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BARRY JAMES PRESUNKA
Born: Jan 20, 1946
Date of Passing: Apr 04, 2016
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
BARRY JAMES PRESUNKA January 20, 1946 - April 4, 2016 Barry passed away peacefully on April 4, 2016, at his home, with his wife Eleanor at his side. Barry faced his illness with dignity, grace and courage. He was at peace with himself and the universe. Barry was predeceased by his son Brad; brother George Presunka; father Marvin Presunka; stepfather Adam Posyniak; brothers-in-law Hudson Lytle, and Arthur Kelm; and special aunt and uncle Mel and Stella Prokopowich. He leaves behind his wife Eleanor Kelm; mother Mary Posyniak; brothers Edward and Michael Posyniak; sister-in-law Eileen Presunka; as well as aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Barry was born in Dauphin, MB and lived most of his early years in Northern Manitoba. It was here that he developed his love of nature and solitude. After settling in Winnipeg with a career in education, he often visited the north for fishing and camping trips. He enjoyed the company of friends or Eleanor on these trips, but also appreciated the opportunity to go by himself. He called it his retreat. Most of Barry's teaching career was at Nelson McIntyre Collegiate where he taught Graphic Arts and Geography. He genuinely liked his students and helped many troubled students. Barry also spent many summers teaching in the Caribbean with O.C.O.D. Barry's hobbies included curling, fishing, golfing, and reading. He loved projects and could spend hours alone tinkering in the garage or the basement, and listening to his favourite music. Barry and Eleanor did not enjoy Manitoba winters and so travelled to many hot spots on Christmas and Spring breaks. They were fortunate to take an early retirement and enjoyed a "snow bird" lifestyle. Summers were in sunny Manitoba and winters in sunny Florida. Golfing was the main pastime. They were members of the Apollo Beach Golf Club in Apollo Beach, Florida. They also toured all parts of Florida during those 20 happy years of their lives. We all cherish the memories of the time we knew and loved Barry. His spirit will always be present in our minds and hearts. As his mother would often say, "See you on the other side". A Celebration of Life Service will be held on April 14, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 211 Kimberly Avenue. Barry and Eleanor wish to thank their family and friends who offered their thoughts and prayers during the past year of Barry's illness. Eleanor would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and support staff at CancerCare Manitoba and the W.R.H.A. Palliative Care Program for their professional and compassionate care of Barry. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, or W.R.H.A. Palliative Care Program, St. Boniface Hospital, A8024-409 Tache, Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com
Publish Date: Apr 9, 2016
BARRY JAMES PRESUNKA Peacefully, at his home, Barry James Presunka passed away on Monday, April 4, 2016 with his wife, Eleanor, by his side. Complete obituary to appear in Saturday's publication. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com
Publish Date: Apr 7, 2016

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 09, 2016
Condolences & Memories (22 entries)
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I knew him as a teacher at Nelson Mac. He was a inspiration that cared about his students. He will be sadly missed. RIP Mr.Persunka We only part to meet again - Posted by: Lisa Clark nee Domin (Former student at NMC) on: Apr 19, 2016
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We at the Golf and Sea golf course in Apollo Beach FL missed you and Barry this year. We were saddened by him passing away. May we all meet again in a better place. - Posted by: Russ and Carol Johnson (Apollo Beach Golfing friends.) on: Apr 18, 2016
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I learned from Barry as a student and teacher. Enjoyed fishing with him as a member of the sinkers fishing club, and will always remember our conversations over a cold one at the Belgium club. Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to the family. A great man. - Posted by: Ron Sugden (friend, fellow teacher, and former stutent) on: Apr 15, 2016
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My first encounter with Mr 'Zunk' was during Grade 9 graphic arts class when he denied my use of a then unknown band's emblem due to the alternate, related message that could be interpreted. That emblem and band was AC/DC ! Anyway a few years later we had a good laugh about that. Awesome teacher but more importantly, a true genuine character. With thoughts and prayers to his family, rest in peace Mr. Zunk. - Posted by: WAYNE J PILON (Former student and curling associate) on: Apr 12, 2016
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Barry was a tribute to his profession-a dedicated teacher. My condolences to his wife and family - Posted by: Alex Boyes (Colleague) on: Apr 11, 2016
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It was an honour to work with Barry. He was an exceptional teacher who genuinely loved his students. He will be missed. - Posted by: Linda Ament (Teaching Colleague at Nelson Mac) on: Apr 10, 2016
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One of the good guys who made the profession better by being in it...thanks - Posted by: B Lebar (former student) on: Apr 10, 2016
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Great teacher, always had time for his students during class and after class. I have thought about you many times since my graduation in 94. Rest in peace sir. - Posted by: Duane Clefstad (NMC former student) on: Apr 09, 2016
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Mr.Presunka was one of the most down to earth and humorous teachers I remember. He challenged his students to do better and be accountable, which was hard to take from a teenager's perspective. In hind sight he helped all of his students become better people. - Posted by: Paul Krahn (NMC student) on: Apr 09, 2016
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Great Graphic Arts teacher at NMC. I looked forward to Mr. Presunka's class. So easy going and such a kind man. R.I.P. Mr. Presunka - Posted by: Gerry Cariou (student) on: Apr 09, 2016
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My heart and prayers go out to Zunk's family. He touched many lives as a teacher. I was a troubled teen in school, his classes became an anchor that kept me in school and eventually to graduate. I attribute my photography and art skills to him as well as an appreciation of dry wit. - Posted by: Lee Werth (nee Fawcett) (student from 1984-1988) on: Apr 09, 2016
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Sympathies to Barry's family on his passing. He was a great teacher.it was great to see him at the NYC Reunions. RIP sir - Posted by: Reva Hansen ( McNaughton) (Former student at NMC) on: Apr 09, 2016
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Barry you were not only my "Favorite" teacher but became one of my closest friends growing up. From 1981 - 1983 I don't know how I would have made it without your kindness, humor & support. My condolences to the family. Rest in Peace my friend. You still hold a piece of my heart. - Posted by: Norma Oswald (Cruden) (Friend) on: Apr 09, 2016
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I was sorry to hear about Barry's passing. I first met Barry when I was 13 and he taught me and countless others the art of silk screening. In later yrs he would share a few beers and watch me shoot pool at the Belgian Club. He was one of those rare people who you always found interesting. God Rest. - Posted by: Curtis Beaudoin (Friend ) on: Apr 09, 2016
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Saddened to read of Mr. Presunka's passing. I had a lot of great times in his class in the early 80's. He was an awesome teacher!! - Posted by: WIlliam Olson (Student) on: Apr 09, 2016
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My heart sank a little when I saw this post today...Zunk was really one of the best. He inspired my love of graphic design which I use every day in my business... He will be missed... - Posted by: Lynne Bruneteau Robson ((Former student at NMC)) on: Apr 09, 2016
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My Sincerest Condolences to the Family...Zunk was adored by all his students over many Years at Nelson Mac. He certainly created a lot of successful adults due to his compassion and understanding. He will surely be missed by many. May you find peace at this incredibly difficult time, and may Zunk Rest in Peace - Posted by: Caroline Dufaul (Remillard) (Student) on: Apr 09, 2016
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My deepest condolences to Barry's family. I would like to share a quote with his family. "Barry, has not died, but merely gone away, to a better place, free of pain and suffering. We will see him again some day." Rest In Peace Mr. Presunka(name I knew him as, when attending NMC). - Posted by: Patricia Homenick (Former student at NMC) on: Apr 09, 2016
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I loved his graphic arts class! Mr. Presunka was one of my favorite teachers at NMC and I was going to enter university to do architecture school because of him (but detoured into geology instead!). Thanks for being interested in me and my career! My condolances to the family and your wife. - Posted by: Ruth K. Bezys (Former student at NMC (1980)) on: Apr 09, 2016
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I was saddened to read about Mr. Presunka's passing. I was one of the guys who hung around the Graphic Arts classroom when I had a free period. He showed me how to use the offset press and work in the darkroom. I found him to be a bit quiet but his sense of humour would appear at times. R.I.P. - Posted by: Rick Law (Former student at N.M.C.) on: Apr 08, 2016
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Eleanor.. Sorry to hear about the loss of Barry...e will be missed.. R.I.P. Zunk curling friend - Posted by: Lil Lemoine (friend) on: Apr 07, 2016
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Barry worked tirelessly with the NMC Alumni Association on our first few reunions. He had a great sense of humour & was a joy to spend time with. My condolences to his family. Christine Hallem Ward President, NMC Alumni - Posted by: Christine (Hallem) Ward (Former student at NMC) on: Apr 07, 2016

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