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EMIL KLEBAN
Born: Feb 27, 1921
Date of Passing: May 31, 2014
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
EMIL KLEBAN With love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Emil Kleban on Saturday, May 31, 2014 at the age of 93 years. Left to cherish Emil's memory are his wife Zofia; son Richard (Sandra); and daughter Krystyna; as well as granddaughters, Natalia and Ashley. Emil was born to Anastasia and Michal Kleban in Hodynie, Poland on February 27, 1921. He and his older brother Bronak enjoyed a village lifestyle with dogs and horses until they were taken to a Russian labour camp prior to the Second World War. Emil escaped from Siberia and made his way to England via South Africa where he joined the Polish Contingent of the RAF as a paratrooper. Emil served proudly, during the Second World War, winning the Polish Medal of Valour, and after V.E. Day he served during the Blockade of Berlin. In November of 1947 he demobbed in Nottingham where he married Zofia Butrymowicz on December 26, 1949. Working as a pipefitter Emil and Zofia lived in a large Polish Expatriot community in Nottingham until 1958. Their son Richard was born in 1954 and Emil was determined to give him a better life so they left friends and family and immigrated to Canada in 1958, settling in Winnipeg. Emil was always grateful to Joe at St. Vital Plumbing who employed him while he studied to earn his Canadian plumbing certification. Krystyna Helena was born to Emil and Zofia in Winnipeg in 1960. Later, he accepted a job as a plumber with the University of Manitoba where he worked until his retirement in 1986. Emil was well liked and respected by his co-workers as he was a skilled, meticulous worker who took pride in work and being a good friend. He also was very proud of the fine home that he provided for his family and the opportunities that he and Zofia provided for their children and grandchildren. The family thanks the staff at Meadowood Manor for the respectful care they provided for Emil. A private family Inurnment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba. Wojcik's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665, is in care of arrangements - wojciksfuneralchapel.com
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 07, 2014
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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We are so sorry to learn about the loss of your husband, dad, grandfather. It is memories that will keep him alive in your hearts forever. Though he is at rest may God comfort you in these times. Emil was a big part of our lives when we were young. He will be in my heart forever. Love Barb, Ron and family - Posted by: Barb and Ron Nordal (Friend) on: Jul 23, 2014
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Dear Richard, Sandra, Natalia: We'd like to extend our condolences in the passing of Richard's father. Thinking of you! - Posted by: Dana & Denise Payment () on: Jun 11, 2014
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We were so sorry to hear of Mr. Kleban's passing. So many memories of our families from the Boulder Bay days. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Zofia, Richard, Krystyna and families. Lori - Posted by: Arnold, Margaret, Lori and Kenny Thomas (Friends and Former Neighbours) on: Jun 10, 2014
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Richard, Sandra & Natalia as well as your extended family, we were so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. Even though we did not know your Dad, know that our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. It is never easy to say goodbye to those we love. We can only cherish and be thankful for the beautiful memories we have of them. Deepest sympathies to you! Estelle & Gerry - Posted by: Estelle & Gerry Tanguay (friend) on: Jun 09, 2014
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My Deepest Condolences to Emil`s Family, I remember Emil was always great! & friendly! warm smiles!, humour! & hellos!, whenever I`d meet him & his helping ways at the U of M & also about in everyday life. - Posted by: Kenneth Trayturik (friend / co-worker / Physical Plant Engineer Operations & Maintenance) on: Jun 08, 2014

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