Metro "Mickey" Paraschuk

It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Metro "Mickey" Paraschuk on July 29, 2024 at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 69 years, Jean, his children Douglas (Gena Lowe) and Deborah (Keith Lemkey); grandchildren Elyse (Shawn Gosselin) and Dr. Leiya Lemkey (Matt Campbell); great-grandchildren, Ainsley & Gabriella Gosselin, and Max Campbell. He is also survived by his sister Phyllis Psooy and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, Jessie and Tom Paraschuk, his sister Olga Prosken, and infant son Michael.

Metro was born on April 22, 1933 of Ukrainian Heritage in Sandy Lake, Manitoba, son of Jessie and Tom Paraschuk. He was raised on a family farm with his two sisters, Olga and Phyllis. He met the love of his life and best friend Jean Wowryk and they were married July 23, 1955.

Dad’s career was a Customs Officer with the Federal Government (Customs and Excise) for 35 years.

Throughout the years stationed at the Emerson Border, Winnipeg International Airport, and the Federal Building. He retired in 1988.

Dad was also a musician. He had a passion for music, he loved his violin. He started playing the violin at the age of 15 with different bands, playing at many events. From 2004-2010 Mickey and his buddy Eugene made many people smile at different Senior functions, with their singing and toe tapping music.

Dad was a loving husband and father who had many interests in his life. From camping, fishing trips, golfing and hunting, he loved the outdoors. A big sports fan, he loved watching his favorite sports team, with Mom, baseball (Toronto Blue Jays), football (Winnipeg Blue Bombers), and hockey (the Winnipeg Jets).

He loved his winter vacations with Mom. Vacationed frequently to Florida, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, and different hot spots in Mexico, and took many cruises. They loved travelling with their travel friends, and family.

Mickey was very much a people person, always had a handshake for the men and a hug for the ladies. (He was nicknamed the Social Butterfly).

He was an active member of St. Michael's Parish Brotherhood, and Honorary Life Member Knights of Columbus, embracing their mission for fellowship and helping those less fortunate. He enjoyed making perogy dough, or calling Bingo, or frying fish at St. Annes Fish Frys were just a few.

Dad was a hunter, a fisherman, and a musician and always said when I’m gone, I will

Run with the Deer

Swim with the Fish and

Play sweet violin music to the angels

We will miss many things about our dear dad, and loving gramps, and Gigi. We know he is at peace and left us with many wonderful memories. Mom’s constant care of dad over many years has shown us all the unselfishness of endless love.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27th at St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 100 Yale Ave. East, Winnipeg, celebrated by Very Reverend Father Mark Gnutel with committal to follow in Holy Angel Mausoleum at Green Acres Cemetery.

The Family would like to thank all home care staff that helped dad while at home, also all Doctors, nurses, and health care providers at St. Boniface Hospital 4E Family Medicine ward, for their wonderful care, and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mickey's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Love you Dad, Rest, and Enjoy your New Journey.❤️