MORRIS MONASTYRSKI

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MORRIS MONASTYRSKI Unexpectedly, but peacefully at Bethesda Hospital on January 9, 2009, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed into the hands of his Lord. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary (Yurkowski) and his children, Paul (Julie) and Jerry (Annette). Morris leaves behind his five grandchildren, Lori, Karen, Ryan, Jordan and Chantal, and also seven great-grandchildren, Shana, Ashley, Brandon, Taylor (TJ), Shandelle, Keanan and Jayden. He is survived by two sisters, Annie Serafin of Winnipeg and Lena Tesarski of Rainy River; and by two sisters-in-law, Olga Stone of Brantford and Annie Chopyk of Winnipeg. Morris will be remembered by many nieces and nephews of whom he was proud of and who were dear to him. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Annie (Rudenick); by his five brothers, Walter, Mike, Joe, Matt and Emile; and by five sisters, Francis, Helen, Nellie, Mary and Jean . Morris and his spirit for life, love of people, advice, wit, and tactfulness will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Morris's journey of life began in Lonesand, MB on May 2, 1920 where he was born to Ukrainian immigrants from southwest Ukraine. In the late 1940s, after having been wed for a time, Morris and his young family moved to the quaint village of Sandilands. In the late 1980s Morris and Mary moved once again, to the outskirts of his beloved town of Steinbach. Here he found wonderful new neighbours, and continued to enjoy life until his passing. For most of his working life he was self employed in trucking, logging and farming. In his later working years, he was proud to be an employee of C.T. Loewen Sons Lumber, and where he worked faithfully until his retirement. He was a devoted Christian who served his church in many ways, including having been a cantor for many decades. His love of religion, politics and family was always evident at family gatherings. His interests had included family, fiddling, singing, fixing most things, mechanics, yard work and the casino. God, You gave Morris a long, healthy and happy life and we are thankful. His spirit is now with You to enjoy for eternity. Thanks to Dr. Duerksen and staff at Bethesda Hospital for their care during Morris's brief hospital stay. Prayers will be Tuesday, January 13, 7:30 p.m., and funeral services will be Wednesday, January 14, 10:30 a.m., both at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 150 Penfeld Drive in Steinbach. Interment at Zhoda Cemetery after lunch on Wednesday. Rev. Dr. Gregory Zubacz will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 200 - 6 Donald Street; Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6 or to the Zhoda Community Cemetery. Arrangements by: Birchwood funeral chapel 1-204-346-1030 or 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 12, 2009