Obituary of OREST LEWYCKY

OREST WILLIAM (Bill) LEWYCKY It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bill Lewycky, on Wednesday, August 1, 2012. Bill is survived by two sons, Dennis and Terry (Julie Haluszynski); three grandchildren, Samantha (Rory ffrench), Karl Kutwa, and Jenna, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his wife of 57 years Mary (2003), father Karylo (1987), mother Mary (Mazur) (1992) and sisters Vera Rabassa (2007) and Deanna (Lewy) Freed (2006). Born on April 11, 1926 in Rossdale, Manitoba, Bill worked on the family farm during the depression years, then moved to Winnipeg to attend high school and a short stint at the University of Manitoba. Living in the city’s north end Bill was involved in church and youth organizations (Sobor) while he worked as a milkman and manager of a Jewel Grocery Store. Bill married his love and life partner, Mary Eva Yuzyk in 1947. In 1950 Bill and Mary moved to Shoal Lake, Manitoba, where he became an active business and community leader in the Westman area. He was successful in local retail business and farming and contributed to community development for over 40 years. His businesses included the Red and White Shopping Centre, Kady-Lo (Curb) Farm Service and the Bumper to Bumper Hardware Store. Bill also owned and operated farms in Shoal Lake and the Olha area where he demonstrated some of the newest farming techniques and equipment. Bill was the Mayor of Shoal Lake (1980 to 1990) and a Trustee and Chair of the Birdtail River School Division (1969 to 1978). He was a Life Member of the Union of Manitoba Municipalities, a Regional Director of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce (1958-1960) and a past-President of the Liberal Party Riding Association. Bill and Mary retired and moved back to Winnipeg in 1993. Here he lived a quiet life enjoying church, community work, travel and his family. He served on the board of St. Andrews College (2001 to 2005) and was a Member of the Ukrainian Professional and Business Club of Winnipeg and Sons of the Ukrainian Pioneers (SOUP). Bill was also a Royal Arch Mason and member of Khartum Shrine Temple Provost Corps. Bill truly loved to connect with people. He was known for his friendly enthusiasm and commitment to community. He was always available for anyone in need. He gave freely of his time to family, customers and strangers. While he enjoyed his business and community, he loved his family and friends and the good times they spent together. His energy, perseverance and ingenuity was the attraction for many of us who knew and loved him. The family wishes to thank the staff of River Park Gardens for their compassion and care in making Bill’s final days so comfortable. Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 8, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., Winnipeg. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Bill’s name can be made to CancerCare Manitoba. We Love You Rest in Peace Vichnaya Pam’yat