MICHAEL TOMKEWICH

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MICHAEL TOMKEWICH 1916 - 2012 Peacefully, on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at the Victoria General Hospital, Michael passed away at the age of 95 years. Mr. T. , as he was known by many, was born in Winnipeg, grew up in the Brookland's area, attending Cecil Rhodes's and graduated from Daniel Mc Intyre Collegiate. He played an active role in the Brooklands Ukrainian Athletic Club (B.U.A.C.), where he met and acquired many lifelong friends. With the onset of the Second World War, Dad enlisted with the Essex Scottish Regiment in Windsor Ontario. He went on to proudly serve Canada overseas, where the regiment was among the first Canadian units to see combat in the European theatre during the invasion of Dieppe. Wounded near Hochwald Forest, Germany in 1945, he returned to Halifax, NS via the hospital ship SS Littia, where he was hospitalized in London Ontario, until his release in 1948. Shortly thereafter, he returned to Winnipeg pursuing his education at the Angus School of Commerce, married Mary Zadorozny in June of 1955 and became an active member of the Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church. Upon completion, his career began with the federal government where he attained a variety of positions within numerous government departments. After retiring in 1979, after 29 years with the Department of Veteran's Affairs (D.V.A.), he took on the role of C.F.O. (1991-2002) with the family oriented business 40 Channels Communications. He always enjoyed meeting and talking with people everywhere he went, whether it be at the shop , the bank, the dentist's office, or the coffee shop at Grant Park Shopping Mall. Although his health had deteriorated over the years, his love and dedication of 47 years for his wife Mary, never prevented him from being a caregiver for her in their home until her passing in 2002. He was predeceased by his mother Anna, father Nykola and sisters Nellie, Anne, Mary and Kathleen.He is survived by his son Michael, granddaughter Natasha and grandson Jeston. In keeping with Dad's wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private interment for family and friends will be held to celebrate his life. (tomkewich@gmail.com). A special thank you is extended to all the wonderful people who have attended to my father, including Meals on Wheels, neighbours, Home Care, Department of Veteran's Affairs, Dr. Janet Trajano and the entire Victoria General Hospital 4th Floor staff to name but a few, who have all provided exceptional care and support. Judy, Bob, Nancy, Barb, Christine, Pam and Larry.....your kindness, thoughtfulness and support will always be forever appreciated. If friends so wish, donations may be made in Michael's memory to the Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Avenue, R3A 1P6, or to the charity of their choice. Dad, we miss you and will always love you dearly. You touched our hearts, and we are all better people for that . NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE (204) 949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 28, 2012