WALTER (WALLY) GWOZD

Condolences & Memories (9 entries)

• Marie (Minnie), I will always miss seeing him with you at St. Joe's whenever I was visiting Winnipeg. Vichnaya Pamiat! Irene - Posted by: Irene Gajecky (Michalchyshyn) (Acquaintance and Friend) on: May 08, 2014

• I want to pass on my heartfelt condolences and sorrow for loss. Your husband was a true professional, never boastful but rather soft spoken and quiet demeanour. He flew through some of the toughest weather conditions, hauling some of most back breaking cargo and never complained or excused himself for more favourable assignments even though he held the title of chief pilot. He simply lead by example. A great person to have known but you and your family already knew. Blythe and Marcus - Posted by: Marcus Shnitka (former employee(1979-1995) with Ilford-Riverton Airways/Air Manitoba) on: May 07, 2014

• We affectionately called Walter, LODGE, his name in Ukrainian. He was soft-spoken and reserved, yet you knew he was always thinking. If we were joking around, Lodge always had a smile or smirk on his face. He was always on the go and kept up with us even into his late 70s. Along with Minnie (Mary,) we felt like family or long-lost sons with their kindness, openness, and hospitality. The love Lodge had for Minnie carried over to their children and will create a legacy to a thousand generations. We were so blessed to have Lodge as part of our lives. His memories will reside in our hearts and with the family in the days and years ahead. Our peace and comfort is knowing Lodge is with Our Lord in Heaven. Christos Voskres! Vichnaya Pamyat! - Posted by: Gerard & James Yaskowich (Friends) on: May 07, 2014

• I was most saddened by Walter's passing. Walter hired me in March '18 on the DC-3. A true professional and a joy to learn from. Patient and thorough. Great stories of his airforce days. Rest Peaceful Wally! Kevin Gray - Posted by: Kevin Gray (Former pilot Illford Riverton/Air Manitoba) on: May 07, 2014

• Words are inadequate to express my deepest sympathy to Marie and all your loved ones on the loss of your wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Wally was a true "gentleman" in every sense, and his warm smile will always remain in my mind. May God give you strength! Love, your friend, Esther Weinstein, now of Vancouver. - Posted by: Esther Weinstein (Friend) on: May 07, 2014

• Dear Marie My deepest sympathy to you and your family. All of the girls at work have been thinking of you and share in your loss. Pat has kept us in touch. Take care - Posted by: Midge Onufreychuk (Co- worker) on: May 06, 2014

• Who won at Checkers? It was over 50 years ago, in the early 1960's when I first heard 'Uncle Walter' laugh. His deep laughter was directed at his brother (my father) after I won my Dad at checkers. I clearly remember my father's rebuttal "no, no, I did not let him win!". So my grandfather, (my Uncle Walters' father) said, let me show and teach young 'Billy' how checkers are played. Shortly afterwards I heard for the second time Uncle Walter laughing, though this time it was louder and longer. Yup, 'Gido' was humbled by his grandson Billy at checkers. Uncle Walter stressed he would show and teach his young nephew Billy... as checkers was a pastime Uncle Walter learnt really well. Unfortunately, laughter arrived louder and longer in minutes ... from Gido and my father as uncle Walter, was losing and being beat by his young nephew Billy. Uncle Walter turned at looked at me and said - you are good and very smart - you'll do well. I never forgot that day and the words Uncle Walter said. When my first son was born, 25 years later, I named my son after my Uncle Walter 'Walter William Gwozd'. After my wife shared the name with her Chinese family, the pronouning of 'Walter' unfortunately became watered down to 'Water' so with this feedback a solution had to be found 'right away' while editing the name card. I always thought 'Steve McQueen' in the movie 'The Great Escape' reminded me of my Uncle Walter, so in minutes, my son's name was changed to 'Steve William Gwozd'. I called my Uncle Walter and shared that with him at that time. Now, I suspect my Grandfather (William Gwozd), my father (William Gwozd), and my Uncle Walter Gwozd can find time to play one of their favorite 'long time ago' game of checkers. When I hear loud thunder in storms, I will know it is just them laughing at each other when one wins at Checkers. - Posted by: William P. Gwozd (Nephew) on: May 06, 2014

• My Dear Marie, My deepest sympathy to you and all of your family on the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Donna Passante (past co-worker with Marie) on: May 06, 2014

• Our deepest condolences to the Gwozd and Boitson families on the passing of your dear husband, father and Gigi. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you. Mr Gwozd is now resting in God's care and watching over you! God Bless you. Chrystos Voskres! - Posted by: Carol & Wally Sawchuk (Friends of Andrea, Don, Ashley, Meghan and Matthew) on: May 06, 2014