JOHN MICHAEL SENIUK

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JOHN MICHAEL SENIUK July 27, 1943 - June 14, 2013 It's with great sadness that we share, that at the age of 69 years, following his long personal battle with cancer, our beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend has passed away peacefully in the Canmore Hospital. He was surrounded, as always and to the end, by his loving kids. Johnny has gone to heaven, with a smile on his face, to join his beloved wife Carmen (November 20, 2002). Also in heaven are his mother, Vivian (April 2, 2013), his father, Steve (December 1992), and many of his close friends. Johnny has left behind a group of sad people; but a group of people who, because of him, know better how to love. Left to carry on his legacy of love are his kids and grandkids, the passions of his life: Jackie and Mark, Derek and Candice, Jaxon and Grady, and his grand-dog, Hershey. As well, his brother and best friend, Steve, dear sister-in-law, Evelyn, nephews and nieces Michael (Ruth and Jakob), Thomas (Elena), Jillian (Nazim), and grand-nephews and nieces, Nicholas, Michael and Isabel, and many, many dear friends. John was born in Grande Prairie, Alberta and moved to Winnipeg in 1949. The first time he met Carmen, he turned to her cousin and said, That's the woman I'm going to marry. She was the love of his life. They married on June 17, 1967 (apparently he needed to get to heaven to celebrate their 46th wedding anniversary!) Their first child, Jackie, was born in 1970, and Derek followed in 1975. They spent their family years living on 2 Mile Road, driving the kids to and from the hockey rink and the ski hill. An exceptionally close family, Johnny, Carmen, Jackie and Derek spent many happy hours together with extended family and dear friends at their cottage, on golf courses, on ski and beach holidays, and pursuing gurus and spiritual leaders across Tibet, Peru, Sedona, San Antonio, North America, Europe and exploring the Mayan Civilization. Johnny was a team player, and the team he was most proud of was his home team, his family. In 2004, John moved to Canmore and the mountains to be close to his beloved kids. These were happy years. Jaxon and Grady were the blessing that recharged his spirit. He loved to drag us out to his digs and show us all off. He was fond of saying, he was proud as punch! Family and friends were number one in Johnny's heart. His legendary smile and positive presence were infectious. He could easily turn a dull, mundane moment into a beautiful joyous memory just with his smile. He would go out of his way to share that smile, offer support or catch you with a big bear hug. When Johnny walked through the BP doors and the hospital, people's faces lit up! He had an aura and spirit that attracted people. At this time, we will be having a private service. In lieu of flowers, raise a glass to Johnny. Feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice in John's name. When Johnny was saying goodbye, on the phone or in person, the last words he always said were, Love you! Pops, we're going to miss your smile and your great, big, beautiful heart. From all of us, forever to you, we love you. Papa's gone to heaven. Condolences for the family may be left at www.bowriverfuneral.com (403-678-4880)

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 22, 2013