Obituary of Edward STEPNUK

EDWARD STEPHEN STEPNUK October 6,1924-November 19,2008 It is with our deepest sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Edward, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather on November 19th, 2008, at Holy Family Nursing Home at the age of 84. Edward was predeceased by his father Joseph, mother Mary, and sister Kathleen. Edward leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 59 years Victoria, his children Brian (Mia), Ed (Liz), Gerald (Carla), Cathy (Rob), his grandchildren Lisa (Ian), Christa (Scott), Nicole (Adam), Paul (Heather), Steven (Stacey), Leanne, Tristan, Tanner, Cole, Danielle, Brett, and Aaron, his sister-in-law Mary (Minnie) Kosmuk and many nieces and nephews who were very special to him. Edward was born in Winnipeg and attended St. Pauls High School. After graduation he served in the Royal Canadian Air Force, initially as a pilot then completing his service with air traffic control. After the war he began his business career in the hospitality industry as the proprietor of the Oxford Hotel. He was also involved in other business and investment ventures including the Northgate Trailer Park and the Northgate Copa. Upon retirement Edward and Victoria travelled to many warm destinations across the globe and spent summer weekends at the cottage at Beaconia on Balsam Bay with family, friends, and an entourage of his fond pets. In addition to swimming and bathing in the lake, Edward's favourite past time at the cottage was teasing and verbally jousting with his grandchildren. And contrary to what Big Ed would tell you, he wasn't always the winner. On this day the Winnipeg sports community has truly lost one of its greatest fans. A former athlete and avid sports enthusiast, Edward was a season ticket holder of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for over sixty years and supported the Winnipeg Jets having season tickets for their entire tenure. Gigi and Victoria also attended all of their grandchildren's sporting activities spending many hours and days in hockey arenas and gymnasiums or at baseball fields and soccer pitches enjoying every minute of it. All of the family, and we are certain Edward as well, would like to extend a very warm and special thank you to all the wonderful and caring staff and volunteers of the Holy Family Nursing Home where Edward was a resident for the past six years. As a member of the Knights of Columbus, Saint Anthony's Council, a celebration of Edward's life will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Burrin Avenue, on Saturday November 22, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba or a charity or cause of your choice. Cropo Funeral Chapel 586-8044