Obituary of DOUG   SYWAKE  

DOUG SYWAKE         

May 8, 1947 – March 15, 2018

A story of a life lived fully began on May 8, 1947 and continued to the next chapter on March 15, 2018.  With his family by his side Douglas James Sywake passed away at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba. 

Doug is survived by his daughters Alana (Craig) Baranyk and Robin (Paul) Allen.  “The Boys” Adam Baranyk and Daniel Allen, and “The Girls” Julia Baranyk and Olivia Allen were Doug’s grandchildren, and his absolute pride and joy. He was a doting Poppa who encouraged his grandchildren’s endeavors with unconditional love and support.  Doug’s ever-present humor, creative artistic talent, love of music and dancing, the ability to be an entertaining storyteller and a quiet, steady presence, lives on through his grandchildren. 

Doug was predeceased by his parents Rose (née Prettie) and Victor Sywake.  Left to mourn Doug’s passing is his dear brother Ken (Lynda) Sywake, nephews Scott (Kathy, Matthew and Kaitlyn) and Todd (Erin, Emma, and Abby), younger brother Gary, niece Brittany Jay and great nephew Cameron, his sister Lois Taylor, niece Carissa Taylor and nephew Jordan Young.

Doug grew up in the West End and eventually moved to Garden City, attending Jefferson Junior High and then Garden City Collegiate.  His working career began in the family business, West End Plumbing and Heating, and in 1980 Doug embarked upon a lengthy career with the City of Winnipeg.  At the time of his retirement in August 2015 Doug was working as a Technical Support Officer.  Involvement with the Arson Task Force, as well as a year working with the United Way (in particular the Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg) were among the experiences at the City of Winnipeg Doug recalled as highlights.  More than the job it was the friendships he made, and the people he met throughout his time at the City that Doug truly valued.   Doug shared many tales of time spent in (and out) of Garden City High School with a large group of friends, and many of those friendships endured through the years. 

A constant presence in the life story of Doug was his childhood friend Gary Hrehorak. Gary, his wife Carole and sons Bryce (Corina and Maya)  and Kyle (Shannon and Norman) were extended family to Doug.  Tales of annual fishing trips held a special place in Doug’s memories and up until his passing Gary and Doug kept their weekly lunch dates going, both men a testament to the enduring nature of true friendship. 

 A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 23, at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., Winnipeg, MB, with lunch to immediately follow. It was Doug’s wish that those he had shared a laugh, a story, or a memory with join us for some good food, good music and share in laughter and love. Alana and Robin would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. George and the staff of the 5th Floor Grace Hospital for Dad’s care - the kindness, respect and compassion you extended to our father and family is truly appreciated. 

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg.