CONSTANTINE (KOSTY) KOSTANIUK

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

CONSTANTINE (KOSTY) KOSTANIUK On May 17, 2015, Kosty Kostaniuk's long and meaningful life journey ended during his 100th year. He was predeceased by his loving wife Ann (1999), sister Mary Kardash and brother Peter. His death will leave a deep void in the lives of family and friends. He will be dearly missed by his children, Carmen Ostermann (Hubert), Sonia, Tim (Daphne); grandchildren Andrei Ostermann (Jo-Ann), Lisa Ostermann (Melissa), Kathryn Felix (Peter), Kosty Kostaniuk Jr., Nick Watson-Kostaniuk (Sarah), Tim Kostaniuk Jr., Daphne's children, JD (Windy), Chrissy (Trevor), Steven and families; great-grandchildren Mitchell and Eric Felix, Mason Burdy-Ostermann, Daxton and Lexie Watson-Kostaniuk; his sister Olga Rigby (David) and by his many nieces and nephews and their families. Kosty was born in Winnipeg, October 19, 1915, to Myron and Katherine Kostaniuk, and grew up in Northern Ontario around Makwa, Longlac, Coniston and Sudbury. From his Ukrainian pioneer parents he learned the value of hard work, education, and helping others through unionism and social activism. He developed a deep appreciation for his Ukrainian heritage and Canadian culture. From a young age he began his life-long involvement in the cultural and educational activities of the Ukrainian Labour Farmer Temple Association (later the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians). Beginning as a mandolinist in the children's orchestra, he blossomed into a consummate musician instrumentalist, singer, conductor, teacher and director teaching at ULFTA centres in Point Douglas, Fort William, Winnipeg and Saskatoon. Settling in Winnipeg, Kosty married Ann Pawlyk in 1941, his beloved partner for 58 years. They shared common values, ideals and interests, and with their family enjoyed a wonderful life. Kosty served in the Second Canadian Survey Regiment overseas during WW II. Throughout his life he supported all efforts for peace. After earning his B.A. degree from the University of Manitoba, Kosty held the position of National Educational Director of the Workers Benevolent Association. He then worked for many years as a journalist and editor of the progressive Ukrainian language newspaper, Ukrainian Word, and until his retirement, as a manager of the People's Co-operative Ltd.. In every position Kosty was respected for his wisdom, skill and dedication. Kosty's very full life embraced a broad span of interests and activities. Travel took him to Cuba, across Canada and to the cottage, always to enjoy the company of family and friends. He remained active in community life through seniors and cultural groups. Music remained a life-long pursuit and he regularly performed at concerts, festivals and Folklorama well into his 90s. Sincere appreciation is extended to the doctors, health care workers, and many dear and thoughtful friends and family members who enhanced his life throughout the years. Friends are invited to join us for a Remembrance Reception at 11:00 a.m. at the Ukrainian Labour Temple, corner of Pritchard and McGregor on Monday, June 15. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in memory of Kosty to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 06, 2015