BRIAN S. J. DECKA

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BRIAN S. J. DECKA AACI, BA March 15, 1949 - April 26, 2016 With heartbreaking sorrow, we announce the passing of Brian, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Brian was predeceased by his father John Decka in 2003, and his mother Anne Decka in 2013. He leaves to mourn his loving and devoted wife Paulette; sister Christine (Al) Care; nephews, Allan Care, Jason (Laryssa) Care; great-nieces Tyanna and Alexa Care, as well as numerous cousins and dear friends. Brian was born and raised in Winnipeg and grew up in a nurturing family in close proximity to his maternal grandparents and his cousins. Throughout his life, Brian maintained a close bond with his sister Chris, and his fraternal twin cousins, Tommy and Gary. He attended the original King Edward Elementary School, Isaac Newton and Andrew Mynarski Junior High Schools, and Sisler High School. During his school years Brian was actively involved in various sports such as basketball, football, track and field. In later years, Brian participated in curling, bowling, volleyball, golf, and often went cross-country skiing at Birds Hill Park with his wife Paulette. Brian graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba in 1970. In 1971, Brian began his career at Montreal Trust, eventually becoming manager of the mortgage and real estate departments. After many years of study and related work, Brian received the A.A.C.I. designation - Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute in the profession of Real Property Appraising. Brian left Montreal Trust in 1986 and worked independently until his retirement from fee appraising. Brian held a Brokers license and was a member of the WinnipegREALTORS professional organization for over 30 years. Brian and Paulette met at a family dinner and were married on September 2, 1972. Over the years they travelled to many places in Europe, Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. Their most memorable trip was a 25th anniversary cruise with visits to Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and China where they walked a fair distance on the Great Wall of China. Their last adventure together was in October 2015, where they walked to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefield in Alberta. Together, they were actively involved with their family members throughout the years. Together, they nurtured and cared for a variety of family pets and always remembered was Tasha, a Lhasa Apso they raised from a puppy, who was with them for 17 years. More recently, Brian became a best buddy to feline Dale, and was especially fond of Amber, his late mother's feline companion that he and Paulette took care of. Brian took pride in doing his own maintenance around the house and developed an interest in stained glass, completing many projects for his home. In the autumn of 2015, he completed building a tool shed from plans he had designed earlier. We extend our thanks to the dedicated caring staff at H.S.C. and Riverview during his illness. At Brian's request, a private family interment was held on May 4, 2016 at Glen Eden. Hand in hand we walked this journey together We will love you and miss you forever If so desired, donations may be made in Brian's memory to CancerCare Manitoba or to an animal shelter of your choice.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 30, 2016