JOHN ROYKO

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JOHN ROYKO Funeral Mass was held in Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 510 River Avenue on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 with Rev. Fr. Mike Koryluk presiding. Wojcik's Funeral Chapels & Crematoriums, Winnipeg, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com
Publish Date: Nov 25, 2017

JOHN ROYKO December 4, 1925 - November 17, 2017 It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the peaceful passing of our dear father, grampa and great-grampa, John Royko, on November 17, 2017, at the age of 91 years. John will be deeply missed by his three daughters, Gloria (Michael), of Vancouver, Brenda, of Vancouver and Tuesday (Dan), of Winnipeg; his grandchildren, Tiffiny, Tanya (Dave), Braydin (Mara), Brandon, Kieran; and his great-grandchildren, Arielle and Vaughn. He was predeceased by his wife Marie, in 1983 and his son-in-law Eugene, in 1997. John was born in Poland of Ukrainian descent and came to Canada as a toddler with his parents, Irene and Daniel, and brother Roy. He grew up in the north end, where he met his wife Marie and married soon afterwards. John worked at CP Rail most of his life and until retirement. As a young man, John had many interests including hockey, golf, reading and music. Later in life, John was an avid hockey fan. In his later years, John could be seen in his wheelchair at the MTS Iceplex, where he was proud to watch his grandson Kieran play hockey, a special bond they shared together. He looked forward to visits from his grandsons, Braydin and Brandon, and their dog Stanley, and visits from his grandchildren, Tiffiny and Tanya, from Vancouver and great-granddaughter Arielle, also from Vancouver. John was fortunate to meet his newborn great- grandson Vaughn before his passing. John was a resident of Tuxedo Villa nursing home, where he was often described as colourful and kind. He always had a compliment for the nurses and healthcare aids and his witty charm was present even in his final days. John lived a simple life and what mattered most to him was the happiness of his family. His simple words of wisdom were "be who you are". He lived life that way. Everyone who knew John got the uncensored version of who he was! Visiting Dad, you always left with a chuckle and a smile, but most importantly, you knew you were loved. In his final days, it was important for John to remind his family that he loved them and he always reminded us at every visit that if you are happy, money can't buy that. Simple words that were important to Dad. Special thanks to the care Dad received at Tuxedo Villa during his final days. A private family service will be held at Holy Rosary Church on Tuesday, November 21, with Father Mike Koryluk presiding. We will miss your wit, humour and love Dad, and you will be forever remembered and loved. As Dad would say "you must remember this, a kiss is just a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh". With a kiss and a sigh Dad, we say goodbye until we meet again.
Publish Date: Nov 21, 2017

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 25, 2017