Obituary of Victor Kowalchuk
Victor Alexander Kowalchuk
1927 – 2017
Few lived life as fully as Victor Kowalchuk. Innovator, storyteller, jokester, adventurer, sportsman, businessman, spouse, father, grand and great-grandfather. A good friend to many. He was the youngest, and only son to William and Polly (Toporowski) of Whitkow, Sk. With 6 older sisters, Victor had the best lunches, was the best dressed, and best coifed. Early in life, “Slim” was an excellent student, worked the family farm and nurtured his love of animals. As a young teen, his sense of adventure took him to work in Ontario, and then Edmonton where he assisted the company building the Namao Airport. Alas, it was the green, green grass of home in Whitkow that led him back to the love of his life, Rosie Ewanchuk. Together they built their home, their farm and their family, welcoming 4 children and many well loved pets. Here, Victor began his career in business with the Pioneer Grain Company Ltd., moving the family to Willingdon, then Winnipeg where he completed his career. It was here he achieved his life long goal of earning his pilot’s license at the age of 60. He retired to Willingdon, where he had a genuine commitment to community, serving in leadership roles of numerous organizations or committees, as counselor and mayor of Willingdon. He was humbled to learn others thought of him as a true gentleman, a man of honesty, courage with a positive nature built on integrity. Victor lit up every room, approached every stranger, had endless jokes and the best stories that were profound and infectious. He wasn’t happy until you were happy. He shared a similar gift with animals, often described as an animal whisperer. His greatest achievement was his love of family, dedication to Rose for 65.5 years, Monica (Aubrey), Wes (Denise), Bernie (Keith), Janice, 12 grandchildren/spouses, 8 great-grandchildren, with 2 additions arriving this summer. He was well loved by numerous extended relatives. He was predeceased by his parents, 6 sisters and a brother in infancy. In his last year, Victor experienced the effects of cancer with clarity, grace, dignity and humour. He had a gift of putting everyone at ease citing “I’ve run out of spare parts.” At 90, he took his final flight on May 7th and we, his family, give special thanks to Dr. John Slanina and his office staff for the amazing care and devotion.
A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, May 15, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville with Fr. Greg Faryna officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Victor’s name to an organization that supports your local community or a charity of your choice.
