Obituary of John SOPIAK

JOHN SOPIAK It is with great sadness that we announce that John passed away peacefully at Seven Oaks Hospital on February 26, 2009. John is survived by his son Jerry, daughter-in-law Brigitte and granddaughter Katrina. John was born in the village of Maniw, Western Ukraine on May 22, 1923. He endured the war-ridden years of Europe, and met his wife in the troubled times. Upon immigrating to Canada and working for a year as a miner in Bissett, MB, his wife and son joined him. At the end of the second year at the mine, John and his family moved to Winnipeg. He retired as a foreman at Aetna Roofing after more than 25 years. He had a reputation as being fair, hard working and reliable. His son's family was fortunate to have many visits from John and his wife Katherine at their home in Surrey, BC. When Katrina was small, the two were already inseparable; she was Grandpa's "princess". They made quite the pair, playing together. The loss of his wife Katherine on March 4, 2002 was difficult. He cared for her throughout the years of her illness. He was loving and attentive to her needs. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time in his backyard garden. His green thumb showed in the abundance of beautiful flowers. John was a loving husband, great dad and a caring grandfather. He will be missed. Prayers will be said on Sunday, March 1 at 4:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, March 2 at 10:00 a.m. at Sts. Vladimir and Olga Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, 115 McGregor Street. Interment to follow in All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to a charity of your choice. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.cropo.com