Obituary of KAZIMIERZ (KASMIER) LOBCHUK

KAZIMIERZ (KASMIER) LOBCHUK

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kazimierz (Kasmier) Lobchuk, a remarkable man whose life was a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering faith. Kazimierz was born on July 20, 1930, in Peratyn, Poland, to Wiktoria and Tomasz Lobczuk, and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 21, 2024, just weeks after the loss of his beloved wife, Annie, in April 2024.

Kasmier's early life was marked by unimaginable hardship. During World War II, he and his mother,  Wiktoria,  along with his brother Chester and sister Mary  Rowinski endured the horrors of the Dachau concentration camp before being deported to Friedulfing, Germany, in 1944, where they were subjected to forced labour. Despite these traumatic experiences, Kazimierz emerged with a strength of spirit that would define the rest of his life.

In May 1949, Kasmier immigrated to Canada, seeking a new beginning. He started his new life working for Queen Anne Upholstery, demonstrating the determination and work ethic that would become hallmarks of his character. On July 18, 1953, Kasmier married the love of his life, Annie Lobchuk. Together, they celebrated 70 wonderful years of marriage, raising five devoted children: Hedy (Kenny d. 2022), Lucy (Mike d. 2019), Barbara, Tony (Michelle), and Stanley (Penny). Their family grew, bringing the joy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren into their lives.

Kasmier’s talents and skills were boundless. He obtained his carpenter certificate in Germany in 1948, which he utilized to build a cherished family cabin next to his brother Chester in Beaconia. There, they spent countless happy days with family, enjoying the simple pleasures of mushroom picking and the beauty of nature.

Kasmier had a distinguished career at the University of Manitoba, starting in 1965 after working at Queen Anne building furniture. His common sense and craftsmanship allowed him to build or fix almost anything, always with a quiet humility that never sought recognition.

A man of strong Catholic faith, Kasmier’s life was grounded in love for his family and a deep appreciation for the simple joys. He had a special affinity for animals, often bringing home various pets, including a squirrel monkey. His love for music was evident in his harmonica playing, and he never turned down an occasional Caesar.

Kasmier is survived by his children, grandchildren Elizabeth (Ash), Jason (Nicole), Matthew (Theresa), Jessica (Kyle), Michelle (Andrew), Kristofer (Jessica), and Andrew (Erin), and great-grandchildren Colin, Robbie, Maggie, Jane, and Sammy.  He is also survived by his sister Mary and many nieces and nephews.  He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and the power of family. Kasmier and Annie are now reunited in eternal peace, their love story continuing beyond this life.

Kasmier’s life is a testament to overcoming adversity and spreading love and joy. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his indomitable spirit and the warmth he brought to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service will be held on May 29, 2024, at Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church, 341 Selkirk Avenue, with Rosary starting at 9:30 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am. Interment to follow in Holy Ghost Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in his memory.

Rest in peace, Handsome. You will always be our sunshine.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

Wieczny odpoczynek racz mu dać Panie, a światłość wiekuista niechaj mu świeci. Niech odpoczywa w pokoju.