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WILLIAM (BILL) KOLAFA
Born: Feb 17, 1949
Date of Passing: Oct 28, 2020
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WILLIAM (BILL) KOLAFA
Bill was born William Emmanuel Kolafa February 17, 1949 in Calgary, AB. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 31 years, Darlene (nee Klem), his brother Jack (Barbara) Kolafa, his brother-in-law Stephen (Carol) Klem, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Bill was hired by StandardAero October 1971 and held various positions. He retired in October 2013 but continued to work "under contract" until January 2015. Many lifelong friendships were made through his travels, training courses and years at StandardAero.
Bill's passions included travel, woodworking, photography, calligraphy, stargazing, cars, artwork and listening to Gaither's music. He loved Christmas and everything about it, feeding the birds and squirrels and setting up a fairy garden for the neighbour's children. He enjoyed collecting aviation memorabilia, vintage tools and toys, children's books, and pieces of wood, because "you never know when you might need it." With all his collections, Darlene always told Bill that at the end of his obit she would have "Garage Sale to Follow".
W. Bro. Bill Kolafa joined Freemasons in 1989 and was a Past Master of Cornerstone #179, and an active member of Templum Sion #186. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion #4 since 1986.
Special thank you to Dr. Vanderhooft who was immensely helpful and a great comfort to Darlene. Also thank you to 3 East Palliative Care Unit at Riverview.
Bill will be remembered for his kind heart, gentle spirit and his enormous generosity and compassion.
The last couple of years Bill left the driving up to Darlene and he loved to go for a car ride. With his unforgettable sense of humour, he would say, I'm like a dog "Car Ride?"
Bill you have taken your final ride but you will always be with me in my heart. Love You Lots!
Cremation has taken place and a service will be held at a later date.
Friends and family are invited to leave condolences and share memories by visiting Bill's memorial page at seasonsfunerals.ca
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 07, 2020
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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The day we lost Uncle Bill, was the day our daughter Runa was born. Many happy memories growing up and later as a young adult discussing views at 'Light' dinners. Although we are stuck across the border in ND, our thoughts and love are with you Darlene & family. - Posted by: Lindsey & Matt Johnson (family) on: Feb 16, 2021
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I met Bill when we worked together in the Turboprops business unit at StandardAero. I appreciated his friendliness and good advice and was sorry to hear of his passing. To Darlene and family: So sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Jim (Co-Worker) on: Nov 10, 2020
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Thinking of you Darlene during this difficult time for the loss of Bill ! He was such a great guy , very quiet ! So grateful that we met in Mesa and stayed friends ! Stay strong ! Our deepest sympathy ! Sending you hugs 🤗 Elaine , Doris & Claire ( friends) - Posted by: Elaine Gosselin (Friend ) on: Nov 09, 2020
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Dear Darlene Thinking of you at this very sad time. Sincerely Jack and Heather Carmichael - Posted by: Jack and Heather Carmichael (Friend) on: Nov 07, 2020
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Sorry to hear about your loss Darlene. Knew Bill for many years from his time at Standard Aero. Bill will always be remembered as a great person and teacher. - Posted by: Ken Schindel (Work friend ) on: Nov 07, 2020
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