MICHAEL EDWARD LYTWYN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MICHAEL EDWARD LYTWYN It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Edward Lytwyn on May 23, 2014 at the Seven Oaks General Hospital. He was predeceased by their infant daughter at birth, his loving wife of 51 years, Mildred "Millie" (nee Dubinack) and his brothers Bill, Nick and Paul. Left to mourn are his sister Pearl Slobodzian of Winnipegosis, MB; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Ann and Bill White of White Rock, BC, Elizabeth and Lawrence Augustowich of Cochrane, AB, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and lifelong friends. He was born on June 23, 1926 at the family farm located five miles east of Winnipegosis, MB, the youngest of five children. When his sister, older by 12 years, left the farm he assumed the kitchen duties. His father was deceased and his mother and two brothers were left to work the farm. Michael married on August 12, 1950. He and Millie moved to Winnipeg, MB, where he trained as a welder. As there was no work in this field he worked at the Marlborough Hotel and later went to work at Rae and Jerry's Steak House where he worked his way up to a chef and later managed the kitchen. He often started his day with a piece of cheesecake and yet remained trim all his life. While Michael (in his 50s) was building their house in St. Andrews municipality, he had a terrible accident when he fell into the basement and broke his back. Doctors told him there was a good possibility he would never walk again but his determination proved them wrong and after several months of physiotherapy, he finished building the house. He retired after 37 years with Rae and Jerry's Steak House and often stated that he enjoyed working with the staff and had many fond memories. While working and after retiring he indulged in his passion of wood working. He was meticulous in the detailing and took pleasure in creating fine cabinets, end tables, bookcases and did most of the finishing work in the interiors of their homes. Michael was very confident in his ability to remodel any space he chose yet remained humble of his accomplishments. His other passion was working outdoors on his property and people often remarked on his yard having a park like setting with various flower beds, large spruce tree islands, shrubs and an immaculate lawn. He also maintained a large vegetable garden. He continued these activities until April 7, 2012 when he suffered a stroke. Although he recovered from the stroke he was unable to maintain his large house and yard. Michael moved to St. Benedicts Place, an independent living facility, where he continued to take walks to the river and spend time in his beloved outdoors. It was here that he learned to play cribbage and often beat his partners, both young and old. Michael was a kind, generous and loving man who was dedicated and hardworking but was always willing to help anyone who asked. He cared about both people and animals and helped both whenever he could. He was a quiet man who had few friends but those he had were close and lifelong. Cremation has taken place. The memorial and interment are to follow at a later date.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 07, 2014