live with her older sister’s family. With war on the horizon, Eva gained employment as “Rosy the Riveter.” Summer holidays were spent working in the tobacco fields around Leamington.

In 1947, she returned home for a visit.  Her plans changed when she became reacquainted with Nick Costescu, a neighbor.  They married July 25, 1948, and she moved 2 miles down the road to the Costescu homestead.   Eva splurged on a $14 wedding dress, and sewed the bridesmaid gowns.  They had 3 children, George (1949), Danny (Constantine) (1951), and Elaine (1953). 

Besides being a good cook, and an immaculate housekeeper, she spent long days doing farm work.  Life was made a bit easier with the luxury of running water in 1960 and electricity in 1961.

In 1975, Nick and Eva moved to Regina to take up semi-retirement.  They travelled Canada coast to coast and although she didn’t like water, she dipped her feet in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.  They traveled throughout the United States, spent many winters in Hawaii and Mexico, and made a memorable trip to Romania, the homeland of their parents. 

Eva thought it important to find hobbies to occupy her hands and mind, and continued to try new things. She started bowling in her 50s and laid claim to a few trophies.  She kept her hands busy with knitting, crocheting and fine needlework. Although Eva never considered herself an artist, she enjoyed working with color and texture to create detailed cross stitch pictures despite the time spent ripping out mistakes.

She experienced sadness and loss in her life with the death of George (1988), Nick (2006) and Danny (2012).   Eva is survived by Elaine; Murray; grandchildren Stephen and Nicaila; and daughter-in-law Marlene.

She lived independently to the age of 96, when a fractured hip necessitated a move to Selo Gardens Personal Care Home. We are deeply grateful for the love and care provided to her from the Selo Garden’s staff.

We will remember Eva for her quick wit, and her example of balancing life with work and play.  She taught us to be resilient, adventurous, and accept change without looking back.  Eva looked for the best in people and taught us that a life filled with laughter and tears is well worth living.

Flowers gratefully declined.  Those so wishing may make a donation in memory of Eva to the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, 301 – 2550 12 Avenue, Regina, SK S4P 3X1.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 28, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the St. George Orthodox Cathedral, 2005 Edgar Street, Regina, SK.