WALTER JOHN SAWCHUK (WALLY)

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WALTER JOHN SAWCHUK (WALLY) July 7, 1935 - August 8, 2002 After a short but courageous battle with cancer, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, left to be with his Lord, August 8, 2002. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Evelyn of 41 years; daughters, Sandra (Phillip) Sherman of Edmonton, Tracy (Chris Miller) of Winnipeg, Leanne of Halifax; son Robert (Gretchen) of Heidelberg, Germany; two grandchildren, Zoe and Dylan Sherman of Edmonton; two sisters, Shirley Hartog and Alice Pagee (Jack) brother Alex Sawchuk. Also left are numerous uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. Wally was predeceased by his father John Ilko (1988) and mother Mathilda (2001). Wally started his life in Eriksdale, growing as a boy in Lundar, MB with his family. He later relocated to Winnipeg, where he started a long and dedicated career within the optical business. For 34 years he worked at American Optical, where he made many lifelong friends. As a manager for many years, he was respected and known as "one of the guys" among all the people he worked with. A generous and caring man, Wally touched all that he came in contact with. Wally always liked to work with his hands. From a shed in the backyard, to a Santa sleigh on the roof, his work gave him and others much pleasure. A football game or a game of cards were always on the priority list for leisure time. Above all, Wally cherished his family. He was so proud of his children, and it showed when he spoke of each of them. After a stroke in 1997, Wally revisited his life with energy and vitality. Often seen walking miles a day, his spirit was inspiring. Everyone on his routes knew him, as he would always stop to share a word and a smile. Wally also had a passion for challenging puzzles, proudly displaying his seemingly impossible works for family and friends. Wally was overjoyed to see two of his children married, Sandra, (1994), and most recently, his son Robert (2002), in Charlotte, North Carolina. As Best Man for Robert, his eyes shone with pride standing at the front of the congregation. A very heart warmed thank you to the staff on the 3rd floor at the Grace Hospital. Your kindness and dedication to comfort made Wallys transition a peaceful one. He constantly praised your work and efforts, as do his family. Angels do indeed work during thunderstorms. Congratulations to all that knew Wally. His spirit will live within us forever. Funeral service will be held on Monday, August 12 at 3:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 10, 2002