Obituary of MELVIN AMELIAN RUSIECKI

MELVIN (AMELIAN) RUSIECKI

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Melvin Rusiecki on February 16, 2019 at the age of 81 years old.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 58 years Kaisu (Kathy), son Peter (Debi), daughter Maria Hall (Don) and grandchildren Geoff, Amy, Lauren (James) and Annie.  He is also survived by his sister Sonia Burdz and brother-in-law Esko (Tytti) and well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Melvin was predeceased by his parents Maria and Nicholi, brothers Lawrence and Valentin, as well as his sister Zina (John), sisters-in-law Elsi (Wolgang), Helvi (Elnar) and brother-in-law John Burdz.

Born in Soliesie, Belarus in 1937 Melvin immigrated to Winnipeg with his family as a young boy. In 1960, Melvin married his love Kaisu and started his family in the west end. Melvin worked hard to support his family as a conductor with CN where he worked until he retired in 1989.

Retirement was the start of a new chapter for Mel as it allowed him time for his many passions. Melvin found much fulfillment in his charitable works with Holy Trinity Church, Holy Family Home, helping newcomers and anyone in need. His greatest joys were his family and grandchildren. Melvin was a devout person who loved to sing in the choir and work in his garden. He found great peace in nature. Melvin remained active with the union after he retired and could be found working out in the CN gym or having coffee with his friends at St. Vital Mall. Mel was always there to lend a hand to those in need and has touched many lives with his kindness and caring.

In the last few years, Melvin experienced a variety of health challenges but always the fighter he seemed to embrace these difficulties and come out stronger; until the end he demonstrated his strength and strong faith. We know that he is at peace now and can rest in God’s embrace.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and nursing staff at the Grace Hospital for their care and compassion.

Melvin’s Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 23 at 9:30 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Interment to follow in Brookside Cemetery, 3001 Notre Dame Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, which are respectfully declined, donations can be made to Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral, 643 Manitoba Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2W 2H1.

Now you drive the train to heaven

You saw it in your dream

It didn’t run on diesel

It didn’t run on steam

The power came from heaven

It made the engine strong

Your helper was an angel

So nothing could go wrong

We hope the Great Trainmaster

Will keep you on this run

To take more souls to Heaven

When earthly chores are done

My friends you can believe me

This is a busy line

And it keeps running

Until the end of time

(adapted from J.J. Doiron Sr.)