Darlene Tohivsky

Darlene Tohivsky October 18, 1940-September 20, 2023
Darlene Tohivsky, 82, died in her home after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was born to Jack and Tena Mackay (Stokes) on October 18, 1940 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. She was married to Michael Tohivsky on May 24, 1959. They had been married 64 years at the time of her passing.
Soon after arriving in the Walla Walla valley, Darlene opened her home as a foster parent. The family was licensed as a receiving home by Washington State Child and Welfare Services. She spent many years in this capacity, helping more than forty children from infancy to 18 years, including 3 infants at one time. She provided safety, care and was a positive role model to all. Darlene was a member of the Walla Walla University Church, where she frequently served, greeting and welcoming fellow worshipers. She was a Walla Walla resident for 59 years. She was an exemplary Homemaker. Her favorite avocations included knitting, sewing, gardening, canning, cooking and Baking. She received numerous blue ribbons from the Southeastern Washington Fair for her knitting. She supplied family members with sweaters for years, including her grandson and great grandson. During the summer, she grew thriving vegetable and fruit gardens as well as flowers. She enjoyed preserving and canning. Being an early adapter in Walla Walla's wine producing, she grew grapes and made her own juice. She loved baking pies, cakes, cookies, holiday treats and sharing recipes with friends and family. She was a great cook and anyone who sat at her table was comforted by her food. No one ever went away hungry. Darlene embraced nature, was an avid walker and frequently walked all the local trails, even while battling her illness. She participated in the annual Bloomsday 5k for 10 years. She loved sitting in her backyard sanctuary watching and identifying the birds. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family. Most recently, in June she spent a fun week in Long Beach, WA.
She is survived by spouse Michael Tohivsky; daughter Barbara Tohivsky Thrasher; son in law Rhett Thrasher; grandson Zachary Thrasher and Haley Davidson; great grandson Peyton Thrasher; son Darren Michael Tohivsky; daughter in law Janet Morris; sister, Jackie Thibaudeau; and 13 nieces and nephews along with numerous great nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; Jack and Tena Mackay (Stokes); sisters Joyce Blish and Louise Blish.
A private graveside service was held at Mount Hope Cemetery, College Place, Wa.
Memorial contributions may be made to Gospel Outreach through Mountain View-Colonial Dewitt. Family and friends may share memories and sign the online guestbook at www.mountainview-colonialdewitt.com.