He was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Dorothy (Hesse), parents, Andrew and Melania (Keller) Fahlman, his older brother, Peter, and his brother-in-law, Alban Kapell. He is survived by his precious wife, Victoria “Vicky” Marchuk (Morrison), younger sister, Kathy Kapell, and his former sister-in-law, Carmelita Krull.
John and Dorothy were married on July 5, 1955, and raised eight children; Valerie (Garth Hettrick), Judy (Calvin Clark), Randal, Robert (Terri Waldegger), Marilyn (Terry Shackleton), Patricia (Robert Pilon), Eileen (Michael Hatfield) and Sheila (Richard Roy). He was blessed with 30 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren, with many more yet to come!
John married Vicky on August 9, 1980, expanding his family to include five stepchildren; the late Toody (late Don), Cam (Shirley), Linda (late Chris), Shannon (Bob), Kelly and seven step grandchildren.
Farming was John’s passion from a very early age. For three generations, he worked side-by-side with his father, brother, and son, Randy, on a grain and cattle farm just outside Windthorst, Saskatchewan. Each of his children, and many of his nieces, nephews and grandchildren, learned the value of hard work and perseverance on the farm, whether it be by milking, bailing, gardening, fencing, planting, harvesting, or chasing cattle. These are memories that will be forever cherished.
He and Vicky moved into Windthorst in 1984, building a large home to accommodate their growing family. There were many delicious meals, cups of coffee, “diborjas” and card games shared with laughter and love.
A talented musician, John often led the family sing-along with his guitar and accordion. If he wasn’t farming or singing, he was golfing, curling, or supporting his children’s activities.
John’s faith was an important part of his life and he taught his children to be devoted Christians by his example of being a strong Catholic father. He was an honourary-life member of the Knights of Columbus.
A private family mass in celebration of John’s life was held at the St. Pius Roman Catholic Church in Windthorst. The burial, which was open to the general public, took place immediately after the ceremony at the St. Pius Roman Catholic Cemetery at approximately 12:15 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Pius Roman Catholic Church would be appreciated.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the incredibly compassionate healthcare and homecare workers who provided years of wonderful care to John. They would also like to thank Tubman Funeral Home for their thoughtful assistance, with a special mention to Rosalind Schneider.
PALLBEARERS
Garth HettrickActive Pallbearer
Calvin ClarkActive Pallbearer
Terry ShackletonActive Pallbearer
Robert PilonActive Pallbearer
Mike HatfieldActive Pallbearer
Richard RoyActive Pallbearer
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