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WILLIAM DAVID KOSHELANYK
Born: Apr 02, 1956
Date of Passing: May 20, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryWILLIAM DAVID KOSHELANYK April 2, 1956 - May 20, 2013 Peacefully in his sleep on May 20, 2013 Willie left this world. He is survived by his wife Donna, daughters Kristen (Brent) and Stacy, son Bryan, grandson Damon, parents Sid and Connie, brothers Tom (Sandy), Gord (Darcie), mother-in-law Dorothy, as well as numerous other family and friends. He was predeceased by his brother Brian. Willie lived a happy and fulfilling life out in Hillside Beach and words do not even begin to describe the journey he had. Please join family and friends at the Victoria Beach Sports Club (5 Ash Ave, off Pine Road) on Saturday, May 25 at 11:00 a.m. for a celebration of his life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Victoria Beach Sports Club at Box 28 Traverse Bay, MB, R0E 2A0.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 23, 2013
Condolences & Memories (57 entries)
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My condolences to the Koshelanyk family, Will was a great guy and will be dearly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know the heartache and loss you are feeling at this time as I had just lost my mom in March 2013 Love you and will miss you Cuz - Posted by: KAREN BRETT (HARGRAVE) (COUlSIN - ON AUNTIE CONNIES SIDE) on: Aug 21, 2013
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So sorry to hear about Willie much too young. I only heard about the loss one day after Donna's mother passed away June 18/13 another big loss for the family. Aunty Dorthy will be missed and all the bingo halls will miss her - Posted by: tim skowronek (donna's cousin) on: Jun 19, 2013
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My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Deepest condolences - Posted by: sandy lemay (bewski) (Friend of Donnas in school) on: Jun 03, 2013
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Dear Donna, I am so very sorry to hear about Willie. He was such a pleasant fellow and fun to be with at the family gatherings. My sincere sympathies to you and your family. With sympathy and much love, cousin Jackie. - Posted by: Jackie Rittberg () on: May 30, 2013
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Willie hired a bunch of us kids at Grand Marais and respected us while doing so. It wasn't a job, it was fun. Willie was forever singing something that made us laugh. Although I haven't seen him for a LONG time, I have nothing but kind words to say about him and the Koshelanyk family. Very very sad to hear this news. - Posted by: Dave Charney () on: May 29, 2013
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may god speed you to his heart. when we meet again we'll follow through with taking a hockey team of young kids and teach them the blended disciplines of the great Russian coach anatoli tarasov and the Canadian system to adulthood like we talked about so much. you were such a pleasant friend. - Posted by: John Nykoluk (eternal friend) on: May 29, 2013
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Donna and family - We just heard about Willie's death and like everyone else we can't believe he is gone. He always had a smile and a cheerful word to share and was a good neighbour. Our hearts go out to you at this unbelievably difficult time. - Posted by: Diane and Holly (Neighbours ) on: May 27, 2013
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we were truly privileged to have spent the last night with willie..sitting around the bon fire and having a great time..forever in our hearts - Posted by: mom zahara,tammy,daryl,ziggy (donnas family) on: May 26, 2013
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May the next stage of your journey be as as wonderful as this one was. You touched the lives of a great many people and woke the spirit of everyone around you. Your endless smile and happiness was an inspiration to all of us. No matter what was going on, the curve balls that life was steering your way or the sun that was showing you the path, you were a very happy man, no matter what was going on you would always find a way to make things better. You have been and always will be my friend no matter where you are and are missed more than words can say. I send my condolences to the whole family and to the extended family of friends in the beaches area. RIP my friend you will always be remembered and forever missed. - Posted by: Mark Pritchard (Friend) on: May 26, 2013
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Our Deepest Sympathies to Sid (Speedy), Connie, Donna and the rest of the Family. WILLIE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY. He has left too soon. - Posted by: LARRY & PAT BAZYLO (FRIENDS) on: May 26, 2013
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Our condolences to all the Koshelanyks and their families. Willie will be missed by many and was loved by all that knew him. Respectfully, Dan Lester and the Lester Family. - Posted by: Dan Lester (friend) on: May 25, 2013
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A good ol' Transcona boy gone way too soon. I bumped into Willie at the Hillside store in 2003. I hadn't seen him since high school. To me, he looked and sounded the same as he did back then. We didn't see each other often but when we did we always said hello and shot a little breeze. Condolences to the family. - Posted by: Wade Doberstein (Friend) on: May 25, 2013
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So many times you made me laugh until my sides hurt, from your jokes, to your singing and dancing, to your impressions. I'll miss all the good times we had together. Until we meet again. R.I.P. - Posted by: Chris Fedak (Friend) on: May 25, 2013
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We were shocked to learn Willie had passed, I could write a book... Willie will always have a place in our hearts...our thoughts are with Syd & Connie, Donna, Tom, Gord, Kristen, Stacey & little Bryan... - Posted by: James, Maddalena, Ashley & Sean Douglas (Old friend & colleague) on: May 25, 2013
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Grant knew Donna before she even married Billy. After we were married in 1994, Ed and the late Maria Hargrave had a party to introduce me to Grant's Family. Please accept our sincere sympathies to Donna and his Family . Joan & Grant - Posted by: Grant and Joan Hargrave (Cousin to Grant) on: May 25, 2013
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Dear Willy. Heaven was recently blessed with the arrival of a good ball player and even better, a great friend. Still remember the good old days with your old man Sid, whispering to lay down a bunt or us booting balls while he ran infield practice. You're on the "BIG GUY'S" team now. At this very tough time, O and I can only thank you for being a friend and offer our sincerest condolences to Donna, Sid, Connie and family that you all may find strength, courage and faith in your memories of a terrific man. - Posted by: Tom & O (buddies and more) on: May 24, 2013
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Willie was the best uncle a kid could have. It is not going to be the same with out him, he made every occasion brighter with his smile and he always knew how to make you laugh. I'm going to, and already do miss you Uncle Willie. - Posted by: jon (nephew) on: May 24, 2013
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My last memory of Willie, he was having a great time at Darlene and Dean's daughter Brianne's social. It's too early to go but when you're asked to go, you go. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. - Posted by: Mike pitura (Donna's cousin) on: May 24, 2013
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To the man who made everyone's life better just by knowing him whether you knew him for an hour or for many years he just made everyone happy and at ease always lots of laughs when he was there his loss will be felt for a Very long For Donna Kristen Stacey and Brian Just like when he was here he will always be watching over you and though he wasn't always an angel here bet the wings he received were trimmed in gold just like he deserved til we meet again my friend - Posted by: Joann copp (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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Donna, I am so sorry to hear about Willy. He was just about one of the best people I know. I don't know anyone that was always so happy and friendly. Somehow, life takes a turn, and, you wonder why??? We never find out, but, there is a reason, but, it's impossible to find out what it is. You take care. You are a very strong person, and, believe it or not, life will go on. - Posted by: Mariann Beggs (friend) on: May 24, 2013
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Dear Donna and Family, I was shocked and saddened to hear about Willie. He was always a fun loving and happy guy and always made me feel special. Although I did not make it to the Transcona reunion I was thrilled to see a photo of Donna and Willie there with the old crowd. My thoughts and prayers are with you Donna and family. - Posted by: Brenda Graf (Thoroski) (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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I remember when Willie was first building the cabin at Hillside and trying to round up a work crew on a Saturday morning to lift a pretty long wall up into place. (I think it was what's now the living room.) Well, we were all up pretty late and I guess I was all he could muster. Not to be deterred, Willie, Vic Lozinski and I lifted it into place by ourselves. I remember they could see I was 'a little worse for wear' and said I better go home before I hurt myself. They were right. Vic and Willie are probably putting up a few walls together again. Deepest condolences to the Family - Posted by: Bob + Wendy Titley (friends) on: May 24, 2013
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What a great fellow. I will never forget the friendly challenge presented to Willie a few years back. We challenged each other to play a fiddle tune in front of the whole community. After a whole year to practice we finally got together 3 days before the concert to rehearse. Well Willie stood up to the challenge and we played "Buffalo Gals". What great fun. Farewell my friend until we meet again! Prosh-chavay (Goodbye) Donna, Brian, Stacey and Kristin always hold to the great memories and laughs you all had. Our thoughts are with you and your family. - Posted by: Bob and Nancy Kovachik (Friends) on: May 24, 2013
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God's speed to you my friend. Kosh and I shared as roommates back in the day. 453 McMeans in Transcona comes to mind as we as teenagers did what teenagers do, Party Hard. (5) Guys living in one house will do that, Douglas, Kramble, Thompson Myself and Kosh. Rent day was always interesting seeming nobody worked or had money. One funny moment when mail carrier showed up we all lined up at the door and he would place our Pogy Checks in each persons hands then we would race to the Pandora or Royal George. Broke in 3-4 days. Kosh and I also shared a house under Nairn Bridge and many old girlfriends beat a path to the back door. I'm going to miss Kosh but never forget him. He made my life Happier with him in it. Until we meet again buddy. - Posted by: Johnnie Boston (Life Long Friend.) on: May 24, 2013
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Condolences to Donna and Family. Last saw Willie at another sad occasion (the Muziks mother memorial) it was like we didn't miss a beat. Willie was like that, always made you feel welcome and comfortable. Sad to know you passed on, but will always cherish our times together growing up in T'CONA. - Posted by: Pat and Lyle (Childhood friend) on: May 24, 2013
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Sorry to hear of Willie's passing We remember him for the past 25 years or so as we are also Beach people - Posted by: Blair & Sonia Sheane (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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We had such a good talk just a few days ago about life, it's hard to believe that you're gone home now at peace with your little bro now. Going to miss your smile, laughs and free spirit, bro. Cheers See you again someday. God bless you. - Posted by: Ian Forsyth (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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I will always remember my good friend of 45 years and all the great times we used to have. To the Kosh family, I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I could ease your pain. The future is predetermined by the character of those that shape it and Willie was a man of great character. Thank you for being my friend. - Posted by: Greg Zembik (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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Willie was truly an inspiration. Always a concern for others, enthusiasm, big smile, and infectious laughter. Deepest Sympathy & sadness to Donna & family. What a wonderful man. - Posted by: Kathy Sheppit (Friend) on: May 24, 2013
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My heart goes out to you Donna, Kristen, Stacy and Bryan.. Willie was an "One Of A Kind" man.. You just know Heaven is now a way funner place to be..♥ - Posted by: Keirin Curle (friend) on: May 23, 2013
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My thoughts and prayers to Donna, children and Mr. & Mrs. Koshelanyk. Being only 2 months older than Willie I went to school with Willie and played pretty well every sport with Willie growing up. He was a great competitor, great athlete and great team player and will be missed. He was a great guy with a huge heart and always had a smile on his face. - Posted by: Glenn & Jackie McIvor (childhood friend) on: May 23, 2013
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We all went to school together.. TCI . Willie was one in a million. He loved to party hard and was always a good time when Willie arrived! RIP you're one in a Million ...old school chum. Pat - Posted by: Pat K (School chum) on: May 23, 2013
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Willie was just 'a nice guy'. Never complaining, always full of fun. I saw how much he loved his son Brian and I hope Brian can treasure this memory of his Dad. - Posted by: Joachim Tutlies (friend) on: May 23, 2013
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Willy, I can hardly see for tears what I'm trying to type. I'm lost for words. Tears they flow like your infectious laughter made all laugh. Your dance moves at Bre's wedding with all the Family will forever be in my memory. You were the best. Never Forgotten. - Posted by: Dean Hawes (Brother in law) on: May 23, 2013
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It is with the greatest sorrow, for you, Donna and family, to hear of the loss you are enduring. We will never forget the great times we've had on the beach with this incredible man that will be in our hearts and minds forever. Rip Willie you will be missed by all. - Posted by: brian and jo-anne mayer and family (friends) on: May 23, 2013
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there was never a dull moment with willy around; our prayers and thoughts will always be with you Donna and your family. Rest easy my friend - Posted by: Marilyn and Peter Danchuk ( beach buds) on: May 23, 2013
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Willie was always the jokester, singer at any gathering. He always was chatting, laughing or listening to others. He had a heart of gold & always had a smile on his face. He will be remembered by all that knew him. To Donna & family, we know that you will have many tough days ahead & hope that all the great memories will subside you. So sorry for your loss. Cheryl & Randy McAuley - Posted by: Cheryl & Randy McAuley (friends) on: May 23, 2013
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Our deepest condolences to Donna and the Koshelanyk family, words cannot express our sadness. Willie was loved by everyone who knew him. - Posted by: George and Lisa Titley (friends) on: May 23, 2013
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Condolences to Donna and the kids, Mr and Mrs Koshelanyk, Gord and Tom. Willie was a one of a kind! He was always happy to see you, with a big smile. I remember loving to go to work in the summer as a young person at the beach. He was a wonderful man. - Posted by: Sandy O'Rourke (Former employee) on: May 23, 2013
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Uncle Willie was truly one of a kind. He always had that wonderful smile on his face and was the life of the party! I will miss him (and his after Christmas dinner nap) very much! Sending all my love and hugs to my aunt and cousins right now. - Posted by: Breanne Wynnobel (Hawes) (Niece) on: May 23, 2013
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Our deepest condolences to the Koshelanyk family. He was a true ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. - Posted by: Ron & Lou Kerr (Friends) on: May 23, 2013
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I haven't seen Willie for a few years now, but I can still hear his contagious laugh. A small guy with a big personality. I'm so very sorry for your loss Donna & family. - Posted by: Linda Galbraith (Friend) on: May 23, 2013
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The times spent around the Campfire at the lake and BBQ's with the family were always enjoyed and will never be the same without Willie Singing Johnny Cash and cooking! We miss you already partner! - Posted by: Ricky "Bobby" (Family Friend) on: May 23, 2013
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My heart goes out to you all. Willie was one of a kind, and won't ever, or couldn't ever be forgotten. - Posted by: Megan Allen (Former Employee and Friend) on: May 23, 2013
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RIP Willy, Met Willy when he worked for Andersons-We found out we had a lot of people in common. From the Skate shop and from Syd's Hometown. We were never at a loss for words, he was a friendly person. - Posted by: John Kasian () on: May 23, 2013
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My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Donna my heart breaks for you and your family. - Posted by: Brandi Taylor (High school friend to Donna) on: May 23, 2013
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In this world there are givers and takers; Willy was at the front of the line when it came to givers. I have never met a more giving and sincere person in my life. Gone but certainly not forgotten by anyone who ever met him! - Posted by: Ken Muzik (friend) on: May 23, 2013
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Willie made the best paralizer drinks anyone could ask for. I know for a fact because he would make me 2 tall ones and then try to get me to have a third one, only to take a few sips and that would do me over. Say hi to my dad. Love you and will miss you dearly - Posted by: Darlene Hawes (sister-inl-aw) on: May 23, 2013
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my deepest sympathies to donna and family willy will not be forgotten. his smile and laugh, the way he had with people will always stick with them. rip in peace willy. - Posted by: rick lowing (friend) on: May 23, 2013
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Connie, Sid and family, our deepest sympathy from the Krahn family. Willie it seems like only yesterday when we were filling the hockey sticks in your dad's shop and having a laugh while doing it. Your laugh and great smile will be missed by all. Until we hook up again Willie i will miss u buddy - Posted by: Norm (Friend of family) on: May 23, 2013
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Sincere condolences to the entire Koshelanyk family. Bill was like an extra big brother to all of Gordie's friends and always took good care of us at the skate shop. I had the pleasure to re-connect with him at our cottage at Hillside Beach and will always remember his jovial personality and his dedication to family and community. - Posted by: Ken McKim (friend of the family) on: May 23, 2013
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Our condolences to the Koshelanyk family. We're sad to hear of Willy's passing, he was taken away too early in life. Our hearts are weeping with you during your time of sorrow. RIP - Posted by: Lori & Todd Thurston (friend) on: May 23, 2013
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My deepest sympathies to Donna, Kristen, Stacy, Bryan, Sid and Connie. Willie deeply loved all of you. Your husband, father and son was a great man. He was kind and generous with a great spirit. He will missed by all. God bless Willie. - Posted by: Billy Sandulak (Friend) on: May 23, 2013
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What a perfect picture - a smile I will never forget. As I raked the lawn on Sat I saw Willie drive by my house countless times. Does he have nothing to do - oh he is going to Elliott's place. Will was a guy who always had a smile - can't get me down - life is wonderful. Will I can only imagine how the other side will be. Life was good - family, good friends what else could a man want. We will remember the good times & miss you dearly. - Posted by: Debbie & Roger Griffiths (High School Friend/Cousin to Donna) on: May 23, 2013
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My Deepest Sympathies to Donna and family in the loss of your Dear Willie. My thoughts and prayers are with you. There are no words on this earth that will ever explain what you are going thru at this time, just know that we understand. Hugs - Posted by: Judy Barnych (Wilchuk) (Donna's Cousin) on: May 23, 2013
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I will miss him very much and his outgoing life plus his kind heart. He is going to be missed by all the people he knew. - Posted by: barry parker (buddy) on: May 23, 2013
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Met Willy in Jamaica. In the short time that I knew him he made a lasting impression. An incredible personality. It's alot brighter up there now. RIP - Posted by: myron may (friend) on: May 23, 2013