Mary Popien

Mary Anne Popien formerly of Neepawa, MB passed away peacefully with family at her side on January 10, 2026 at the Carberry Personal Care Home at the age of 95.

Mary was born on December 24, 1930 to Stephan and Annie Zayachkowski at Alvena, Saskatchewan. Mom attended school in Alvena until Grade 7 at which time between no rain, poor crops and the grasshoppers destroying what was left of the crops the family was forced to pack up all their belongings and move to Prudhomme. Mom graduated in 1950 completing her Grade 12. In attempts to secure a job mom applied to an Ad in the newspaper which was asking graduated students to come and teach in Manitoba schools. Mom applied and was hired within a week. Mom taught at Empire School then was required to attend Normal School to obtain her teaching certificate which she did so successfully. She was then asked to return to teach at Empire School. Because the school was in need of equipment mom organized a dance to raise money for this. It was at this dance where mom met dad (Benn Popien) and they were married in January 1954. They had 5 children: Bernadette (Robbin), Frank (Lynn),Greg (Linda), Louise (John) and Denise.

Mom enjoyed many hobbies which included sewing, cooking, baking, art painting and travelling. Mom’s painting achievements were a great source of pride to her. Traveling was important to her as it allowed her time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who lived in Alberta and B.C. The family close by had the advantage of seeing and being with Grandma on a regular basis and enjoying her cooking and baking with many family gatherings.

Mom’s faith was a source of strength for her and she never missed any special celebration of faith with the grandchildren or great grandchildren nor did mom miss an opportunity to tell her family how important God and faith was!

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff at the Carberry Personal Care Home, Sneath-Strilchuk Funeral Services and St. Augustine’s Church.

The funeral service was held at St. Augustine’s Church, Brandon, MB on Friday January 16, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Lunch and fellowship followed and interment at the Neepawa Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Augustine’s Church.

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