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MELVIN (AMELIAN) RUSIECKI
Date of Passing: Feb 16, 2019
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMELVIN (AMELIAN) RUSIECKI It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Melvin Rusiecki on February 16, 2019 at the age of 81 years old. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 58 years, Kaisu (Kathy), son Peter (Debi), daughter Maria Hall (Don), and grandchildren, Geoff, Amy, Lauren (James) and Annie. He is also survived by his sister Sonia Burdz, and brother-in-law Esko (Tytti), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Melvin was predeceased by his parents, Maria and Nicholi, brothers, Lawrence and Valentin, as well as his sister Zina (John), sisters-in-law, Elsi (Wolgang), Helvi (Einar), and brother-in-law John Burdz. Born in Soliesie, Belarus in 1937 Melvin immigrated to Winnipeg with his family as a young boy. In 1960, Melvin married his love, Kaisu, and started his family in the West End. Melvin worked hard to support his family as a conductor with C.N. where he worked until he retired in 1989. Retirement was the start of a new chapter for Mel as it allowed him time for his many passions. Melvin found much fulfilment in his charitable works with Holy Trinity Church, Holy Family Home, helping newcomers and anyone in need. His greatest joys were his family and grandchildren. Melvin was a devout person who loved to sing in the choir and work in his garden. He found great peace in nature. Melvin remained active with the union after he retired and could be found working out in the C.N. gym or having coffee with his friends at St. Vital Mall. Mel was always there to lend a hand to those in need and has touched many lives with his kindness and caring. In the last few years, Melvin experienced a variety of health challenges but always the fighter he seemed to embrace these difficulties and come out stronger; until the end he demonstrated his strength and strong faith. We know that he is at peace now and can rest in God's embrace. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and nursing staff at the Grace Hospital for their care and compassion. Melvin's funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 23 at 9:30 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Interment to follow in Brookside Cemetery, 3001 Notre Dame Avenue. In lieu of flowers, which are respectfully declined, donations can be made to Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral, 643 Manitoba Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2W 2H1.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2019
Condolences & Memories (21 entries)
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Our deepest sympathies to the family of "Mel". Since we met Mel we knew he was going to be a special and unique neighbour. Ever willing to lend a hand and or give advice on how to fix a situation. Mel's love for others transcended race, color and creed. Mel always "knew a guy" who "knew a guy" who could repair something. We will miss our chats in the back lane and seeing you in your summer garden. Fair well pleasant neighbor and we will check in on Cathy. Your friends across the fence with love. - Posted by: Ian&Jackie&Tiandra&Jaquayne (Friends across the fence) on: Apr 19, 2019
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Condolences to the family on the loss of Mel. He will be missed from the Pensioners Association meetings and events. - Posted by: Kevin and Linda Schram (Pensioner Association) on: Feb 24, 2019
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My condolences to the family. So sorry for this tremendous loss my heat and prayers go out to you all. - Posted by: Sharon Cory (Friend) on: Feb 23, 2019
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Mel saw only the good in people. His concern for friends and co-workers is unrivaled as all who have spent time in hospital will agree. So long Mel. - Posted by: Ron Kramble (Co-worker and friend) on: Feb 23, 2019
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Mel was a tremendous human being. Nothing Mel did was for Mel’s gain. Mel did things because it was the right thing to do. Many of us truly benefited from Mel’s wisdom, patience and care, Mel was always there to provide whatever he could to make the things better for people. The last time I saw Mel was a few years ago and he was doing outreach work for the pensioners at CN that needed support. He did that all his working life and continued it on throughout retirement. I’m privileged and honoured to have learned and been taught by Mel. He made me a better person for it. We will miss you Mel but we carry a piece of you with us every time we help someone in need. Thank you Mel. - Posted by: Mike Cory (Fellow worker at CN) on: Feb 22, 2019
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Our condolences to the entire family. Mel was our true friend for many, many years. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Kowalenko family (Friends) on: Feb 22, 2019
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Sorry to hear of Mel’s passing. Always brought a smile to my face when I saw Mel was on the crew. Lots of good memories. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Phil Killeen (Co-worker ) on: Feb 22, 2019
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Kathy, it is with great sadness that I share the sorrow of your loss. To you and your family I extend my warmest and sincere sympathy during this difficult time. I was honoured to know Mel and proud of our friendship. May your memories bring you comfort in knowing that Mel will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Elmer Pawliuk (Friend) on: Feb 22, 2019
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Mel was a gentleman who never spoke ill of anyone, and was a true mentor to those he trained and worked with. He made the lives of many people more enjoyable. A good human being, and will be missed and remembered. - Posted by: Bob Nelson (Co-Worker, Friend) on: Feb 22, 2019
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Our sympathy goes out to you Kathy & family. Mel was a true and loyal gentleman. We can honestly say we have never come across a man like him. He was one of a kind. We have lost a dear friend. Mel loved coming for coffee with the boys at St. Vital Mall and talking Railroad. We all liked how Mel had time for everyone who came along and joined us and had nothing but good things to say about all of them. He was so very proud of his family. Rest in peace our friend. How we will miss you. - Posted by: Bob & Pat Hague (Co-worker & friends) on: Feb 21, 2019
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My sincere condolences to all of you on your loss . Mel was a compassionate, genuine gentleman. I was the recipient of one of Mel’s visits ..fruit basket in hand ..when I was just out of hospital . It was so great to see him . All of us who worked with him will miss him . Ron DeWit - Posted by: Ron DeWit (Friend and co worker ) on: Feb 21, 2019
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To me Mel was the most easy going, friendly person you could ever meet. I had some good times & fine memories working with one of best CN conductors of all times. I will really miss Mel at the gym were we talked about old times and had really good laughs. He was one of a kind . 🚂 Douglas Charban - Posted by: Douglas Charban (Friend & coworker) on: Feb 21, 2019
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My deepest condolences to the family and friends and wishing you strength in these difficult times. We met while I trained as a new brakeman. He took time to teach me the job and that I was part of a family of railroaders. I remember him saying that we take care of one another. Over the years I found just how genuine he was in that regard. I never knew Mel to speak of himself very much but he always wanted to know how others were doing. Seeing Mel at union meeting was always a pleasure knowing that he was there for the members in distress. He will always be in the hearts and memories of all that knew him and will be remembered for the comfort and compassion that he had for others. I'm priviledged to have known him. - Posted by: Bruce Seman (Co-Worker) on: Feb 21, 2019
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We were saddened to hear of the recent passing of Mel and wish to extend our deepest sympathies to his Family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Herb Magura (Co-Worker) on: Feb 21, 2019
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Like many others I worked with Melvin for several years, both with the Union and at CN. Bill Hoole said it all in his comments (above). Mel was one of the most generous persons I have ever met. He always had time and patience for everyone. Our sincere condolences to Kathy and the rest of Melvin's family. He will be missed. Rita and Barry Henry - Posted by: Barry Henry (Friend and Union Brother) on: Feb 21, 2019
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Condolences to the family, sad news Peter as you know your dad was loved by all the rails. He was an awesome guy always ready to help, going to be greatly missed. R.I.P. Mel - Posted by: Nigel Wyer (Co-worker) on: Feb 21, 2019
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Mel was loved by all his co-workers: it has been said by all that he never once rose to anger and he exemplified the sentiment ' what is most worth doing is what we do for others." He was a saint. - Posted by: William Hoole (Comrade) on: Feb 21, 2019
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With deepest condolences to the family, Mel was always a pleasure to work with, he never complained about any one or any of the work load, which made the job easier. After retirement it was always nice to run into him, he always had time for a friendly chat. He will be missed by his co-workers and his many friends. Our loss, heavens gain. Earl - Posted by: Earl Martin (Friend) on: Feb 21, 2019
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Kathy, our deepest sympathy on the passing of your husband, Melvin. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Virginia & Walter Woronowski - Posted by: Virginia & Walter Woronowski (Friends) on: Feb 21, 2019
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Mel and my Dad were great friends and I worked with him for 25 years. He will be missed by all the rails. Luv you bud. KEN KLUMP - Posted by: Ken Klump (Family Friend) on: Feb 21, 2019
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My sincere condolences to the family. Have very fond memories of Mel. He was a true gentleman.🙏🙏 - Posted by: LeRoy Fox (Co-worker, Friend) on: Feb 21, 2019