Paul Moroz

What a great life our “Uncle Paul” had with his wife and true partner Anne, and what a positive influence he had on both his family and on the many other lives he touched. Being raised on a small farm near Cloverleaf, Manitoba, and being one of 12 siblings, Paul learned the importance of hard work, and developed a passion for sharing with others at an early age.

During WW II, and at the end of Grade 11, Paul started his career as a school teacher under permit at the age of 17 . His first teaching assignment was in Zhoda, a rural community in south-eastern Manitoba. He’d often smile when he talked about how he didn’t stand out from his students because of his youthful age and appearance. He also took pride about becoming the barber for many of them, and their parents as well.

After teaching in Zhoda for a year, Paul went back to school at Issac Newton School to complete his Grade 12. He then attended the brand new Teachers College in Tuxedo, after which he took on teaching assignments in several Manitoba rural schools including Lydiatt, Minnedosa and Point du Bois.

Paul moved into Winnipeg to continue his teaching and over the years went on to obtain Bachelor degrees in Science and Education at both night and summer school. It was there where he met Anne who became his partner for the next 61 years. They married in July of 1961, and at around that same time, he was promoted to Vice Principal of Polson School. He subsequently took on the position of Vice Principal at Salisbury School, where he continued to earn the love and respect of his students until his retirement.

Paul and Anne were avid travelers and greatly enjoyed world-wide adventures, along with their winter getaways in Desert Hot Springs, and their summers at their Lester Beach cottage. He loved getting into a good cowboy western book and then vividly sharing its details. He also enjoyed curling, and bowling and golfing with Anne. At age 89, he still walked 9 holes with Anne 2 or 3 times a week, each carrying their tour bag of clubs.

Some of Paul’s fondest memories came from spending time on his Oakwood Road farm, picking Saskatoons, or Blueberry picking with his good friend Steve Barrie. Fundamental to each of these outings was a nap on the ground on a tarp that he pulled out of the back of his truck or the trunk of his car.

Uncle Paul had an unparalleled commitment to family and to their well-being. He quietly kept watch over his many siblings, stopping by to see how they were and so often, extending a helping hand when it was needed the most. He took particular pride in having some 30 nieces and nephews and had a genuine interest in each of us. We were incredibly fortunate to have an uncle like Paul, who spent his entire life giving of himself and supporting us in countless ways. This compassion also extended to those who knew him as a neighbour, colleague or friend, with his many visits to hospitals, care homes and residences. Such an incredibly kind and caring man, who even in his final weeks, continued to think of others.

The love and respect that he gained in return could easily be seen when at weddings and other formal gatherings, he was asked to either say Grace or deliver a Toast, and sometimes both. In later years he progressed into presenting brides and grooms and their guests with his special gift of song. He once confided that he did this as it made him feel good to watch and see the smile it brought to everyone’s face. He was so full of life and music and there is no doubt a “Bluebird is on his Windowsill”.

Paul is survived by his wife Anne (Rucki), his younger siblings Emily Koskie, Jackie, Liz Belsham, and Billy. He is predeceased by his parents John and Nettie (Dumanski) and his siblings Annie, Pauline Berezuk, George, Mary Clover, Henry, Steve, and Mike.

Anne, as well as Paul’s extended family, would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Concordia Place who so lovingly cared for Paul over these recent months.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to charities of one’s choice.

Those who may not be able to attend Paul's service may view it by "Livestream" at https://youtu.be/5J5pMhoSO1k, or by clicking the link below.