MIKE STASIUK

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MIKE STASIUK January 19, 1911 - May 4, 2008 It is with great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Mike Stasiuk on May 4, 2008 at the Benito Health Centre. Mike was born on January 19, 1911 in Aaran, Saskatchewan to the late Wasyl and Fedora Stasiuk. Growing up in Benito, he wed his loving wife Elsie on February 5, 1939 in Aaran, SK. They initially resided in Benito. The years following saw them move to Beardmore, ON, Inwood and Teulon, MB as they pursued their careers while supporting and raising their family. They returned to Benito, which they always referred to as home for extended periods between journeys, finally retiring there in 1986. An early pioneer of the Benito area, Mike led a storied life. His early working career as a liveryman made for many an interesting story as he recollected the early days in the area. Subsequent years saw him travel to the tobacco fields and gold mines of Ontario, working as a fireman on the railway, logging, farming and ventures into the business world. Mike loved music and dance, as he and Elsie would dance the evening away. He was at his finest in the company of family and friends. With a sly grin and blue eyes sparkling, stories were told, songs came to life and grandchildren bounced on his knee. In retirement, he enjoyed playing traditional songs on his fiddle and mandolin, and to tend his garden. Mike was predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years Elsie, sisters Merle and Mary, and brothers John, Martin, Dan and Metro. Mike will be sadly missed by his daughter Corinne (Ken) Plourde of Athabasca AB, and sons Rodney (Pat) of Campbell River, BC, Ken (Noreen) of Beausejour, MB, and Randall of Prince George, BC. His legacy lives on with his cherished grandchildren Ken Jr., Dale, Denise, Derek, Sharon, Keith, Julie, Anita, Dana, Nataya, Ava and Nola, and great-grandchildren Melissa, Samantha, Denan, Stevie, Travis, Michael, Tyson, Alex, Shana, Evan, Ethan and Lexi. Pallbearers for the funeral will be Alex Harrison, Dale Plourde, Ken Plourde Jr., Ken Plourde, Mark Niemczyk and Alex Muzyczka. Viewing and special prayers will be held at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Catholic Church in Benito on Friday, May 9, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Catholic Church with Father Yaraslav Strukhlyak officiating. The interment will follow in the Parish Cemetery. The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at the Benito Health Centre for their loving care, support and compassion. In lieu of flower, donations can be made to the Benito Health Centre in memory of Mike Stasiuk. Honoured to serve the Family, Paull Funeral Home and Crematorium 506 2nd Street North, Swan River, 734-4556

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 08, 2008