JOHN FRANK GULYAS

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JOHN FRANK GULYAS Passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2008 at Seven Oaks Hospital, aged 84 years. He was predeceased in 1987 by his beloved wife of 42 years, Doris Grace Gulyas. John was born May 15, 1924 in Torontaltorda, Hungary. He moved to Canada as a young child with his family who had survived World War One. He was the oldest of four children. Predeceased by his parents, Michael and Rose, his brother-in-law Albert Allen and his brother Mike. He is survived by his sister Theresa Allen and his brother Alec, his wife Margaret and their families. John was a long time resident of Charleswood and proud of his Hungarian roots. He did not remarry after Doris' passing and remained a loving brother,father, grandfather. He was predeceased by his son Wally (Yvonne) in 2006 and his daughter Penny Wolosezky in 2007. He leaves to mourn his passing his daughters Rosemary McCutcheon (Brian) and Tracy McLachlan - Craig (James); his 13 grandchildren Ronnie, Connie, Ed, Gayle, Jo-Anne, Jason, John, Robyn, Chrissy, Zacharay, Vaughan, Denine, Jamey-Lynne, Ben and Justin. Great grandchildren: Breanne, Jessie, Alyscia, Cassandra, Courtney, Bianca, Karlee, Cole, Riley and Luke. His cousin Johnny Sogi as well as many other relatives and friends. John worked several decades with leading Manitoba construction companies. He supervised many noted buildings throughout Winnipeg. He was especially proud of his work on Winnipeg's first Wheel Chair accessible apartment. He spent many years in Northern Canada and held a deep appreciation of Aboriginal Culture . In his early years was a Pioneer of the North bringing Hospitals, Schools, and living accommodations to the remote community of Bakers Lake.To show their appreciation they made him Honorary Mayor of their community. They did not come any bigger in presence full of life and heart. He loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman. He even had one of his catches on local tourism post-card. Once retired from construction he still enjoyed working with his hands and built many accessories for his pool. He enjoyed having his own garden which reminded him of working as a Market Gardener with the family in his youth. He loved all things sour - gooseberries, crab apples, and lemons, much to the delight of his grandchildren when he made his sour face! Doris learned to cook traditional Hungarian food. Many delicious recipes have been passed throughout the family. John was a social person loving his visits with friends and family . He continued this life style after personal care. He loved all games and was especially known for his expertise on the pool table. He loved cards of all kinds especially cribbage. John will be dearly missed by all who loved him. Many thanks to Maples Personal Care Home and Seven Oaks General Hospital. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation. Family and friends may call for viewing Friday, December 26 at 7:00 p.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, Corner of Roblin and Grant The Funeral Service will follow on Saturday December 27 11:00 a.m. also at the church With Father Barry Schoonbaert Officiating. Interment to follow in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens Arrangements Entrusted to Rock Fontaine Funeral Director, Phone (204) 223-2576 or Toll Free (866)499-2601 www.rockfontaine.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 22, 2008