JOHN GOJAN

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JOHN GOJAN 1936 2007 Peacefully, on Thursday, January 18, 2007, John Gojan, aged 70, passed away in his sleep at St. Norbert Personal Care Home, where he had resided since 1995. John was the only son of the late Nicholas and Katharina Gojan, and youngest brother to three sisters, Lillian Buffie and Florence Gojan, both of whom reside at Holy Family Nursing Home, as well as Helen Gojan who predeceased him in 2006. Uncle Johnny also leaves behind Lillian's children, Gary Buffie (Cathy Van de Vorst), Marilynn Phillips (Alan, son Scott) of Calgary, Dave Buffie (Mary-Anne), Jim Buffie (Lara), Sandy Waite (Rob, daughter Brookelynn), and Chris Cowan (Larry). John will also be embraced by his nephew Lloyd Buffie, who predeceased him in 1983. John was born, raised and schooled in the north end of Winnipeg and lived in the family home on Bannerman Avenue until illness necessitated his advance in to hospital care. After a short time, he eventually transitioned to permanent residency at St. Norbert Personal Care Home. Although John had learning disabilities throughout his life, he was still able to function somewhat independently, and enjoyed many freedoms. He'd often catch the bus to go downtown and look about, or simply walk down to Main Street to go out for coffee. John spent most of his spare time at home under the care and attentive eye of his mother and sister Florence. Katharina was a strong advocate for John and undertook the responsibility to keep him at home as long as possible, along with Florence's support. John absolutely loved country music. Amongst his favourites were Johnny Cash and Hank Snow. Days were often spent at home in his room on the 2nd floor listening to 78 and 33 albums, or watching TV. He especially enjoyed watching the Red River Jigging Hour with the family on Saturday afternoons. He also had a passion and appreciation for coffee, cigarettes (until he kicked the habit). He felt great comfort with the home cooked meals and treats his mom made. He never turned down a second helping of poppy seed cake! Conversations with John were brief, yet frequent and energetic. He liked to talk about the area where he grew up, country music stars, sharing how he was doing - general chatting while visiting with family. The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to St. Norbert Personal Care Home, West Wing, for providing John a life of comfort and dignity, as well as all the volunteers who gave him their gift of companionship. We are certain that he, as did his mother appreciated each and every one of you. Although she continued to worry about him, she was rest assured that he was being well cared for. Funeral service will be held on what would have been his 71st birthday, Tuesday, January 23 at 1:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. with Rev. Fr. Ceas Chmiel presiding. Interment will follow at Brookside Cemetery where John will be laid to rest in peace, next to his sister Helen. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please make a donation to the St. Norbert Personal Care Home or to a charity of your choice. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 20, 2007