TUNNEY HOVORKA

Condolences & Memories (24 entries)

• I was Lucky enough to stay a few days At uncle Tunneys in 1996 when I had a break while attending Moorhead State University I had a great time with him He was also inspiring because I don’t drink alcohol too I will always remember seeing all the deer he shot that we’re hanging in Oliver’s garage My deepest condolences to the family Thomas Hovorka - Posted by: Thomas Hovorka (Great Nephew) on: Dec 08, 2020

• I met Tunney at Riverridge in Winnipeg mn 2yrs ago, my mom was on the same floor and they got to know each other at dinners and lunches. After a few conversations we discovered Tunney knew our cousins in Morden MB, he used to fish and hunt with them on a regular basis . He had a positive outlook on life and a zest for life. I read his book which endeared me closer . I'll miss him . My sincerest condolences to his family . - Posted by: Doug kolisnyk (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2020

• While staying with my mom Alice Kolisnyk at Riverridge Retirement home I was introduced to Tunney through my brother who was also visiting from Australia. Doug started talking to Tunney and quickly found out we had a common bond in our cousin who Tunney used to hunt with. This was in June of 2018 , he quickly became part of my day and we would have little chats here and there, he would come to my moms room to play a hand of crib, he often would have his "spoons" handy and sing a song for us. He gave my mom a book he wrote called " It Just Happened " and it was a fabulous read of his life as a young boy growing up and you felt like you were right there living it with him! He was always quick with a compliment and I soon became enveloped and felt a strong bond as did my brother and sister Donna. If his door was open we would stick our heads in and say Hello and he was always so happy ! On my return to Australia I couldn`t wait to tell my husband and 2 teenage daughters of the this incredible man I met who lives at mom`s place. In July 2019 I returned to visit mom with my family and couldn`t wait to introduce my family to Tunney and he was as welcoming as ever and opened his arms to my family. They too quickly fell in love with him and we would stop by his room when he was up and have a chat, again he would sing a tune for us. On our last day there we went to find Tunney to say goodbye but he wasn`t in his room, but we did see Tunney at the elevator and we said goodbye . His last words to me and my family were " I love You " . We love you also Tunney, may you dance and sing forever with Virginia who you missed with incredible passion. To Tunney`s family he was so proud of each and everyone of you. There was not one conversation that we had where he did not mention each of you in one way or another. It was a pleasure to have known you Tunney ! - Posted by: Karen Kolisnyk (Friend) on: Feb 20, 2020

• Our heartfelt sympathy to the entire Hovorka family on the passing of Tunney. Every summer as we drive to Kenora we look forward to, not only being at the lake, but also reuniting with our great neighbors. Tunney was always a highlight! He always made us feel welcome and special, and he delighted us with many jokes and stories. Tunney was always available to help with advice and we could always count on him to aid with many odd jobs that pop up at the lake. He was a corner stone for everyone at Coney Island and will leave a huge hole in our hearts. The Hovorka camp will never be the same without his smiling face. Love, Gudrun and Howard P.S. Lyn sends her condolences and love as well. - Posted by: Gudrun and Howard Thompson (Friend and neighbour at Coney Island ) on: Jan 18, 2020

• My deepest condolences to the entire Hovorka family on the passing of my Coney Island granddad. I will always remember, with fondness, Tunney’s infectious zest for life. He was a cherished friend to my own Dad, Ronny and Mom. I can still remember how welcome he always made everyone feel on Coney. His stories and whit were infamous and I still laugh when I think of the stories he shared with us kids. I will forever be thankful for knowing and being welcomed into Tunney and Virgie’s warm home on numerous occasions as a youngster. His Tunney-ism’s definitely shaped myself and my brother’s senses of humour. Cheers Tunney. You will be forever missed by many. Seanie boy - Posted by: Sean Casey (Coney Island whipper snapper) on: Jan 16, 2020

• Sorry to hear the passing of your father. He will be missed by all. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. - Posted by: Heather Reid (Bruce) (Family friend ) on: Jan 16, 2020

• One very lucky Thursday morning at the Misericordia 2nd floor ( for exceptionally wonderful people) we met Tunney! We were immediately charmed . Juno loved his whistles and his gentle touch , and I loved his stories . Juno would lean in for pats and and desperately wanted to sit on Tunney's lap - Hmm , not allowed , but of course Tunney encouraged her soo ! We both knew we were in very special company. Although we are not supposed to have favourites, Tunney immediately became one of ours. We wanted you to know that we will cherish our time with our very special friend and will enjoy his book . As my dad ( a very wise man) would say -such a friend is a gift not granted to everyone. Thinking of you all and your very special memories of an exceptionally remarkable man ! Always Juno and Lindsey - Posted by: Lindsey and Juno Steek (Friends) on: Jan 16, 2020

• To the Hovorka Family- Your parents were the most lovely people. I feel blessed to have met them during the last years of their lives. I wish I would have known them longer. I will forever cherish my precious loon earrings and books that Tunney had gifted to me. He was truly one of a kind, talented, and knew how to make any woman blush! I hope you are all finding peace during this difficult time. I am happy that they are now together. Love Jenna Moore To Tunney, the man. the myth. the legend! (we will always remember him this way) xo - Posted by: Jenna Moore (Friend) on: Jan 16, 2020

• Our hearts go out to you upon hearing of Tunney’s passing. It’s been 68 years since I walked down the aisle as flower girl for Tunney and Virginia’s wedding. I will miss our close relationship which lasted from the start in Flin Flon through to Winnipeg. A long time and many wonderful memories of cosy and warm family visits in both the Fabro and Hovorka households, times at the lake, and many family gatherings always filled with his thoughtfulness, love and his strong presence. I recall Tunney’s favourite prayer as being ‘Hail Holy Queen’, which I recite often, with him in my thoughts and I am comforted knowing that Tunney and Virginia are together again. The Hovorka family has all of our deepest sympathy and prayers. Aleda and family - Posted by: Aleda (Niece ) on: Jan 16, 2020

• Rocky, Lorraine & Family - we are so very sorry for your loss. We hope the love of family and friends who surround you will bring you great comfort during this very difficult time. You’re all in our thoughts and prayers. Deepest sympathies, Penny, Bob, Suzanne & Jennifer - Posted by: Penny & Bob Malinowski, Suzanne & Jennifer (Friends & former neighbours of Rocky & Lorraine) on: Jan 15, 2020

• I had the pleasure of hunting with Tunney and his good friend Jim Russell on our farm in Arborg. He was a great friend to my Dad, Einar Vigfusson who was also well known in the wood carving circles in our province. The jokes, laughter and banter left a lasting impression on me and it showed me what it means to truly love the outdoors and all it has to offer. I looked very much forward to visiting with those guys when they came out every fall. - Posted by: Eric Vigfusson (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2020

• Always a good time with Tunney. He was a great guy, kind and generous. He will be missed. Sincerely Donna Macaw - Posted by: Donna Macaw (long time friend) on: Jan 15, 2020

• Tunis will be fondly remembered by all who had the good fortune to know him indeed. From this land to that land with a stop on Coney Island. A simple stroll on the boardwalk makes me think of him and smile. Sail on. - Posted by: Johnny Rainbow (Friend) on: Jan 14, 2020

• My deepest condolences to the Hovorka family at the passing of Tunney.He was larger then life I will always remember Tunneys Loons! ❤️🙏 - Posted by: Patrick Mccabe (Friend of family) on: Jan 13, 2020

• We extend our condolences to all the Hovorka family for the loss of their father, grandfather and great grandfather. We recall all the wonderful visits we had with Tunney and Virginia at their home on Autumnwood and Canoe Club Condos. Later we had visits with Tunney at River Ridge and hospital visits. There was a man who cherished his family and friends. I was proud to be part of Tunney’s hunting fraternity and recall numerous days trying to send geese, ducks and deer to the promised land. He was a great shot and I especially liked teaching him about limits. I liked Tunney’s philosophical approach to life as evidenced by his ability to write poems and stories. Although not a highly educated man he was one of the smartest persons I have ever met. Tunney had a love for carving and served as one of my mentors in this pastime. Even in his final months he loved it when I brought in pieces I was working on. It always brought a smile to his face and of course a bit of a critique. We loved both Tunney and Virginia. Now the old “Toonster” will be with his beloved Virginia. We will always have a place in our heart for them. Russ & Marlene Muth - Posted by: Russ & Marlene Muth (Friends) on: Jan 13, 2020

• Tunney Hovorka was one of those rare people you meet and never forget- nor would you want to. At his 90 something birthday celebration a well-wisher drew a comparison between Tunney and a magnificent piece of architecture in as much as they both leave an impressionable footprint on those whose lives they touch. Good architecture masters elements of design and purpose that withstand the test of time; Tunney possessed a personality that rendered him a “life force” never to be forgotten by all who liked and loved him. Tunney had a striking physical presence and a likeable personality. He was a masterful teller of jokes and crafter of one liners- all of which made his viewpoint on all things living abundantly clear. He left his hunting buddies in awe every time he would walk into a crowd of strangers and win them over in a matter of seconds with his jokes and sense of humour. This is an invaluable skill when you are seeking permission to hunt on private land. His confidence and strong presence carried over to public speaking and folks in small towns in Manitoba and Saskatchewan are still reminiscing over a night of Tunney at the microphone. Much singing and boisterous laughter were invariably part of an event with Tunney. He had an iron clad memory (decades after leaving the Flin Flon mines he was still able to recall the payroll numbers of miners he recorded). He warehoused a myriad of life experiences and stories he could recall and refashion to suit any occasion. His memory was so remarkable he was able to capture childhood experiences in a book he wrote and published. And this is from a guy who got as far as grade eight in school. Although he wistfully thought about wanting to be surgeon, he realized at an early age that it was unattainable. He led a remarkable life and rose above adversity. Tunney valued friendship and was good at nurturing contact with folks with whom he shared an interest- whatever walk of life they were from. Many of his life-long and enduring friendships centered around his love of carving and hunting. He excelled in carving birds, making common loons his speciality. He also ran loon carving workshops, helped with the establishment of a Kenora carving club that runs to this day and was a founding board member of the Prairie Canada Carvers Association. He took his hunting seriously be it ducks, geese, grouse or deer. Some of his hunting trips were legendary- the essence of which are cherished by his hunting partners. He was also was known to snag the odd walleye. No slouch in the kitchen his home-made borscht was outstanding, especially on hunting trips. Tunney was good at building things- especially cottages. His penchant for cottages at Lake of the Woods turned into his retirement nest egg. The life he forged for his family in cottage country contributed immeasurably to the quality of everyone’s life. He was also an astute, highly motivated successful businessman- a trait he passed along to his offspring. Tunney was a strong devoted family man and Christian. He thought the world of Virginia his wife of 60 plus years. He loved his children and of all of their children. He would often talk about his fondness for family on his hunting trips and felt that he was blessed to share his life with Virg. Her passing hit him hard. He was a pleasure to know and will be remembered fondly. Rest peacefully my friend. Ted Muir - Posted by: ted muir (friend) on: Jan 13, 2020

• Tunney was a ”one of a kind “ type of guy with a great smile and usually a joke or two, From hunting to wood carving, he was the Best,, fond memories of us singing his favourite song - Kansa City, to hunting those elusive deer, we will miss him very much, Our thoughts are with the family at this trying time. Ed & Eva Goletski - Posted by: Edward Goletski (Friend & Bro Knight) on: Jan 12, 2020

• What a wonderful long life. I loved this man. His devotion to Virginia and his children and his family was exemplary. His humor and wit touched me. May you rest in peace. you brought only joy to myself and my family. The world is better because you were here. God bless and thank you. - Posted by: ian maciver (friend) on: Jan 11, 2020

• Tunney was a good friend on the island. We attended many parties, anniversaries, at the Horvaka cottage and he and Virginia attended our anniversaries as well. We talked, joked shared stories on our walks passed the cottage every day in the summer. I remember them both as good friends who would do anything to help if needed. A great sense of humour and louvred to visit with all of his Coney neighbors. - Posted by: Val Brown (Coney Island friend) on: Jan 11, 2020

• Dear Hovorka Family: So sad to learn about your father, Tunney. I know he was unwell, especially for the last couple of years but he managed with a little help. He was a wonderful man and always so good to me. Throughout the years I have enjoyed many lovely conversations with him, and of course Virg! They were a pair that is for sure. I will always cherish those moments and especially those two. My heart is with all of you at this time. Huge hugs to everyone. Love and blessings......Sidney - Posted by: Sidney (friend of family) on: Jan 11, 2020

• My sincerest condolences to all the Havorka clan . When I think of Mr. Havorka I think kindness, sincerity , honesty , laughter , artistic, loving husband... loving father ..loving grandfather and so much more . The Maciver family along with the Gillis and Havorka s were very much a part of our life back in the sixties. Wonderful memories! When I think Tunney I think story teller. Best one was his buying his beloved Virginia a mink coat on there 25 Anniversary !! I’m sure he’s telling lots of great tales up in heaven. Now that your back with your beloved Virginia you can Rest In Peace . A honour to know the whole family ... Sincerely Tracy Vanderende ( Maciver ) A special note ... to Gina I will always remember my wedding and your beautiful voice .. - Posted by: Tracy vanderende knee Maciver (Friends from Windsor park many moon ago ) on: Jan 11, 2020

• God has taken another son home following a wonderfully lived life. His legacy are all his children and grand children. I have so many fond memories of Uncle Tunney and Auntie Virg. You guys were blessed by these two wonderful people. May your memories keep you strong in these tough times. Much love, Jackie MacIver-Dragojevic - Posted by: jackie dragojevic (Family friend) on: Jan 11, 2020

• We extend our deepest sympathies to family and friends of Tunney. He was a legend on Coney Island. From when we first met him so many summers ago he was an inspiration for us all. He made his days full of adventure and it was infectious. He was just one of those rock-solid souls of kindness. His famous "Tunney's fishing spot" off the west point of Coney Island was a place where Tunney produced a lot of feeds of walleye and rich conversations of life for young and old. We will miss him dearly. We will always remember Tunney with a smile for who he was as a large personality of kindness, goodwill and happiness for all that he would meet, acquaintance or stranger. No one was more welcoming and warm than Tunney. Rest in peace dear friend. - Posted by: Ferg and the Devins Family (Neighbours on Coney Island) on: Jan 11, 2020

• You will not know me but I lived at 14 Cascade Bay and my parents were great friends of all the Hovorka's. I loved being around your Dad. He was such a lovely man as was your Mom. The last time I talked to them was at Madge Lake a few years ago and I bought his first book. He always had a great smile. I am so sorry for your loss. Think of your Mom and Dad rejoicing at being together in heaven. - Posted by: Lynne Hagberg(McDougall) (Family friend) on: Jan 11, 2020