STEPHEN (STEVE) JACKIW

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STEPHEN (STEVE) JACKIW August 15, 1916 - June 21, 2014 A gentle warm breeze and soothing music filled his room in the early morning on the first day of summer. Steve lay resting in his bed, comfortable and at peace - his predeceased family and friends awaiting his arrival - left us for his journey to join them. He lived a long and meaningful life with a positive attitude, generosity, open heart and much love to share. His sense of humour was timeless. Steve will now join the love of his life Reta (Doll). Steve could often be heard boasting that she "always had a smile on her face". He cared for her in every way until her untimely death, where he did his utmost to keep her at home and comfortable in her weakest times. He was blessed with a loving family, both living and deceased - David (Joan), John (Margaret), Linda (Mike), Bev (Lorne), Pete (Linda), Phyllis (Bill), Barry (Leslie), Sandy (Morris), and Betty (Gerry). Steve came from a large family and his parents worked hard to raise their children to become responsible, independent, caring people. Steve had a number of jobs, but most memorable were the many years he spent at CN Rail. He had many close friends, enjoyed what he did and had many lasting relationships. He loved retirement - which lasted 32 years. He spent many hours enjoying his love of sports, reading his paper and enjoying a Crown Royal. His favourite pastime throughout his life was his passion and admiration for horse racing. Both at Assiniboia Downs here in Winnipeg and Hastings Park Race Track when he would visit Vancouver. Most important to Steve were his family and friends. He enjoyed trips to Vancouver and cherished family holidays. He shared one of his deepest bonds with daughter Betty and son-in-law Gerry. They shared joy and laughter together over so many years and, as time passed, became familiar care givers. He was a proud man. His most recent accomplishment at 97 was catching the bouquet at his grandson's wedding. Or did the bouquet catch him? His glow and ear to ear grin were confirmation that everyone present had just experienced a truly magical event. He felt blessed and grateful to share love for Addison and all other grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their love and respect for his is mutual. He left with his mind sharp, loving memories, jokes and great times. Thank you (Great) Grandpa, "Gramps", Dad and Husband. As Steve always said "When it's your time, it's your time - you won't go a minute before, nor a minute after." Many thanks and much love to Park Manor Personal Care Home. Although still craving independence, he entered there at 97 with grace and dignity. He grew fond of the staff and had a deep respect for them as they cared for him with such compassion during the final stage of his life. As per Steve's request, there will not be a service. Cremation has taken place and his wishes carried out. Please come and enjoy a happy gathering with the family on Friday, July 4, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium, 1800 Day Street. Funeral Arrangements in Care of Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium 1800 Day Street 204-224-1525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 28, 2014