Ivanna Symko
February 3, 1939 - September 5, 2022
Our beloved Ivanna Symko left us on Sept. 5, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on Feb. 3, 1939 in Synewidsko, Ukraine to Stefan and Rozalia Mycyk. They emigrated to Toronto, where she spent most of her youth. She graduated from the Teacher’s College in Toronto. In 1962 she got married to Orest Symko and they moved to Oxford, England for their studies. There, she was awarded an Economic Degree from the City and Guilds in London at Oxford. They have lived in Salt Lake City for 52 years.
She is survived by her husband Orest G. Symko, her daughters Sophia Symko and Martha Symko-Davies, and her grandchildren Harrison Davies and Audrey Davies. She lived her life loving and caring for her family with a great passion. Her life was rich with time spent with family and friends, many travels, hiking and running, while enjoying her home and garden.
She enriched our lives with her constant love, her grace and charm, and her sweetness.
Mass will be celebrated on Monday, September 12th 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 1975 South 2300 East, Salt Lake City. A viewing will be from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the church where friends and family may gather. She will be laid to rest following Mass at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 4th Avenue and “T” Street, Salt Lake City.
In Loving Memory
To dear Orest, Sophia, Martha, and the entire family: Please know that Ivanna rests in the arms of blessed Peace. Ivanna was my first friend in the "neighborhood" when Ron and I moved back to SLC. She embraced me with love and care and gave so much help when my last baby arrived. Over the years, we walked often together, talked about everything in the world, and tackled some dubious tasks like a home permanent over her kitchen sink. She came to my rescue during a difficult experience when Ron could not be there due to travels. She was brave when I was not, truely an angel sent to me by God. I will miss her greatly. My love to all of you. Joan
Joan Gordon
Millcreek, UT
Sophia, Martha and Orest- I am sorry to hear of Ivanna's passing. I have so many good memories of her. She made excellent complicated pastries about which she'd claim "it's easy, really, it is, no really." As a child, I remember her as gracious, beautiful, glamorous and a bit intimidating. When I was practicing law in downtown Salt Lake City in the late 90s and early Aughts I often saw her getting in a walk during her lunch break from US Bank (where she worked into her ... 70s?) --- she'd be powering along a mile a minute, often in killer boots. As a teen, when my mother thought I should learn to sew, Ivanna was patient and steadfast in teaching me, despite both of us pretty much knowing seamstressing was not in my skill set. Ivanna was one of a kind. I was lucky to know her. You are in my heart.
Mary Gordon
Salt Lake City, UT
My Condolences to Professor Symko on the passing of his wife...May God watch over him and his immediate family as well as friends and other associates ...
Everett G Amador
Salt Lake City, ut
Dear Orest, Sophia, & Martha, I am so very sorry to hear of Ivanna's passing. I always remember being in awe of her deeply beautiful and peaceful presence. She always spoke to me with such patience and kindness. We are so blessed and grateful for the friendship of your family. We have many cherished memories of spending time together over the years, and we are keeping you all in our hearts. Much love, Edie
Edie Summers
Beaverton, OR
Dear Orest, Sophia, & Martha, I am so sorry to hear of Ivanna's passing. She was a wonderful and special person. I have happy memories of her, especially at your home. I will always remember that she taught me how to make borscht. I am sending virtual hugs to you all. I am glad you have each other to support one another through your grief. Take care, Patti
Patti Garver
Holladay, UT
Dear Orest, Sophia and Martha- I was so very sad to learn about Ivanna's passing. I always loved seeing and talking with her as she had such a calm confidence and grace about her that we all aspired to share. I know how hard it must be to lose her and am sending all my love to you all. I have great memories from childhood with you all. Love, Jenn (or Jenny as Ivanna would have called me!)
Jennifer Moosman
Issaquah, WA
Betty and I sadly send our sympathies to Orest and family on learning of Ivanna's passing. Our family lived across the street from the Symko's for 30 years and sharred many fond memories together. Our thoughts will be with you during this sad time.
Frank Yanowitz
Salt Lake City, Ut
Orest, Sophia and Martha, Ivanna was such a lovely and kind person, whether it was running into her on a beautiful mountain hike or seeing the simple joy when she and Orest were buying their baquette to enjoy with a glass of wine in the evening! She always had a smile on her face that would brighten the day for anyone around her. I am sad that such a loving spirit has left us but I'm happy for all of the wonderful memories she has graced you with that will carry you through. Shari & Steve Zinik
Shari Zinik
Torrey, UT
Dear Orest, Sophia, and Martha, It was a great shock to us first to learn about Ivanna's terrible illness and then to hear about her passing so soon after. We remember the immense pride she took in her lovely, highly talented daughters and in their myriad achievements. Certainly among our greatest pleasures were the many beautiful musical evenings that we spent together, along with Orest, Martha, and Sophia and our children (Michael and Jenny). We consider ourselves to be exceedingly fortunate to have known her as a dear friend and will miss her greatly. With much love to all of you, David and Janie Ailion
David and Janie Ailion
Millcreek, UT
Orest, We were so sorry to read of Ivanna's passing. Please know our hearts and thoughts are with you. What a pleasure it has been getting to frame the lovely images of you and your family over the years. We are here if you need anything. - Phillips Gallery
Adrienne Winter / Phillips Gallery
SALT LAKE CITY, UT