PETER HOLOWCHUK

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PETER HOLOWCHUK With loving memories and sad hearts we announce the passing of Peter Holowchuk on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at Seven Oaks Hospital. Peter is survived by his son Gerry (Trudy) and daughter Bev Pellick (John), grandchildren Lisa (Brad), Laura (Craig), Peter (Larissa), Cale, and great-grandchildren JC, Kristian, Erika, Ella, and Nate. Also mourning Peter's passing are his sisters Olga White and Cas Sheppard and his very special cousin Anne Wilson. Peter was predeceased by his wife Anne in January, 1968. He was also predeceased by his brother William Holowchuk and extended family Bernice Benson and Stella Blaschuk. Peter was born on July 21, 1915 in East Kildonan to Katherine (Carr) and Michael Holowchuk. Peter spent his early years in East Kildonan, attending Polson and Lord Kitchener Schools. As a young man he moved to Northern Ontario residing in the Pickle Lake area. His stories of the north were truly incredible. Hauling freight over the winter roads and frozen lakes by tractor - even going through the ice a few times, drilling through the rock and marsh as he worked for various gold companies in search of gold strikes, plus the fond memories he shared of his dog sled team - hauling water, firewood to support the family home, and helping out in the Hudson Bay store / post are just a few of the memories we all will cherish. Peter moved to Winnipeg and married Anne (Simcoe) in 1941. Peter was one of the foundation builders of Holy Eucharist Parish working and helping out in many areas including BUC, Sunday night bingos, and working in the Hall'. He enjoyed his Thursday night bowling and organized their social events for many years. Peter worked at Shell (North Star Oil) for over 40 years as an oil blender and after retirement, enjoyed his time with his family, his weekends at the lake and his trips to Florida. Peter's hard work in the bush made him a tough, no-nonsense person. However his grandchildren, and his four-legged friends (Barley, Magee, Mac and Luke), certainly brought out his warm, kindhearted side. Peter always had a pack of Chicklets' gum in his shirt pocket so the race was on to see who could be the first grandkid to scramble onto his knee and reach in for a treat. As the grandkids got older, grandpa Dadu would entertain with his stories while whipping up a batch of his breakfast specialty - kolbassa and eggs, or pancakes. His aptitude for poker, crib and pool was legendary and he took great delight in beating most everyone at these activities! He taught us not to take ourselves too seriously and that we should always try to find humour in any situation. We knew he was proud of us and we are extremely fortunate to have enjoyed his sharp mind, amazing stories and quick laugh right up to his final days. You have taught us many things over the years, most importantly honesty, hard work, and a sense of humour. You have always been there for us. We love you very much Your Grandchildren Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 27 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St. with Fr. M. Kwiatkowski officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Peter's memory to Concordia Adult Day Club, 1100 Concordia Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2K 4B8. The family would like to thank Middlechurch Home for the care they provided Peter over the last year. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 26, 2011