On the evening of November 11th, 2025, the sky was lit by a breathtaking sweep of Northern Lights—dancing and glowing in colours many said they had never witnessed before. Earlier that very evening, Ida Ryhorchuk had slipped peacefully from this world. For all who knew Ida, and who understood her love of nature, the shimmering light felt like a heavenly whisper of comfort, as though she were saying, I’m okay. I’m here with you.

Ida was the daughter of Charles and Florence Smith (both deceased), younger sister of Judy (Smith) Williams (deceased), and older sister of John Smith and Arnold Smith. Raised on a farm near Alticane, SK, she grew up surrounded by wide prairie skies and the quiet lessons of country life. She attended Mayfair High School, and in time met the love of her life, Jerry Ryhorchuk. They married in 1970 and welcomed their son, Kevin, in 1980. Ida loved Kevin beyond measure and was incredibly proud of the man he grew to be. Her joy only deepened with the addition of Kevin’s wife, Lianne, and her cherished grandchildren, Danika and Deklan. Her little dog, Buffy, brought an extra measure of sweetness to Ida and Jerry’s home, offering soft snuggles and simple delight.

Ida’s friendship and love were gifts that touched countless lives. She carried a gentle kindness within her—a steady warmth that people felt the moment she entered a room. She cared for others, looking after a woman with special needs for many years, volunteering as an advocate with the Alzheimer’s Association, and faithfully visiting the residents of Ruth Whyte Manor, where her mother had lived, even after her mom had passed. Whether she was offering a hug, a word of encouragement, or a quiet hand to hold, Ida brought comfort wherever she went.

Her presence, her strength, her laughter, and her unwavering love will be deeply missed—most especially by her husband, Jerry; their son and his family; her brothers and their families; and all her nieces and nephews. And she will be remembered, in the luminous sweep of the Northern Lights, in the gentle beauty of the flowers and gardens she cherished. Ida’s spirit lives on—still blessing, still comforting, still shining.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Ida held at The Western Development Museum, North Battleford, in The Heritage Room, at 1:00pm, Friday, November 21st, reception to follow.

You can also attend online with Google Meet  https://meet.google.com/pdk-tmjk-dqw

We invite anyone to come forward and share a cherished story of Ida. If you are unable to attend or prefer to have someone read it on your behalf, please submit your tribute in advance to lianne@krelectricsask.ca

Memorial donations in memory of Mrs. Ida Ryhorchuk can be directed to Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan 301-2550-12th Avenue Regina SK S4P 3X1 Canada

Condolences for the family can be made at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium – Alyssa Kozinski – Student Funeral Director.

• Date : 2025-11-14
• Location : North Battleford, SK