Wayne Alfred Choponis

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Wayne Choponis on Saturday September 23, 2023 in St. Paul’s Palliative Care with family by his side. He was born September 30, 1941 in Saskatoon. He was predeceased by his parents, Victor and Doreen, his brother Walter (Wally) and sister-in-law Sharon. He is survived by and will be lovingly missed by Gloria Erickson, Cory and Erin Choponis (Matthew and Morgan), Ed Choponis, Chelsea Choponis, (Keira and Lila), Deanna Choponis and Penny Choponis. He was a caring and compassionate man.

In the fall of 1959, Wayne started his career at the Bessborough, a CN Hotel. His first position was as an elevator operator. He moved on to become a bellhop, desk clerk, Assistant Front Office Manager then Front Office Manager. In 1973, the Bessborough was sold to the Baltzan brothers, Dr’s. Marc, Richard and Donald. In 1974, he took over as General Manager and held that position until 1989, when it was sold to Delta Hotels. Wayne served as President of the Saskatoon Hotels Association and was a Director for 8 years with the Hotels Association of Saskatchewan. When the 1989 Brier came to Saskatoon he took on the position of Accommodations Director. He was also instrumental in starting the Bessborough Curling Classic, a well known Canadian men’s bonspiel.

He was a proud member of the Saskatoon Downtown Lions Club for over 50 years. During this time he was the recipient of many awards and honours, and greatly enjoyed his years on the District Cabinet. He loved the many Lions bus trips to conventions which he organized along with Gloria, Ron and Marlene Belke. Many life long friendships were formed on these trips. He spent many hours volunteering over the years. One of his favourites being the annual Lions Mega Cash Draw.

He was always a worker and continued to do so in his retirement. He was a carrier for the StarPhoenix for 16 years, retiring on June 30th of this year. He worked for Federal and Provincial elections as an Information Officer. He worked part-time for Mike Gustus (Gustus Group) and Budget Car Rental. When he wasn’t working or volunteering you could often find him working in his yard. Wayne enjoyed travelling. Without a doubt his favourite ones were when the family would go to Disney World, Daytona Beach and on Disney Cruises.

Wayne was caring and compassionate and will be tremendously missed by those who loved him. To honour his request there will not be a funeral service. For those wishing to do so a memorial donation may be made to St. Paul’s Hospital Palliative Care or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Ashley Knash-Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200.