JIM KABALUK

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JIM KABALUK

In the early hours of March 15, 2026, our dear dad, Jim Kabaluk died. He waited to spend his final moments with us and passed away as he lived - Gently.

Jim was born in 1935 on a farm near Lac du Bonnet, MB. He was predeceased by his wife Anne and son-in-law Kevin Tell; and survived by his son Todd; daughter Donna; and grandchildren, Nicholas and Madeleine, and Dorie – a devoted helper who became like family.

In both his professional and personal life, Dad identified as a railroader. In his late teens he was a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse, but the railroad became his chosen career, starting out as a relief CP Rail station agent and travelling to small towns in Manitoba and Ontario. In that role he became an accomplished telegrapher, communicating by dots and dashes at work and in weekly transmissions from home as a member of the Morse Club. Early in his career, he rode the rails in the last days of the steam engine and caboose. The majority of his career was spent in Regina, and due to his work ethic, savvy, and dedication he advanced to become Regional Manager of CP Rail Intermodal Services, working out of Winnipeg.

In retirement he was dedicated to caring for our mom, Anne, who survived and thrived while managing multiple myeloma. He relished the love shared with his grandchildren who could do no wrong. Dad was a gentle and kind soul with a ready smile and was liked by everyone. He was also playful and fun loving – our parents loved a good party. In the family he was an emotional and moral anchor who took us to hockey, figure skating, and all of our other sports no matter the hour, and would always be standing on the sidelines watching. He set a good example cleaning the house and cooking. He donated blood regularly. For a number of years he was a Freemason and we saw how it helped him express his faith and sense of service.

In 2010 Dad suffered a near-fatal aneurysm but with support he continued to enjoy day-to-day and family life. His own rich inner life seemed to serve him well in his solitude after the passing of our mom. Before Dad died, we considered that his waiting for us wasn’t just for him, but to give us a bit more time to love him. That was his gentle generosity. It was similarly expressed at the end of his speech to the guests who attended his retirement party where his words were “Thank-you for being who you are”. Dad, thank-you for being who you were.

A private service was held.

Family and friends are invited to leave tributes at www.reginafuneralhome.ca



Arrangements entrusted to:

Regina Funeral Home and Cemetery

(306) 789-8850

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 28, 2026