JOHN PAPIERNIK

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JOHN PAPIERNIK We sadly announce the passing of our father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend on Monday, April 29, 2002. Suffering from both congenital health challenges and more severe afflictions in recent years, he died peacefully in his sleep. He will be missed by his loving daughter Barbara (and husband Bob) Strong, who took care of him throughout his illness, and by his precious son Bob. He leaves behind grand-children, Caralee Doerksen (Glenn, Connor and Paige), Karin Strong (Jim Harper and Megan), Kevin Strong (Tina, Briana and Dante), Kirsten Quiring (Montana), and Keith Strong. Recognized as a self-taught expert in both plants and birds (particularly miniatures), John published a number of manuscripts on these topics. For many years, he operated World Avifauna, an organization brokering links between suppliers and buyers of exotic animals - primarily zoological societies. An ardent gardener, he grew bumper crops of corn, tomatoes, peas and beans each year. John spent his entire adult life working for the MLCC, retiring in 1981. He was born in Winnipeg, MB in 1915 to Franciszka (Frank) and Karolina Papiernik (nee Guliewicz), and was a proud life-long Winnipeg resident. He was the last surviving member of his family, having been predeceased by his parents, and siblings Anthony and Maria (Mary). He never recovered from the loss of his Precious Angel - Clara, wife of 61 years last September. Viewing at Knysh Funeral Chapel from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 3. Family graveside service Saturday, May 4. Clara left the following words for her dear husband: "You lived your life for those you loved, and those you loved will remember. ... Til we meet again!"

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 02, 2002