HARRY GUZDA

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HARRY GUZDA May 19, 1922 - May 21, 2010 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear uncle following a brief illness. Harry was the tenth of 13 children born to Maria (Gurnik) and Fred Guzda in Meleb, MB. He was predeceased by his parents; siblings, John, Mike, Steven, Katie (Berryere), Nellie (stillborn), Nellie (stillborn), Annie (Dutka), Peter, Dan, Andrew and twin Billy, and Paul; nephews, Eddy Dutka, Mitchell Guzda, Clifford Berryere; and niece Marie Schwartz. Uncle Harry's love, kindness and generous heart will be forever cherished by seven nieces and nephews; 17 great-nieces and nephews; 14 great-great nieces and nephews and one great-great-great nephew. Uncle Harry left the farm as a young man and travelled to Geraldton, ON to become a miner, but returned to Manitoba a few years later. In March 1943, he joined the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Army but failing to meet the physical standards was discharged in September. On September 8, 1943 he began a career with Canada Packers and proudly held that position until his retirement on September 30, 1986. Uncle Harry continued his active lifestyle well into his retirement. He joined a bowling league at Mosienko Lanes and the St. John's Lawn Bowling Club until a shoulder injury in mid 2000 forced him to quit. He was a member of the Seven Oaks Wellness Centre, enjoying working out with the great equipment. For years he was a member of the downtown YMCA and later joined the Centennial Pool where he enjoyed swimming twice a week. Until recently he was a member of the Ukrainian Canadian Veterans Legion #141 where he proudly served as an Honour Guard when called upon and he enjoyed the excitement of Tuesday Bingorama as a volunteer. His passion for helping others was met by volunteering at Holy Family Home. His tireless commitment helped make Holy Family a Special Home for its residents. Over a 23 year period (1983 to 2006), he participated in 6 AIM (Aging in Manitoba) studies at the University of Manitoba, receiving recognition for his contributions in 2007. Our uncle was a bachelor, but on more occasions than we can remember, he stepped in to fill the void of an absent or unable parent. He was there for us through the good times and more so, through the bad ones. He freely offered his love and support without question. His encouraging words and insightful wisdom will linger in our minds and hearts forever. Uncle Harry was - our shoulder to cry on, a friend to laugh with, our Special Uncle. Dear Uncle Harry - Your passing leaves a void we cannot fill - we love you. The Rudys, The Dutkas, The Guzdas, The Samsons, The Berryeres, The Schwartzes, The Birds and The Bissons. Prayers will be sung 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 26 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 27, also at the chapel with Rt. Rev. Msgr. Mitrat M. Buyachok officiating. Interment will follow in St. Basil's Cemetery, Fraserwood, MB. Pallbearers will be Metro and Dylan Dutka, Nick Samson, Don Guzda, James Janzen and Glen Berryere. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. VICHNAYA PAMYAT KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 26, 2010