JEAN (JOHN) SOWKA

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JEAN (JOHN) SOWKA It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Grandfather and Father, Papous, on Friday, June 8, 2007, at Boundary Trails Hospital in Morden, MB. He went peacefully, with his beloved daughter Marina at his side. Jean was born February 1, 1938, in Paris, France. He grew up in the outskirts of Paris during the Second World War. As a young man, Jean served two tours as a French Soldier in northern Africa where he was trained as a Morse Code Operator and later, as an Army Medic. It is during his time in the army that Jean learned to play chess, and his love for the game was undying throughout his life. A devoted learner himself, Jean was passionate about inspiring others to play chess. Jean immigrated to Canada in the 1950s and commenced work at the Iron Ore Company of Canada in Sept Iles, QC, as a Mechanic. He eventually settled in Labrador City, NF, where he met his wife Elizabeth and continued his career as a Mine P H Crane Operator for 35 years. In his later years, Jean came to Winnipeg to be close to his beloved grandchildren, Nikolas, Joseph and Elizabeth ( Pounia ). Jean will be lovingly remembered by his siblings overseas, Irene, Aniella, Stanis, Raymond; his brother Henri in Mont Tremblant, QC, and his many nieces and nephews. Jean leaves his many friends in Newfoundland, Quebec and Manitoba with fond memories of his delightful and, at times, unexpected sense of humour. Most of all, Jean will be remembered for his integrity and profound commitment to his family. Jean was a self-educated man who had an appreciation for Politics, the Arts and Literature. He particularly enjoyed music and had an extensive collection of music from around the world. We love you; we miss you; We are proud of you. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean's honour to the Palliative Care Program, in care of Boundary Trails Health Centre Foundation, P.O. Box 2000, Station Main, Winkler, MB R6W 1H8, whose staff provided extraordinary care and support for Jean and his family. In accordance to Jean's wishes, the family extends their sincere appreciation for the kindness and support received by the community at St. John's-Ravenscourt School, and to the staff of 4 North at the Victoria General Hospital for their unwavering assistance throughout Jean's illness. Finally, heartfelt thanks to the Later family, and to the townspeople of La Riviere, Manitoba, who have so graciously welcomed the family to their community. Thank-you. A Celebration of Life for Jean will be held at Holiday Mountain Ski and Golf Resort on Thursday, June 14, 2007, at 7:30 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at Valley Cemetery in La Riviere, MB. Graham's Funeral Services, Pilot Mound, MB in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 13, 2007