ERNEST STANLEY PAUL MALIS

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ERNEST STANLEY PAUL MALIS It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Ernie Malis at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2009. He will be greatly missed as a husband, father, son, brother and friend to many. His father Frank Malis, father-in-law Andrew Wozny, brother-in-law Andy Wozny, and sister-in-law Shirley Pirart predeceased Ernie. In Ernie's passing, he leaves to mourn his wife of 45 years, Sylvia Malis; children Michele Polinuk (Gary) and Craig; mother Anne Malis and mother-in-law Anne Wozny; brothers, Ron (Gisele), Tom (Margaret), Greg (Mary Anne) and sister Elizabeth Omeniuk (Bob); brother-in-law Ted (Joan) and sister-in-law Helga. Ernie leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces, and many other extended family members. Ernie was born March 2, 1937 in Narol, Manitoba where his family home was located. The family moved to Selkirk in 1948 where Ernie completed his schooling. Once he graduated, Ernie went to work with his dad in the family business of Malis Motors. In this G.M. franchise, Ernie worked his way from pumping gas, to parts, salesman and in partnership from 1972-1980. Ernie became the sole owner of Malis Motors in 1980 until selling the business in 1989. This did not stop him from selling cars and even into his retirement, he continued to help people purchase their vehicles. Ernie was always very sports minded and enjoyed playing baseball, golf and curling. He enjoyed the many curling games with his friends and initiated a Malis Motors team with his brothers to curl in Ottawa Bonspiels. As a season ticket holder for decades with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, he knew all statistics for the players and enjoyed attending home games. As an active community-minded individual, Ernie belonged to Kinsmen and the Selkirk Parks Board for many years. The community of the church was also very important to Ernie as he actively participated in all aspects from greeting people, working at events, promoting the Christian way, serving on Parish Council and currently holding the role of Parish Council Chairperson for several years. His passion for hockey and community involvement was also reflected in the work that he did for the Selkirk Jr. B Fisherman such as soliciting funds each year and holding the responsibility for the 50/50 tickets. Ernie surmounted many hard times in the 80's and demonstrated his inner strength and character to overcome these challenges. He was a support to numerous individuals over the years, helping others through similar difficulties in their lives. His exemplary work as Chairperson of the Interlake Mental Health Advisory Council, Mood Disorders Group and Self Help Advisory Council was honoured two years ago when he received a Hero of Mental Health Award. The many people that he would see as a part of his daily routine will definitely miss Ernie. In his red convertible, he could be seen driving around town making stops to check on people to ensure they were working, to share jokes and laughs in conversations. May he rest in peace knowing that all his love, compassion, wisdom and humour will live in our hearts forever. In accordance with Ernie's wishes, prayers will be held Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at Notre Dame Church, Selkirk. The funeral mass will take place Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. also at Notre Dame Church with Fr. Dado Parrenas officiating. Interment in the Parish Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the following local organizations Mental Health - CMHA Interlake 217 Robinson Avenue, Selkirk Jr. B. Fisherman, 363 Main Street or Notre Dame Church 269 Jemima Street. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 13, 2009