Obituary of Walter WERBICKI

WALTER (WALLY) WERBICKI APRIL 14, 1920 - JUNE 20, 2011 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Walter, beloved father, gigi, and friend on Monday, June 20, 2011. Wally will be lovingly remembered by his children Pat, Marilyn, and Bob. His grandchildren Tricia (Kevin) and Mike (Taryn) will hold dear memories of their Gigi. Walter is survived by his brothers-in-law Adam Safian and Bob Meza, and numerous nieces and nephews. His many friends, in particular Steve, Margaret, Sophie, Olga, and Peter will cherish the happy times spent together. Wally's faithful furry friend of six years, Victor the Cat, will also miss him. Wally was predeceased by his wife Victoria of 56 years in 2005; parents Andrew and Anna; brothers Mike and Joe; and sisters Stella, Evelyn, Lena, Olga, and Mary. Walter was born in Winnipeg's north end and resided there all his life. He attended St. Nicholas and Margaret Scott Schools as a boy, and dedicated 45 years of his adult life to Canada Packers, retiring in 1985. Wally served with the Picton Highlanders for five years during World War II, being stationed in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and England. Religion was an important part of Walter's life. As a boy, he attended St. Nicholas Church with his family, and after marrying Victoria in 1948, became a faithful parishioner of Blessed Virgin Mary Church. Wally was a dedicated volunteer at both BVM and CPAC bingos, and was a member of the Ukrainian Canadian Legion, Branch 141. He was also an active member of New Horizons (BVM) and CPAC seniors' groups where he spent many enjoyable hours playing cards and bingo, travelling to casinos with Vicki, and enjoying the camaraderie of the weekly gatherings. Wally bowled in a variety of leagues for many years. His favourite pastimes included reading, playing cards (especially crib), spending time at the cottage with his family, swimming, and watching game shows and sports on TV. Walter was always a proud spectator at his grandchildren's activities. Walter's family extends their sincere gratitude to the emergency, 5E, and 4E staff at St. Boniface Hospital for Dad's care over the past three weeks. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Saturday, June 25 at 10:00 a.m, at Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, 965 Boyd Avenue, with Fr. V. Bashutskyy officiating. Service will terminate at the church. Pallbearers will be Tricia and Kevin Porter, Mike Bird, Taryn Devaney, Alex Buchko, Peter Klym, Steve Buchko (honourary) and Peter Zajac (honourary). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blessed Virgin Mary Church or the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation. Memories of you will live on in the many lives you've touched. VICHNAYA PAM'YAT