It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Maria Artemisa Camara Onofriechuk (previously MacDonald) on September 21, 2024.
Maria was born on April 9, 1947, in Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal where she spent her childhood with her parents Manuel Camara and Gilda Ventura Camara and her three siblings Maria, John and Lousia. She trained as a seamstress in Portugal and was well known for her talents in her trade. When Maria Artemisa was 18, she came to Canada and made her start in Thunder Bay, moving to Vancouver Island to raise her two children Margareta Camara MacDonald and Steven MacDonald before returning to Ontario and after a brief time in Welland, landing again in Thunder Bay, which became her home. She was married to Lorne MacDonald, who lost his life to addictions. She was very close to his mother Sophia MacDonald of Thunder Bay.
Maria married her late husband, Jerry Onofriechuk, who had 3 girls of his own. Maria continued her talent and skill for sewing, which led her to making and altering clothes. She was well known for creating beautiful bridal gowns and bridesmaid’s dresses. She was a huge part of making so many people’s precious and happy moments so much more beautiful through making or altering their special event clothing, and also her huge talent for decorating, being creative, and for cooking and baking.
Maria was a much-loved member of the New Apostolic Church family for over 40 years. She also retired from Moore’s Clothing Store after being their dedicated tailor and working her magic there for over 40 years. Maria was loved by everyone and was often considered a mother figure. She had a big heart, and always wanted to care for people, sympathize with them, and cook for them. Family was very important to Maria. She took pride in making occasions special for her family and cherished time spent with them.
Maria is survived by her daughter Margareta Camara MacDonald, her son Steven MacDonald and her beloved grandchildren Chantel (Mike) and Jayden in Belgium, great-granddaughter Charleigh, and step-great-grandchildren Bryce and Alia. She is also survived by many relatives: one sister, many special nieces and nephews and extended family. She was particularly close to her sister-in-law Faye Achurch, her niece Lucie Carreiro, and her husband’s great aunt Carrie Kamaranski and her special friends Elizabeth Nagy and Darlene. Maria is also survived by 3 stepchildren Bridget, Corinna and Angel, and their children, her sister-in-law Marion (Allen) and many relatives connected to this side of the family. Maria had several beloved Godchildren including David DaCosta, Sam Barbosa, and Elise Rea.
Many thanks to everyone at Manion Court where she lived for many years, the paramedics who took care of her, and emergency staff at the hospital for their care and compassion.
Cremation has been completed and the Celebration of Life will be held at the New Apostolic Church, 639 Van Norman Street, Thunder Bay, ON, Friday, October 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. conducted by Todd Kennedy. There will be a live stream on YouTube of the service. Please feel free to contact the family for the link. A luncheon will follow downstairs.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
