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JOHN THADEUS PUCHNIAK
Date of Passing: Jan 29, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJOHN THADEUS PUCHNIAK John passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at the age of 73 years. John was an exceptionally devoted, loving and treasured husband, father, brother, son, friend and coach. He was a "poor Polish boy" who excelled in business. He was a tenacious football player who relished fierce competition. He was a legendary high school football coach who transformed lives through his passion for the game. He was a gifted fundraiser who used his gift to save St. Paul's High School for future generations and to provide some much needed fortune to the less fortunate. He was a devout Catholic who spent a lifetime in awe of Christ. He was a gregarious speaker and storyteller who captivated audiences and made friends laugh so much they would cry. He was a man who always supported the underdog, walked the walk and never gave up. John is a man who will never be forgotten. He is a man whose memory will be cherished by his loving wife, Marcia - his treasure, rock and true love for 43 years. He is a man who is adored by his children: John (Shannon), Joe (Yu), Dan (Norah) and Jane, who all proudly carry a piece of his tenacious spirit with them in their hearts. He is a man that lives in the spirits of his grandchildren: Ashley, Alyssa, and Nadia, who will have him proudly watching and cheering them on as they grow. He is a man who is forever bonded in love with his siblings: brother Stan (Darlene), sisters Mary Petroski and Eleanor Hambley and sister-in-law Pat Puchniak. He is a man who will continue to bring joy to many others including his many nieces, nephews and good friends. He is a man who was predeceased and is now reunited in happiness with his parents Nellie and Joseph, brother Ed, and sister Pat. John graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education and began his career as a Junior High School teacher, Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Churchill High School. His practices were legendary and he coached the Churchill Bulldogs Football Team through 32 undefeated consecutive games, including three undefeated championships in the Winnipeg High School Football League - ranked 25th, 21st, and 20th in 1967, 1968, and 1969 in the North American High School Football rankings. His accomplishments as a high school football coach were recognized by his inductions into the Winnipeg High School Football League Hall of Fame (inaugural class) and the Manitoba High School Sports Hall of Fame. John also founded the University of Manitoba Bisons Football team, the Fort Rouge Packers Football Team and was the Head Football Coach and Founder of the football program at the International Peace Garden Legion Athletic Camp. He was selected in the Canadian Football League College Draft by the Edmonton Eskimos and was an avid fan of the Blue Bombers (especially in the Bud Grant Era), Toronto Blue Jays (especially in the George Bell Era), Chicago Bulls (especially in the Michael Jordan Era) and Winnipeg Jets (all eras). With unrelenting hard work, constant support from his wife Marcia and critical advice from his brother Stan, John built an extremely successful business (Thadeus Limited) which specialized in fundraising and had offices throughout Western Canada. He was most proud of the positive contribution that his business made to the community through its campaigns which raised more than $4 million for the Royal Canadian Legion, St. Paul's High School and other non-profit and charitable organizations. Throughout his life John had the pleasure and honour of giving back to the community in a number of capacities including serving as a member of the Honorary Board of Special Olympics (and was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the Law Enforcement Torch Run), School Trustee for the St. Maurice School Board, Director and Board Member of Fort Richmond Day Care Centre, Director for the St. Paul's College University Alumni Association, Honorary Member of Big Brothers Association, Life Member of International Peace Gardens, Director of the Manitoba Amateur Football Association and Director of Manitoba Hydro. John was also awarded the Community Service Award from the City of Winnipeg for his outstanding leadership in the community. His summers (and a few harsh winter days) were spent at Malachi Lake in Ontario, his private wilderness sanctuary where he most enjoyed laughing with his wife, fishing with his children, brothers and friends and joking with his neighbours. At Malachi, especially when his beloved dog Hurry was by his side, he was at peace with nature and always had a smile on his face (except when he was trying to repair something or had been injured from repairing something). There is so much more which is beyond what words can capture. But even if words could capture all, what would be captured would be incomplete as this is just the beginning of John's story. His spirit will live on forever. The story has just begun. A visitation will be held on Friday, February 8, 2013 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home (4000 Portage Avenue) with a Prayer Vigil at 7:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church (225 Stafford Street). Interment to follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. Donations in John's memory may be made to St. Paul's High School, Churchill High School and/or the Special Olympics. Special thanks from the family to Dr. Brian Sharkey and Juanita Bunyi for their exceptional care and friendship to John throughout his life and in his final days. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit www.chapellawn.ca Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.ca 885-9715
Publish Date: Feb 2, 2013
JOHN THADEUS PUCHNIAK John passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at the age of 73 years. A longer notice to follow. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.ca 885-9715
Publish Date: Jan 31, 2013
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 02, 2013
Condolences & Memories (25 entries)
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I remember when I was young I thought John was so handsome and he was!He called me his "princess"! Later we met at the Puchniak reunion and his brother Ed's funeral and enjoyed reconnecting. He will be missed! My condolences to you, Marcia and John, Joe and Jane. May his soul rest in peace and may the Lord comfort you at this time of loss. - Posted by: Joan Pinto (cousin) on: Feb 13, 2013
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Johnny has held a special place in my heart ever since we showed his parents and him Jasper National Park (shortly before Auntie Nelly died). It was Johnny's kindness to me in noticing and frowning ferociously at my little brother for how he was treating me that left an indelible impression. He was, indeed, a very special person. - Posted by: Cherylyn Stacey (cousin) on: Feb 13, 2013
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I first met John Sr while my sister Shannon was dating John Jr. He was always a kind and caring man. As Shannon's relationship blossomed with John Jr the gatherings of our families stemmed more frequently. Getting to know John Sr better and better through all the family gatherings, John Sr and I started talking outside the gatherings. I remember John Sr asked me to go to the downtown Library. We were on the hunt for pictures of John in his glory years as a football coach. John was being inducted into the churchill high school Hall of fame, and wanted some news paper clippings. It was times like this where i really had an opportunity to get to know John. Looking back at those pictures and hearing the stories he told about them, allowed me to feel apart of them. John Sr was by far one of the best story tellers i have ever met. The life and enthusiasm he put forward in the tails of being a teacher, being a coach, being a father were always jaw dropping. You couldn't help yourself but to sit and listen to every word. When he was done tell you story I always wanted to hear more or another one. Even if i heard it once or twice before. I remember the first time John met my wife (at the time we were dating). The first thing he said was " Wow, look at those big blue eyes. " John always found a way to make new people at the gatherings feel welcome and excited to be there. Soon after that Patricia and I were married. I remember John and Marcia took us out for "two 99's" at John's favourite Chinese food restaurant. There were a lot of little things like that, that made me feel a part of John's life. I am so happy to have known John Sr as long as i have, but i will miss him so very much now that he is gone. But his stories and joy for family, friends and life will live on in our memories. John you are and will be missed. - Posted by: Jeffrey & Patricia Bull (Friends) on: Feb 10, 2013
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Our deepest condolences to Marcia, Jane and the Puchniak family. - Posted by: Richard Green & Patricia Thibodeau (Friend) on: Feb 09, 2013
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I knew John as my Mom's employer and as Dad to John, Joe and Dan... Jane wasn't born yet. My condolences to Marcie and the entire family. What an "intense" guy he was! Best Wishes to you all Robert Ginter - Posted by: Robert(Bob) Ginter (friend of family) on: Feb 07, 2013
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On behalf of the coaches and volunteers of The Legion Athletic Camp, past and present, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and our appreciation for all that John did for the camp. - Posted by: John Edwards (President Legion Athletic Camp) on: Feb 07, 2013
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It is both an honor and humbling experience to carry you to your final resting place. You gave me far more than I could ever give back. - Posted by: Smitty (Friend) on: Feb 06, 2013
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My cousin Johnny was a real character. He had a wonderful smile, a great voice and could always liven a party up by telling a good story or joke. An amazing memory was another of his gifts - never failing to recall an old friend or anecdote from years past. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the funeral services, but my condolences to all the family and may you now rest in peace Johnny. - Posted by: Louise Graham (cousin) on: Feb 05, 2013
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I (Diana Klewchuk) was in the same carpool as John, back in the early 60s, driving to U of M. He was always friendly, and had a twinkle in his eye as if he had a secret no one else knew about. I'm sorry to hear about his passing. He obviously warmed a lot of hearts along the way. My husband, Robert (Stephanchew)went to St. Paul's with John and thought very highly of him. Our sympathies to the family. - Posted by: Diana Stevan (a long ago friend) on: Feb 05, 2013
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I first met John at St Ignatius school in grade 7. We both loved sports & hit it off. Played baseball football etc. A very tenacious & competitive athlete. He was a true St Pauls guy & as others have said Push will always be in our memory as one of the good guys. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Marcie & all the family. - Posted by: Richard Stephanchew (Grade school &High School friend) on: Feb 04, 2013
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My condolences to the Puchniak family. John was a tremendous individual with a real presence. A definition of leadership through action and a good example for all of us. As one who benefitted from the football path he trail blazed at Churchill, I will always remember him. - Posted by: Andrew Enns (a friend through football) on: Feb 03, 2013
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John and I were best friends throughout our teens and remained close when I left Winnipeg for Toronto. My deepest condolences and prayers to Marcia and the wonderful Puchniak family. I will never forget "Push." I love him still. - Posted by: Martin O'Malley (friend) on: Feb 03, 2013
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John gave me no other choice than to believe in myself and what I could accomplish through hard work and perseverance. I know he gave that gift to many of us who were fortunate enough to play for him. On behalf of all of us, thank you. - Posted by: Jamie Horne (Student) on: Feb 03, 2013
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There are a few people in one's life who had a dramatic affect on who they become, John was one of those special people. "Do your best, persevere at all cost and don't give up". My condolences to your family. - Posted by: Lyle Parnell (Member of the Churchel high infamous "Bulldogs") on: Feb 03, 2013
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I have so many things to thank you for but do not know where to begin. One thing is for sure, without your influence I cannot be certain where I would be today. Our time spent together as adults was always up lifting and spiritual, for that I will always be grateful. I am just one of many that you helped throughout your life. Now anything I try to accomplish in life, I have you watching and motivating. Thanks for always being there. - Posted by: Jim Penner (Student, Team member, and friend) on: Feb 03, 2013
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John was an inspiration to me. His indefatigable energy and enthusiasm was infectious. I played football for him at Churchill and, even after moving away from Winnipeg, often thought of the life lessons he taught. I last saw John at the CHurchill Reunion in 2995 and I marveled at how he regaled me with football plays which he remembered, but I had forgotten. My deepest sympathies go to Marcia and his family. John was a rare and inspiring man. - Posted by: Bob Keeley (friend) on: Feb 03, 2013
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Deepest sympathies to you and your family John - we are thinking of you. - Posted by: John and Chris Mork (Friends and former neighbors of John Jr) on: Feb 02, 2013
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Coach Puchniak...I will remeber sitting in your office at Churchill eating a roast beef sandwich and a glass of milk. Your practices were indeed legendary and your phys ed class tough...you are one of my most memorable inspirational teachers... - Posted by: Brent Millar (Student and football at Churchill High) on: Feb 02, 2013
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The world has lost a true entrepreneur and genuinely good person . My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Ralph Lyndon (friend) on: Feb 02, 2013
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Followed John's carreer and had a great deal of admiration for him. - Posted by: Gerry Anderson (Weston Wildcats Football Team member) on: Feb 02, 2013
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You will be remebered John. - Posted by: Dwight Evans (Friend) on: Feb 02, 2013
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Truly "a man for others". RIP, John. - Posted by: Gerry & Bev Seier (A good friend and school chum) on: Feb 02, 2013
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Many many fond and amusing memories from University days, Churchill High days, and Blue Bomber get togethers.. you'll always be remembered with a smile and much respect for your contributions to Winnipeg sports activities as a whole.. adios Johnnie - Posted by: Linda (Clemis) Ritchie (university classmate and on and on and on) on: Feb 02, 2013
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Marcia,Joe.John,Dan,Jane-So sorry to hear of your Dads passing.Saw him just before Xmas and thought he looked the best I had seen him for a long time.I am away right now in Hawaii and can't be at the service tomorrow.However my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time. I will miss your dad as he was a true friend - Posted by: DAve Anton (Friend) on: Feb 01, 2013
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We spent many good times in the sporting world. You contributed much to the school's highschool football in Winnipeg MB. You will always be remembered by our family! - Posted by: clare puchniak (cousin) on: Jan 31, 2013
