JOHN CHALATURNYK

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOHN CHALATURNYK John Chalaturnyk, an educator for most of his 86 years, graduated from life on his birthday, September 5, 2001. He was born in Gardenton, MB the second child of Emanuil and Elizabeth Chalaturnyk. Dad married Wanda Lechowicz in 1948 and they recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Wanda; their sons, Bob (Mary Ann), Ted (Terri-Lynn), Terry (Patti) and Mark (Joan) nine grand-children, Andrew, Matthew, Robert, Nathan, Jonathan, Stephanie, Adrienne, Amber and Britny; his sisters, Mary Wachna and Anne Mushaluk; brother Martin; nieces, nephews and cousins. Dads life held many varied experiences, from working in his earlier years on the farm, mining in Flin flon and serving during the Second World War as a sub-lieutenant patrolling on various ships along the North Atlantic coast. His passion was teaching and the field of education. In a career that spanned almost 40 years, he rose through the teaching ranks to Superintendent of Schools. From a one room schoolhouse in Rackham with 72 pupils to Waskeda, Manitou, Hamiota, McCreary, Morden and Gimli. Dad had a highly developed sense of civic duty, beginning with his membership in Rotary International, serving as President of the Gimli Chapter 1991-1992. He regularly donated his rare blood type to the Red Cross, helping others in need. Retirement did not end his passionate love of education. He channelled his energies in helping to found the Retired Teachers Association of Manitoba and proudly served it as President. Many hours of his day were given over to lovingly tending his yard and garden. He delighted in pouring over seed catalogues, dreaming and planning another rich harvest and eye-filled delights. Dad loved to play the lotteries, consistently playing the same numbers, hoping to win that big jackpot and become a rich man. He was already a rich man in our eyes - rich in the legacy he left all of us - his intense love of family and his quiet dignity. He will be missed, but his legacy already lives on. The family would like to thank Dr. Chapnick for his care and understanding; Brenda Krulicki and Steve Moroz for their excellent home care. Special thanks to Carlos and Charlotte Osorio for all their help with Mom and Dad during Dads illness and for being there with Mom when she most needed a friend. Thanks also to all the neighbours and friends who have offered their help. Your kindness has been greatly appreciated. An evening service will be held on Friday, September 7 (tonight) at 7:00 p.m. in the Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Gimli. Flowers are gratefully declined. If friends or family wish, a donation may be made to a charity of ones choice in Dads memory. Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli, in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 07, 2001