Edward John Drabik

On October 24, 2023, the world definitely lost “one of the good ones” as family and friends would say. It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Edward Drabik.

Born on November 6, 1955, in Atikokan, Ontario and predeceased by his beloved parents Florian and Jean Drabik, Ed made it his life’s mission to extend kindness, respect and compassion to everyone.

His big brothers Rick (Beth) and Charlie (Irene) Drabik loved him dearly. Cherished son-in-law to Sally Kramer who lovingly called him her "Polish Prince" and adored brother-in-law to Aileen (Bill) Crozier. It goes without saying that he was also a wonderful uncle, cousin, friend and neighbour and is missed by so many.

Devoted husband and best friend to Carol Drabik, they recently celebrated 45 years of marriage on October 14. They had an annual tradition of reciting their vows on this day. He was the most wonderful father to Elaine (Mike) Lusk, Courtney (Eddie) Vanderheyden and Sally (Jonathan) Friesen. Ed’s heart, which was already filled with so much love for his family and friends, grew one thousand times over as he welcomed 7 grandchildren between 2009 and 2016 (Lucy, Yassaira, Helen, Liona, Gwen, Emmitt & Lilia). He let it be known that they were his pride and joy and Grandpa duties always came first. This was even emphasized with the sign on his front porch “Grandchildren Always Welcome – Parents by Appointment Only”.

Ed graduated from Confederation College with a diploma in Security and Law Enforcement and he proudly worked for over 35 years with the Ontario Public Service. He was grateful to have made many special friendships with colleagues throughout his career which continued beyond retirement. He had a strong work ethic that he modeled for his daughters and despite working various shifts while they were growing up, he was never too tired to play with them, take them to dance, chauffeur them (or their friends) around town, day or night.

He was a meticulously organized man. He loved to listen to the radio while puttering around in his garage where he could always be found looking for things to fix, restocking the beverage fridge or searching for deals in the weekly flyers. He loved it when the windows in the house sparkled after he gave them a good cleaning. He always stood back to admire freshly painted walls and trim, and a well-manicured yard before moving onto his next home project (or helping family or friends with one of theirs).

Ed lived every day on this earth as an honest, family man. You could call him any time, and he would be there. He genuinely cared and he wanted to help. He loved getting together with family and friends, it didn’t matter if they were big or small gatherings (quiet or loud!). He had great faith and he exemplified Christian values in a subtle and meaningful way. His heart was dedicated to “all good things” right up until the very last moment, and our hearts will never be the same without him.

Thank you to family, friends, neighbours & colleagues near and far for all of the love and support during this difficult time. We were also very grateful to those who kept Ed and his family in their prayers, including the KPC Prayer Chain. Thank you to the doctors, perfusionists and nursing staff at St. Mary’s Hospital – and to the eternal optimists who helped give us hope when unexpected complications arose with his heart after a successful surgery. He was surrounded by his family during this time and we know that all of this gave him strength, comfort and peace.

He was a good one - the very best. There are no words that can describe how much he is loved and missed. To the moon and back, always.

Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St. Guelph, where the family invites friends and relatives for a visitation on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 9:30am - 11:00am followed by a Funeral Service beginning at 11am in the Hart Chapel. All are welcome to join for a reception immediately after the service in the Hart Fellowship Lounge.

For those unable to attend the Funeral Service in person, there will be a livestream of the ceremony. Join the livestream below.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gilbertmacintyreandson-hart.com for the Drabik family.