Obituary of MERVIN EDWARD RURAK

MERVIN EDWARD RURAK September 16, 1944 – August 31, 2014 The family of Merv Rurak announces with deep sorrow his sudden passing on Sunday, August 31, 2014 at the age of 69. He leaves behind his wife Shirley of 47 years; daughters, Tammy and Shawna (Darrell) and grandchildren, Dylan, Daryl, Emalia and Lilly. Merv was born and raised in Calder, SK to parents George and Mary Rurak (nee Smandych) and his two sisters, Jean and Diane. There he attended school and worked on the family farm. He moved to Yorkton, SK to start his sheet metal trade at Hancock Plumbing and Heating receiving his Journeyman’s Status in 1965. As a young man, self-taught, he played the accordion in a band with his uncle Matt Rurak and later joining his brother-in-law’s band. During this time he met his wife Shirley and together were married in May of 1967 with two precious daughters following shortly after. The family moved to Winnipeg, MB in 1970. Merv worked with Furnasman and many times took his two daughters along to help him. In 1982, Merv built their home in Warren, MB and started his own HVAC business. His family always supported and cheered for him while he played fastball with M & R Taxes, Gardewine and lastly the Meadows Knights. When he retired from playing, he went on to coach his daughter’s team to win the Provincial A’s. Not ready to retire, Merv worked his last days at NAOD Ventilation designing and fabricating residential and commercial duct work with the skill and expertise he had perfected for over 50 years. He faithfully went in to work everyday rain or shine. Merv was an all-around handyman, not many jobs he could not do. He was always there to lend a helping hand or share his ideas. He enjoyed gardening and taking care of the yard with great pride. He enjoyed telling stories, jokes and socializing with friends and family, always the life of the party. Hunting and fishing were also his passion as he truly loved nature and the outdoors. He was extremely proud of his grandchildren. They meant the world to him filling his heart with joy. No birthdays, concerts, graduations or award days were missed. We will forever admire and appreciate all he has done for us. With a heart of gold and the very generous man that he was, he leaves so much emptiness in our hearts. We love him so much and will forever miss him dearly. Prayers will be held on Saturday, September 6 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, September 7 at 10:00 a.m. also at the Chapel.