WALTER KUCHARCZYK

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WALTER KUCHARCZYK November 9, 1921 - February 28, 2003 Walter was born in Eastern Poland in 1921, imprisoned in a Soviet labour camp, served in the Polish Corps of the British 8th Army in a number of venues including Monte Casino, and arrived in Canada in 1947, designated stateless. The horrid memories and the nightmares of his past never left him, even until the last few days of his life. Upon imprisonment in the camps of Siberia, as a teenager, Walter left behind his mother Nadezhda, whom he never saw again. His father Ignacys imprisonment and service during the war years parallelled Walters and they were together in Canada. Ignacy is buried in the Field of Honour at Brookside Cemetery. In Winnipeg, Walter met and married Jean Hatmanenko in June 1950. Just 16 months short of their 50th wedding anniversary, Jean died in February 1999. Jean had been a rock for Walter. As well as maintaining their home life, she helped him in his business. They doted on their daughter Connie who now survives them both, owing them an immense debt of gratitude. Walter began his career in the oil industry in Manitoba as a land agent in 1949. In 1996, he was inducted into the Manitoba Oil Museum Hall of Fame "for his outstanding contribution to the petroleum industry of Manitoba". In the short accompanying bio it states that "Walter has more than anyone, been an advocate for the oil industry in Manitoba. He has provided guidance to oil companies, land owners and politicians. Walter who has been referred to as the conscience of the legislative assembly has personally known every Premier of Manitoba since Duff Roblin." Walter enjoyed many years of sitting in the Speakers Gallery of the Manitoba Legislature, following the proceedings, especially during question period. He attended countless committees and appeared before a number, speaking at length with no notes. He learned a lot and contributed a lot. One of his many favourite quotes, which he if fact lived by, was the variously ascribed, "ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country". He was awarded the Canada 125 Medal. Walter acted for some years as an international trade consultant, engaging in both economic and cultural trade between East and West, attempting to increase positive relations when they were so very low. In the 50s, Walter and Jean built the family cottage in Falcon Lake. Walter would spend months at a time there alone, if need be. He also contributed to the well being of the community there. That was his favourite place, quiet, solitude, nature, animals. He had a deep love for animals both wild and the family pets. His assigned horse in Siberia saved his life. Walter was a generous man. Many owe him a great deal. One his particular concerns was the care and treatment of the mentally ill. He had been a board member of the Manitoba Mental Health Research Foundation. Why should so many suffer so much? Walter was a grand man and a humble man. He was brilliant, a man of vision, and carried with him a wealth of knowledge he was willing to share. He was asked by leaders of government and industry for his opinions and advice. He would also watch for the garbage collectors in the morning to make sure he met the men and acknowledged their work. Walter was for the "underdog". He was not politically biased, respecting the worthwhile wherever it was found. He was, by circumstances, self-taught, capable, productive, and a good provider for his family. Walter was ethical to a fault. He loved a challenge and would pursue it to the end. Walter was all these things while seeing himself as the "underdog", all the while fighting his own battles that would not be won. Besides his beloved daughter Connie; Walter leaves behind his in-laws, Willie and Valya, Leda, and their daughters, Valerie, Elizabeth, Larisa and Andrea. Walter, named Vladimir as he was born, will be buried according to the rites of the Orthodox Church, the traditional faith of his family. Prayers were held on Thursday, March 6 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Funeral service was held on Friday, March 7 at 1:00 p.m., also at the Chapel. Interment will follow in Brookside Cemetery. If friends are able, Walter would have appreciated their donation to a worthy charity. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 08, 2003