HARRY MELNYK -

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HARRY MELNYK 1920 - 2006 On December 16, 2006 at the Riverview Health Care Facility, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully after a short but determined battle with cancer. Harry was 85 years of age. Left to cherish his memory and celebrate his life is his loving wife of 58 years, Ada, who will miss his support, devotion, and companionship. He is survived by his two sons Harold (Gwen) and Barry (Valerie) along with grandchildren Ryan, Karleigh and Maria. Also he is survived by his brother Reverend John (Sonia) and sister Anne along with sister-in-law Nettie, and many nephews and nieces. Harry was predeceased by his father Alex; his mother Maggie; his brother Dan and brother-in-law Bill Yakemow. Harry was born on December 29, 1920 and lived on the family farm near Fraserwood, MB until he was 23 years old. In 1944 he moved to Winnipeg and resided in the Point Douglas area. His first job was at Quality Bed and Spring where he became president of his labour union, United Steel Workers of America, in his first year of employment. In 1954 he became foreman of his department. He met the love of his life, Ada Clarke, at a dance in the Point Douglas area. Harry and Ada were married on October 16, 1948. They purchased their first house on Balmoral in 1950. Harry was kept busy working full time and also maintaining his rooming house, which included about ten tenants. In 1960 Harry and his family moved to Bannerman Avenue in the North End. There Harry and Ada would live for the next 42 years. Harry took great pride in caring for his vegetable garden and grass. He often said that 16-20-0 fertilizer worked wonders. Harry became very active in the lives of his two sons. He never missed one of their hockey, football or baseball games. He was definitely the loudest spectator! From 1966 to 1971 Harry was the sports chairman and president of the Northwood Community Club. At the age of 56 Harry began a new career as manager of Kildonan Horizons Seniors Complex on Munroe and Watt Street. He would retire in 1987. During his retirement years, Harry bowled at Mosienko and Roxy Lanes, shot pool with his buddies on Tuesday mornings, and travelled to Hawaii, Alaska, California, Texas, Florida and the Maritimes. Harry will best be remembered for his hospitality and leadership. Relatives and friends always had a wonderful time at the parties at Harry and Ada's home. No one ever went hungry or thirsty! From president of his labour union to president of Northwood Community to manager of Kildonan Horizons Harry was always respected for his effort, ideas, and dedication. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, December 20 at 10:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Interment to follow in Glen Eden Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be in Harry's memory to CancerCare Manitoba. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 18, 2006