MATTHEW (METRO) OLYNYK (1925 - 2011)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MATTHEW (METRO) OLYNYK (1925 - 2011) After a brief unexpected illness, it is with deep sorrow that the family of Matthew Olynyk announces his passing on February 12, 2011 at the Concordia Hospital. Matt leaves to mourn and cherish his memory, his loving wife of 56 years, Lorraine Joyce, their sons Craig (Lucia) of Owen Sound, ON and Jim (Sandra) of Winnipeg, MB. He also leaves four grandchildren; Craig Jr. (fiancée Alyssa), Lauren, Bradley and Alyssa. He was predeceased by grandson Joshua in 2009. He will also be missed by brothers, George (Mary), Steve (Marguerite) and his sisters Doreen (Mervyn) Janzen, Victoria (Walter) Sokoloski, Virginia (George) Foffonoff and Rosie Pashsnek. He was predeceased by parents Steve and Vera Olynyk; sisters Mary Wasilkiw, Annie Chobatar, Katie Lesiw and brothers, John, Bill and Dr. Fred Olynyk. Matt attended Gravel Hill Elementary School and Buchanan High School in Buchanan, Saskatchewan. With his family's support he moved to Winnipeg to attend Success Business College. He worked as a Junior Accountant for two years before attending U of Manitoba and graduating with his B.SC. Pharm in 1956. Matt began his career as a Pharmacist at Mall Medical Dispensary in Winnipeg before moving to Selkirk, MB in 1961 to work at Gibbs Drug Store. Three years later, he developed Selkirk Pharmacy in Selkirk, MB where he served as Owner, Manager and Pharmacist and moved his family to Selkirk. They joined the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd where he served on the Board as Secretary, Treasurer and President. Matt also joined the Kiwanis Club of Selkirk where he served as President 1969 to 1970. He served on the Board of Directors, earning a 25 year perfect attendance Gold Pin and helped to raise money for many worthwhile projects. He was the Director of Kiwanis on the Red- Life lease condominium in Selkirk at the time of its conception to December 31, 2005. He was also an active member of the Selkirk Chamber of Commerce 1961 to 1987, serving on the Board of Directors and numerous Committees. Matt was instrumental in the development of Darol Centre Ltd., Western Drug Mart (Southview Pharmacy) and Townview Holding Properties Ltd. Western Drug Mart and Selkirk Pharmacy were sold to Shoppers Drug Mart in 1987 where Matt worked as a pharmacist until he retired December 31, 1993. Matt also received the Manitoba Pharmaceutical Association 50 year Gold Pin. Although Matt and Lorraine finally lived in Winnipeg, Matthew loved Selkirk. He was pleased with the hospitality the people of Selkirk and district extended to him. He sure liked the small town atmosphere. He will be missed as a devoted husband and father, as a loving Papa, as a gentleman and as a loyal friend to many. Cremation has taken place at his request. A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, February 17 at 1:00 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 6088 Hwy. 9A, with Pastor Dave Saude officiating. The family would like to thank the extraordinary staff at the Concordia Hospital for their kindness and support. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Matt's memory to the charitable organization of their choice. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 15, 2011