JOSEPH PETRYK

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JOSEPH PETRYK Joseph Petryk, age 96, died peacefully in the company of loved ones on November 22, 2000 at Holy Family Nursing Home in Winnipeg. Joseph was predeceased by his wife Katherine and though he leaves no immediate family members he will be sadly missed by close and dear friends as well as by many others in the Ukrainian community of which he was such an important part. Joseph Petryk was born April 13, 1904 in the village of Elavche in the Ternopil region of Ukraine. Like many of his countrymen before him, he immigrated to Canada in 1928 with the hope of escaping the hardships of his homeland. At first he worked under severe conditions, helping build the Trans-Canada Highway and toiling on the railroad "extra gangs". His concern for others in similar situations led him to join organizations that advanced the well-being of working and farming people. In the early 1930s he became a member of the Ukrainian Labor Farmer Temple Association (later the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians), the Workers Benevolent Association (WBA), and of the Communist Party of Canada. He dedicated his life to these organizations and the people they served. In 1941 he began working for the WBA and over the next several decades helped countless families during their times of need or bereavment. Joseph also had a fine tenor voice with which he expressed his love of Ukrainian folk songs, particularly as a member of the Winnipeg Bandurist Male Chorus. In 1964 Joseph married Katherine Yaworiwski who remained his beloved companion until her death in 1985. These were among the happiest years of Josephs life. For the past seven years Joseph had been a resident at the Holy Family Nursing Home to whose staff deep appreciation is extended for their loving care. Despite advancing years, he remained an active and cheerful participant in the Homes many activities. Until recently he also continued to sing in the Lesya Ukrainka Choir. Joseph will always be remembered as a kind and compassionate man whose life was dedicated to the service of others. His simple yet loving acts will live in our memories. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 30, 11:00 a.m., at the Ukrainian Labor Temple, 591 Pritchard Ave., with a luncheon to follow. Memorial donations can be made to the Ukrainian Labor Temple Restoration Fund or a charity of ones choice. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL, in care of arrangements, 586-8044.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 25, 2000