We Remember

HOWANYK, Krista Dawn

July 12, 1977 — September 9, 2025

It is with great sadness and immense love that we announce the loss of Krista Dawn Howanyk, who passed away peacefully, while surrounded by family in the ICU and Kelowna General Hospital, at the age of 48.

Krista leaves behind her partner of 4 years, Graham (aka Gray); daughters, Emmalee (Josh) and Anna; stepdaughters, Ally and Ciara; mother, Gale; 94 year old Grandmother Joyce; siblings, Dwayne (Amanda), Robert (Michelle), and Rochelle; nephews, Cam and Branden; nieces, Claudia, Jordyn, and Harper; and the father of her daughters, Marcus, her former husband of 26 years.  Krista had so many fond memories of her time growing up and raising her daughters in Peachland and West Bank.

Krista had a big heart that seemed to have no limits, extending her love and care to everyone around her. She was known for her warm hugs and the way she could make anyone feel welcomed and cherished. With her Ukrainian background, cooking was one of her greatest joys. She loved preparing traditional dishes, especially her famous perogies and hearty soups. Krista was also known for saving every chicken bone for her stock, always saying with a smile, “Do not touch the bones!” Her kitchen was a place of comfort and nourishment, filled with the smells of food made with love.

Outside of the kitchen, Krista’s passions flourished in other ways. She loved dogs dearly, especially her mini dachshund, Minnie, who was always by her side, and Roxy, her Black Lab, who had previously left us.  Gardening brought her peace and pride, with flowers, pots, and plants filling her yard. Chrysanthemums, her favourite, bloomed brightly under her careful green thumb. Krista also had a love for rock and roll—last year she shared the unforgettable experience of seeing the Rolling Stones in concert with her mom, sister Rochelle, and Graham. She found joy in the outdoors too, spending countless cherished days camping at Cultus and Arlington Lakes, where she had a special spot close to her heart.

Krista was taken far too soon, and the loss of her vibrant spirit leaves a void that cannot be filled. She will be missed beyond words, but her love, warmth, and infectious laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the ICU Medical Team at Kelowna General Hospital for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Kelowna Women’s Shelter.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Share with Others:

Share on Facebook
Share Via Email

Kelowna Women's Shelter Link: www.kelownawomensshelter.com

 


 


Condolences

  • Mike VICTOR Dumont says:

    I loved you Krista like my big sister. I’ll never forget all the fun we had in my 20s Calgary, Vancouver, the fun dancing party’s we through and of course getting lost in Edmonton haha. I look back and that was the best decade of my life you and Marcus where for all of it. My heart goes out to all members of Krista’s especially my nieces. I love you Krista ill never in my life forget you.

    • Lisa Schell says:

      In memory of Krista I wrote this poem
      to say, that we are going to miss her and remember her each and everyday.
      All though we all are morning and grieving for are loss, it’s best we stick together and let nature be the boss.
      Cherished are her memories and the brave heart we all felt, the laughter and the tears are within us without a dought. We all are going to miss her but it’s time to let her go, she will watch us from above and know we love her so.
      Im so sorry Gail, Marcus, Richelle,Dawayne, Rob, Emily, Anna and all the rest of her family for your loss. You all know Krista was dear to my heart. Some of my best memories are with her, like we would get so bored in peachland we would Hitch a ride to Meriot and back just to go to the store. ‘ Gail you didn’t read that’ all the midnight swims and the fact that we had to walk each other half way home whether from her place are mine are it wouldn’tbe fair. I will miss you Krista. May peace be with your soul. Love lisa

  • Tyson says:

    Thinking of you guys! ❤️

  • Scott Sukovieff says:

    So sorry for your loss Krista was one of the kindest people out there

  • Tracy Bulmer says:

    We were best gfs when we where young and figuring out Life. You always lived it to the fullest. Il always miss ur beautiful smile. See you in heaven 💘

  • Sharon and Robert Mosser says:

    I am so terribly sorry to hear of the family loss. My heart and prayers go out to you all
    Robert and Sharon

  • Jeff Zaugg says:

    I was grateful and privileged to know Krista during our time at Okanagan College. She brought joy and warmth to those around her, and I will always treasure the memories of that season.
    My thoughts and prayers are with all of you who are mourning. May you find peace, comfort, and strength in the cherished memories you hold of her.

  • Blanca Martinez Derickson says:

    I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. May God give you the strength to overcome this loss. We will be missing her 😢 😔 💔

  • Jolene Webber says:

    So sorry sorry for your family’s loss , know that you are in our hearts and prayers during this time
    All our love from my family to yours
    Many her memory be a blessing

  • Janine Jervis says:

    So sad to hear this. I worked with her for many years when she was a CEA. She was wonderful at her job and the kids loved her. My prayers are with you all.

  • Gray says:

    This is our yard. Early September has taken its toll on her beautiful pots and planters, but this is what she loved to do every spring. I will keep these gardens growing for you year after year Krista, but they will never be the same without your special touch. And the weiner dog is safe and getting lots of love, as I promised.

    Gray ❤️

  • Carrie & Scott says:

    We are sadden to hear the news. It was a pleasure meeting Krista and spending time with her. Scott and I would like Anna to know we are thinking of her ❤️.

  • Gray says:

    Well, Krista has now physically departed us, she was cremated early this morning and is now in a better place, free of pain or sadness.

    I sat on my front porch with the fire, lit a candle, looked over our beautiful yard, listened to one of our playlists, and simply remembered her. Some tears shed of course, but managed a smile or two over some fond memories, including her very awkward garage bar dancing 🥲

    There is a huge void. She took such good care of me, and I miss her so much. I think maybe today my heart can start to heal.

    Rest in Peace Krista, we will always miss you and never forget you ❤️❤️

  • Jane says:

    Krista was a beautiful soul inside and out. She gave the best hugs ever. You will be so missed everyday Krista. You are so loved and will never be forgotten ❤❤❤

  • Carmen Howanyk says:

    I miss you so much, every moment of my day right now is full of mourning for you. Thank you for being the best aunt I ever knew. I miss you so much you dont even understand.
    – Carmen H.

  • Tasha Campbell says:

    Sending our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Our memories of Krista was a familiar face at Johnson Bentley Pool and its programs. Then later she was our daughter’s CEA at CTE. We were so fortunate to have her in our lives and working with April. Krista was kind, patient and amazing! We are so sorry to hear of her passing.

  • Gray says:

    Thinking of you Krista this Christmas morning. And every other day too.. I miss you so very much.
    . Gray ❤️

Leave a Condolence Message for the Family


» To share your condolence on this page please fill out the requested fields.
» If you have a photo to share, please do so as families appreciate it. To share a photo (please note, just one photo per condolence please), click the 'Choose File' button and select a photo from your computer.
» Once you are done, click the 'Share' button.
» Your email is never published or shared. Your name and email are both required.

NOTE: all messages will go through an administrative process before being posted.