GEORGE HESHKA

Condolences & Memories (38 entries)

• Mr. Heshka was a tireless advocate to the community not only for his passion to educate others, but for his commitment to public service. An Officer to the Order of Canada, a member of the Order of Manitoba, and someone who possessed an honourary doctorate tells you how committed Dr. Heshka was to making the largest school in Manitoba a diverse institution for pupils across Canada. - Posted by: Philip Bialk (Admirer) on: Jun 14, 2021

• Mr. Heshka was probably my favourite principle of all time. When word went out about my mothers passing in 12th grade my Animation and Graphics teachers, Mr. Leduc, Mr. Galvao and Mr. Haussler informed Mr. Heshka with also the knowledge that I was pretty poor. They decided to give me free lunches and breakfasts.... as well the teachers decided to contribute to a little bit of money for me and my Dad in need. I can't thank the teachers and Mr. Heshka more than ever for this. It hurts me so much to see his passing and I truly hope that people will remember this amazing man. - Posted by: Sasha Adlem-Robinson (Former Student) on: May 19, 2021

• My sympathies to the family and community of Sisler. How well I remember George those many years ago when he and Sister Gerry truly were comrade-in-arms. They pulled together the many organizations in the inner city to create a more unified community. They took on the city to 'save the neighbourhood' from the Sherbrook- McGregor Overpass. Groups throughout the city came in support of this important cause. We were delighted when 'we won.' The fight to move the rails, though unsuccessful, made people think. It was a pleasure to know George. His passion for life and the full development of the person was truly admirable. That we might all be as committed. Rest in peace, George. I am sure God welcomes you 'home.' - Posted by: Sister Marylyn Gibney ('admirer') on: Apr 11, 2021

• Mr. Heshka was an amazing principal I couldn’t go to my first period class which was the science on my first day of gray night and he asked me who was my teacher I said this guy was my teacher and he took me to the class for a few days he did it then I got used to all the classes and he was amazing I will never forget him I remember on my last day when me and him we’re just having a chitchat with all my friends group of friends he was legend principal. I remember seeing him in Costco and I had sweet talk with him, his conversation it made my girlfriend say that your principal was the best. I will never forget him. Legend never dies #RIP - Posted by: Jonathan (Former student) on: Apr 09, 2021

• RIP Mr. Heshka best principal. - Posted by: Jonathan (Student) on: Apr 09, 2021

• I had the privilege of teaching at Sisler from 2004 to 2012. I met some of my best lifelong friends on staff and am unbelievably proud of my former students. George was a legend. He has touched countless lives. My condolences. - Posted by: Andrea (Allen) Chalifour (former Sisler teacher) on: Apr 09, 2021

• Jon and Kris and families, we would like to send condolences on the death of your father. Your dad's first priority was always the well being of his students. He cared about their education and made sure those who needed food, eye glasses and other personal items received them, often paid for out of his pocket. He hired many Sisler grads as teachers. The accolades Sisler received were due to his support of his staff who strived for excellence for their students. May he rest in peace and his memory be a blessing to you. - Posted by: Sharon McGavock (Parent of former Sisler students) on: Apr 08, 2021

• R.I.P. Boy you were and will always be a good memory from Sisler for you. Gonna miss you - Posted by: Brenda Ruggles (Former student ) on: Apr 07, 2021

• I am saddened by the passing of George Heshka. He was my principal for more than 30 years. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to have worked with and under the leadership of Mr. Heshka. He expected dedicated professionalism, a trait that he rewarded by extending his trust and collegial confidence. He truly was the principal educator conferring with his staff individually and collectively to determine the most effective methods. George was ever learning and evolving, a visionary of sorts. It was Sisler that introduced one of the very first Visual and Performing Arts Departments in Manitoba. It was upon his suggestion that we introduced dance as a SI course, again the first in Manitoba. He later supported the conversion of our obsolete gymnasium into a stylish performing Arts centre named after the late Taras Koral (artist, designer, and educator). These are just a few of the projects that I had the fortune of working with George through their development stages. At the same time he was busy coordinating other innovations in different subject areas. He worked tirelessly, generally seven days a week, to make Sisler High School an institution of excellence. Perfection does not exist in these human forms, but George forged quite a legacy in spite of this. - Posted by: Spencer Duncanson (former colleague) on: Apr 07, 2021

• Mr Heshka was a kind and gentle soul who went out of his to guide a young naive student like myself to be the best they can be. He always made time to talk to me about life in general. I've always wondered how he always had time to talk to students and still run the biggest school in the province. My parents were also students in "his school" and have the same observations. He worked decades as the principal so it was bothersome to see that he last few days he was stressed out by the WSD HR department and their devious ways as reported in the news. Rest in Peace Mr. Heshka - Posted by: Don B. (Former student) on: Apr 07, 2021

• My sincerest condolences to Mr. Heshka’s family on his passing. I attended Sisler back in the 80’s and despite it being a “north-end” school the quality of instruction there was “exceptional”! The best math, english, sciences and even arts instructors. Our school production my graduating year was a professionally staged event which was simply astounding for a north end school. We had professionals from the Winnipeg Arts Community working directly with us and it was a once in a lifetime experience! It wouldn’t be till years later that I would realize this was entirely the work of Mr. Heshka’s professional hand at work! Although at the time it just seemed the best in the field happened to be at the school, I would learn they were there because of the amazing environment created by him in the school. The best were recruited and inspired to work at such a high level organization. I was so grateful for all the experiences!! Years later, as driving by the school I would see the footprint of the school expanding and was always surprised to read that Mr. Heshka was still at the helm propelling the school to new heights!! And would repeatedly read about amazing achievements of the students and teachers at Sisler. This kind of sincere, thoughtful dedication is almost unheard of these days. The number of lives he touched through his dedication to professionalism and integrity is to be commended and stands as an example to us all of how our sincere contribution can change the world for the better!! I know my life was one of those he changed for the better. I deeply regret that Mr. Heshka and you dear family had to endure the abuse of a collection of small-minded people who undertook the shameful and unprofessional tactics displayed by the School Division and members of staff who filed complaints against him in his last months on the job. Those actions spoke more about the staff and School Division administration involved in the shameful actions than about Mr. Heshka. Those who orchestrated this pathetic attack on a such a beautiful person at his weakest moment could learn a lot from a man dedicated to humanity and building people up everywhere he went vs. tearing others down for self-serving ends. Right to the end, Mr. Heshka’s example stands as a lesson to us all. Vichnaya Pamyat. - Posted by: Lesia Dubik (Student) on: Apr 06, 2021

• As all of Sisler, under George Heshka, I am shocked and saddened. Sisler will never be the same but certainly his legacy will live on. He really was the change he wished to see in the world as one great man urged. The comforting promise of the resurrection awaits all men in the memorial tombs. Acts 24:15 - Posted by: Barbara Lower (Employee) on: Apr 06, 2021

• I offer my sincere condolences to the family of George Heshka. His life experience and profound belief in the importance of education infused his work. The honors and accolades he received throughout his career pale in comparison to the testimony of staff, students and parents who felt supported by him as a teacher, principal and colleague. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Donald Teel (former colleague) on: Apr 06, 2021

• I very much enjoyed my time at Sisler as a student, which was the main reason I decided to become a teacher. I also knew that Sisler was where I wanted to work. Fortunately, I was brought on, and I can't imagine working anywhere else. Mr. Heshka wasn't a boss, he was a true leader. My deepest sympathies to the family. He is sorely missed. - Posted by: Brad Ocharuk (Employee and alumnus of Sisler High School) on: Apr 06, 2021

• I loved working with George. He was always supportive and I agreed completely with his philosophy of education. He was the boss! I was touched when, in 2009, he phoned me after my daughter passed away suddenly. He said that he had always been an atheist, until one day in The Bay. George said he turned around and saw his father, large as life, behind him. That call gave me so much comfort. I am truly sorry he is gone. My happiest teaching days were at Sisler. He is a legend ❤️🌈 - Posted by: Deborah Covernton (Retired Sisler teacher) on: Apr 05, 2021

• This is a sad time for this family, and all of us who knew and loved him. I first met George, as principal of Argyle School, as he already recognized the need for alternative approaches to education. I served on the committee with George and Sister Mac. in the protests to stop the Sherbrook McGregor overpass. My four children attended Sisler and I appreciated his approach education and young people. My sincere condolences to his family. Margaret Platte - Posted by: Margaret Platte (I met George when he was principal at Argyle and followed his life and career) on: Apr 05, 2021

• When I worked as a Social Worker at Mount Carmel Clinic, George and I worked on a milk program for young pregnant women. True educator. George started a program for Homeschooling families where teachers and resources were made available to our students. Such a caring person and great sense of humour. We'll meet again one day! - Posted by: Judith Andrich (Met through Mount Carmel Clinic and later Homeschooling) on: Apr 04, 2021

• My sincere condolences to Mr. Heshka's family. I am among the many parents who have appreciated and admired Mr. Heshka for many years. I met Mr. Heshka about 30 years ago when my oldest son became a Sisler High School student. My son was very excited to have made the basketball team, but his coach told him he had to have proper running shoes to be able to play without getting injured. So we went out and bought a good pair of basketball shoes, which at the time, was very difficult for us to afford. Unfortunately after having the shoes for only one practice they were stolen out of his locker. I was very upset that this had happened at the school, so I called "the principal", explaining my disappointment that this could happen in a good school and our dilemma of having to buy another pair of shoes. During my discussion with Mr. Heshka he was completely understanding of our situation and very apologetic that this happened in "his school". And in his quiet, calm voice he said, "go and buy the boy another pair of shoes and bring me the bill". This is how Mr. Heshka cared for the students and families at Sisler. I was, and still am, overwhelmed with his compassion. That was the beginning of a years long relationship of "the boy" and Mr. Heshka. That boy, Ryan, returned to Sisler High School as a volunteer basketball coach, and then as a student teacher, and eventually as one of Mr. Heshka's staff members. I am grateful that all my children were Mr. Heshka's students. - Posted by: Val Isfeld (parent of a former student) on: Apr 04, 2021

• Mr. Heshka was very kind and supportive to our Ukrainian Saturday school. He was attending our concerts in Sisler High School and was happy to see that Ukrainian cultural program functions very well. His light smile on the face will never be forgotten. We express our condolences to his relatives and colleagues. Rest in peace Mr. Heshka. - Posted by: Mariya Puhach (Director of Chytalnia Prosvita Ukrainian school at UOC of St.Mary the Protectress ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Mr Heshka did his best to keep this degenerate from failing. He spoke often of his hardships, and understood my experiences growing up. His determination in watching me succeed and graduate, was a true gift he had. Not just for me but many others. I thank him for his perseverance. He will be missed. - Posted by: Ronn S Olsen (Former student) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Rest in paradise Mr Heshka! Thank you for everything that you taught your students..You are a true definition of a leader, you have lead so many to great achievements. Thank you for always helping me out, having my best interests at heart and pushing me to find my potential. Sending my love and thoughts to all of his family and friends. Fly high 🌹🕊 - Posted by: Janelle Grouix (Former Sisler High student ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• I don’t know where to start but all I could say is that my heart will always ache of not seeing you, hearing your voice, calling me “Hey Buddy”. I will not even feel your arms around me, whenever we use to hug each other it felt like I’m in the safe place 🥺. I have made so many buddies in my life but out of all of them, you are my bestesttt buddy, my best friend, my best hugger friend. You have no idea buddy how much I am gonna miss you 😪. You have given me so much love that no other principal could give me. For me it will take time to convince myself that you will not be in this world but you will always be in my heart ❤️ I WILL NOT SAY GOODBYE TO YOU BECAUSE ONE DAY WE WILL DEFINITELY MEET AGAIN 🥺. I LOVE YOU SOO MUCH BUDDY AND I'LL MISS U DEARLY. YOURS TRULY buddy:) - Posted by: Jazzy (Best buddy ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• He was my boss and my two children’s principal. Because of Dr. Heshka and his vision and achievement at Sisler we and the whole community are proud to say we came from the North End. He will be terribly missed. We are so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Patricia Buckingham (He was my boss) on: Apr 03, 2021

• I had many dealings with George as a former football coach at Sisler and as the Commissioner of the Winnipeg High School Football league. While we did not always see eye to eye George's passion for the support of the Football Program at Sisler is only to be commended. Through his efforts to find funding George was able to field 3 teams at Sisler which allowed on average 100 kids to play. He would not allow anyone to be turned away for lack of finances. George was very proud of Sisler and especially proud of the football program. I can only say that he was a Proud Spartan. May he rest in peace. Memory Eternal - Posted by: Rick Henkewich (Friend ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Thank Mr. Heshka for being an advocate and mentor for the thousands entrusted to your care. “May songs of the angels welcome you and guide you along your way.” Kevin Smith, ‘84 - Posted by: Kevin J Smith (Former Student) on: Apr 03, 2021

• My heart breaks for George's Family and loved ones. He was so kind and patient and caring when he was my teacher. Reading about his childhood is so sad, but he showed the world that he would rise above everyone and be the best teacher anyone would ever want. The memories of him will forever live in our hearts. He is with Jesus and his angels and his loved ones who are no longer with us, Heaven has been blessed with another very special angel called George. Rest in peace our very dear friend. God bless you and your loved ones. With Love and Respect, Sylvia and Gordon Bowen. - Posted by: Sylvia and Gordon Bowen (Friends of the family and my teacher in Vita at Shevchenko School.) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Dr. Heshka knew that he saved my teaching career but more importantly he allowed me to bring my own brand of teaching and my total and real self to the task of creating leaders. I will sorely miss our many chats, his wry smile and his partnership in a few adventures. A bit of the joy of teaching has gone. Miss you very much boss. - Posted by: Greg Shedden (Teacher and Friend) on: Apr 03, 2021

• George was a client for many, many years. I enjoyed our conversations, more often than not, about life and catching up. He struck me as particularly proud of the school’s computer education programs and accomplishments. His trekking journeys were particularly interesting. I had a few laughs about the “things “ he used to do as he had a subtle sense of humour which I loved. Bye George. RIP. - Posted by: Brian Taylor (Wealth Advisor) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Mr. Heshka, was my principal from 1996-2002 In 1996 I was supposed to be a student at a different school, one my father (who know Me. Heshka from working at Sisler) did not want me to attend. After my dad having a meeting with Mr. Heshka about me attending my ninth grade year at Sisler instead of Andrew Mynarski. Mr. Heshka squeezed me into a class of all girls which made learning a bit easier for many female students who felt having boys in the classes was a distraction. I don't think I would have finished grade 12 if it wasn't for the fine teaching staff and rules the school had. All made by no one else but Mr. Heshka. He was an extraordinary person on so many ways and will be missed by so many. The world needs more people like he was. My condolences to his family as well as anyone else who had the please of meeting him Mr. Heshka RIP and thank you for all you have accomplished. With love Stormi Thompson (Sisler alumni 2002) - Posted by: Stormi Thompson (Former student at Sisler ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Great guy. You will be missed George. You always stood by me. Warm regards to George’s family. Ione. - Posted by: Ione Christopherson (Staff at Sisler and friend ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• My condolences to Dr. Heshka's family. George was my grade 11 teacher at Shevchenko High School at Vita, Manitoba. I remember George as filled with high energy and a great teacher, who was willing to discuss any subject broached by a student. Even in his first year as a teacher, I could tell he was one of the greats. Soar high sir. - Posted by: Elizabeth "Betty" Andrushko (Former student) on: Apr 03, 2021

• This is a wonderful tribute to such a celebrated man! He leaves so many very fond memories and tributes to the superb character that he was! He has given so many students a sense of direction and importance. He really is an icon in Sisler student history! - Posted by: Trima Bourgeois (Former student ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• No finer example of an ideal public servant exists than that provided by Dr. Heshka. W.B. Yeats said that "education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." The tens of thousands of such fires lit by George Heshka continue to burn, and will light future fires of their own, ensuring that his legacy can never be extinguished. All the best to those feel his still-burning fire in our daily lives. - Posted by: Collin Moskal (Teacher) on: Apr 03, 2021

• Thank you for everything; RIP. You will be forever in my thoughts and truly missed. - Posted by: Lisa Newman (McLoughlin) (Former Sisler High School Student ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• On behalf of the family of WJ Sisler, for whom Sisler High School was named in 1957, we would like to offer our salute and grateful thanks to George Heshka. It is hard to overstate the achievements of his forty years of leadership at Sisler High School. If Sisler is the largest and most accomplished high school in Manitoba, then Heshka made it so. As his obituary notes, the school today reflects his commitment to excellence, to students, and to his community. His was a career of energy, of innovation, and of public service. His was a school where diverse interests were nurtured and celebrated. Our deepest thanks to you, George, and our deepest sympathy to Jon and Kris and to the many friends, colleagues and students who mourn your loss. - Posted by: Jeff Sisler (Work Associate) on: Apr 03, 2021

• I entered Sisler 96'-99'. Mr Heshka was always so easy to talk to. I had issues with my math class I was in. So I spoke to the guidance counselor to get me out of it. He wouldn't do it. So I went and asked to speak to Mr Heshka. I got my meeting with him and told him my reason I needed out of the math class, that if I stayed in I would have failed miserably. He understood my situation it was a language barrier I couldn't understand the teacher. So he gave me permission to transfer out and into another math class. I thanked him got my letter he wrote for me and went back to my guidance counselor. About a month later he stopped me in the hall and asked how I was doing in the new class. I was transferred to and advised him I was doing much better. All he wanted to do was make sure we all succeeded. He was one extraordinary man. After I graduated I always came back to visit till I was 30 and would always make sure I went to say hello to him. Then I moved to the states. My entire family from my aunt and mom to including my nephews have all gone to Sisler. We are and still proud to call ourselves a Spartan for life. Fly peacefully now Mr Heshka. - Posted by: Alisha Dewald (Alumni ) on: Apr 03, 2021

• My condolences to George's family during this sad time. Please know that your father was truly a great man. He exercised kindness, understanding and really cared about the kids that attended Sisler very deeply. He acted unselfishly and with alot of respect when dealing with all those who attended school and treated everyone regardless of financial status and ethnicity fairly. He always took an interest in many of the activities that were taking place in the school, no matter how big or small. He disciplined when needed and showed leanancy when called for. He was truly a well rounded man who at times was a father figure to some who needed that. His door was always open and no matter who you were, you could sit and he would make time to listen. Society has lost a very admirable man who really help shape how proper education and communication between people should be in ALL educational settings, no matter the level. Thanks for having that caring mentality as it made a big difference in my future. North End Sisler Student Ursula Boehm - Posted by: Ursula Boehm (Former Sisler Spartan Student) on: Apr 03, 2021

• So very sorry to hear of Mr. Heshka’s passing. I would not have graduated high school without him. Now my sons are graduating Sisler. It was always a pleasure running into him again. He came out to every football game. I remember freezing one night at my son’s playoff football game at IGF. I turned around and there was Mr. Heshka all bundled up in a big parka! RIP Mr. Heshka you will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Angela Smith (Former student) on: Apr 03, 2021