FRED KOWALCHUK

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FRED KOWALCHUK Peacefully on October 22, 2004 at the age of 86 Fred Kowalchuk passed away at Victoria hospital surrounded by his family. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter Bonnie and son-in-law Oleh Gerus. Grandchildren Helene (Paul Lucko), Andrew and Roman, and precious great granddaughter Laryssa. He will be sorely missed by his sister Kay Lusk and her children David and Doreen, and their respective families. He also leaves behind his brother Bill and his family. Fred was predeceased by his wife Marie in March 2004. Fred was born on May 10th 1918, in Rainy River Ontario to parents Peter and Demmie. He spent his childhood on the family farm. At the young age of 14, he came into Winnipeg to begin his career in the family business (Western Flyer Coach Ltd.). In Winnipeg, he joined the parish of St. Marys the Protectress (Sobor). There he met his life partner Marie Kokotaylo and then married in 1940. Together they were actively involved in the life of the parish. In 1943 they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Bonnie. Freds life revolved around his family, work and the church community. In 1962, Fred and Marie were two of the founders and builders of the Veselka summer camp north of Gimli. In 1965 he started his own business, Buffalo Industries, and retired 10 years later due to his failing eyesight. As well as having a business in building and repairing busses, Fred constructed a number of homes and the family cottage at Betula Lake. Not only was the cottage a hunting and fishing getaway, but the focus of family life and a destination for friends and family gatherings. Fred was a "jack of all trades". Everything he tackled he mastered, and he leaves to his grandchildren this legacy of knowledge in problem solving. His generosity of time and effort will never be forgotten. Prayers will be held on Monday, October 25, 7:30 p.m. at Korbans funeral home. Funeral service will he held on Tuesday, October 26 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Marys the Protectress, Fr. Yaroslav Buciora officiating . In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Marys the Protectress or St. Andrews College. Vichnaya Pamyat KORBAN FUNERAL HOME 956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 24, 2004