STANLEY DEVANIK

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

STANLEY DEVANIK Stanley passed away April 16, 2018, aged 93 years. Darin Hoffman, Funeral Director, in care of arrangements. Mosaic Funeral Chapel, 1839 Inkster Blvd., (204) 275-5555 www.mosaicfunerals.ca
Publish Date: May 9, 2018

STANLEY DEVANIK Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Second World War veteran, firefighter, card-player, proud North Ender. Passed away April 16, 2018 in Winnipeg, aged 93, after a long and colourful life. Stan will be missed dearly by his children David (Eileen), Jo-Anne (Jim) and Maureen (David); his grandchildren David, Joelle (Ryan), Erin (Donnie), Piper (Jason), Jasper, Chantel; and his great-grandchildren Delaney, Riley, Loa and Iris. Stan was born in the family home on Stephens Street in Point Douglas. His formative years during the Great Depression instilled in him a set of values that included hard work, thrift, charity and fortitude, and an appreciation for the simple things that provided him the greatest joys, and the most meaning. Stan joined the R.C.A.F., Flight 55, #2 Manning Depot in Brandon in 1942. He was posted to Sproat Lake on Vancouver Island, a place he described as being as close to heaven as a person could get. He returned to Winnipeg where he met his wife of 64 years, Tannis Mulligan. On July 2, 1946 Stan began what would be a 37 year long tour of duty as a Winnipeg Firefighter. He loved being a firefighter, and all the buddies he worked with over the years, many of whom became lifelong friends. His generosity in serving both his country and his city are legacies we are proud and thankful for. Stan was a force of nature, interested in everything and everybody around him. He attended Norquay, Aberdeen and St. John's Technical schools, but was always fonder of his own ideas and passions than those of his teachers. His affections included building, metal and woodworking, hobby-farming, hunting, fishing, almost any kind of work, his friends, music, politics, card-playing, crosswords, tools, kibbitzing and socializing. Stan and Tannis loved their frequent trips out West. Stan's workshops, usually crammed to the rafters, were a source of pride and delight. He also loved his homes on Selkirk Avenue, in East Selkirk, and his cottage at Grand Marais. Dad was a man's man - tall, strong, fearless. But underneath his burly countenance he had a soft spot for button-down shirts, fine teacups, and the best shoes. He also tried his best to hide a heart of gold and his soft inner core. His personal code of honour meant he would do anything anyone asked of him, be they family, friends and even strangers. Dad valued his family immensely. As the only surviving son, he was especially close to his mother, caring for her in old age. And he always made time for his sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom he loved dearly. Dad will be remembered by those who knew him as a true gastronome, with a penchant for a great slow-cooked meal, with a bottle of beer on the side. He was an amazing cook, and would drive miles to find just the right ingredient to finish off a dish. He liked simple and exotic foods alike, and he prided himself on having the best cooking pans, knives and utensils. Dad was predeceased by his mother Annie, his father Nikolas, brothers Peter and Joseph, sisters Rose, Frances, Olga and Elsie, and of course, his soul-mate and partner in crime, Tannis. He is survived by his sister Joan Wilson. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. In his final days at Deer Lodge Centre, Dad was grateful for the exceptional care and kindness that the staff extended to him. They added much love, care and compassion to his sunset years. He loved you all. Dad's life will be celebrated at Deer Lodge Centre Chapel, 2nd Floor, Deer Lodge Centre, 2109 Portage Avenue, at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 26. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Manitoba Firefighters Burn Fund. Party on, Dad.
Publish Date: Apr 21, 2018

STANLEY DEVANIK On Monday, April 16, 2018 Stanley passed away, at Deer Lodge Centre, at the age of 93 years. A longer obituary to follow, including service information.
Publish Date: Apr 19, 2018

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 09, 2018