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ANDREW D. M. OGARANKO, Q.C.  Obituary pic

ANDREW D. M. OGARANKO, Q.C.

Born: Feb 14, 1949

Date of Passing: Aug 30, 2012

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ANDREW D. M. OGARANKO, Q.C. February 14, 1949 - August 30, 2012 In the early morning of August 30, 2012, Andrew Ogaranko, beloved husband and father, passed away in his sleep from sudden cardiac failure. A vital man so full of life at age 63, it was much too soon. Andrew was born to Claudia (Bak) and Michael Ogaranko, hard-working emigrants from Ukraine. Andrew was predeceased by them in 1989 and 1977 respectively. Andrew is survived by his wife Cheryl and daughters Alexis and Lindsey - his three girls who he loved dearly. He also enjoyed 15 years with his other girl , pet dog Alie, who enriched all their lives until her recent passing. Andrew will be sadly missed by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Hope and Earl Gibbons, his sisters-in-law, Lisa Gibbons and Glenda Krueger and brother-in-law Ralph Krueger, niece and nephew, Geena and Justin Krueger, and numerous cousins and extended family in Canada and Ukraine, as well as many friends. Andrew grew up in Winnipeg's North End, and surrounded by his parents' hair salon on Selkirk Avenue, acquired the tools of business. He learned the art of negotiation from his father who taught him if you don't ask, you don't get. He graduated from the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba in 1974, and to this day maintained friendships from his TKE fraternity. Andrew was called to the Bar in 1975, and appointed Queen's Counsel at a young age in 1985. He began his practice with Tupper Adams and after a few years moved to the law firm now known as Pitblado LLP, where he excelled to senior partner and former managing partner. He will be missed by partners, coworkers and the clients he served so well. Andrew was a proud Winnipegger and Canadian and was active in community and charitable endeavours since his school years. He served his community in many capacities including: National Arts Centre - Ottawa, Advisory Committee on Judicial Appointments for Manitoba, City of Winnipeg Arts Advisory Council, Canada-Manitoba Advisory Committee on Communications and Cultural Enterprises, St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Theatre Centre, Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre, The Ukrainian Theatre, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Prairie Theatre Exchange - Capital Campaign, Carpathia Credit Union, United Way of Winnipeg, Osvita Foundation. Andrew was invited to Israel to witness the trial of John Demjanjuk and to search for ways of healing the rift between Canada's Jewish and Ukrainian communities. Andrew was an explorer at heart, journeying intellectually, geographically, athletically, culturally and experientially. Andrew Ogaranko loved life and lived well. He was a gentleman and a gentle man. Words cannot describe how greatly he will be missed. He was an exemplary lawyer, respected community leader and nurturing friend, but above all Andrew was a loving and dedicated husband and father. Andrew loved his family time at Lake of the Woods and referred to it as heaven on earth. They explored by powerboat, canoe, sailboat, bike and foot. A competitive game of beach volleyball would often break out at the destination. Andrew had a love and respect for nature and would welcome hornet nests, spiders and bats - they're all one of God's little creatures . He looked forward to his annual camping trip with his young daughter, Alexis and wanted to teach her to be prepared, like a Boy Scout . Andrew enjoyed watching Lindsey catch all the fish and loved nothing better than the hugs he got from Cheryl riding on the back of the Sea-Doo. Breaking bread with the treasured people in his life at the cottage or their Winnipeg home was paramount. Those who knew Andrew quickly appreciated his kindness, his warmth and his smile. He was a gracious and elegant host. He was an excellent cook and enjoyed food having taken cooking courses and a former member of Les Marmitons, a club with an interest in fine food and culinary arts. He appreciated art, live theatre and music. He was a member of the Winnipeg Squash Club and enjoyed many exhilarating games. Andrew was looking forward to his annual downhill ski trip to Whistler with his BOS group. He adored travel and he and Cheryl enjoyed many unforgettable trips. Andrew wanted to do a family trip to SCUBA dive in Belize next spring. Our time with Andrew was cut short and he will be forever loved and forever missed. Prayers will be held on Friday, September 7 at 8:00 p.m. at the Metropolitan Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of Sts. Vladimir and Olga, 115 McGregor Street. Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Saturday, September 8 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Cathedral with Rt. Rev. Msgr. Mitrat Michael J. Buyachok presiding. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery. Condolences and donations may be offered at www.cropo.com/book-of-memories/1329144/OGARANKO-ANDREW/index.php In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of these charitable organizations: The Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, The Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre Vichnaya Pam'yat 204-586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 04, 2012

Condolences & Memories (29 entries)

  • This is quite late, but my brother Michael passed on 13 Dec 2017 at the young age of 64. We were looking at pics this morning and my son found one with Great Uncle John and Aunt Tessie (Ogaranko), my Dad Roland, my Uncle Bill and Aunt Ann. QUestions were asked who they all were by my son, which led to this. Andrew and his parents were at my Dad's in Altamont. NY (USA) just after Andrew passed the Bar. That was the last time I saw him, although I though of him over the years. I, too, was born in 1949 and now know that with his passing he is with the rest of our family who have left this life. I will see Andrew again when I myself leave, but until then wanted to pass on my thoughts. I know he is at peace and with Christ, so until then I will keep him in my prayer intentions. May GOD bless him and take care of him. - Posted by: Stephen Marlow (Maslowsky) (cousin) on: Dec 16, 2017

  • Andrew and I were best of friends during grade 6 when we both attended King Edward Elementary. I remember his mom and dad well...she was a lovely lady and former movie star. His dad was tall and handsome. The family lived in the back of the hair salon and I recall spending many hours in their home after my dad died. I can remember going to the Greek Catholic Church and also "Plast" camp (Ukrainian form of boy scouts) with Andrew. Being more German than Ukrainian, Andy's parents were determined that I learn the Ukrainian language. Andy's claim to fame in grade 6 was that he played the role of the tin man in the "Wizard of Oz" school production (I played the cowardly lion). Sadly, we lost touch after we moved to the west coast of Canada. I recently found our grade 6 picture and Andy is standing next to me and that is why I googled his name and was shocked to come across this announcement. I only wish we could have kept connected through the years but I am pleased to learn that he did so well. On behalf of my family I want to wish Andrew's loved ones our sincere condolences. I will always remember Andy. - Posted by: Roman Kozak (Old School Friend) on: Nov 26, 2012

  • I am truly taken aback by this news, which I did not hear until this weekend...In a sense. I owe my life to Andrew..In February 1984, We were both holidaying in Xtapa Mexico, and on our last nite, Friday February 15th, had dinner in the small town of Zhuateneo as a group of ten...We took separate cabs back to our hotel...but mine was involved in a head-on crash...On hearing the news, Andrew rushed back to the small clinic where I was being given emergency treatment...He spent the entire night by my side, re-assuring me and giving me confidence that all would be well...He also investigated the cause and repercussions of the crash, and kept me informed...At the time, I was living in Edmonton, and so our paths didn't cross again as I recovered over the next years until I returned to Winnipeg in 1991...We met at a reception at the Art Gallery, and while I tried to express my thanks to him for all he had done, he typically and graciously accepted my words as though it was something anyone could and would have done....Not so....Only a person of his make-up could and would have done so much for someone he had barely met.­.My heart is full of gratitude, and I am particularly glad that Andrew had the kind of love and happiness in his life that he so richly deserved....His was an exemplarary time....Don Percy.. - Posted by: Don Percy (Friend) on: Oct 07, 2012

  • Mr. Ogaranko generously donated some of his time to explain franchise law to me and review an agreement I was considering about 5 years ago. I was honoured that a man with so much experience and expertise was willing to spend a great deal of his own time with me. I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues who now have to live on without him. - Posted by: Graham Taylor (Client) on: Oct 01, 2012

  • Cheryl, I heard of this shocking news today at group. My sincere condolences. Of course, not knowing your husband, all I can say is this: he must've been a very special person as he picked you and you are truly a personable individual. My thoughts are with you and your family - your daughters. Take good care. - Posted by: Melanie Zarrillo (Acquaintance of Cheryl - Healthy Baby Group) on: Sep 12, 2012

  • Thank you for those strong and early memories. The north end was a great place to come from, to prepare us for the world we eventually chose and were destined for. We all knew and kept in touch with each other, not directly maybe, but through that network of immigrant kids who did good. You did good Andy. - Posted by: Ihor Pona (old friend) on: Sep 10, 2012

  • My heartfelt condolences to Cheryl and daughters. I was 19, Andy was 21 when we met. Tall dark and handsome, Andy had a vast circle of friends. He was best man at so many Ukrainian weddings, I wondered how one person could have so many people in his life who considered him close enough to be in their wedding party. Those weddings were amazing, with the Ukrainian dance troupe performing and everyone dancing and singing and Andy right there in the middle of it all with the biggest smile, enjoying every minute. His pride in his culture was evident in the ways he passionately took part in Ukrainian Student groups and the Ukrainian community in Winnipeg. His Mom was a wonderful cook and we enjoyed many Ukrainian meals together. Andy and his family introduced me to garlic...in everything! Andy was adventurous and willing to try new things, from food to rolling in the snow after a sauna. Andy had so many friends...so many people he was close to and I was privileged to be included in his circle of friends. He valued his friends and was thoughtful in remembering our birthdays and made an effort to stay in touch. When I read about all his many accomplishments, it is amazing how much he contributed to the life and culture of his community. - Posted by: Linda Lundstrom (Friend) on: Sep 08, 2012

  • Dear Cheryl. Alexis and Lindsey, Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. In his work with us, Andrew gifted us through his thoughtful, gracious manner, his care and respect for all people, and through his tremendously wise counsel. May your memories of his love and care for you remain in your hearts forever. With warm thoughts and our prayers, Sister Zoe and the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate - Posted by: Sister Zoe Bernatsky () on: Sep 07, 2012

  • I used to hang out with Andy when we were teenagers in North-End Winnipeg many years ago. I can still remember his infectious smile which lit up any room he was in. He was always very funny and we would share jokes on the way to university classes in our car pool.We all would sit together at the reserved Ukie table in the UMSU cafeteria and wait until someone showed up that we knew and start telling jokes, many of which I can still remember to this day. Me, Andy,Ihor Pona Eugene Wawryn and George Luchka would study for exams in the attic of the administration building all night long and only come out once in a while to get a pizza or smuggle in some beer.Those were some of my happiest days that I still clearly remember. He was a true blue friend always that time and distances could not separate. I will always miss him and think of him and all the good times we both shared. Vichnaya Pamyat Andrij - Posted by: Oleh Korol (One of the original group of North-End friends of many years) on: Sep 07, 2012

  • I never knew Andy or Andrew - I knew Andriy. My deepest condolences to his family. You have certainly have had your life blessed with the warmth of Andriy as he had with yours. He will be missed greatly. Many memories comes to mind, even a silly one - sitting on the front steps of Ukrainian Scouts Plast (of which he was a member) building, watching him drive away in his Volvo, thinking - "Geez, he looks like Elvis Presley", after which my friends and I began referring to him as "Elvis Pretzley". I recall his tremendous output at Folklorama - innovative, excited, mover. He was a wild child always looking for excitement - a go-getter. I had the honour and pleasure of personally experiencing Andriy's supportive and guiding nature when my sister and I started up a Ukrainian band performing contemporary Ukrainian music. I chose him as my lawyer when I incorporated my artistic company - super adviser. Andriy was a man with style, classy, great dancer, loved being one with nature (an all-season(ed) man), kind, sweet, loving, helpful, a from-the belly-laugh kind of guy. And talk about culinary prowess! Andriy was a person full of LIFE! A heart of gold with a Midas touch. When one gives of his heart as much as Andriy did ... Вічная пам'ять! - Posted by: Luba Bilash () on: Sep 07, 2012

  • Our very heartfelt sympathy to Cheryl and the girls. I cannot count the memories (ski, road, canoe, trips; hi school hi jinx) and cruising in the old pink Dodge (affectionately the Salmon Tank). What, however, was etched more indelibly was Andy's love and respect for his mother and father, his community, and friends. We are both so grateful , we managed a few minutes together with Andrew and Cheryl a few weeks ago in Keewatin, after all these years. Words cannot express. - Posted by: Denis Brown / April Aandal (friend) on: Sep 07, 2012

  • Andrew was a mentor to so many young lawyers over the years, myself included. His passing has left a hole in the heart of our firm. He will be missed by his colleagues and clients. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. - Posted by: Lori Dobbie (colleague and friend) on: Sep 06, 2012

  • To say that I am in shock of our terrible loss is a huge understatement. Andy was one of those people that everyone loved and whom everyone wanted to be around. I have so many wonderful memories of the great times he always seemed to be part of. He was a very caring son while his parents were alive and then obviously became a wonderful, loving husband and father to Cheryl and their two daughters. My heartfelt condolences to his three girls. Andy will be so greatly missed by us all. - Posted by: Cori Simms (University buddy and good friend ) on: Sep 06, 2012

  • My thoughts and prayers go out to you in the loss of your beloved Andrew. I can't believe he is gone. Such a handsome, vibrant man. I hope you and the girls will find peace and remember all the wonderful memories. - Posted by: Brenda MacMillan (Formely a co-worker in River East.) on: Sep 06, 2012

  • I had the privilege of being Andrew's legal assistant for almost 10 years and he was much more than a "boss" to me. He became a friend to myself and my family. He would bring my girls little trinkets from some of his vacations. This was to make up for time he took me away from them when I would be working late or on a weekend on an important matter. I will miss our discussions on Monday mornings about how our weekends went, talking about the latest MTC play and those great big hugs I would get on my birthday, Christmas or just when I needed one. Cheryl, Alexis and Lindsey, you had a truly wonderful husband, father and friend and he will be missed by so many people. - Posted by: Michele Goossen (Assistant) on: Sep 06, 2012

  • Cheryl and family, we are so very sorry for your loss, we will miss Andrew's big smile and kind eyes. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten. Helene and Michael Hoffer - Posted by: Michael and Helene Hoffer (lake neighboor) on: Sep 06, 2012

  • Dear Cheryl, Alexis and Lindsey, I have no words to ease your pain. Only time can do that and even then marginally. Just know that my family and I have you in our thoughts and prayers during this heartbreaking time. I've had "Andy" in my life for fifty years. And yes I had his permission to still call him Andy. That's who he will always be to me. The wild child looking for adventure who eventually became an incredible human being. I will miss him greatly. He was kind, caring, and generous. Always first to offer help and last to ask for it. Friends are like stars Even when you don't see them You always know they're there That was my Kym [Darya's godfather]. Always there. I will always remember and love you, Andy. You will be in my heart forever. P.S. I hear that heaven has the best "Skitch". - Posted by: Vera Matwichyna ( friend) on: Sep 05, 2012

  • My heart goes out to Cheryl, Alexis and family. What a terrible shock to hear of Andy's passing. I will always remember the day I was being wheeled out of the hosiptal with my brand new baby and he was wheeling Cheryl in to deliver Alexis. His eyes shone with excitement. A wonderful man, father, husband, friend and great lawyer. Thank you Andy. Love and Blessings, Sincerely, Elizabeth - Posted by: Elizabeth Gage (Client and Friend) on: Sep 05, 2012

  • I will miss Andrew dearly. He was a mentor to me. Andrew always showed compassion and concern for our well being. I could always count on Andrew to provide advice. I always appreciated how he would make time for a quick lunch to yak about things. I wish I had taken that opportunity his more often. My wife and I so enjoyed our "by chance" visit at the Kenora Harbour front for a couple of hours just 4 weeks ago. He showed me his boat that he always talked about. He spoke of the great times with family and his love of the lake. We will never forget your charm, great smile and laugh. Our condolences to Cheryl, girls and family during this difficult time. - Posted by: Bob Kovachik (cousin) on: Sep 05, 2012

  • To Andrew's wife and children - my deepest sympathy. I knew Andrew in the 80's. He was a warm, kind, fun and intelligent man. He will be truly missed. - Posted by: Louise N.Bowles (Friend) on: Sep 05, 2012

  • I remember Andrew as a little boy passing our house daily on his way to St. Nichloas Ukrainian Catholic School. There was something about him even then that spoke of accomplishments. A fine life; too soon ended. My deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Oksura Bashuk Hepburn (North End neighbour) on: Sep 05, 2012

  • My condolences to Andrew's wife and daughters. "Andy" and I were in the same class at the Collegiate Division of United College in 1966-67. He was tall, friendly, with a great smile and a lovely personality. Over the years I have observed his support for the key arts organizations of this city. He will be missed very much in this city. And his family should be very proud of the fine man he was. - Posted by: Catherine Lee (classmate , grade 12, United College Collegiate Division) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • I was so sorry to hear of your husband's passing Cheryl. The Obituary/ Tribute lovingly honors him. He will be truly missed by all of you. Take Care of each other at this tough time. Sandy M - Posted by: Sandy McKenzie (PHN) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • This is very unfair. He was a great man and in great shape. I will very much miss seeing him boat by every morning with his bike on his way to daily ride and seeing him picking up his daughter at sailing camp with a big smile on his face. We wish his family and friends all the best in this dificult time. Our thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Mike and Kelly Alkier (Lake of the Woods friends) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • I got to know Andy through the practice and through some of his volunteer involvements over the years. It was always a pleasure to see him. Because we had shared a laugh at the dock at Two Bears Marina only this past July, it was doubly shocking to read of his passing. He was the same as ever; smiling, cheerful and interested in what & how others were doing. I am so sorry that I won't have that pleasure again. My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Jim McLandress (Colleague) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • My sincere condolences to the Ogaranko family on the untimely passing of Andy. We were classmates in high school and I remember him as being a very caring person. May your memories of him bring you comfort during this difficult time. Eileen Margulius Curtis - Posted by: Eileen Margulius Curtis (classmate at St. John's High School) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • Andrew was not just my brother's lawyer, he was his friend from early on in his career. Both of them travelled together to the US in 1979 to close a very important deal for my brother's company. After my brother passed away in 2010 Andrew became my "legal lifeline". He was the one walking me through all the complicated legal steps, preparing the papers and giving me the much needed advice in selling my brother's company. He always had a smile on his face and he just knew, when I needed a hug. I could not have done the closing without his knowledge and wisdom. Winnipeg has lost a wonderful man much too early and he will be greatly missed by everyone whose life he has touched. My Heartfelt Sympathy goes out to his family. - Posted by: Roswitha Brenner (client and friend) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • I wish to extend my condolences to the wife and children of Andrew Ogaranko. During the sudden passing of my own husband at the young age of 56, I was fortunate to have him oversee all the legal issues during a very stressful time. He was a caring man with a big heart. Our family benefitted greatly because of his knowledge of the law and his empathetic ways. I know that Our Lord has welcomed him with open arms. To you his loved ones, Andrew will never be gone as long as he lives in your memories his essence will remain with you forever. Sincere Sympathy, Elizabeth Melnyk. - Posted by: Elizabeth Melnyk (Client & Friend) on: Sep 04, 2012

  • Andrew was friendly, very helpful, smiling. My late husband & I thought very highly of Andrew, busy as he was, he always made time. - Posted by: Elizabeth Wittenberg (Client) on: Sep 04, 2012

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