Maslianaia, Marina - 1925, Moscow, Russia • 2025, Toronto, Canada

It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Marina Maslianaia on November 16, 2025, at Humber River Hospital. With her loss, we say goodbye to our last beloved grandparent - our dear Babulya. She was strong, fiercely independent, and a true hero, living nearly 101 remarkable years and meeting every challenge with quiet determination. She did not give up until the very end. A true inspiration.

Marina was the adored mother of Elena, mother-in-law to Val, cherished grandmother to Victoria (Clint), and Daniel, and proud great-grandmother to Angelina. In Russia, she was the sister of her late brother Alexander and the beloved aunt of Sergei. To all of us, she was truly one of a kind - resilient, brilliant, with a spirit that never faltered. Through the way she lived, she taught us one of the greatest lessons of all: to stay strong and never give up.

Marina’s life was shaped by her passion for knowledge and discovery. She earned her PhD from the Timiryazev Agricultural Academy in Moscow and built a rich and accomplished career at the Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry, where she conducted scientific research in plant chemistry and biology. Her work was published widely, translated into other languages, and shared internationally - a testament to her dedication and intellect. Deeply respected by her colleagues, she received special recognition and awards for her contributions, leaving a meaningful legacy in her field.

At the age of 74, Marina courageously began a new chapter when she moved to Canada to be close to her daughter and growing family. And at 80, she discovered a hidden talent and a new love: painting. Over the next twelve years she created more than thirty magnificent works, including remarkable reproductions of classic pieces. These paintings will be treasured by our family forever.

She found joy in the kitchen, and nothing made her happier than preparing delicious meals for her family. Her pierogies, stews, and kotleti were among her specialties, made with great skill and pride. She also loved to sing at family gatherings, filling the room with warmth and celebration. She gave so much of herself to her family, always finding the strength to help when she was needed most. Marina was a lifelong learner, with a deep appreciation for fine art, literature, classical music, and science. Even at 100, her mind was sharp - curious, bright, and full of wonder.

We will miss our beloved Babulya more than words can express.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Humber River Hospital, where Marina received exceptional care during the final month of her life.

Babulya will remain in our hearts forever.

And in her honour, we leave you with a line by Alexander Pushkin - a writer she cherished deeply, and whose words she carried through every hardship and every triumph.

“Товарищ, верь — взойдет она,
Звезда пленительного счастья.”

“Have faith, my friend — it will rise,
the star of captivating happiness.”

May that star guide her home, and may its light stay with all of us.