Obituary of EDWARD ADAM BANASH

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ed Banash on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the age of 91. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Ed will be forever cherished by the love of his life, Pearl, his devoted wife of 69 years, and his children: Kim (Dennis), Darren (Daria), and Cyndi (Leon). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Kristin (Ryan), Erin, Allyse (Josh), Samantha, Adam (Kim), Oksana, Kerry, Tori, Tamika, and Caelan. He also leaves behind his precious great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Grandpa Ed”: Adelyn, Maci, Lincoln, and Finnegan.

He is survived by his sister, Rose Klowak, and sister-in-law, Pauline. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Mary, as well as his brothers Kazmir and Joe.

Born in Walkleyburg, MB on the family farm, Eddie as he was called by those closest to him, was the youngest of four children. He married Pearl in 1955, and together they made their first home in Lockport. Ed worked for Union Carbide, Crown Zellerbach and later as a custodian for the River East School Division.  He commuted daily to the city until they moved to Willowdale Place when their home was expropriated to build the floodway. It was there that Ed and Pearl raised their children, creating a warm and loving home. Together, they tended to the garden, nurtured beautiful flower beds, and prided themselves on a lush, weed-free lawn. Ed was a master at boiling and bagging the perogies that Pearl made, and he became known for his skill with the electric knife, chopping beets for endless pots of borscht.

Ed’s love of simple pleasures included frequent coffee breaks with Pearl to McDonald's or Tim Hortons, where they would read the newspaper and enjoy a bit of people-watching. The couple also shared a passion for travel, especially road trips and visits to Hawaii and Mexico, where Ed delighted in finding unique silver jewellery for himself. He was meticulous with every vehicle they owned and took great pleasure in taking spins around the neighbourhood on his bicycle. He loved music and played the accordion.

As the family grew, Ed was always there to lend a hand, offer advice, or share his wisdom. There was nothing he couldn't fix. With his large hands and quiet demeanor, Ed was a man of great patience, generosity, kindness, and love. He taught these values by example, and we are forever grateful for his lessons.

Ed was a devoted grandfather who cherished attending his grandchildren’s dance performances and sporting events. If he knew the date and time, he would be there, always eager to spend time with them. His grandchildren have countless fond memories of time spent at Grandpa and Baba’s house, where love, laughter and treats were abundant.

Ed's memory will live on in the hearts of all that knew him.

Donations can be made to Stroke Recovery Association of Manitoba, or a charity of your choice.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 28 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Church, 315 Munroe Avenue, Winnipeg.