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DANIEL GEORGE MITCHLER
Date of Passing: Jan 02, 2015
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDANIEL GEORGE MITCHLER On Friday, January 2, 2015, a heart of gold stopped beating. With grace and dignity, surrounded by the love of family and friends, Dan went to his eternal rest. Dan was born in Winnipeg on March 3, 1937, eldest son of Daniel and Katherine Mitchler. He grew up in Winnipeg's North End, with his brother Edward and his sister Eleanor. Dan attended Ralph Brown, Faraday, and Isaac Newton schools. He was a born leader and a tremendous athlete who received many awards at both Faraday and Isaac Newton Schools. While in school, Dan was hired for his first job at Gilmore's Grocery. For seven solid years, through winter, spring, summer and fall, Dan delivered grocery orders by bicycle to the customers in his neighbourhood. He was so appreciated by the storeowner as well as his customers for his promptness, friendliness, honesty and reliability. Often, the money he earned had to be given to support his family through very difficult times. Dan went on to further his education, at Normal School, where he completed his teaching certificate. In 1957, Dan achieved his life long dream of becoming a teacher and began his career in the Seven Oaks School Division. He was very fortunate to meet the love of his life, Stephanie Hasiuk, at his first school. They were engaged after a whirlwind courtship and married in August 1958. Dan and Stephanie were so fortunate to walk life's journey together as best friends. Side-by-side, for 44 years, they laughed together, celebrated one another's accomplishments, and supported each other through life's challenges. Dan continued to love her, miss her, and speak of her fondly, until his final days. While teaching, Dan went on to further his education and graduated with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees, from the University of Manitoba. Dan's career in the Seven Oaks School Division brought many rewards and fond memories. He was a vibrant, artistic, and energetic teacher who was loved and appreciated by his colleagues, his students and their parents. Dan loved his students and treated them the way he did his own children. He continued to treasure the many students he had met who touched his heart. When Dan retired from O.V. Jewitt Elementary School, in 1997 after 40 years of teaching, many former colleagues, students and their parents came to show their appreciation, celebrate with him, and let him know the impact he had made on their lives. Dan continued to teach and inspire his medical teams and fellow patients on how to live and how to die. He was a teacher right to the end. Dan enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: being with his family, teaching, volunteering, helping others, watching sports or a good James Bond movie, solving crossword puzzles and having a good laugh while reading the comics in the morning paper. Dan had a thousand watt smile that could light up any room. It will be so missed! Even in his time of illness, he would still continue to give us a smile and make us laugh. Dan demonstrated daily what it truly means to be a man for others. He was a generous man beyond measure, expecting nothing in return. Dan devoted a multitude of hours to serving others. After retiring, he returned to his school to assist in many activities and projects. He was an active longtime member of St. Joseph's Ukrainian Catholic Church where he spent many years on the Parish Council executive and on the Senior Citizens' Club executive. He also devoted a large portion of his life to the Knights of Columbus, St. Josaphat Council #4138, where he held many prominent positions throughout his 43 years as a member. Whether as a Deputy Grand Knight, Grand Knight, Financial Secretary and for the past 12 years, a State executive member, Dan gave his all. He enjoyed the charity work, and brotherhood that came from this organization. Dan also spent many years serving on the board of directors at Selo-Villa Senior Citizen's Residence. He has left a lasting impact on all those he served in the various organizations. Dan continued to give of himself until it was not humanly possible to do so. Dan was a person of great strength whose sense of humour, passion for life, and deep faith sustained him in difficult times. Dan will forever be remembered and treasured in the hearts of his son Gregory, daughter-in-law Sandra; his daughters, Mary-Ann and Patricia, son-in-law Peter; his brother Edward (Adele); sister Eleanor Vance; his brothers-in-law Jerry (Evelyn) Hasiuk of Palm Harbor, FL, and Ted (Jan) Hasiuk; nieces, Carol (John) DiGregorio of Florida, Kim (Corey), Laura (Charles), and Lisa (Ryan); nephews, Darren (Tanya) and John (Sonia); his great-nieces, Amanda and Angela of Florida; Larissa, Emma, Grace and Courtney. Dan was predeceased by his beloved wife Stephanie, in June 2001, his infant brother, Baby Mitchler, in 1941, his parents Daniel and Katherine Mitchler, his parents-in-law Sam and Mary Hasiuk, and his brother-in-law Jack Vance. Special thanks to the teams at St. Boniface Hospital and Health Sciences Centre who worked tirelessly to help Dad. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made, in Dan's memory, to the Palliative Care Unit, St. Boniface Hospital. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2015, at St. Joseph's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 250 Jefferson Ave., with Father Frank Szadiak, C.Ss.R. and Rt. Rev. Msgr. Mitrat Michael Buyachok officiating. Interment will follow in Holy Family Cemetery. Dad you were the most caring, devoted, and loyal husband and father that anyone could ever dream of having. Many lives have breathed easier because of you. Your life is an inspiration; your memory a benediction. Until we meet again... VICHNAYA PAMYAT KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193
Publish Date: Jan 8, 2015
DANIEL GEORGE MITCHLER Peacefully, on Friday, January 2, 2015, Dan went to his eternal rest. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 10, 2015 at St. Joseph's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 250 Jefferson Ave. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dan's memory may be made to the Palliative Care Unit, St. Boniface Hospital. Full obituary to follow in tomorrow's paper. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193
Publish Date: Jan 7, 2015
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 08, 2015
Condolences & Memories (31 entries)
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher in 1985. He rebuilt my confidence, both in myself and in the education system. Although I was bullied a lot during this period by other students (something which he never knew of) I always looked forward to being in his classroom. I helped him do artwork for the school plays. He said he wasn't good at drawing hands, and I wasn't too bad at it. Looking back, I wonder if he did that to help me feel needed. I'm sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing his life with us, so that your loss could also be ours. - Posted by: Peter Palumbo (Student) on: Feb 28, 2017
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher in 1986. He was so kind and funny. I remember how he entrusted me, a shy girl, with collecting the milk money. He saw something special in me and recommended me to the Enrichment program in Grade 7. But my greatest memory of him was one day when I was being horribly teased by some boys for wearing glasses. They kept chanting "four eyes, four eyes!" at me. Mr. Mitchler grabbed one of the boys by the arm and said "I have glasses too, does that make me a 'four eyes?'" He was so mad that I was being teased. I think of him to this day whenever the subject of bullying comes up and how he defended me. One of the best people I ever had the honour of having in my life. - Posted by: Shelly Lamm (Former student ) on: Mar 01, 2016
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Dan will be deeply missed by all who knew him, he was always smiling. An amazing man. - Posted by: Leslie Harris (Dan was my sons teacher and long time customer to Joeys) on: Jan 27, 2015
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Dan was one of my favorite customers at Joey's. He always entered the place with a huge smile that just made you smile too and brighten your day. He was so fun to talk to and so easy to joke with. He made me laugh so many times and I loved the way he treated all of us. He will surely be missed by all of us. - Posted by: Tammy Evans (Dan was a long time customer at Joey's) on: Jan 27, 2015
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Mary-Ann, I am truly sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to your father. Although I have only met your father once, based on what I just read and your many stories, I believe that you exhibit many of his characteristics and clearly you followed in his footsteps with your love of teaching. I hope that time and memories will ease your loss. I regret that I was not here to attend the funeral and offer you support. - Posted by: Terri Beaudoin (Friend/Golf Buddy) on: Jan 22, 2015
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So sad to hear about Mr. Mitchler passing. He was my grade 6 math teacher like many others here and like them I have kept him in my thoughts for many years. There are some teachers that stick with you throughout your life for whatever reasons and for many reasons he is one of the ones who have stuck with me for 20 years. I will never forget him. Thanks for being who you were Mr. Mitchler. - Posted by: Steve Conolly (former student) on: Jan 21, 2015
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Along with many others Mr. Mitchler was also my Grade 6 teacher. To simply put it, he was the best teacher. Mr. Mitchler always pushed to me excel and made everyone in our class feel special, each in their own way. I have thought about him numerous times over the years, as one could never forget such an exceptional and amazing teacher as Mr. Mitchler. Condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Mitchler. May you rest in peace Mr. Mitchler. - Posted by: Mayrelyn Deculing (former student) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Rest in peace Mr Mitchler! ... You were my grade 6 teacher the year O.V. Jewitt opened its doors. I often thought of you throughout my life and credit you as my greatest teacher...You will be sadly missed. - Posted by: Ryan Johnston ( Student) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler So sad to hear the news. With tears in my eyes, he was always my most memorable teacher when I came to Canada. He was always encouraging and supportive in my new world I have entered with very little english. He was also a very supportive person with my family who was starting off from scratch in a new country. My prayers are with your family for the loss of a wonderful human being. Thank you Mr. Mitchler for being You. - Posted by: Magda (student) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher and I was in his last class before he retired at OV Jewitt. He always knew how to keep us engaged in learning and he always had a smile on his face, and always knew how to put one on ours. By far, Mr. Mitchler has been everyone's favourite teacher! His wisdom and kind heart will truly be missed!! Deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. - Posted by: Andrea Soliven (Former student) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher at O.V. Jewitt in 1997. I was lucky to be apart of his final class before his retirement. Every kid in grade 5 of O.V Jewitt hoped and wished that when they opened their final report card of the year that it would have 'Mr. D. Mitchler' listed as the grade 6 teacher for the next school year. He was incredible. He was the first teacher / man to teach me self respect, to not let others affect my emotions, and most notably how to break up with a boy. He always challenged us in life and in the classroom. One day I picked Jane Eyre from the bookshelf to read. He said 'there is no way you'll finish that before the year is up'. And I did! but when I did my book report, he wrote 'I knew you could do it'. His classroom was filled with laughter, but if you screwed up he was quick to get out the dictionary and have you copy pages and pages! He will be forever missed. I hope my son is lucky enough to have a teacher half as good as Mr. Mitchler. - Posted by: Melanie Anderson (Student) on: Jan 19, 2015
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I am truly saddened to hear the news. Mr Mitchler was my teacher and I had the privilege to be in his class during his final year teaching. I still to this day speak of him and what a wonderful teacher he was. He was by far one of the best and most impressionable teachers I've ever had and hope he is resting in peace! My sincere condolences to the family on such a great loss. - Posted by: (Student ) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Dan was my cooperating teacher in my final year in the Faculty of Education. He was my greatest inspiration in the education of children. His passion for education, proved to be my energy to strive for the best each and everyday I spent in his classroom. We spent many hours honing my skills as a future educator. We talked about lesson plans, unit plans, curriculum, small group work, large group projects, and most importantly, infusing the love of learning into the hearts of children. We laughed about the day when my mom brought me my lunch, during one of my lessons (so did the kids). Upon graduating from the Faculty, I confided in Dan regarding my future in the education of children. Twenty-three years later, Dan came to visit at my present school. We spent time talking and laughing about the short time I spent in his classroom as if it were yesterday. It was also the school's hundredth anniversary. I took him for the grand tour highlighting the school's bell tower, which had been signed by many past students from as far back as 1914 (including a former Mayor of Winnipeg). Well Dan just had to sign a brick. And that he did! And well deserved as he has ingrained in myself the many traits we need to pass onto children. Humility, integrity, caring, and the love of learning. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Dan. My deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Lionel Pang (Friend and Colleague) on: Jan 16, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher almost 30 years ago. To this day, he has remained my favourite teacher by far. No one else has ever come close. There were 3 Grade 6 classes back then and those that weren't in his class were always very envious of our activities and the way that he would engage us in our learning. This is very sad. My condolences to all his family. - Posted by: Melody Brown (Student) on: Jan 15, 2015
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Patricia, Mary-Ann, Greg & family...May God be with you all and may you always treasure wonderful memories of your father! May you also take comfort in knowing that your dearly departed loved ones are guiding and watching over you. We feel your heartache...Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We extend our sincerest sympathy to you all. Вічна йому пам'ять! - Posted by: Rosemarie Todaschuk & Family (friend) on: Jan 10, 2015
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Dear Patricia, I am so sorry about your loss! Please accept my sincere condolences. You Dad had a great life and enriched lives of so many people. My thoughts are with your family. - Posted by: Tetyana Antimirova (Patricia's friend) on: Jan 09, 2015
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Sincere condolences and deepest sympathy for the loss of your dad. Our prayers are with you. May he rest in peace. I have known your dad for a long time through the Knights of Columbus, he was a grand knight when I have joined the organization. Certainly have good memories of him during that time. May God accept him into his kingdom. Vichnaya Pam'yat. - Posted by: Rev. Protodeacon Stefan Tyrawski (Brother Knight of Columbus ) on: Jan 09, 2015
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Patricia and family, we are very saddened to hear of the passing of your dad. We extend to you our sincerest condolences. Vichnaya Pamyat. In friendship, Myron, Orysia, Andriana, and Markian - Posted by: Myron Tarasiuk (a friend of Patricia's) on: Jan 09, 2015
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Dan was a fixture at OVJ. When I started working there he had already been retired for several years. His positivity, kind words and stories in the staff room were something I will remember for a long time. I am so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Carole McMillan (Former Counsellor at OV Jewitt) on: Jan 09, 2015
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Mary-Ann I was very sorry to hear of your dad's passing. It's been many years since we graduated high school and we haven't kept in touch, I wanted to give you my sincere condolences and sympathies. - Posted by: Brigitte Fisher (nee Suszko) (school mate of Mary-Ann (SMA)) on: Jan 09, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my grade 6 teacher in approximately 1982, during OV Jewitt's opening year. Mr. Mitchler was a caring and compassionate teacher then and he continued to demonstrate kindness when I had the good fortune of bumping into him on a couple of occasions since. I thought of him this past December, in fact, and wondered if I might have the chance to bump into him again someday.. He had a wonderful twinkle in his eyes, and flashed such a large and sincere smile, that you couldn't help but feel that he really cared. One of the strongest memories that was imprinted upon my 12 year old brain, however, was of the loving relationship that he shared with this wife. Our classroom was located in such a way that we had a perfect view of the staff parking lot. Every day, at about 3:15 pm you could look out the window and see his wife sitting in the vehicle (reading perhaps? and) waiting to pick him up.. It was a lovely sight and speaks to the bond that he and his wife shared. This was a bond that he spoke lovingly about at later points when I bumped into him. He was a dedicated, respectful and caring teacher, but his love for his wife and children was also evident. His community "service record" is also truly admirable. The fact that he continued to inspire others until the end is remarkable. Such a down to earth and humble man, but what an impact he has made... Condolences to his children and their families. RIP Mr. Mitchler - Posted by: Brenlee (Bloomfield) Cantor (Previous Student) on: Jan 08, 2015
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I am a friend and former colleague of Patricia Mitchell. Patrica...I now know that you come by your teaching skill honestly. What a wonderful tribute for your dad and your mom. Judy and I are thinking of you and your family at this time. Much love...deb - Posted by: Deborah romeyn (Friend of patricia) on: Jan 08, 2015
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Appropriately, the tone of the written obituary is so fittingly positive, although I would add that he always talked so passionately about his wife, her parents and his children. As principal at O.V. Jewitt in the '90s, our staff, on many occasions, accepted his banter and his opinions knowing full well that he was wishing to engage us in "Dan's way". I cannot recall even one occasion where he knowingly purposed to put any staff member, and especially any of his students in a negative light. Knowing his solid faith, I would hope that family and friends would find comfort that he's now in the hands of our greatest Teacher! - Posted by: Don Mandryk (colleague) on: Jan 08, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my teacher in grade 6 at O.V Jewitt school. He was by far a teacher that had impacted my life. He was an amazing teacher who truly cared for his students. When I speak of my school years, his name is always brought up. Mr. Mitchler was there for me during a difficult time in my life. By looking at my face he knew something was wrong and would always be a shoulder to cry on, a great listener, and always had a positive comment to help me get through the day. I was out of town when Mr. Mitchler retired and always felt bad that I missed that day. Years later I ran into him at Perkins with his daughter, and I had the opportunity to tell him how much he meant to me. My boys got to meet the man they had heard so many stories about. My heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time. Mr. Mitchler I will forever hold a special place in my heart for you. RIP my favorite teacher - Posted by: Angela Iacovelli Urciuoli (former student) on: Jan 08, 2015
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I had the privilege to work with Dan at OV Jewitt. Dan was a people person....very supportive...caring and LOVED LIFE! A quote for Dan... When I stand before God at the end of my lfe, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me'. My thought and prayers to the Mitchler Family. Cherish the great memories, for they will always be deep in your heart. - Posted by: Kim Kozak (Former Colleague @ OVJ) on: Jan 08, 2015
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I met Mr. Mitchler during his admission at HSC. He was one of my favorite patients. I looked forward to visiting him mostly for the conversations and the wise words of wisdom he offered to me about life. He spoke so fondly of his children and shared stories about his wife. He radiated a passion for life. I often thought about Mr. Mitchler after he left the hospital and was saddened to read about his passing. He left his mark in this world, may he rest in peace. - Posted by: Kathy (Health Care Provider) on: Jan 08, 2015
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I was blessed with the opportunity to care for Daniel and meet his wonderful family. He was very loved by many, and that carried him thru his final days. He was always so thankful for the care he received. Getting to know him before he passed was a truly enriching experience. - Posted by: stacey (caregiver,friend) on: Jan 07, 2015
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Greg, Patricia and Mary-Ann, we are very sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. Although the opportunities to get together with him were few, every time we got together, he always took such a genuine interest in how we were all doing. He was always so enthusiastic and was a great story teller. The comment about his thousand watt smile is so true and something that we will always remember about him. Looking at his accomplishments, it is so evident that his passion for teaching and education left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate to have him as a teacher. That is a true mark of a great man. Although this time may be difficult for your family, draw strength from all the great memories you made with him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. May God grant him eternal peace. - Posted by: Mary, Ron and Rob Starodub (Friends of the Family) on: Jan 07, 2015
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I was on staff with Dan at O.V. Jewitt School for many years. He was a man of principle and integrity. Everyone who worked on staff with him were better teachers because of him whether we realized it or not. Heaven has gained another scholar. - Posted by: Garwood Robb (Teaching colleague ) on: Jan 07, 2015
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Simply put there will never ever be another teacher like Mr. Mitchler. He taught me grade 6 at OV Jewitt and while I struggled with math he was my biggest cheerleader. He knew I would go far and was so proud to learn I took after my mother and became a nurse. For a brief moment I was able to take care of him as a patient (and he proudly told anyone who I was to him in addition permitting me to tell whomever I wanted the same thing). - Posted by: Teresa (Former student) on: Jan 07, 2015
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Mr. Mitchler was my 5th Grade teacher at Margaret Park School 36 years ago! He was such an amazing teacher who always made learning fun and most importantly he taught each of us that we were important. To this day I still have one of the art projects that I did hanging on my wall (wooden flower)...he must have added his special touch because I don't remember painting that well! - Posted by: Rhonda Jewar (Former Student) on: Jan 07, 2015