JOHN ROMANIK (JAY)

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JOHN ROMANIK (JAY) Peacefully, on the evening of June 8, 2007 John Romanik made his final journey Home. John was born to William and Rose on February 9, 1919 in Brandon, Manitoba. From the early days of his life, he faithfully answered God's call to serve the needs of others, helping to support his family through work in the family garden and the building of military housing. It was in his family home that John developed a strong Faith, and gained a deep appreciation for the gift of music. As a young man of seventeen, he purchased his first instrument, a second-hand saxophone. Once John taught himself to play, he extended his thirst for learning with the purchase of a clarinet and found himself playing in a number of bands that ranged from annual Provincial Grandstand Show bands for numerous well-known international performers to the Ambassadors , and the Elbow Benders . Jay, as he was known to his friends, enjoyed playing many events with musicians that became dear to him. When he retired from playing, he was deeply proud that his musical legacy would be continued by his daughter Debbie, and grandchildren, Leah and Tyler, who treasure his beloved Selmer clarinet. Growing up in Brandon, John was a member of St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, where he used his musical talents of perfect pitch and love of intricate harmonies to praise God in song as the leader of the church choir. John later became a member of the Knights of Columbus, a ministry in which he would serve for 50 years. During the early forties, John answered the call to serve our country. His wartime stories were a reminder to his children and grandchildren about the many who gave their lives for our freedom. During his retirement years, he enjoyed many Whist and Cribbage games, socials, trips, and times of fellowship as a member of the St. James Legion and the Army and Navy Over 60's Clubs. Before and after wartime, John was a loyal and dedicated employee of Labatt Brewery. Throughout his life, he was one of the company's best ambassadors . No other brand was ever found in his fridge, and all who came into his home were welcomed with hospitality and a cold Blue . Following his retirement, he continued to enjoy the monthly meetings of the retired employees club. Many in Brandon and the St. James area will remember Jay as their favorite Bingo caller. He faithfully dedicated countless hours as a volunteer for the St. Mary's Hall in Brandon, St. James Legion, Army and Navy #283, Sturgeon Creek Community Centre, and at the two parishes where he worshipped; St. Basil's and St. Paul the Apostle. John appreciated the gifts of nature, instilling in his children and grandchildren a love of animals; especially dogs, and the satisfaction of gardening. His appreciation for the beauty of the earth took him on special trips to Hawaii, Arizona, California, and a place that was dear to his heart, Victoria, where he enjoyed a number of extended winter stays. When he couldn't get away, his weekly summer golf date at John Blumberg was always a treasured outing. Wherever he traveled, whether to the corner store or an airport across the continent, Jay always encountered someone he knew. A true people person he was known by many as a good and loyal friend. This loyalty was exemplified in the celebration of his 65th wedding anniversary this past February to his wife, Marjorie. Throughout his married life, he worked hard to provide for his family, always putting their needs ahead of his own. John will be lovingly remembered by Marjorie; his daughter Judy Grant, her husband Terry and son Joel, and his daughter Debbie Dusanek, her husband Rene and their children, Leah and Tyler. John was predeceased by his son, Wayne and his grandson, Kevin Grant. John came from a family of five children. He leaves behind his sister, Mary McCauley and his brother, Peter Romanik, and was predeceased by brothers Steve and Michael and parents, William and Rose. His large extended family of relatives and friends mourn his loss. Per his wishes, immediate cremation has taken place, and his funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 12, 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 2400 Portage. Ave. Burial will follow at the Brandon Cemetery Tuesday afternoon at approximately 3:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice. Well done, good and faithful servant.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 11, 2007