JOHN HERBUS

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOHN HERBUS After a brief and courageous struggle, on Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at the age of 86 years, John Herbus gave up his mortal life and passed into the arms of his Holy Lord. Left to mourn his passing and cherish his memory are his wife of 56 years, Stefania; his daughter and son-in-law, Joan (Janina) and Ron Osachuk, grandson Andrew, granddaughter Wendy Toews and most cherished great-grandson, Matthew. John was born in Makoszyn, Kielce, Poland on December 16, 1914, the youngest son of Philip and Agnes Herbus. His early years were spent on the family farm. He was serving in the Polish Military Forces when the Second World War broke out in September 1939 and was transported as a POW to a labour camp in Germany for several years. While in Germany, he met and married Stefania. After peace was declared, John and Stefania made a difficult and momentous decision to cross an ocean and begin a new life in Canada. In June 1948, accompanied by his wife and daughter, John arrived in Winnipeg, where he stayed for the next 52 years. John worked for the Canadian National Railway for 31 years until he retired in 1979. In retirement, his days were spent enjoying the company of his grandchildren, watching as they grew into young adults; he tended his flowerbeds and vegetable garden diligently and visited his birthplace, Poland and was reunited with his brothers and sister from whom he had been separated many years. When his mobility became restricted, John stayed closer to home. In recent months, his greatest pleasure was to spend time with his great-grandson Matthew. John is survived by his brother Walter and numerous nieces and nephews, all residing in Poland. Special thanks go to Dr. D. Tsang, the nursing staff of Unit 5, 3rd floor and medical staff of Seven Oaks Hospital, for their care and efforts. Viewing will take place on Friday, April 6, at 10:30 a.m. in St. John Cantius Roman Catholic Church, 846 Burrows Avenue. Mass of Christian Burial will follow immediately at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Fr. Henryk Uczniak officiating. Services will terminate at the church. Wieczny odpoczynek racz mu dac, Panie. Flowers gratefully declined. If friends so desire, a contribution can be made in Johns memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL, in care of arrangements - 586-8044.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 05, 2001