EUGENE KOWALENKO

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EUGENE KOWALENKO It is with profound and deep sadness we share the passing of Eugene Kowalenko, lovingly known as 'Gino', on May 26, 2017. He leaves to mourn his passing his daughters, Sylvia from Calgary and Nadine (Bill) from Winnipeg; his grandchildren: Desmond (Marla) of Winnipeg, Nicole (Bojan), Jonathan, Joshua and Stephanie, all from Calgary; great- grandchildren: Keedan, Brooke, their mother Amanda; Xandria and Mani all from Winnipeg; Nikola, Mikaila and Maja from Calgary; his sister Nadia from France and her children; nephews: Nick and Chris, niece Marina and their families from Ontario. He was predeceased by his parents; sister Sophie; brother-in-law Pierre from France, brother Nicholas and sister-in-law Peggy from Ontario, and his daughters' mother, Esther from Winnipeg. Eugene was born in March 22, 1929 in Kiev, Ukraine. He moved to France as a child. In 1954, Eugene made his way to Canada on the Atlantic ship, arriving in Montreal. Eventually he made his way west arriving in Manitoba where he made his home. Eugene worked for C.N. Rail for 30 years. Eugene lived an independent and wonderful life that involved almost daily interaction with his family, especially his grandson Desmond who Gino lovingly referred to as his best friend and his brother. In 2011, as a result from a fall, Eugene's life changed dramatically. The family sincerely thanks Dr. Michael Johnson who operated on Eugene and who commented on the unwavering love of his great-grandchildren, Keedan and Brooke, who visited daily and also read books to their grandpa while he remained in ICU. We thank Sylvia and Nick for rushing to Winnipeg after his fall. Eugene very much appreciated everyone's support. Eugene was transferred shortly thereafter to Riverview Health Centre, 3 West for rehab. We thank this wonderful team. When discharged, his grandson Desmond chose to take his grandpa in and care for him. The deep bond that Gino had instilled with his oldest grandchild remained, with Desmond now caring for his grandpa. Desmond and his family, which later grew to include Marla, her children and the family pup, Ella took loving care of him. Gino sincerely appreciated this act of love and deep commitment. As young as Keedan and Brooke were, they were so devoted to their grandpa and cared for him with love and compassion that was immeasurable. Eugene was thankful for their love and their care. Eugene was never left out and was included in family gatherings by Bill's family and dear friends, Bev, Colleen and Val. Eugene was also present for special events and went on many trips with family into the US enjoying shopping trips or hockey tournaments. He loved being included in everything. Eugene was happy to see his grandchildren from Calgary when they were able to visit. They had a special place in his heart despite the distance. He enjoyed seeing Stephanie and Sylvia who also visited earlier this year for his birthday. Eugene was a client of Prime and the family want to acknowledge the wonderful care given to him by the Prime team. We wish to acknowledge Paula and Dr. Alback for going above and beyond. We also wish to say a big thank you to his home care workers; your kindness will always be remembered. To the Palliative Care program team, thank you for helping us keep our loved one home. To Dr. J. Wong and nurse Monique; thank you so much. A very special thank you to Fr. Eugene Maximiuk for all your support. A special thank you to Bill for your love and commitment to Eugene and your care and presence especially during the final weeks of his life. Eugene was cared for by family up until his passing. A private service has taken place. Gino you were so loved! News of your passing was devastating yet it could not be contained, and comments of sadness and condolences were texted and posted so quickly on social media that we were challenged to reach everyone personally. Dad, this was a loving reflection of you. You were so loved by so many and therefore news of you could never be contained; you were too special. We know we were your entire life and we hope we conveyed to you that you were our everything as well! You gave so selflessly to all of us and we thank you. We can talk about you forever. Rest in peace our beautiful Gino. We will miss you and we will love you forever. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 03, 2017