Nicholas Kukurudza

Peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2015, Nick Kukurudza, the beloved husband of Mary Kukurudza, passed away at the Deer Lodge Centre at the age of 94 years.

Nick leaves his wife, Mary; two daughters, Elvie (Gary) Lombaert and Beverly (Jim) Graves; four grandchildren Greg, Jordan, Christine (Graham) and Adam; and two great-granddaughters Payton and Sydney. He was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Antonia, brother Max and sister Anne.

Nick was born in Ethelbert, Manitoba on September 28, 1920. After high school he served in the military from 1939 to 1942. Upon returning from the army he ran the family farm and married Mary on May 28, 1953. Daughters Elvie and Beverly were born in Dauphin and in 1960 the family moved to Winnipeg, where Nick worked for Seaway Midwest and Livingston International until his retirement on his birthday in 1985.

Nick was a loving, devoted husband, father and grandfather. Dancing with Mary was one of his greatest joys. He also loved attending his daughters’ and grandchildren’s sports, recitals and concerts. The highlight of his last few days was meeting and cuddling his 4 month old twin great-granddaughters. Nick and Mary loved camping and enjoyed endless summer travels in their camping van. Nick knew all the hidden locations for the best mushrooms and berries. In winter, they answered the call of warmer climes in the Caribbean and Hawaii. Nick was an excellent home handyman and vegetable gardener. His home was always open to visiting friends and family. He was active in the Holy Family Church, and the Holy Family Seniors Club, the Saint John’s Haven and the Knights of Columbus.

Prayers to be held at 7:00pm on Friday, August 14, 2015 at Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 15, 2015 at Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church, 1001 Grant Avenue with Rev. Fr. Darren Kawiuk as celebrant. Interment to follow at Thomson “In the Park” Cemetery, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

Very special thanks to all the doctors, nurses and staff at Tower 7, Deer Lodge Centre, for their loving care and support. Thanks also to Veterans Affairs Canada, and especially 17 Wing Winnipeg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church, Elevator Fund, 1001 Grant Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3M 1Y3 or to the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation, 2109 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 0L3.