Obituary of DOUGLAS RUDNICKI

DOUGLAS RUDNICKI

Surrounded by his loving family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Doug "Gigi" on November 18, 2019.

Doug is survived by his "best buddy" Eileen, of 18 years, his daughter Tara (Garry); his son Jon (Erica); granddaughters, Kyra (Cam), Daria, Ciara, Haley, Sydney and Courtney; grandson Lucas; brother John (Christine) and family; brother-in-law Bob McGill and family; and Eileen's immediate family, Kathleen (Jon), Robert, Jonah, Alexandra and Isabella.

Doug was predeceased by his wife Sharon, parents, John and Mary, and his sister Shirley McGill.

Doug was born and raised in the North End of Winnipeg, where he enjoyed playing sports through Sinclair Park and CUAC - among many other clubs, making friends that would last a lifetime. He attended Sisler High School and eventually Tec Voc where he found football and auto-mechanics. The joy and memories of his North End experiences became a part of his everyday life when Doug found himself honing his skills in the automotive industry while working beside his father at Main and Stella Auto. After shadowing for years, he established Rudnicki's Auto Service in the heart of the North End - "Where Country and City Folks Meet!" Doug found great pleasure servicing the community, interacting with his customers and enjoying the company of colleagues, suppliers and friends. Throughout his lifetime Grand Beach was his home away from home where he spent most of his weekends surrounded by his wonderful friends and family at the infamous orange cottage on 2nd Avenue. The joy and laughter of his dear friends and neighbours nourished Doug's soul. He thought of himself as an avid fisherman, despite earning the nickname "Black Magic" after returning home empty handed on more than one occasion.

Doug retired in 2006 spending his summers at the cabin and time with his grandchildren, and of course continued to consult with his contacts in the automotive industry. He was very much rooted in the Ukrainian culture, nurturing his relationships with his grandparents, aunts, uncles and numerous cousins, and taking great pride in being a family man.

The family would like to thank Dr. Rimmer, her staff, and the Oncology team at CancerCare; along with the doctors, nurses, and health care aides of 6E Family Medicine at St. Boniface Hospital. Your compassionate care will never be forgotten and we hope that Doug's wit and humour leaves a permanent smile in your hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on November 28, 2019 at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street.

Donations in Doug's name can be made to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.