Obituary of JOHN JEFFREY TOMIUK

John Jeffrey Tomiuk

 

On Sunday, May 30, 2021, John Jeffrey Tomiuk, brother, cousin and friend passed away at the age of 70.

 

John was born on June 16, 1950 to Olga and Bill Tomiuk. He was not alone. Accompanying him into the world was his twin brother Philip. Four years later, his sister Georgia joined the family.

 

John's family home, in South Point Douglas, on Annabella Street, overlooked the Red River. It was here that his lifelong affinity with the Red was born. His neighbourhood was lively, full of fascinating characters: the perfect petri dish that fostered John's lifelong curiosity about his world. He read about politics, economics and current affairs.

 

Growing up, John made "noises" on the clarinet with his brother Philip, played "catch" with his sister Georgia and helped out in the family greenhouse business. Horticulture became an interest of John's during this time and continued throughout his life. He liked visiting greenhouses and talking about plants.

 

Although John began working in the theatre in his late teens, it was only after returning from a two year study of Horticulture Technology on the West Coast in the mid-1990's, that John fully dedicated himself to theatre.

 

John worked very hard at his craft, was the consummate professional, mentored many and never stopped learning. He was a forty-seven year member of The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees [IATSE] Local 63. Many of John's lifelong friends are his IATSE brothers and sisters, who knew him as "The Hawk".

 

John's friends and cousins meant everything to him. They were his family and he loved them. John was always there to lend a helping hand and a listening ear. If he trusted you, his trust was absolute: all would be revealed...in time. His loyalty towards those he loved and trusted was unswerving. His deadpan humour could stop you in your tracks...as could his honesty.

 

After the unexpected deaths of his mother and brother Philip in 1975, John looked after his father until his death in 1986. Throughout his life, John quietly watched over his sister. He was her rock and her touchstone.

 

Spin forever John, then soak in the tub while reading a Nero Wolfe book. Afterwards, put on your Lucchese boots and go get a Key Lime pie...but save some for the morning, okay?

 

We loved you so much John.

 

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a funeral service will not take place at this time. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. If friends so desire, a donation in John's honour may be made to the Manitoba Theatre Centre, 174 Market Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 0P8.