Read About the Rosies

Kathryn Madge Ailey (nee Dillon) – January 13, 1917 – October 28, 2016

Kathryn was born on January 13, 1917, in Port Arthur, Ontario, to her parents, James and Edith Dillon. Growing up, she made many memories, including with her brother Robert.

With the Second World War’s development, and the rising number of casualties overseas, Kathryn started working at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She primarily worked in the paint and doping department.

Kathryn remained active throughout her life, working at Zellers for over 30 years and partaking in different hobbies, including bingo and sewing.

Norma Anderson (nee Cook) – December 15, 1923 – August 2, 2017

Norma was born on December 15, 1923. While she was growing up, Norma made many memories with her relatives. 

On June 26, 1942, Norma started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort. While she was employed at the CanCar plant, she worked as a fitter on many of the airplanes used in WWII. 

Norma eventually married Ronald James McNab Anderson, and they made many memories together throughout their lives. She loved playing Keno and Bingo, as well as spending time with her loved ones, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mary Andrusky (nee Mikulinski) – November 1914 – February 4, 2007

Mary was born in November 1914, in Fort William, Ontario, Canada, to her parents Dmytro and Eva Mikulinski. 

With the increasing number of casualties in the Second World War, Mary started working at the Fort William CamCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort in the production of airplanes. While she was employed with CanCar, she worked primarily as an airplane fitter. 

Following the Second World War, Mary and her husband William Andrusky spent quality time raising their family. She also spent time working at Wood’s Butcher Shop and Pittsburgh Paints.

Elaine Arsenault (nee Dubeau) – June 1923 – November 13, 2017

Elaine was born in June 1923, in Hearst, Ontario, to her parents, Hormidas and Laurence Dubeau. As she grew up, she was raised on the family farm in McIntyre Township, located outside Port Arthur, Ontario. She went to school at SS#1 McIntyre and SS#7.

Because of the Second World War’s rapid development and the significant amount of casualties overseas, Elaine started working at the Fort William CanCar factory on November 12, 1941, to assist with the Canadian war effort. She primarily worked as an aircraft fitter.

In 1946, Elaine married the love of her life Harvey Arsenault, and they raised five children together. She enjoyed various kinds of music, spending time with family and friends, and participating in her church.

Ann Baarts (nee Goyan) – August 15, 1924 – November 29, 2011

Ann was born on August 15, 1924, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Port Arthur, Ontario, to her parents Harry Goyan and Helen (Goyan) Mocyk. Ann grew up on First Avenue and she attended Cornwall School. She later attended Port Arthur Technical Institute. 

Ann’s first job was at the Fort William CanCar plant from 1942 until 1945 as one of the Rosie the Riveters. While employed with CanCar, Ann worked as a fitter and riveter, helping assemble the Curtiss Helldiver plane. During her time working at CanCar, she also received an Excellent Employee Award. 

Following the Second World War, Ann started working at the Adanac Hotel, where she eventually married the owner, Larry Baarts. Ann and Larry also purchased the St. Louis Hotel in downtown Fort William until 1970 when they sold it. 

Teresa Balabuck (nee Iazzani) -March 19, 1923 – January 27, 2011

Teresa was born on March 19th, 1923, in Fort William, Ontario, to Velino and Angelina Iazzani.

In 1941, Teresa received a job as a fitter at the Fort William CanCar factory to help with the Canadian War Effort. 

After working at CanCar, Teresa stayed home to raise her daughter and son, Susan and Robert. She was married to Walter Balabuck.

After her children became older, Teresa returned to the workforce and worked at West Fort Co-op until she retired in 1985.  

Rose Alice Louise Bernst – April 17, 1898 – June 29, 1994

Rose was born in London, England and later immigrated to Canada where she met her husband, Edward Emil Bernst who was from Fort William, Ontario. The couple moved to Saskatchewan in 1916 before moving back to Fort William in 1935. By this time, they had 8 children together, 7 of which were boys. 

When the Second World War broke out, all seven of Rose’s sons participated in the Canadian armed forces, as well as Edward, who served in Scotland from 1942-5. Rose herself served her country during the war by working as a Rosie at Fort William’s Can-Car plant. 

Rose and Edward tragically lost two sons while they were in service. Private Clarence Robert  Bernst died from leukemia in 1941 and a few years later, Able Seaman Ronald William Bernst was killed on-duty while serving overseas with the  Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve.

She was selected for the National Memorial (Silver) Cross Medal in 1985, which “recognizes the exceptional  sacrifice and trauma of mothers and wives of Canadian soldiers experienced having their family serve in Canada’s wars.” 

Rose passed away on June 29, 1994.

Information and photo used for biography taken from thunderbay.ca. 

Marion Blanshard (nee Daoust) -September 20, 1922 – November 21, 2006

Marion was born on September 20, 1922, in Espanola, Ontario. She had a big family with 15 brothers and sisters.

On May 4, 1942, Marion married the love of her life Doug Blanshard. While he served overseas in the Second World War, she took a job at the Fort William CanCar plant until August 1945, when she was laid off. Marion would work as a fitter during her employment.

Marion was also a nursing assistant at the Fort William Sanatorium and a Loch Lomond Ski Area sales representative.

She was always active, whether it was spending time with her family or participating in various activities, such as bowling, roller skating, cross-country skiing, and bingo.

Thelma Brady -March 27, 1914 – March 18, 2012

Thelma was born on March 27, 1914, in the Pardee District of present-day Thunder Bay, to her parents, Maria and William. She spent much of her childhood growing up on a farm, making many memories with her siblings.

From June 1943 to August 1945, Thelma worked at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist Canada’s war effort. She worked in the riveting department and enjoyed her time there, especially because she got to work with one of her closest friends Rose.

In 1967, Thelma and her family moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Thelma would work for the River East School Division. She was always active, whether bowling, cooking, or spending time with her loved ones.

Joan Brigden (Dickson) -October 31, 1923 – May 26, 2000

Joan Dickson was hired at Canadian Car and Foundry in 1942, at age seventeen, where she worked as a riveter on the aircraft’s cowlings (engine covers). She felt a duty to help the war effort, saying, “I felt very patriotic at that time in my life… I was a flag-waver then.” 

It was through her work at CanCar that Joan realised the extent of gender inequality, saying, “It was the first time I’d come across such a division labour between men and women, and I suppose it set me on the road to be something of a rebel all my life because women have been treated unfairly for a long, long time.” She mentioned the unequal pay in addition to safety concerns at Can Car, especially blood poisoning, in which Joan herself was hospitalized. Joan also expressed that women faced additional challenges. “I was putting in my 8 hours working three shifts and having just as hard a time to get to work as they did and probably more so” since there were no safety precautions to protect women on their way to and from the plant, especially for night shifts. 

She married Laurence (Laurie) Bridgen in 1944, and the couple moved to Alberta, where Laurie worked as a flight instructor. 

After the war, Joan felt women’s contributions to the war effort were under-appreciated, which was especially true of workers. She noted that women who served in the WRENS (Women’s Royal Naval Service) or WACS (Women’s Army Corps) received benefits, but “…Nothing was ever realized about all of those women who worked in munitions and aircraft factories and shipbuilding plants and there was a hell of a lot of us.”

Listen to Joan’s interview here.

Ernestine Elizabeth Buchosky (nee Burda) – July 1, 1924 – May 18, 2009

Ernestine Elizabeth Buchosky was born in Fort William, Ontario, on July 1, 1924, to her parents, Maria and Joseph Burda. Growing up, she attended St. Stanislaus and Selkirk High School.

With the development of the Second World War, Ernestine started working at the Fort William CanCar plant as a riveter to assist with the Canadian war effort.

On September 15, 1945, Ernestine married Dosie Walter Buchosky, and together, they raised their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

After staying home to help raise her family, Ernestine returned to the CanCar factory in 1970 and worked as a Material Control Clerk. She retired in 1989 and was an active St. Agnes Church and C.W.L. member.

Ella Burne (nee Vaillant) -January 26, 1920 – July 10, 2011

Ella was born on January 26, 1920, in Ewart, Manitoba, to her parents, Theodore and Arthemise Vaillant. As a child, Ella made many memories, including traveling to school in a horse-drawn sleigh during winter.

With the challenges of the Great Depression, Ella and her family moved to their grandpa’s farm in the small rural settlement of Baird, Ontario.

In December 1940, Ella started to work at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She primarily worked in the tool efficiency section. While working at CanCar, she met Stanley Burne, whom she married in 1950.

Following her employment at the CanCar plant, Ella took on jobs at Chapples Department Store and the Spence Clinic.

She also enjoyed spending time with family and doing crafts, quilting and knitting.

Margaret Cook (nee Nixon)

When Margaret Nixon turned 16, she got a job in the Canadian Car and Foundry electrical department. She thought she’d work at the factory until she was old enough to take nursing, but she fell in love with her work at CanCar and never looked back. In the fall of 1940, Margaret learned to wire Hawker Hurricanes. Later on, she worked in flat pattern layout and engineering for the Curtiss Helldiver. 

After the war, she continued to work in the engineering department on the new bus contracts for Brill. In 1949, Margaret married Norman Cook, an RCAF former air gunner. 

After she was laid off from CanCar, she drove oil trucks for Hagglunds Lumber and Fuel Limited and worked for over 20 years in sales, eventually becoming Department Manager of fuel Oil and Burner services. 

Margaret now lives in Abbotsford, British Columbia, but often travels to see her friends in Thunder Bay. She is an avid fan of air shows, and her flight in the world’s last flying Curtiss Helldiver was the trip of a lifetime.

Iris E. Crocker (nee Simpson) -September 14, 1923 – October 8, 2017

Iris was born on September 14, 1923, in South Neebing (Ellard Homestead), to her parents, Margaret and Archibald Simpson. She had three sisters and three brothers and was active throughout her childhood.

On March 25, 1942, Iris started working at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She worked there until June 13, 1944.

While living in Fort William, Iris married the love of her life, Stan Crocker, and raised nine children.

Iris was always an active community member, as she was President of the Ladies Aux, Navy League of Canada, Fort William Branch. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose 1338 for 44 years. Iris also enjoyed playing the organ.

Anne Dankowich (nee Yaremchuk) -December 30, 1920 – May 13, 2017

Anne was born on December 30, 1920, in Saskatchewan. She spent most of her childhood years growing up on a farm with her siblings, making many memories that would last a lifetime.

With the advancement of the Second World War, Anne eventually moved to Fort William and started to work at the CanCar plant assisting with airplane production. She worked primarily as a fitter during her time there.

Anne was a devoted community member throughout her life, including assisting with Slovak Legion Branch 129. She would help out by baking, cooking, and many other tasks.

She spent the summers with her husband, Peter, and the rest of her family at their camp in Squaw Bay.

Marjorie Deagle (nee Smart) – September 3, 1921 – September 22, 2023

Marjorie was born on September 3, 1921, to her parents, Ida and Norman Smart. Growing up, she attended Central Public School and Selkirk High School. She also enjoyed taking dance classes. 

With the escalation of the Second World War, Marjorie started working at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort in 1942. She worked as a clerk while employed with the CanCar factory. 

On June 10, 1950, Marjorie married Joseph Nickey Deagle and together they made many memories together. Marjorie was also a member of Sapphire Rebekah Lodge 309 and volunteered her time at McKellar General Hospital with the quick cart.

Doris Delia DeLong (nee Fournier) – April 8, 1917 – January 10, 2009

Doris was born on April 8, 1917, to her parents, Delia and William Fournier. She grew up in Westfort with her eight siblings and went to St. Martin and FWCI Schools. She was also an active member of St. Agnes Church.

She married the love of her life Bill DeLong and together, they raised their son, George.

From August 1944 until June 1945, Doris worked at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She worked primarily as a fitter for many airplanes they produced.

After her employment at the CanCar plant, Doris and Bill moved to Salt Spring Island to open a company and raise George. Doris was an active community member, always lending a helping hand.

Sophie Derbouka (nee Prokulevich) – September, 1918 – October 29, 2003

Sophie was born in September 1918 in Kenora, Ontario, and spent her childhood growing up in the Kenora district.

Sophie moved to Fort William, Ontario, and in October 1943, started working at the CanCar factory to help Canada and the Allied forces defeat the Axis powers during WWII. She worked primarily as a fitter during her time there. While working at the CanCar plant, she met her husband, Nicholas Derbouka, and they married on June 8, 1946.

They eventually built a home in Paipoonge Township and raised three sons together. Sophie was passionate about gardening, cooking, and walking in the woods and will always be remembered for her love of family and friends.

Dorothy DesNoyers (nee Burton) – May 11, 1916 – November 30, 2012

Dorothy was born on May 11, 1916, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Mabel and William Burton. She was the oldest of three girls, and they spent their childhood at their family home on Amelia Street. While growing up, Dorothy went to Francis Street School, and at a young age, she worked for the Coo Family as a housekeeper.

On February 17, 1941, Dorothy started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to help with the Canadian war effort and support those serving overseas. During her time there, she worked as a riveter and welder.

After working at the CanCar plant, she worked at the Chapples Department in Fort William. In 1956, she moved to Vancouver and worked at Woodward’s Department Store. While living and working there, she met the love of her life, Paul, and they made many memories together.

Pearl Agatha Gladys Dicks (nee Fournier) –  June 6, 1923 – March 15, 2021

Pearl was born in Fort William, Ontario, on June 6, 1923 to Delia and William Fournier. She was the youngest of 8 children. 

During the Second World War, Pearl joined the war effort by working at Can-Car. She began as a blueprint girl when she was first hired on January 20, 1942. She held  other positions in the tooling department and as a clerk. Pearl remembers working for Elsie McGill, the chief engineer at the Fort William Can-Car plant.

Pearl’s last day of employment was on October 30, 1942. It was around this time that she met and married  Kenneth Milton Dicks before he was sent off to fight overseas. After his return, they raised seven children together. 

“Family was a huge part of Pearl’s life but she also had many passions including baseball, bowling league, golfing, preserving fruits and vegetables and even making homemade root beer in the basement. She was an avid PTA member and enjoyed volunteering in pretty much everything.
In 1987, Pearl and Ken made the move to Penticton, B.C. for the warmer climate (and longer golf season!) It was there her famous “hole in one” was achieved. While there, they also enjoyed many vacations south of the border with friends. She even went parasailing at age 70!
After enjoying several years in B.C. Pearl and Ken returned again to their roots in Thunder Bay. She still remained active with bowling and golfing of course, insisting on walking the 18 holes at Municipal Golf Course even at 85 years old!
Pearl was a life long member of St. Agnes Church. Her faith was extremely important to her and carried her through many difficult times.”

Pearl passed away on March 15, 2021 at the age of 97.  

Information taken from online obituary, CanCar work card, and Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre. 

Mona Dunk (nee Malange) – March 9, 1924 – November 16, 2020

Mona was born on March 9, 1924, in Rivers, Manitoba, and spent most of her childhood growing up on the prairies. She had strong relationships with her family, which helped them get through the socioeconomic challenges of the Great Depression.

Mona eventually moved to Fort William, Ontario, and in August 1943, she started working at the CanCar factory. During her time there, she worked primarily as an inspector.

Following her employment at the CanCar, she worked at Eaton’s and met and married the love of her life, Ernie Dunk. Together, they built a home on Mountain Road and raised four girls.

Mona was actively involved in the community as her children grew up, working various other jobs, participating in community organizations, and keeping a hobby farm.

Margaret Esquega (nee Louis)- December 23, 1918 – December 17, 2002

Margaret was born on December 23, 1918, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Edward and Madeline Louis.

During the Second World War, Margaret worked at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. Her primary position was working on the aircraft wings.

After working at the CanCar factory, Margaret married the love of her life, Victor Esquega, in 1948. Together, they would raise and spend time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Margaret was also actively involved in the community, including participating in the Native Homemakers Association.

Irene Fedeli (nee DePiero) -September 7, 1920 – July 7, 2006

Irene DePiero’s family emigrated to Canada from Italy in the 1920s. Her father moved to Fort William to help build the Great Lakes Paper Mill. At 13, Irene quit school to help support her family by singing at weddings. She also sang at hockey games and in local theaters. 

While Irene’s five brothers worked at the mill, Irene decided to get herself a job as a welder at the Canadian Car and Foundry. Four of her brothers were overseas during the war. 

Her future husband, John Fedeli, joined the Navy, and after he returned from his overseas duty, the couple married in 1944. After the war, Irene worked on the shop floor at the paper mill. Later she worked in sales and as a buyer for Cooper’s Ladies Wear. 

Irene and John had one daughter, Sharon. Irene was also a grandmother to two and a great-grandmother to three.

Maria Fedorowicz (nee Strycharz) – August 24, 1901 – 1974 

Maria Fedorowicz, born Strycharz, was born on August 24, 1901, in Ułazów, Stary Dzików, Poland into a family of farmers.

On June 8th, 1922, at the age of 21, with a total of six dollars in her possession, having been sponsored by an older brother living in Smoky Lake Alberta Canada, Maria boarded the ship SS Saturna to journey to her new home in Fort William, Ontario, Canada.

At the age of 22, she married Mikołaj (Nick) Fedorowicz. Together they made a home in the east end where they raised three children: Mary, Stanley, and Elizabeth. I recall the Fedorowicz family door was always open to those who were hungry, Maria would just add water to the soup she had prepared for her family.

The second world war created unprecedented demands for military production, leading to a massive mobilization of the workforce, including women, who took on roles traditionally held by men. Maria step up to the challenge working at the Fort William Can Car plant producing artillery for the allies. She would have undergone training to familiarize herself with the specific tasks involved in weapon assembly. The training period would have varied, but the emphasis would have been on efficiency and precision to meet the wartime production demands. Maria and her coworkers, faced challenging environments, including noise, repetitive tasks, and sometimes hazardous materials. Safety regulations were not as advanced as today, so there were risks associated with certain aspects of the work.

For Maria working in weapons assembly during the Second World War would have been a mix of challenges, opportunities, and a sense of duty as she and other women took on vital roles in support of the war effort.

Maria loved spending time with her many grandchildren, she also enjoyed making perogies, and attending mass at St. Chasmires church. She was a passionate gardener and enjoyed picking both blue berries and wild mushrooms.

The Fedorowicz family became part of the Polish diaspora, settling in Fort William, District of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Maria and her husband joined a growing community of Polish immigrants who contributed to the multicultural mosaic of the country.

Maria passed away in 1974, at the age of 72 in Fort William, District of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada having witnessed both the turmoil of two world wars and the dynamic changes of post-war society in her adopted homeland of Canada.

Special thanks to Brian Fedoruk who wrote this excellent biography and provided these pictures. 

Jean Forester (nee Perris) – February 24, 1924 – December 4, 2003

Jean Forester was born in Fort William, Ontario, on February 24, 1924. Growing up, she attended Drew Street School and Fort William Vocational School. Jean also worked as a Bell telephone operator.

With the advancement of the Second World War, Jean started working at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She worked primarily as a fitter and helped with constructing and manufacturing airplanes to assist the Allied forces overseas.

Jean was also a dedicated community member, being a member of T.O.P.S. ON502 for thirty-two years and a Current River United Church member.

Ione Forsyth- c. 1927 – June 15, 2015

Ione Forsyth first came to Fort William in September 1943 and was moved in by April the following year. She and 21 others were recruited in Winnipeg by the Selective Service to work at the Canadian Car and Foundry. 

Ione started as a riveter and later worked as a chaser in the wings department, which she found more enjoyable, saying, “I was all over the plant. I got to go talk with different people… I was kind of sorry to see it end.” Ione was happy to work at CanCar because it meant supporting the war effort, and she could help her family with her pay. “Being the oldest of seven, I would send money home to help out. And it was a lot better money than you would make in other places, which is, I guess, the reason why a lot of people came from out west.” 

After the war ended, Ione continued to live in Fort William and went on to work as a medical secretary.

Margaret “Torchy” Gandier- (nee Kent)-February 22, 1926 – November 6, 2003

Margaret was born in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, on February 22, 1926, to Charles and Mary Kent. After graduating high school, she was offered a job at Canadian Car and Foundry through the National Selective Service, along with three of her classmates. They all came to Fort William in June 1944 and lived in the staff house, Winston Hall. 

Margaret was one of many women from Western Canada to fill the demand at the local plant. Although, they were not always met favorably by fellow workers, as Margaret explained how, “There was a man there, and he was making, oh you might say, derogatory remarks about these women coming here from the west… I think he was a little worried about the local people losing, not getting all the work. But there weren’t enough people to do the jobs.” 

Margaret started in spare parts and went on to do clerical and riveting work, which she enjoyed. “The thing that kept us going was all the money we were making… When I got married, I had enough money to buy my trousseau, that’s very important.” 

She met her husband Don at CanCar and married in 1945. Outside of her career, Margaret volunteered with Westmount and McKellar Hospitals and was a leader for the Girl Guides of Canada.

Gladys Gavin (nee Ferguson) – 1920 – June 24, 2010

Gladys was born in 1920 and spent her childhood on Balmoral Street, Fort William, Ontario, with her parents and siblings. While growing up, Gladys loved to swim and eventually joined the local YMCA, where she set various records, specifically in the backstroke category.

During the Second World War, Gladys worked at the Fort William CanCar factory, with her main job as a fitter. She was known for being delicate and careful in her work, so she would typically work in tight areas, such as airplane noses.

After working at CanCar, she worked at Simpson Sears and managed the ladies’ department.

When not working, she would spend time with her husband, Bill, and various family members, including her nieces and nephews.

Alvena Gibson (nee Boldt)- January 23, 1916 – August 31, 1999

Alvena Boldt was born in Kinmount, Ontario, on January 23, 1916. In 1917, she and her parents, Robert and Clara Boldt, moved to Fort William. Alvena was the eldest of siblings Eileen, Catherine, Harold and Earl. 

Alvena began working at Canadian Car and Foundry in June of 1940. Initially, she worked on aircraft wing fabric, but being self-admittedly “not a sewer,” she switched to the welding department when two positions for women became available a month later. 

Along with Joe Gardner, Alvena Boldt paved the way for future women welders at CanCar, explaining that “as soon as they saw us picking it up so fast, then they hired girls.” 

As Alvena quickly became a skilled welder, she was kept extremely busy instructing her co-workers, on top of working many other jobs across the plant: “Every time they’d call me to go and weld a wing or something, then I’d have to go up on the bench and weld it. […] I traveled all over the shop. Maybe you saw me ‘cause I had to go down to the machine shop and weld in the furnace room. […] Every time they called you out well, ‘take Alvena, she’s the one that knows it.’” She often worked long hours and double shifts, at times staying at the plant until 3 A.M. and going back in later the same morning: “It’s a tiresome job, but I had to do it if I wanted to work. And I did it.” 

Additionally, Alvena organized and participated in company activities, being recognized for selling the most war bonds and introducing “Cursing Costs Money” (more info on this?).  

After the war ended, Alvena was one of only three women to keep their jobs at CanCar (with Maisie McCallum and ?). She retired in 1978, after 38 years at the company. When reflecting on her time at CanCar, Alvena stated, “That was the best years of my life, I think, there. I enjoyed every bit of my work. There wasn’t one piece that I didn’t enjoy.” 

Outside of her career, Alvena was the President of the Fort William Ladies Curling Club and the Senior Women’s Curling Club. She was also an avid speed skater and volunteered with the Red Cross. 

In 1983, Alvena married Kennedy Gibson, who had also worked at CanCar and retired after 50 years. The pair spent their retirement years together until Alvena’s passing on August 31, 1999. The film Rosies of the North is dedicated to her memory.

Stella Gibson (nee Poloway) – November 1925 – July 27, 2016

Stella was born in 1925 in Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada, and went to Hillcrest High School. Growing up, she made many memories with her siblings.

With the advancement of the Second World War, Stella left school in Grade 11 to work at the CanCar factory in Fort William, Ontario, to help with the Canadian war effort. She helped manufacture airplanes, and while working there, she would initial her name inside all of the aircraft she constructed until management found out.

After working at the Fort William CanCar factory, Stella worked other jobs, including with different dry cleaning companies. She also received certificates for chemical use.

Stella married the love of her life, Bill, and they spent time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Nina Godecki (nee Harney) -September 9, 1921 – May 28, 2012

From the time she was 13, Nina helped support her family by assisting her mother clean houses. Nina’s mother was a widow with five children. She remembers her family’s constant search for a better living place on their low income. 

Nina Harney started working as a riveter at Canadian Car on January 7, 1941. Her job at CanCar was a small miracle after the depression as the Harney family had a real income for the first time in their lives. Nina’s sister Zelia started working as a riveter, as did her friend Mary Sundell. The two women were partners who enjoyed the company of their work and the practical jokes. Once Nina riveted a man’s lunch pail to the workbench to prevent him from always getting a seat on the streetcar before her. 

Nina met her husband, Tony Godecki, while riveting the wings of the Hawker Hurricanes. In 1943 the two were married. The only small cloud on their horizon was the loss of Nina’s job because of the factory’s employment policies against married women. Yet she says she has no regrets and fondly remembers the times she accompanied Tony on his travels across Canada to sell Victory Bonds with the Air Force Band. 

Tony used his air force gratuities to study architecture, and Nina stayed home to raise their seven children. Tony and Nina enjoyed a wonderful life together, traveling to Europe with the Fort William Male choir.

Stella Gombola (nee Dutkywich) – July 1923 – November 3, 2022

Stella was born in July 1923 in Shoal Lake, Manitoba, to her parents, Katie (Zimmerman) and Steve Dutkywich. She spent most of her childhood on a farm, making memories with her seven siblings that lasted a lifetime.

In 1943, Stella moved to Fort William, Ontario, and started working at the CanCar factory to help Canada and its allies in the Second World War. She worked as a progress chaser during her time at the plant.

In 1948, she married the love of her life, Steve Gombola, and they made many memories together, whether exploring the region’s outdoors and lakes or partaking in big family gatherings.

Stella always kept busy, and for 40 years, Stella was an employee and later a volunteer at Pinewood Court.

Alma Marie Graveson (née Lavergne) -June 23, 1919 – October 22, 2004

Alma was born on June 23rd, 1919, in Winnipegosis, Manitoba, to Benjamin and Louise Lavergne. They then moved to Kenora, Ontario, and Alma eventually went to Fort William. 

During the Second World War, Alma received a job at the Fort William CanCar plant working on the various aircraft used by the Allied Forces. Alma worked as a riveter and fitter during this period.

On March 2nd, 1944, Alma married the love of her life Joseph Dixon Graveson. Together, they raised three daughters and had many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Later in life, Alma was employed as a waitress at the Westfort Hotel and Holiday Inn.  

May Groulx (nee Lesnick) – 1924 – 2002

May Lesnick was born in 1924, the daughter of a WW1 veteran and his English war-bride. She was the fourth of nine children and grew up during the depression on a farm in Cloud Bay, just south of Fort William. She and her siblings attended the local one room schoolhouse, but as there were no buses to transport them to high school in the city, she wasn’t able to continue past grade 8. May helped out at home until she was about 16 and then she made her way to Fort William, working at first as domestic help and then in retail stores and living in boarding houses.

When war broke out and Canada Car began hiring women, May was happy to accept a position, as was her sister Agnes. She said the rate of pay was much better than it had been at the retail stores where she had been working. Her job at Canada Car was to put rivets into a section of the Hawker Hurricane wing, and she was proud of the part she played in contributing to the war effort. She enjoyed the work, and she made friends at The Canada Car, and though she was immensely relieved when the war ended, she was sorry to leave her job.

After leaving Canada Car, May went back to working in retail positions. She married Fern Groulx in 1950 and together they raised five children in Port Arthur. On August 29, 1998 she attended the Canadian Car Reunion in Thunder Bay where she and the other Rosies shared stories about their years at the plant. May passed away in 2002 at the age of 78.

Helen Gural -January 15, 1922 – May 19, 2017 

Helen (Kohar) Gural was born and raised in Fort William, Ontario, on January 15, 1922, to her parents, Andrew and Anna Kohar. Helen worked hard throughout her life and graduated from Selkirk High School in business. 

From May 1943 to August 1945, she worked at the CanCar plant as a typist. Through this job, she met many friends while contributing to the war effort. In an interview, she commented on some of the highlights of her employment, such as the various events that occurred. 

After Helen was laid off from the CanCar, she kept working and took positions with different companies, including McCartney Jewelers and the Slovak Legion. 

Helen was heavily involved in different Polish community events around present-day Thunder Bay because of her Polish heritage. For example, she would direct musical choirs at Polish churches and participate in dance groups. 

Helen was a mother to two daughters and one son. She was also a grandmother and great-grandmother and took great pride in her family.     

The information for this biography was received from the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, online obituary and Rosie’s work cards.

Lenore Hill (nee Rahmer) -August 8, 1924 – July 5, 2010

Lenore Hill was born on August 8, 1924, outside of Fort William, Ontario, in Stanley Township, to her parents, Frank and Lempi Rahmer.

During the Second World War, Lenore worked at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. While working there, one of her main jobs was rubberizing the gas tanks and doping the planes, specifically the Hurricane.

She would meet the love of her life, Stanley James Hill, who served in the army, and together they would raise and spend time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

After Stanley’s passing, Lenore worked as a custodian at the Lakehead Board of Education and then was the Head Custodian at Slate River School.

After her retirement, she would move to Kenora to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

Catherine (Kay) Hodwitz – October 1922 – April 26, 2023

Catherine was born in October 1922 and spent her childhood growing up in Westfort, making many memories. Catherine eventually married the love of her life Bill Hodwitz. 

When Bill joined the army to serve in the Second World War, Catherine started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to help with the Canadian war effort. She was employed in inspection and got to work on the Hawker Hurricane aircraft assembly line. 

Once her husband Bill returned from the war, they raised three sons and moved to Vickers Heights. Catherine continued to work in various jobs including as a waitress and cook. Her and Bill were also active members of Holy Cross Church.

Irene Hubbard (nee Kruppa) – October 3, 1924 – February 20, 2018

Irene was born on October 3, 1924, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Mary and Joe Kruppa. While growing up, she went to St. Peter’s RC School.

From November 3, 1942, until August 17, 1945, Irene worked at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort and help those serving overseas. She worked primarily as a fitter for airplanes.

After working at the CanCar factory, she worked at Grandview Lodge and Dawson Court Nursing Homes. Her relatives will always remember her for her love and passion for her family, including her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Dorothy Hurley (nee Boss) – February 4, 1923 – January 13, 2011

Dorothy was born on February 4, 1923, to her parents, George and Buddie Boss. Growing up, Dorothy went to Franklin Street School and Selkirk High School.

On January 5, 1941, Dorothy started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort and assist those serving overseas. While working there, her primary jobs were riveting and welding airplane parts.

After working at the CanCar plant, Dorothy worked at Grandview Lodge for many years. She was also an active community member, including her involvement with St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

Dorothy’s friends and family will always remember her for her caring and loving personality, whether through her charity contributions or the time she spent with her loved ones.

Esther Johnson (nee Koski) – August 1923 – November 7, 2002

Esther was born in August 1923 in Dinsmore, Saskatchewan, to her parents, John and Anna Koski. She made many memories growing up on the prairies that would last a lifetime.

In 1941, she moved to Port Arthur, Ontario, and eventually met and married William Johnson in 1944. From April 1, 1944, until August 17, 1945, she worked as an airplane fitter at the Fort William CanCar plant. She was also a cook at the logging camps.

Esther loved spending time with her family and friends and was always active within the community. She was a founding member of Christ Lutheran Church and Dorcas Society. Esther also participated in fun activities at the 55-plus centre.

Glenus Lenore Johnson (nee Durant) -April 22, 1920 – February 2, 2021 

Glenus was born on April 22, 1920, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Kay and Norman Durant. During her childhood, she attended school in Slate River and went to Slate River Baptist Church. 

With the advancement of the Second World War, Glenus started to work at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort. One of her jobs was working on the wings of airplanes. 

Glenus married Elis Sandfred Johnson after the war and raised two children. Once her children grew up, she returned to the workforce and took a job with the Red Cross.

Mary Kearney (nee Kraiger) – December 17, 1923 – August 3, 2016

Mary was born in Slovakia on December 17th, 1923, to her parents, Katherine and Charles Kraiger. When Mary was only two years old, her family immigrated to Canada and moved to Fort William. 

In the early stages of the Second World War, Mary started working at the CanCar plant and assisted with Hurricane airplane production. Mary would eventually join the Navy as part of Canada’s war effort. 

In 1950, Mary married Frank Kearney, and together, they raised a family in the Vickers Heights Area of town. Mary and Frank would eventually run an aircraft maintenance business at the Thunder Bay Airport.

Mary was also heavily involved in the community, whether with the Holy Family Altar Society or Branch 129’s Royal Canadian Slovak Legion. 

The information for this biography was received from the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, online obituary and Rosie’s work cards.

Ailsa O’Dean Kenney (nee Gaudette) – February 3, 1923 – April 24, 2002

Ailsa O’Dean Kenney (nee Gaudette) passed away April 24, 2002. Born February 3, 1923 in Fort William she grew up on Brodie St. attending Central & Selkirk Schools. In 1942 she married Normal Matson but later divorced in 1970. During the Second World War, Aisla worked as a Rosie at the Can-Car plant working as a fitter. 

In later years she became a nurse’s aid working at Beacon Hill. Ailsa was very proud of her knitting skills, making donations of socks, slippers and hats to the Shelter House, Cancer Society and Grandview Lodge yearly. Reading, following sports and gardening kept her busy. 

Information obtained from online obituary and family.

Rose Knight (nee Samus) -1922 – November 2, 2008

Rose was born in 1922 and spent much of her childhood and young adulthood in the Kenora district. She made many long-lasting relationships and friendships, including with Thelma Brady.

With the progression of the Second World War, Rose eventually moved to Fort William and started to work at the CanCar factory, assisting with the Canadian war effort. She also worked with her friend Thelma at the plant, where they made many more memories.

While working at the factory, she met and married her husband, Denis Knight, and they would spend the next 52 years together.

Claudine Kovacs (nee Perrin) -October 10, 1925 – February 16, 2018 

Claudine was born on October 10th, 1925, in Yorkshire, England. When she was two years old, she immigrated to Canada with her parents for new opportunities. 

At just 15 years old, she received a job at the Fort William CanCar Plant as a riveting chaser and would become an instructor at the Vocational School, also known as Selkirk. She enjoyed her time there and eventually met her future husband, Peter.  

After her husband enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy, Claudine left her job and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division in 1943 in an administrative role. Claudine was extremely proud to have served in the Second World War. 

In 1946, she was discharged from the RCAF Women’s Division, and on December 7th of that year, she and Peter got married. She then held positions with Canada Post and the Ministry of Natural Resources on the tree farm. 

Claudine is survived by her five children and grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.  

The information for this biography was received from the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, online obituary and Rosie’s work cards.

Mary Kucbel – April 19, 1920 – May  27, 2014

Mary was born on April 19, 1920 in Fort William, ON and attended St. Peter’s and St. Stan’s schools. During the Second World War, Mary was a welder at the Fort William Can-Car factory where she worked from September 29, 1941 until July 19, 1945. After the war, she worked as a seamstress out of her own home. She had a knack for creating beautiful  wedding and bridesmaid dresses. 

Mary “was a longtime member of St. Peter’s Church and the Ladies Auxillary of the Royal Canadian Legion Slovak Branch #129. Mary’s main focus was her family and friends, especially those at Seppala Court. She also had a special bond with her nephew Rick Kucbel. She was an inspiration to everyone she met. She liked to chat and share stories about growing up in the East end. She enjoyed baking, cooking, shopping and the casino. At a later age, she started painting and a copy of her East end picture is displayed at the Slovak Legion.”

Mary passed away at the age of 94  years old on Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Just before her passing, Mary was featured in the 2014 “Rosies for Hope” charity calendar among other surviving Rosies and female Bombardier workers.

Information taken from online obituary and Can-Car work card.

Clarice Leach (nee Walker) – September 1917 – September 21, 2002

Clarice was born in September 1917, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Florence and James Walker. Growing up, Clarice went to Drew Street School and Selkirk High School.

With the Second World War’s advancement and the increasing casualties overseas, Clarice started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort. While working there, Clarice was an airplane fitter.

On September 11, 1942, Clarice married Clarence Leach, and they made many memories with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Clarice was active throughout her life, whether spending time with family and friends or sewing, knitting, and gardening.

Margaret Lewadny (nee Covino) – July 18, 1924 – January 16, 2012

Margaret was born on July 18, 1924, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Mary and Louis Covino. Growing up, she attended St. Peter’s School and Selkirk High School. She lived her whole life at the family house on McIntosh Street until she moved to Lakehead Manor.

Because of the escalation of the Second World War and the rising number of casualties, Margaret started working at the Fort William CanCar factory on June 20, 1941, to assist with the Canadian war effort. She worked on the engines during her time there.

While working at the CanCar plant, she met Joe Lewadny, and on August 16, 1945, they married and raised their children and grandchildren.

Margaret continued working throughout her life, specifically in the printing industry. She worked at the Fort William Times Journal Commercial Printers, Vulcan Machinery, Scott and Son Printing and finally at Confederation College Print Shop.

Florence Amy Long (nee McLeod) -August 4, 1923 – August 14, 2007  

Florence was born on August 4, 1923 (in Fort William, Ontario, Canada?) to her parents, John and Florence McLeod. 

In 1941, she joined her older sister (Dimelo or Nancy?) in working at CanCar to support the war effort: “We all felt we’d like to help out, with the war coming on and the men going overseas. I appreciated the job and was glad I was out there working.” Florence worked as an aluminum welder until 1946. 

She remembered the relationships she built at work most fondly: “I wish I had some more books or something I could look back on and laugh or cry, but I enjoyed it. I made a lot of good friends out there and still have a lot of good friends out there.” Florence met her husband Lorne at CanCar and married in September 1949. 

After taking time off to raise her children, Florence worked at the Toronto Dominion Bank until her retirement in 1985. 

Albina Lysak (nee Wallek) -July 27, 1924 – November 16, 2019

Albina was born on July 27, 1924, in Fort William, Ontario, to Steve and Annie Wallek. Growing up, she attended St. Peter’s School. 

In 1941, Albina became employed at the Fort William CanCar factory, working in the Tool Crib. She performed various tasks, such as sharpening drill bits. 

She left CanCar in August 1945 and married Walter Lysak in 1946. Together, they raised a family and enjoyed spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Albina eventually returned to work at the Chapples Department Store, and she would spend her free time cooking delicious meals for friends and family.

Anne Lysak (nee Zrichuk) -September 11, 1922 – May 5, 2010 

Anne was born on September 11, 1922, and grew up and spent most of her life in Westfort. She was known for her love and admiration of animals. 

From 1941 until August 1945, Anne started to work at the Fort William CanCar factory, assisting with the Canadian war effort. 

She married Michael Lysak and would spend some of her time making delicious Ukrainian dishes, crocheting and doing yard work. 

Patricia Lysak (nee Luciow) -June, 1919 – July 23, 2012

Patricia was born in June 1919 and spent much of her childhood on a farm in Saskatchewan. She was born into a big family and was the youngest. 

Patricia eventually moved to Southern Ontario, where she would meet her husband, John Lysak. They then went to the Lakehead and got married, and would together raise their three children. 

In August 1943, Patricia started to work at the Fort William CanCar plant to assist with the Canadian war effort. She completed various roles, including as a paint and dope worker. 

Patricia was always active, whether walking all over Current River, knitting, or working in her garden. 

Elsie MacGill -March 27, 1905 – November 4, 1980

Elsie MacGill was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, on 27 March 1905 and passed away on 4 November 1980 at 75 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Elsie grew up in a socially active family as her mother, Helen Gregory MacGill, was one of the first women judges in Canada and a well-known feminist. 

In the early stages of her life, Elsie and her sister were homeschooled and received art classes from artist Emily Carr. Later, they went to King George Secondary School, affiliated with McGill University in Montreal. 

After graduating from secondary school, MacGill would make history as she was the first woman in Canada to receive a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical engineering, which she earned from the University of Toronto. She then became the first woman in the world to earn an aeronautical engineering Master’s Degree, which she received from the University of Michigan. 

Following school, Elsie was hired as an Aeronautical Engineering Assistant with Fairchild’s Aircraft Operations Co in Longueuil, Quebec, Canada. She made history again in 1938 when she was the first woman elected to corporate membership in the Engineering Institute of Canada. 

In 1942, Elsie became the Chief Aeronautical Engineer at the Canadian Car and Foundry (CANCAR), where she was the first woman to ever hold that position. She was located at the Fort William branch, present-day Thunder Bay. One of her most notable accomplishments was the design and testing of the Maple Leaf Trainer.  

Throughout her life, Elsie was a role model for women’s rights across the country and showed that women could also enter the workforce and do jobs that males traditionally held. In her book, My Mother, the Judge: A Biography of Judge Helen Gregory MacGill, Elsie recounts her mother’s work in promoting women’s rights. 

Elsie was known throughout her life as the Queen of the Hurricanes due to her exceptional work in designing airplanes and growing the aviation industry. She will always be remembered as the person who changed and impacted Canada’s socio-economic landscape during WWII and beyond.

Margaret Gladys MacLean (nee Rigate)  – June 3, 1920 – June  28, 2014

Margaret  MacLean was born to parents William and Ellen Rigate on June 3, 1920 in Netherhill, Sasketchewan. Her childhood  was spent between the communities of Bienfait and Shell Lake. On January  1, 1941 at the age of 20, Margaret began working for the Canadian Car and Foundry factory in Fort William, ON. She helped to construct the Hawker Hurricanes and Curtiss  Helldivers by working as a “b” fitter until the summer of 1942. Margaret left Canada Car during this time to serve in the Womens’ Air Corps of the Royal Canadian Air Force. 

On April 29, 1955, Margaret married Ron MacLean after meeting on a skiing trip shortly after Margaret had moved back to Winnipeg from working for Imperial Oil in Toronto. Together they had two daughters, Laurie and Valerie, before finally settling in Pinawa, Manitoba in  1963 for the remainder of Margaret’s life. 

“Marg instantly fell in love with Pinawa and threw herself into community life. She taught 4-H and piano. As her girls became involved in activities, so did she. She became Brown Owl for the Brownies and worked her way up to District Commissioner. When the Pinawa Figure Skating Club needed an executive, she stepped up by serving as President and then as Past President. Always involved with the church, Marg was organist for many years before becoming choir director for several more. All this while being the best wife and mother ever. A beautiful knitter and a wonderful cook, her roast beef dinners were without equal-as was her homemade bread. With her family grown, she took time for herself by joining the golf club where she made many lifelong friends. The cherry on top was her treasured bridge group. Marg never had more fun than when the girls got together. It broke her heart when she was no longer able to participate due to declining health.

Thank you, Marg, for dedicating your life to your family. We will love and miss you forever.” 

Information taken from online obituary and Rosie work card.

Mildred Main (nee Walberg) -June 2, 1914 – May 20, 2021

Mildred was born on June 2, 1914, to her parents, Otto and Emma (Lundstrom), who founded and ran Walberg’s grocery store on Brock Street. Growing up, Mildred would spend plenty of time at the store, making memories that would last a lifetime.

At 18 years old, Mildred taught typing and shorthand at Business College. She would then train and work as a Legal Secretary for John Dyke and Beeman’s firm.

In 1943, Mildred started work at the Fort William CanCar factory as an executive secretary to Chief Engineer James Carmichael.

Mildred, though, kept on working after her employment at the CanCar plant, holding positions in various organizations and companies, including Secretarial Treasurer of Grandview Lodge Home or legal secretary and office manager of Dave Cheadle Law Office. Mildred also received a Bachelor of Arts degree at the age of 84.

During her free time, Mildred enjoyed spending time with family and friends and playing music on the piano.

Maisie McCallum (nee Rushworth) -?  – January 31, 1998

Maisie McCallum was born in Mission City, British Columbia and was raised in Murillo. 

She began working at Canadian Car and Foundry in 1939. Initially, Maisie stitched fabric on the aircraft wings and later did riveting work. Maisie had the honor of christening one of the first two local planes presented to the Wings of Britain program. She christened the Gary Mador, while Peggy Hampton christened the Philip Taylor. Of the event, Maisie said, “We were big shots that one day.” 

Maisie expressed enjoying working at CanCar because she could make a good living after the hard-hitting Depression. She also appreciated the company of her fellow employees. “I was working in a plant with a lot of other people. It was different from the type of work I was doing, you know. You always had company. You had friends. Whereas if you were working in housework, you were alone.” 

Maisie was one of only three women to continue working at CanCar after the war ended (with Alvena Gibson and ?). She stayed at CanCar for 24 years and then worked as a clerk at Dresswell Cleaners for another two decades before her retirement in 1979.

Rhoda Grace McKay (nee Wise) -April 24, 1915 – June 21, 2013

Rhoda was born to Mary and George Wise on April 24th, 1915, in St. James, Manitoba. The Wise family owned a dairy farm in Russell, Manitoba, but due to the economic pressures of the Depression, they had come to Northern Ontario to search for work in 1943. 

While the men in the family found jobs at the shipyards in Port Arthur, Rhoda worked at Canadian Car and Foundry in the neighboring town of Fort William. She worked in both the assembly and inspection of aircraft parts. She was also active in the union and bond organization at the company, saying, “Everyone belonged to the union…it was pretty strong… We were instrumental, the union was, in bond drives.” 

After the war, Rhoda left CanCar but felt sad to lose touch with the social circle she formed there. She said, “I came here and didn’t know anybody, then got into the Canada Car and was able to meet many people, socialized with and worked with all the time, and when the plant closed, I was lost.” 

Rhoda married Jerry McKay in September 1947, and after raising their children, she managed the Lakehead Labour Center Credit Union until her retirement. 

Gwendoline Peppard (nee Silver) – July 1917 – 1985

Adeline Joyce Raslack (nee DeMeo) – September 19, 1921 – April 19, 2022

Adeline was born on September 19, 1921, in Fort William, Ontario, to her parents, Alec and Santa. She spent all her life in present-day Thunder Bay, excluding four years when she lived in St. Catharines.

From January 9, 1941, until August 17, 1945, Adeline worked at the Fort William CanCar factory to support the Canadian war effort. She worked as a fitter and assisted with airplane production.

Following the war, she married the love of her life Eric Raslack, and together they spent time raising their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Mary Riddoch (nee Sundell) – January 19, 1918 – May 6, 2000

As a young woman, Mary Sundell heard that her friend Nina was making good money riveting airplane wings at the Canadian Car and Foundry, so she decided to apply for a job too. She was happy to have the work to escape the drudgery of a restaurant job as a dishwasher and finally gain financial independence. 

Among her many jobs at the factory, Mary partnered with Nina on the wing jigs, bucking and riveting the wings of the 1400 Hawker Hurricanes produced at the plant. She was proud of her contribution to the war effort and laughed at the practical jokes she and her partner played on the men who occasionally gave the women a rough time on the shop floor. 

After the war, Mary married Ridge Riddoch, who served overseas in the Pacific and had the misfortune of becoming a Prisoner of War to the Japanese. War trauma dealt a severe blow to their relationship, but Mary could persevere and raise their three children on her own when their marriage ended. She appreciated her independence and was proud of her accomplishments. 

Following the war, she held many jobs, from working on ships as a porter to a matron for the Juvenile Courts to retail sales.

Nellie Rudyk (nee Chicorli) -September 1923 – February 27, 2010

Nellie was born in September 1923 and had a large family of 17 other siblings. Throughout her childhood, she made many memories with her siblings that would last a lifetime.

From September 1943 until August 1945, Nellie worked at the Fort William CanCar plant assisting with Canada’s war effort. She worked as a fitter and was also a supervisor at Hawker Siddeley.

After marrying the love of her life Samuel, they spent quality time together raising their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Maxine Ida Sawchyn (nee Shand) – April 18, 1927 – August 31, 2018

Maxine was born on April 18, 1927, in Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada, to her parents Joseph and Ida Shand. She grew up as the middle child and made many memories with her siblings. 

Maxine eventually moved to present-day Thunder Bay, and started working at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort. While employed with CanCar, Maxine worked in the blueprinting department.  

In 1946, Maxine married John Sawchyn and together they spent quality time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed knitting, and traveling when she had time.

Rita Servais (nee Fisher) -February 2, 1924 – January 16, 2014

Rita was born to Violet and John Fisher on February 2, 1924, in Port Arthur, Ontario.  Growing up, she attended Pine Street elementary school.  

During WWII, she worked as a Wartime Rosie at Canada Car.  Her specialty was welding in small spaces where no one else could fit.  

On April 5, 1945, she married John Healey Servais, who received his discharge papers from the Royal Canadian Navy a short time later.  In August of 1948, Rita and John welcomed their first child, Marcia, with Noreen and Peter arriving soon after.  She would welcome numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews in the following years.

Rita was an avid gardener, always preserving and baking something wonderful.   She made the world’s best raspberry jam, which she generously shared with everyone.  She was well known for her energy and her willingness to have a wrestling match with any of her grandchildren, no matter how old they got.  She always made time to listen and made people feel important. It was always known that she would keep any secret one might want to share.

Rita was predeceased by her beloved husband John, in 2009.  Five years later, in 2014, she passed away just a few weeks shy of her 90th birthday. Though she led a full and happy life, she is greatly missed, as she has left an irreplaceable void in the many lives she touched.

Mary Skrepichuk (nee Antoniow) -January 13, 1919 – January 26, 2013 

Mary was born on January 13th, 1919, in Southeastern Poland to her parents, Dmytro Antoniow and Melania Barniak. In 1929, Mary, and her mom and siblings, immigrated to Saskatchewan to meet with their father on a farm. 

For many years, Mary would work on the farm with her siblings and mother doing various tasks such as clearing land, shoveling grain and building a granary. Despite the challenges these years on the family farm presented, Mary was positive and helped in any way she could.

In 1944, Mary moved to Fort William, Ontario and started to work at the CanCar plant. She did many exciting tasks to support the Canadian war effort, including working on the Helldiver airplane. 

After the war, she became a seamstress at Cooper’s Ladies Wear, and in November 1945, she married Peter Skrepichuk. They would build a home the following year and raise a loving family together.

The information for this biography was received from the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, online obituary and Rosie’s work cards.

Lauretta Smyth (nee Breckon) – October 27, 1925 –  January  30, 2018

Lauretta was born in Fort Frances on October 27, 1925 and lived in Fort William, British Columbia, and Thunder Bay. Lauretta was featured in the National Film Board movie “Rosies of the North”. 

She worked as a riveter at CanCar, at Walkers Ladies’ Wear, Roma’s Ladies’ Wear (Victoria), and retired from B.C. Ferries in 1986. Her interests were square dancing, modelling, hiking, skiing and travelling. She was a member of The Elks’ Royal Purple for over 65 years. 

Lauretta was vivacious and unique. She married five times; the first and last husband being Harvey Smyth. Together they had 3 children and many grandchildren and  great-grandchildren. 

Information taken from online obituary.

Isabella “Isabel” Dickson Spicer (nee Baird) – February 14, 1920 – October 15, 2011

Isabel was born on February 14, 1920 in Fort William, ON to parents Christina Reid Baird and Sgt. Andrew Bruce Baird. They spent the early years of Isabel’s life living in Westfort. During the Second World War, Isabel worked in the fabrication department of the CanCar factory where she helped build war planes for the Allied forces. In 1998 during the research phase of Kelly Saxberg’s Rosies of the North film, Kelly visited with Isabella to ask questions about time as a Rosie. 

In 1950, Isabel married Fred Spicer and together they had three children while living in their first home on Rankin St. The family also enjoyed time spent at the camp on Lake Lenore. Isabel was a devoted stay at home mother and encouraged her children in all of their interests. She was a supportive and loving parents who had many joys in life in addition to being a mother. Isabel enjoyed oil painting, jewellery making, needlecrafts, and knitting special garments for family members. Isabel was also a devoted volunteer at the Cancer Society where she and her niece, Sheila, created 500 afghans for patients at the Tamarack House. 

“In memory of Isabel, please cherish your loved ones every day, do a good deed for someone whenever you can and take the time to appreciate all the simple things in life, as she did.”

Information taken from online obituary and family.

Eugenia Thomas (nee Lapa) – June 30, 1923 – December 9, 2006

Eugenia was born on June 30, 1923, to her parents, William and Katherine Lapa. She was the second oldest of five children.

With the increasing attacks by the Axis Powers, and the rising number of casualties overseas, Eugenia started working at the Fort William CanCar factory on March 11, 1942, to assist with the Canadian war effort and support the Allied forces. She worked as a welder and was extremely happy with her time there.

On September 4, 1948, Eugenia married her love, Alfred William Thomas, and they had five children and grandchildren.

Eugenia was always active throughout her life, as she was a member of the Abitibi Ladies Auxiliary and the Abitibi Bowling League. She also volunteered at Pinewood Court.

Nellie Venasky -February 25, 1925 – August 12, 2017 

Nellie Vanasky was born in Rosslyn, Ontario, on February 25, 1925. She spent all her childhood and adult life living and working on the family farm, and she would help plant and harvest various crops, including cabbage. 

During the Second World War, Nellie accepted a job at the Canadian Car and Foundry and would work there for several years. Later in life, she would tell fascinating stories about walking to the CanCar plant from Rosslyn Road. Some of her daughters and granddaughters were inspired by her work at CanCar and eventually received jobs there, then known as Bombardier.  

After her employment at CanCar, she would pursue a career at McKellar hospital while working on the family farm during the evening. Nellie also had a passion for animals, and her family noted her passion for caring for them. 

Nellie had a big family with two sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

The information for this biography was received from the Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre, online obituary and Rosie’s work cards.

M. Lois Walsh –  March 9, 1917 – April 13, 1973

Isabella Young (nee Sutherland) – April 24, 1924 – November 2, 2018

Isabella was born on April 24, 1924, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to her parents Eva and David Sutherland. 

With the escalation of the Second World War, and increasing number of casualties, Isabella started to work at the Fort William CanCar factory to assist with the Canadian war effort. While employed with CanCar, Isabella worked as an airplane fitter. 

Isabella also spent a lot of her time volunteering for the Cancer Society, spending time with her husband Bernard and children, and going to church. 

Thelma Irene Zelkovich (nee Adams) -1927 – October 25, 2016

Thelma was born in 1927 in Fort William, Ontario. She had one sister, Mona, and two brothers, Jim and George. Throughout her childhood, she attended local schools in Fort William.

With the advancement of the Second World War, Thelma would assist with the Canadian war effort by working at the Fort William CanCar plant. She worked in the munitions section of the factory and assisted with munition production.

Following her time at the CanCar plant, she held many other jobs, including at Burton Plumbing, the grain exchange, and the Westfort Hotel.

She was always active, whether spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren or traveling and watching the Blue Jays.