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JAMES ALEXANDER BRECHKA "The Happy Hugger" Peacefully on Good Friday morning, Jimmy skipped up to the pearly gates to join his special friend, Jesus. He will be greatly missed by the love of his life, his wife of 46 years, Monica, and his daughter Kim, son-in-law Denis and beautiful grandchildren Patrice and Paul-James Sibilleau. He also will be missed by his brother Bill (Audrey Danny and Terri) and sisters Lucille (Bruno), Betty (Curtis and Christi), Trish (Willie Lisa and Brad), Maryanne (Peter David and Michelle) and Marlene (René); Aunty Marjorie; many cousins and friends across Canada and the USA. Jimmy was predeceased by his parents Michael and Mary (Bachinski); brother Johnny; uncles Joe, Walter, Mike, Frank, Tom and John; aunts Pauline B., Anne and Pauline M.; niece Rhea; cousins Nancy and Susan; and his in-laws Jim and Monica Mortemore - Boggy Creek, MB. Jimmy's father was born in Nowasilka, Ukraine and his maternal grandparents were born in Poland. As a child, he attended Ukrainian language classes and volunteered as an altar server where he loved to ring the bells. Born in Brandon, Jimmy attended David Livingstone, Earl Oxford and Brandon Collegiate. He worked at the Sanitorium Board of Manitoba in Brandon and Winnipeg (Rehabilitation Hospital). He attended the University of Manitoba and achieved his dream of attaining his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work degrees. As a new graduate, he worked for the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD) in northwestern Manitoba and later joined the Winnipeg Home Care Program. He really enjoyed working with his clients, their families and his fellow case coordinators. He served his church community with unconditional love; asking himself "What would Jesus do?" and then doing it. Everything he did was done with a "joie de vivre" his extended family, profession, Nathanael program, ARISE group, bowling, golfing, camping, fishing, reading, visiting Folklorama, travelling (across Canada, USA, Hawaii and Europe), cooking thousands of spinach balls and devilled eggs to give away at CWL, K of C and church events. He had a passion for history and firmly believed in life-long learning. Jimmy was a proud member of East Kildonan Council # 4107, Knights of Columbus, and wore his loudest Hawaiian shirts to attract attention while selling tickets at local stores and Kildonan Place. He was a staunch supporter of the Catholic Women's League of Canada St. Al's Council, Diocesan Councils of St. Boniface, Winnipeg and Keewatin-The Pas, as well as, the National Council. He received a Certificate of Merit and pin from the St. Boniface Diocesan Council. Gido, Patrice and Paul-James witnessed Monica/Baba receiving her Life Membership at the National Convention in Edmonton and giving her first oral report as Manitoba Provincial President at the National Convention in Regina. Pallbearers will be his brother Knights of Columbus. To celebrate Jimmy's life, a Prayer Service was led by Fr. Leo Couture at Cropo Funeral Chapel on Friday evening. Fr. Janusz Maron, OFM, Cap. will preside at the Funeral Mass at St. Alphonsus Church, corner of Munroe Ave. and Brazier St. today at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2014. Special thanks to Dr. John Mayba, Manitoba Clinic; Dr. J. Lipschitz, Health Sciences Centre; Dr. R. Wong and staff at CancerCare Manitoba, St. Boniface Hospital; the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority's Palliative Care Team doctors (Chantel, Jonathon and Nicole), nurses and pharmacists. Special thanks go to Ken Zink and Colleen Barton at Ebbeling Pharmacy; staff at Tache Pharmacy; regular nurse, Ola; and nurse, Ann, who was present to Jimmy and I when he left us. Thank you everyone for the calls, cards, e-mails, flowers, food, hugs, masses, novenas and prayers. Br. Janusz and Fr. Leo, thank you, for preparing Jimmy for the journey home. Flowers are gratefully declined. If you wish, donations in Jimmy's memory, can be made to: St. Alphonsus Church; St. Alphonsus School; Bishop Velychkovsky Martyr's Shrine, 250 Jefferson Ave., Winnipeg R2V 0M6; or Pancreatic Cancer Canada, 30 Concourse Gate, Unit 27, Ottawa, Ontario K2E 7V7. "Toodles" and, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. 204-586-8044
Publish Date: Apr 26, 2014
JAMES ALEXANDER BRECHKA "The Happy Hugger" Peacefully on Good Friday morning, Jimmy, age 75, passed away in the house he loved. A longer obituary will follow on Saturday, April 26, 2014. To celebrate Jimmy's life, Prayer Service will be led by Fr. Leo Couture at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., 7:00 pm on Friday, April 25. The family requests everyone attending wear a Hawaiian shirt. Fr. Janusz Maron, OFM, Cap. will preside at the Funeral Mass at St. Alphonsus Church, corner of Munroe Ave. and Brazier St. at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26. "Toodles" and, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. Cropo Funeral Chapel, 204-586-8044
Publish Date: Apr 23, 2014
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 26, 2014
Condolences & Memories (34 entries)
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We have never met yet we are family. My grandfather was Thomas Bachinski and I have just recently learned of my extended family. I am very sorry for your loss and from what I've read Jimmy had a wonderful and fulfilling life. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Tammy Harris tharris092010@hotmail.com - Posted by: Harris (cousin) on: May 01, 2014
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To my childhood friend----may god be with you until you and Jimmy are reunited in our heavenly home. We may not see each other often, but Jimmy made a life long impression with his happy ways. May god give you peace right now, love and rest. Merle - Posted by: Merle & Hank Cormier (Friends since childhood) on: Apr 26, 2014
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Dear Monica, I'm so sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. Please know you are in my prayers. - Posted by: Deena () on: Apr 26, 2014
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Monica, my deep sympathy to you and your family. It was such a pleasure to have known Jimmy when he worked at the Rehab Centre - to see that tremendous smile and hear his laugh. I know your wonderful memories of such a special man who led such a rich life will forever keep him close to your heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Chris Penhall (formerly Troup) (colleague) on: Apr 26, 2014
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To Monica and family. My sincere condolences on the loss of Jim. I recall the good times of working closely with Jim in the Home Care program but even more the enjoying hours we spent together on the golf course. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Norman Freedman (Former colleague bad golfing partner) on: Apr 26, 2014
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It was always a highlight for me to see and talk to Jimmy. Truly a genuine person with a big heart. Me prayers and thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Debby Hando (Former co-worker) on: Apr 26, 2014
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Monica & Family, we were so sorry to hear about Jimmy. His hugs and great big smile will be engrained in our memory. Lots of love and prayers. We wish we could be there in our Hawaiin shirts! Love Colm and Sharon - Posted by: Sharon and Colm Leyne () on: Apr 25, 2014
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So sorry to hear about Jim. My condolences to you Monica and family. I can't even remember the last time I would of seen you. - Posted by: Renee Blackburn (Friend) on: Apr 25, 2014
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Remembering you and Jimmy in our minds and in our hearts. With deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Susan and Family ((Friends)) on: Apr 25, 2014
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Monica and family: I am saddened to hear of Jimmy's passing. We worked together as homecare partners for many years.Jimmy was always happy,kind and supportive. He loved to tell stories about his travels, golf, and most importantly his pride in his family. Cherish the memories. Maria Saydak - Posted by: Maria Saydak (former co-worker) on: Apr 25, 2014
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Dear Monica. Please accept my condolences on Jimmy's passing. Jimmy's smile always lit up the workplace. He was a supportive and kind colleague. His love for his family was always so "out there". May the memories of his love of life and family comfort you and your family in the days to come. - Posted by: Sue Erickson (former co-worker) on: Apr 25, 2014
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Dear Monica and Family: Please accept our condolences. Jimmy's passing on Good Friday symbolizes his strong faith in the Lord Jesus. May be, Jimmy heard the voice of his Lord saying to him "Today, you will be with me in paradise". We are saddened by his passing, but we are happy that he is in the loving embrace of his Heavenly Father. May all who now mourn his passing, take comfort that Jimmy has ran the race to a finish and has won the prize of eternal life. Alleluia! Posted by Merle & Garnet Moses (friend)on April 24,2014. - Posted by: Merle and Garnet Moses (Friend) on: Apr 24, 2014
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I did not have the opportunity to get to know Jimmy. But to stand by such a great woman, he must have been a fantastic man. May you find comfort in all the wonderful times you shared together. You are always in my prayers. - Posted by: Odette (Monica was my immediate supervisor for several years. Monica is also a friend) on: Apr 24, 2014
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Monica, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am many miles away right now but with you in spirit as you celebrate Jimmy's life and say good bye. - Posted by: Merri-Lou () on: Apr 24, 2014
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Very sad to here about Jimmy's passing. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you Monica and your family. A lovely man has left a beautiful mark on this world and has touched many people with his presence. Earth's loss is heaven's gain. PEACE BE WITH YOU - Posted by: Liz Peterson & Ken Slivinski (Church Friends) on: Apr 24, 2014
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Monica, there are no words to describe how very much you and Jimmy mean to our family. We love you both, and are praying for you always. Jimmy, we will miss your hugs, your smiles, your love and your guidance. Thank you for being such an integral part of our life at St. Al's. It was an honor to have you as a friend. - Posted by: Lisa and Bill, Stephanie, Christian, Rachel, Elizabeth, Mary and Victoria Johnston (Friend, Mentor, Role-Model Extraodinaire, Father-figure and "adopted" grandfather) on: Apr 24, 2014
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Monica...I extend my most sincere sympathy to you and your family at this very sad and difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God be with you and bring peace to your heart and soul as quickly as possible. - Posted by: Anita () on: Apr 24, 2014
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Dear Monica: imagine I had go to Nova Scotia to meet both of you! You both enriched my life and gave me such a wonderful example of how to be a joyful Christian, even when facing loss and suffering. You remain in our prayers. - Posted by: Paulo, Maria, Benjamin, Sebastian Borges (Friends) on: Apr 23, 2014
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l grew up with Jimmy in the north end of Brandon. We walked together to Earl Oxford and later Brandon Collegiate. My condolences to the family George Beck - Posted by: george beck (north end school friend) on: Apr 23, 2014
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A sad day for Earth but a happy day for Heaven. Monica I let Fr. Albert know of Jim's passing and he said he will remember him in his prayers as will we all. - Posted by: Helen Sterzer () on: Apr 23, 2014
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Dear Monica - Our hearts are sad by the loss of your very dear husband, Jimmy and we can only imagine how very sad your heart must be. Always remember the memories and there he will be with his warm hugs and kisses and your heart with leap with happiness and joy. Having met Jimmy with his bright, happy flowered Hawaiian shirts and his warm hug, he made us feel special and loved. Thanks for sharing him with us. - Posted by: Linda, John and Janelle Lafantaisie (Friends) on: Apr 23, 2014
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Dear Monica My deepest sympathy to you and your family. May the Peace of God rest upon you and your family during this time. Marcia - Posted by: Marcia () on: Apr 23, 2014
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Monica and family, As noted by all, Jimmy possessed a joie de vivre that is rare, and could always light up a day just with his greeting. We got to know another side of him once we had the kids, as he had a real soft spot for the kids growing up on the street, noted especially at Halloween with his delight at seeing all the kids in costume, and his extravegant treats. It is not often that young people will love a neighbour the way ours loved Mr. Brechka. We have always counted ourselves lucky to have you "in our village" (a quote by Jimmy). We send our deepest condolences to you Monica and your family. - Posted by: Doug, Karen, Anders, Monica and Stephanie (friend and neighbour) on: Apr 23, 2014
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Monica our deepest sympathy to you and family, we were so shocked to hear of Jim's passing. Extending sympathy from all your sisters in the Catholic Women League here in the Roblin Council. He is definitely busy hugging everyone in Paradise. Blessings Monica! - Posted by: Marie Rapchuk (Sister in CWL) on: Apr 23, 2014
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Truly a nice man...always a smile. My condolences to his loved ones. - Posted by: Wendy Wood ((Former Co-worker)) on: Apr 23, 2014
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I worked with Jimmy for Home Care many years ago. I remember him as having a positive outlook on life & a pleasure to work with. Rest in peace Jimmy. My deepest sympathy to the family. - Posted by: Karen Hodson (former co-worker) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Dear Monica and Family: I am very saddened to hear of Jim's passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family. I worked with Jim off and on through the years when I was Case Coordinator in the River Heights office. He was such a lovely man and I know he will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Deb Chochinov (Former Home Care Colleague) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Never again will we be able to look at a deviled egg or a spinach ball without the most amazing memories of Jimmy. It is quite fitting that he went to be with his God for Easter. What a gathering that must have been! There isn't enough room in this Tribute Section to comment on all that Jimmy was and represented for each of us. All we know is that as much as it will be difficult not to have Jimmy physically in our lives we are so very, very blessed and thankful that he was in our lives. Love You Jimmy! - Posted by: Perry, Kelly, Kayla, Ashley Verot & Bernadette Verot (Friends & part of Jimmy's church family) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Monica, Sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Our thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Mary and Andrew Lessing-Turner (Colleague) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Dear Monica & family, our condolences to you all. Jimmy was a happy guy and you could not help yourself but be happy right along with him. We received some of the best hugs and are now hoping you feel our return hug to you today and all days. We are happy to know Jimmy is pain free and giving hugs to all the heavenly angels with the biggest for our heavenly father. blessings always. - Posted by: Laurel & Mike Curry (friends) on: Apr 22, 2014
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To Monica and family, we send our sincere condolences. Jimmy will long be remembered for his famous warm hugs. May he rest in peace after a life well lived! And may God hold you Monica and your family in the palm of His hand. Your treasure of memories will bring you comfort in the days ahead. Our love and prayers to you. - Posted by: Glen & Denise Walleyn () on: Apr 22, 2014
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Ah Jimmy, what a lovely man who will be forever missed. Rest in peace dear friend. - Posted by: Lynn Williams (Former co-worker) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Jimmy and I worked for many years together in Home Care. I am deeply saddened by this loss. I will always remember his laugh, his big smile, his gregarious personality, and mainly how he seemed to include people without judging them. If Jimmy knew that you were shy, he would gently tease to draw them out. It was wonderful to watch. I will miss you dear friend, and now that you're with God, you are pain free, and most importantly you do not have to worry about over eating or going on a soup diet. LOL We will see you down the line. My condolences to his family-Monica and Kim and grandkids-all of you meant so much to him-He loved you very, very, very much. - Posted by: Evelyne Goupil (Friend) on: Apr 22, 2014
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Dear Monica & family, Jim was a very unique and remarkable person and his hugs will surely be missed. We keep you all in our prayers as you grieve his loss and mourn Jim's absence in your lives. Be Blessed! - Posted by: Claudette Moquin (friend & former co-worker) on: Apr 22, 2014