DOUGLAS JOHN CIWKO

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DOUGLAS JOHN CIWKO After a courageous battle with cancer, John passed away peacefully at his home, on Thursday, October 25, 2007. He was predeceased by his wife, Pauline, in 1988. He will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his four children; Doug, Ray, Claudia and Richard, grandchildren; Erin, Ashley, Ryan and Shelby, special friend and longtime companion Helen, sisters Barb and Bev, best friend' Dolly, as well as extended family, neighbours and lifetime friends. John was born on October 27, 1939. He trained as a carpenter and began working as a homebuilder in the family owned business. He later joined CNR for a 30 year career, retiring in 1993. John was a handyman that could fix anything and everything. He displayed his many talents with the family cottage, which he literally built from the ground up. John enjoyed many summers at the Lake. Amongst his numerous hobbies was fishing, boating, gardening, country music and shortly before his illness, golfing. John was also a car enthusiast who enjoyed car shows, races, rallies and cruising with his buddy, Jeff. He and Helen also had the privilege of enjoying several warm winters in Arizona. Like many, John was confronted with several hardships and obstacles in his lifetime. Each time he faced them head on with dignity and integrity. He led by example and encouraged us to do the same. His most recent battle with cancer further emphasized his morals and values. We dedicate this poem, in loving memory of Tot The Oak Tree A mighty wind blew night and day. It stole the oak tree's leaves away, It snapped its boughs and pulled its bark Until the oak was tired and stark. But still the oak tree held its ground while other trees fell all around. The weary wind gave up and spoke, How can you still be standing, Oak? The Oak tree said, I know that you can break each branch of mine in two, Carry every leaf away, Shake my limbs, and make me sway, But I have roots stretched in the earth. Growing stronger since my birth. You'll never touch them, for you see, They are the deepest part of me Until today, I wasn't sure Of just how much I could endure. But now I've found, with thanks to you, I'm stronger than I ever knew. In keeping with John's wishes, cremation has taken place, followed by a private family service. We would like to express sincere gratitude to all the friends and family who have supported us during this difficult time. We would also like to thank Dr. P. Harris, the Oncology staff at Concordia Hospital, Dr. S. Ahmed at Cancer Care, and the Palliative/Homecare program. If friends so desire, donations may be made to Cancer Care Manitoba.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 03, 2007