Obituary of Ashley Kristin Antoniuk

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ashley Kristin Antoniuk (Siemens), at the age of 36 on May 27, 2021.
 
Ashley was born on February 9, 1985 in Saskatoon, SK to her adoring parents Kim and Gary. On this day the world became a better place, for her presence in it.
 
Ashley was a beautiful soul with a big heart, full of optimism and exuberance for life, and had an infectious smile that could lighten up even the darkest room. She was quick to laugh, eager to love, and keen to celebrate all of life’s joys. She was a champion of causes dear to her heart, compassionate, and steadfast in her commitment to justice. Ashley was also keenly aware of how fleeting life can be - determined to keep on living her best life, full of hope for her uncertain future and steeped gratitude for all she held dear. She did not let cancer define her. She created her own path, and her unfaltering spirit and eternal optimism served as a tremendous comfort and inspiration to those who knew her.
  
Family was everything to Ashley. She often reflected on her wonderful childhood, growing up with her two adored younger brothers, numerous cousins, extended family, many friends, and beloved pets. Ashley never passed up an opportunity to join in on a game of cards, get up and dance at a celebration, or be the first on/in the lake during family vacations. Ashley was beyond thrilled to become an Auntie and spend time with the newest family member - her adorable niece Paisley.
 
Her family was, in return, deeply devoted to Ashley as was evidenced by the many, many trips she and her family made to and from Saskatoon and Toronto over the past 7 years, including many extended stays by her devoted mother and best friend, Kim and her beloved father and biggest fan Gary. 
 
Ashley had an adventurous spirit that took her on numerous trips to faraway places. These experiences filled her heart and coloured her soul. She was particularly moved by a trip she took to Southeast Asia with her brother Taylor. Ashley was spiritually touched by the beautiful people she met in Bali and the breath-taking scenery there. She also fulfilled a life-long dream, when she volunteered at an elephant sanctuary and had the rare opportunity to interact with the majestic animal that had captured her heart for so long.
 
Ashley put so much positive energy out into the universe that it is no wonder that so many good souls were drawn towards her. She cherished her many friends and the memories they shared. One of her most remarkable friendships was the one she built with Raymond Samms, the love of her life. His presence in her life and unwavering support, sustained her in spite of the fact that an entire ocean lay between them. 
 
To those able to provide support to her in time of need - which was no small task, as Ashley was fiercely independent, and often reluctant to share her pain or ask for help - her family is most grateful. You were there when she needed you, and there is no greater gift that one can give to a person they love.
 
Her dear grandparents, George and Grace Siemens, Lorance Stephens, and Larry Knibbs, precede Ashley in death. She is survived by her loving parents, Kim and Gary Siemens; devoted brothers, Taylor and Austin Antoniuk; sister-in-law, Tanya Antoniuk; niece, Paisley; grandparents, Olga Knibbs and Nowayme Stephens; and many adoring cousins, aunties and uncles.
 
We would like to extend a special thank you to the Oncology teams at Princess Margaret, Sunnybrook, and RUH, as well as The Palliative Homecare teams, who were so supportive and compassionate throughout Ashley’s journey.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ashley’s name may be made to:
 
Save Elephant Foundation: https://www.saveelephant.org
Canadian Cancer Foundation: https://www.cancer.ca/
Open Doors Society: https://www.sods.sk.ca/

Due to Covid 19, a private memorial will be held.