JOSEPH MICHAEL (JOSIE) BOBINSKI

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JOSEPH MICHAEL (JOSIE) BOBINSKI Josie was born March 19, 1938 to Mike and Annie (Lytwyn) Bobinski, on the farm at Mossey River, where he was to work and play all his earthly life. Josie was the eighth child who never lacked attention from his siblings. His formal education started in the one room Cork Cliff School, and continued at the Winnipegosis Collegiate Institute. Upon the death of his Dad, Josie took over the farming and ranching operation full time at age 18, and continued looking after the family and the many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and friends that crossed his doorstep and needed his nurturing. Every day for Josie was an adventure to be appreciated be it the coming of the geese and other migrating birds in the spring, putting up hay at Red Deer Point, or enjoying a good meal. These and many more opportunities were embraced with great enthusiasm, although one of his favourite sayings (especially after discovering one of his cultivators wrapped around a tree) was, what a waste of taxpayer's money! Josie loved to travel, and was always willing and eager to attend a wedding or other function, regardless of the distance. His love of travel took Josie to many other countries, and he continued his travels as a couple, with his loving partner, Sheila Hafenbrak. Together, they enjoyed work and play for some 40 years. Josie's work was not limited to his personal achievements, but also to his community involvement as well. He was a member of the Order of Elks for 50 years, and a charter member of the Knights of Columbus. His ball playing days included being a member of the Winnipegosis Canadian fastball team, and later on with the Winnipegosis Goldeyes senior team. Josie is survived by Sheila, the love of his life; Sheila's children, Sandy Hafenbrak, Scott Hafenbrak, Sheila Hafenbrak, Shawn (Cindy) Hafenbrak, Stephen (Jodi) Hafenbrak; grandchildren Chris, Kyle, Jenna, Emma and Ryann; great-grandchildren Niya, Dreyvis and Payton; Josie's sisters Mary (Peter) Harrison, Caroline Shewchuk, Lila Lewis, Sandra Kuzyk; his brothers Patrick, Andrew, Stephen, and his other brother Henry Penner and Marge; brothers-in-law Peter Procyshyn and Stanley Chrupalo; as well as his nieces, nephews, extended family and his many special friends. Josie was predeceased by his parents Mike and Annie (Lytwyn) Bobinski; sisters Rosie (in infancy), Josephine Jessie (Jack) Sklepowich, Helen (Peter) Procyshyn, and Elizabeth Betty (Stanley) Chrupalo; brothers-in-law Jack Sklepowich, Zenon Kuzyk, Paul Shewchuk, Bill Lewis; and nephews Glen Harrison, Richard Shewchuk and Stanley Procyshyn. Prayer services were held Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 7:00 p.m., from the Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Church in Winnipegosis, Manitoba, led by Josephine Bunka, preceded by the Rosary at 6:30 p.m., led by the Knights of Columbus. The Funeral Mass was celebrated March 28, 2011, at 11:00 a.m., also from the Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Church in Winnipegosis, with Fr. José Cabral celebrating. The Winnipegosis Community Choir and organist Candace Benson provided music and song. A tribute to Josie was offered by the Order of Elks. Sheila Hafenbrak, Josie's love of his life, served as Urnbearer. The Cross Bearer was Jenna Hafenbrak. Altar Servers were Jessica, James, and Stephen Quennelle. Delivering eulogies were Peter Sklepowich, Carla Suszczynski, and Krista Bobinski. Presenting gifts were Carol Silverthorn and Laura Natrasony. Sandra Kuzyk and Shirley Kendzierski read scripture. A reception lunch followed at the Elks Hall, with interment to follow at a later date. The family would like to thank the Winnipegosis Hospital, Dr. Johnson and his staff, the Dauphin Regional Health Centre, and Dr. Penrose and his staff for all of their many acts of kindness through these difficult times. Your support is greatly appreciated. If so desired, donations (in lieu of flowers) may be made to the Winnipegosis Palliative Care Unit, the Dauphin Hospital Foundation - Palliative Care Fund, or a charity of one's choice. Sneath-Strilchuk Funeral Services (204) 638-4110 www.sneathstrilchuk.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 18, 2011