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RICHARD STEPHEN STEPANIUK (RICK)
Born: Mar 04, 1948
Date of Passing: May 12, 2020
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
RICHARD STEPHEN STEPANIUK
March 4, 1948 - May 12, 2020
Left to cherish his memory are his two children, Ashley-Jill (Winnipeg) and Peter-James (Vancouver, BC) and his wife Maria Veltri (Laval, QC)
Rick was born in the family home in Garson, MB. After graduating from the University of Manitoba, he began his career in education in 1974 teaching Graphic Arts, Metals and Social Studies at Vincent Massey Collegiate, Viscount Alexander, Fort Richmond Collegiate and Arthur A. Leach. He then became an Accessibility Service Coordinator and Student Advisor at Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology, where he excelled for the remainder of his career. He had an incredible way of making others feel at ease, easily striking up conversations and connecting with students, colleagues and friends.
Rick was a man of many talents. He was skilled in many trades and enjoyed golfing and hunting with his yellow lab Chivis. He loved his sweet treats and we always had to find new places to hide our Halloween, Christmas and Easter treats each year, as somehow, he could always find them. His true passion was his children. He took so much pride in our accomplishments and always pushed us to strive for excellence.
Dad will always be remembered for his strength, perseverance and optimism, especially during his courageous battle with small cell carcinoma. His determination and wit will always be admired and cherished.
Rick passed peacefully surrounded by his children and their mother Karen. Special gratitude to the staff at CD1 Riverview Health Centre and 7ASouth St. Boniface Hospital for their phenomenal care and compassion.
Cremation has taken place. A private Celebration of Life will be held in his honour at a later date. Stories, memories and pictures of Rick can be shared with his children.
Dad, we will forever remember your unforgettable smile and your ability to always remain strong willed and positive, despite any hurdle you faced in life.
Goodbye Daddy
.We Love You!
Condolences may be sent to
www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 16, 2020
Condolences & Memories (19 entries)
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I just heard about Rick having retired and spending a lot of time out of the province. I worked with him for many years. I loved his wicked sense of humour, friendliness and stubborn determination. All the students loved him. - Posted by: Donna (Co worker from MITT) on: Sep 29, 2020
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To Karen & family, We are thinking of you, Love, Richard & Angela Humphrey - Posted by: Humphrey, Angela (Friend) on: Jun 08, 2020
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Saddened by this news!!!!He was a great Teacher, I still remember him pushing me to be creative with whatever I was working on in the metal shop. At the time I had no idea it was the foundation preparing me to become a commercial artist in life. I'm very sorry to read about this loss. Condolences to the family. - Posted by: John Wade (student) on: Jun 01, 2020
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Absolutely without a doubt my favorite teacher, always related to his students, wich in turn made learning a joy. Never judged just helped. A wonderful man with a huge heart. Keep teaching up in heaven, your angel now. Sadly missed never forgotten. ❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏😎,loved your sunglasses lol. - Posted by: Debbie Lewis (Student ) on: May 28, 2020
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I was sad to hear of Rick's passing. While it has been eons since I've seen him (over 30 years), I always remember him fondly. He was one of the "good" teachers. Treated kids well and not like kids. He was fun to be around and we learned because of it. In part due to him and also Lorne Henkelman, I became a tech teacher. Time with him mattered in my life. Your dad was better than a good guy. Sad to hear, but I'm glad I learned about this. Keep good care. - Posted by: Scott Swail (Former Student) on: May 28, 2020
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THANKS FOR BEING PART OF THE FRC FACULTY - Posted by: Darian Obrotza (FORMER student at FRC) on: May 27, 2020
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One of the best Teachers I ever had. Always fun, lots of laughs and he really cared about his students. Such a loss. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Mike Koersvelt (Past Student) on: May 18, 2020
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My condolences to Rick's family. If I had to choose, he was one of my best teacher's (FRC Graphic Arts). He was very approachable and super friendly. I loved that class. After I graduated, I ended up at Winnipeg Tech and bumped into him, not knowing he worked there. I was met with a big smile! He remembered me! He was a real stand up guy. He will be missed. Thank you for your positive influence on my life! - Posted by: Mike Brisbin (Former student.) on: May 17, 2020
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I worked with Rick for many years at MITT. We shared many stories about our lives and our families. Rick helped me with tons of students through his counseling and that great smile. Always looking for the positive in people. I loved golfing with him, he was a very good golfer, but didn't take it seriously, which made it easier and fun to play. I'll always have fond memories of Rick and I will forever hold them in my heart. My condolences to to all the family. Know that your Dad & Husband was a Good man. - Posted by: Raymond Rajotte (Friend & Colleague ) on: May 17, 2020
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In every minds' image I have of Rick he is smiling. Now I know life can't possibly be only smiles, but what a beautiful way to think of and remember someone. Ashley and Peter, my deepest sympathies at your time of loss. - Posted by: Yvonne Thevenot (Friend) on: May 17, 2020
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P.J. and family. We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Bev, Rick, and Katlyn Taylor - Posted by: Rick and Bev Taylor (Friend of son P.J.) on: May 16, 2020
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My deepest condolences AshIey and Peter on the loss of your Dad. I worked with Rick at SWTC (now MITT). He was always smiling and that smile could light up a room. He would bring in beautiful Gladiolus from his garden for anyone who wanted them. He was a great man and good friend. You children were his world. May your Loving memories of your Dad help ease the pain of his Loss. - Posted by: Joyce Kostesky (Co-Worker and Friend) on: May 16, 2020
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Rick how I will miss you...my little brother!!! You were not supposed to go so soon but you are at peace now...I smile when I think of you meeting Mom, Dad, Marjorie, Peter and Gordon.....Love your sister Pat. 😘 - Posted by: Patricia Dobson (Sister) on: May 16, 2020
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What a great tribute you have given to your Dad! Lost far too soon ...Rest In Peace Rick! - Posted by: Jane Stuebing (Coworker) on: May 16, 2020
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I first met Rick when he was at Job Works and I had a cooking program once a week with his students. Shortly after that we both ended up at Winnipeg Tech. Yes, Rick was a character and very easy to chat with. I haven’t seen him for a few years but always ask colleagues about him. He was very proud of you kids. He loved you very much. Take good care during this sad and very challenging time. - Posted by: Gerry Pearson (Co-worker) on: May 16, 2020
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Mr. Stepaniuk was a great teacher who left a lasting impression on all of his students. Sorry for your loss. RIP Mr. Stepaniuk - Posted by: Mike Adam (Former student A.A. Leach) on: May 16, 2020
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Ashley and PJ We are so sorry for your loss! Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. - Posted by: Berntt Family (Friends) on: May 16, 2020
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Mr. Stepaniuk was a favourite teacher at FRC. He was our Graphic Arts teacher, guiding us in making posters, record covers, silk screens, and photography. I always was able to get him some high-speed film since I worked at a photography place in the 80s. He was very encouraging and appreciated our artistic abilities. He also taught me Drafting, which is probably why I can print very well. TOM Q VAXY - a printing technique I will never forget. He related stories about his friends in the music industry (like Martha and the Muffins), and was very proud of being able to acquire a Jaguar. He was an inspiring individual who wanted nothing but the best from us students. RIP Mr. Stepaniuk. - Posted by: Jake Cadigal (Former Student, Fort Richmond Collegiate ) on: May 16, 2020
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I remember Mr Stepaniuk while I was a student at Arthur A Leach. He was funny and relatable and was liked by all of us. Having just lost my own father, of similar age, on May 8, I know how important these memories are to me. Please know your father left a lasting impression on me and so many of his students. I am so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Cathy (Former student) on: May 16, 2020

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