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Mrs. Sophie Chorney
CHORNEY - Mrs. Sophie Chorney of Ituna entered eternal rest with the Lord on November 10th, 2006 at the Ituna Pioneer Health Centre. She was 94 years of age.
Sophie was born on August 13th, 1912 in the Homefield district, the daughter of Tom and Anna (Koziol) Skochylas. She attended Beaver Hills School. In February 1927 she was united in marriage to the late Onufrey Chorney. They farmed in the Hard Rock area until her husband's death in 1961. Sophie then moved to Ituna.
Sophie loved gardening, cooking and sewing. She always had a welcome meal for those visiting whether children or neighbours. She especially enjoyed the company of her grandchildren. Her homemade meals were very much enjoyed. She loved sewing and had her machine constantly on the go.
However, health eventually took its toll. After her knee replacement in 1990, she was confined to a wheelchair. Her determination made her stay in her home until 2001 when she moved to St. Ann's. In March of 2006 she became a resident of the Ituna Pioneer Health Centre.
She leaves to mourn her passing and cherish her life, daughters Helen (Peter) Darcel, Shirley Falkenburg, Margaret Volpel and son James (Sylvia) Chorney; 14 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren; 2 sisters Jean and Lena and 2 sisters-in-law Marge and Ann.
Sophie was predeceased by her husband Onufrey, daughter Ann in infancy, daughter Lucy, grandson David, son-in-law Bob and great grandson Devin.
She will be sadly missed by those who knew her.
Prayers were held on Tuesday, November 14th and the funeral service on Wednesday, November 15th at Holy Ghost Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Ituna with Rev. Fr. Richard Ehrmantraut officiating. The cross bearer was Joseph Darcel and the banner bearers were Peter Kendrick and Mark Fisher. "All Who Knew Sophie" were considered honorary bearers. The Interment followed in the parish Cemetery with Curtis Chorney, Travis Chorney, Terris Chorney, Jim Darcel, Michael Kendrick and Tony Skochylas serving as the casket bearers. "Tributes to Baba" were given by grandsons, Curtis, Travis, Terris and Jim.
Funeral arrangements were in care of Bailey's Funeral Home.
Vichnaya Pamyat! Eternal Memory!
Pauline Chupa
Mrs. Pauline Chupa of Queen Elizabeth Court in Yorkton entered eternal rest on Monday, April 15, 2002 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. She was 88 years of age. Pauline was born on August 1, 1913 at Buchanan, Saskatchewan, a daughter to John and Pearl Popowich. Pauline was united in marriage to Bill Chupa on November 8, 1931. The couple farmed in the Whitesand district and raised their family. Pauline enjoyed quilting, needlework, gardening and spending time with her family.
She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Bill, in 1959 and brother, Mike Popowich, in 1976. Pauline leaves to mourn her passing and to cherish her life; her children, Marie (Daniel) Yuzik of Yorkton, Andrew (Joyce) Chupa of Saskatoon and Anton (Angeline) Chupa of Yorkton; seven grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Also six sisters, Dora (Mike) Beblow of Yorkton, Margaret Lypny of Toronto, Mary Wasylkiw of Yorkton, Ann (Paul) Tzupa of Buchanan, Kay (Matt) Diakow of Fernie, BC, Nettie (John) Zurowell of Winnipeg and two brothers, Dan (Catherine) Popowich of Welland, ON and Bill (Olga) Popowich of Yorkton.
Prayer services were held on Thursday, April 18th at the Chapel of Bailey's Funeral Home. Requiem Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Friday, April 19th at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yorkton with Very Rev. Dmytro Dnistrian, C.Ss.R. as the Celebrant. The responses were led by cantor Ed Pindus and parish choir members. The epistle reader was Shawna Chupa and the crossbearer was Rosaleen Stephen. The Interment followed in the Yorkton City Cemetery with Lyle Yuzik, Brian Chupa, Bruce Chupa, Darren Stephen, Curtis McManus and Darcy Chupa serving as the casket bearers. Funeral arrangements were in care of Bailey's Funeral Home.
Lucas Churko
Mr. Lucas Joseph Churko of the Willowbrook District, beloved husband of Violet passed away following failing health this past year, at the Yorkton Regional Health on Thursday, March 15, 2001. He was 77 years 3 months and 28 days of age. Lucas was born on November 17, 1923 at Yorkton, Sask. He was the first son born to Andrew and Cecelia (nee D'Aoust) Churko. Lucas was raised in the Willowbrook district and attended Cherryfield School. He continued to live on the farm and eventually assumed ownership. As well as farm, he built and supervised his own home, seven neighbouring homes and the Willowbrook Curling Club. On October 24, 1949 at Saxon Hill, Lucas was united in marriage to Violet Kish. They farmed together all of their lives in the Willowbrook District, eventually retiring from farming but keeping the home as their place of residence. In late 1980s they sold part of their land to the Ducks Unlimited Wetlands Project (Churko Project). Lucas was a community-minded and social person. He served on the Rockdell and Willowbrook R.C. Church Boards and belonged for many years to the Knights of Columbus. He also served on the Yorkton Union Hospital Board, was a director of the Beaver Rural Telephone Company, a Councillor for the R.M. of Garry for ten years, and a trustee on the Yorkton and Willowbrook School Division and the Regional High School Boards for twenty nine years. Lucas also took leadership roles with baseball, minor sports and curling. As well as community service Lucas found time to play baseball, curl, hunt and fish. He loved nature and all of the animals that were found on and near his farm. In 1984 an addition was built onto the house where many hours were occupied in his numerous hobbies. It became a place where he could help and entertain family and friends. He was a mentor to many.
Lucas leaves to mourn his passing and to celebrate his life his wife Violet; his children: Cyril of Willowbrook, Sask. and his children Krystal and Dawn; Andy and his wife Donna of North Battleford, Sask. and their children Andrea and Luke; Marie and her husband Stan Wolkowski of Winnipeg,Man. and their children Jason, Carla and Stacie; Launa and her husband Bob MacDonald of Yorkton, Sask. and his children: Derek and Neil; Diane Koch of Yorkton, Sask. and her children Carter and Launa; Linda and her husband Richard Martin of Saskatoon, Sask. and their children Kelly, Katherine and Thomas. He also leaves a brother Vincent and his wife Zonnia of Yorkton, Sask., a sister Agnes Haines of Calgary, Alta. and numerous nieces and nephews. Lucas was predeceased by his father Andrew J. in 1978 and his mother Cecelia 1999.
Prayer services were held on Monday evening, March 19, 2001 from St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church in Yorkton, Sask. with Deacon Urban Kiernan presiding. Diana Horning was the organist. The Hymns sung were Prayer of St. Francis, Day Is Done and Psalm 62. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday morning, March 20, 2001 from St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church with Reverend Father Basil Chomos as Celebrant. Deacon Urban Kiernan was the Altar Server with Orest Machushek served as Cross Bearer. Lorraine Lysak was the organist leading the parish choir and congregation in the Hymns"Like A Shepherd", Psalm 103, "Day Is Done", "You Are Near", "Song Of The Angels" and "Sing with All The Saints In Glory". Jolene Cherland was the soloist, singing "On Eagles Wings". The Epistle readers were Lenore Bailey and Carla Wolkowski. Harold and Floyd Fenske, George Arnold, Bill Kish, Steve Chaney and Frank Somogyi were Honourary Bearers. The Interment followed in the Garden of St. Luke, Yorkton Memorial Gardens, with Gerald Churko, Bob MacDonald, Carter Koch, Jason Wolkowski, Stan Wolkowski and Bruce Dramnitzki serving as Casket Bearers. At the memorial lunch, reflections and remembrances of Lucas' life were given by Joe Kish and Harold Fenske. Services were directed by Bailey's Funeral Home, Yorkton.
Richard Cobb
Mr. Richard Cobb, resident of Theodore, beloved husband of Shay, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2001 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. He was 81 years of age. Richard George Cobb was born on October 7, 1919 near Mattawa, Ontario, the fourth child of George and Pearl (nee Harper) Cobb. At the age of 16 he chose to serve God, which would be a guide and comfort to him all his life. As a young man, he held various farming, logging and factory jobs. He served his country for four years during World War II as a member of the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps. After the war, he took a cabinet making course and worked in that field until he began farming in 1949. In 1947, he and four other young relatives came west, where he met Hazel 'Shay' Price . He returned in September of 1949 to take her home as his bride. For the next 29 years, Richard and Shay lived on their farm in the Powassan, Ontario, area, where their 3 sons were added to the family. In 1978, the couple moved to Theodore to be closer to their boys, who had come west earlier. Their grandchildren and their trips east and west in their camper were highlights of their retirement years. A debilitating stroke in October of 1991 necessitated hospitalization until April of 1993, at which time he was able to return home to the loving care of Shay.
He leaves with loving memories, his wife of 51 years, Shay; sons, George and his wife Jan and their sons Jeff, Jolan (Julie), Jayden (Donna) and Justin; John and his wife Anita and children Linnea, Alissa, Jackson and Laura; and David and his wife Mavis and their children Philip, Faron, Regan, Jesse, Emily and Dickon, as well as three great grandchildren, Trae, Brett and Megan. He is also survived by brothers and sisters, Beryl, Margaret, Fred (Grace), Frank (Dorothy), Rose (Mervin) Birt, Esther, Jim (Helen), Philip (Mae) and Lily, and a brother-in-law Gordon Byers, all in eastern Canada. He was predeceased by his eldest sister, Hazel Byers. He is also fondly remembered by Shay's family in BC, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and his many other relatives and friends.
The funeral service was held on Saturday, January 6, 2001 at the Theodore Recreation Centre in Theodore. Dale Shultz, Jack Price and Mary Roper officiated. Ushers for the service were Lloyd Kneesch, Keith Byers, Dave Hermanson and Ken Kostenuk. Attending the register were Linnea and Alissa Cobb and Tracy Colwill. The pianist, Adrienne Sinclair led the congregation in the singing of the hymns Lord, In My Need I Seek Thy Face and Approved of God. A special music selection, Moments of Blessing, was sung by Daren Young, Jack Kofoed, Leah Lennox, Anne Malcolm and Susan Cobb; and those present sang Sing To Me the Songs of Zion. The Interment followed in the Theodore Town Cemetery with grandsons Jeff, Jolan, Philip, Jayden, Faron and Regan Cobb serving as the casketbearers. Jim Atcheson officiated at the committal service. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home.
Norinne Cooke
Mrs. Norinne Cooke, beloved wife of Lloyd 'Bun' Cooke of Yorkton, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2002 at the Lakeside Manor Care Home in Saltcoats. She was 74 years of age. Norinne Hazel Cooke (nee Stark) was born April 10, 1928 at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan; a daughter of William and Hazel Stark. Norinne grew up on a farm near Mitchelton, SK. She took most of her schooling there. She moved to Moose Jaw to finish high school, where she was an honour student. Because she was too young to immediately go into nurses training, she worked for one year at the Mental Hospital in Weyburn. Then she went to Regina General Hospital and completed the program to become a registered nurse. She worked as a nurse in Regina until she married. She had three sons, but one died as an infant. When her marriage ended, she took a position with the Saskatoon Health Region as Health Nurse for the Town of Kenaston and District. She took university classes for many years and received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was a very devoted mother and dedicated her time to raising her sons as well as providing excellent service as a Health Nurse to the community. In 1968 she moved to Yorkton to take over the position of assistant supervisor for the Yorkton Public Health Region. It was in Yorkton where she met Lloyd (Bun) Cooke and they were married on February 14th, 1971. It was a marriage that was 'meant to be' and everyone knew they were best friends and had thirty-one very happy years together. After retiring from Public Health Service due to illness, Norinne spent more time at some of her favorite pastimes of sewing, knitting and crafts. She enjoyed these hobbies so much that she started selling some of her handy-work. As demand grew for her creations, she and Bun decided to open a small shop to sell her knitting and crafts, as well as knitting machines, wool and craft supplies to the public. The business flourished over the years causing Norinne and Bun to move 'Norinne's Creative Hands' several times to larger locations. They sold their business in 1988. Norinne and Bun spent summers at Lake of the Prairie and six months of the year in the sun at Yuma, Arizona. She became an ardent fisherwoman, getting her Master Angler award in three different species. Norinne and Bun spent their time doing things together and had a great deal of pleasure enjoying numerous activities. Much of their time was spent with friends and family, and they both treasured them all.
Norinne leaves to cherish her memory, her husband and best friend, Bun, her sons; Duane Theaker (Lorelei), Brian Theaker (Jean), two step sons; Bill Cooke (Karen), Lorne Cooke (Cherry), two step-daughters Karen Cooke, and Frances Cooke (Tom Gallagher), sixteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Norinne was predeceased by an infant son, her parents William and Hazel Stark and a brother, James.
The Funeral Service was held on Wednesday afternoon, October 30, 2002 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Marietta Andrews of the Salvation Army officiating. The organist, Lorne Neal led in the singing of the hymns 'In the Garden' and 'Amazing Grace'. The Interment took place on Friday in the family plot at Rosedale Cemetery in Moose Jaw. Arrangements were entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home.
Arthur Cooper
Mr. Arthur Edmund Cooper, formerly of Flin Flon, Manitoba and Margo, Saskatchewan passed away on Friday, June 1, 2001 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre at the age of 88 years. Arthur, known to all as Art, was born on September 17, 1912 at Margo, Saskatchewan, a son of James and Margaret Cooper. He attended the Margo School, where he completed his Grade XI. After leaving school he worked as a labourer in various locations, then went to B.C. where he worked in construction. In 1941 Art joined the Royal Canadian Air Force. He served as a bandsman and later in the Military Police. He received his discharge in 1945. Arthur was united in marriage in 1938 to Evelyn Benson of Margo. To this union three children were born: Ronald, Karen and Merle. This marriage ended in divorce. Following his discharge he moved to Flin Flon, where he began working for the Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Co. He was employed there for 30 years. On December 24, 1947 he was united in marriage to Anna Prociuk. They resided in Flin Flon until 1977. Upon his retirement they moved to Yorkton where he resided until his passing. While in Flin Flon, he became a member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Arthur spoke at numerous 'AA Round Ups' and sponsored many AA members. He had celebrated his 30th AA birthday this past February while he was a patient at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Following his retirement, Art and Ann spent their summers travelling to various parks and scenic areas in Canada, visiting many friends and relatives on the way. Many of their winters were spent in sunny Arizona, with Apache Junction their headquarters.
Arthur was predeceased by his parents James and Margaret; his wife Anna in 1993; brothers Gordon, Emmerson and Albert; sisters Lilian Dalshaug, Lyla Peever, and Lorine Martin. He is survived by one brother, Reuben (Muriel) Cooper of Edmonton, numerous nieces, nephews and a host of family and AA friends.
The funeral service was held on Thursday, June 7, 2001 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre. Pastor Richard Gibson of the Church of the Nazarene and Capt. Andrew Brown of the Salvation Army officiated. The organist, Kathleen Gibson, led the congregation in the singing of the hymns Beyond the Sunset and O Master Let Me Walk With Thee. Soloist Amanda Gibson sang One day At A Time. Henry Schindel gave the eulogy and was the urnbearer. The Interment followed in the Garden of Memories. Arrangements were entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home.
Derek Copan
Mr. Derek James Copan of Saskatoon; best friend and soul mate of Kristin Anderson and beloved son of Gary and Donna Copan of Yorkton passed away tragically as a result of a motor vehicle accident on Wednesday, May 7, 2003. He was 26 years of age. Derek was born on August 3, 1976 at Calgary Alberta; a son of Gary and Donna (nee Dembiski) Copan. He received his education at St. Paul's in Yorkton, Turgeon in Prince Albert, St. Mary's C.J. Houston in Yorkton and graduated at the Yorkton Regional High School in 1995. While in high school, and after he was employed at Bonanza and Webers. He moved to Saskatoon and became employed with Canadian Tire for two years, then at the oilfields in Sedgewick, Alberta. Derek then was employed with Shaw Cable before enrolling at Kelsey; receiving a diploma in Human Resources in June 2000. After working at Direct Tel; Derek began working on a commerce degree in human resources which he would have completed this year; as well he was employed with the John Howard Society. During these times of his life Derek met Kristin Anderson and on August 6, 1994 began a magical relationship that has carried on. Derek loved to camp at Waskesiu and go swimming; talk and socialize with people and tell jokes especially to see them smile. He enjoyed travelling and everything that life had to offer and never took anything too seriously. He always, always had a smile.
He leaves to cherish his memory and to celebrate his life his best friend and soul mate Kristin Anderson. His parents Gary and Donna; a brother Jason (Tahirih Schulz) of Red Deer, AB; a sister Shelly of North Vancouver, BC; grandparents Gordon and Tillie Copan; aunt Vera Kapin of Yorkton ; aunt and uncle Marlene (Len) Powling of Saskatoon and their daughter Liz. Also Kristin's parents Mary and John Anderson of Yorkton his special family member Nalla; Raj Singh and James Metchette of Vancouver. Derek was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Mike and Pauline Dembiski.
Prayer vigil services were held on Sunday evening, May 11, 2003 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Ernie Bobowski as Presider. Diana Hornung was the organist leading members of the St. Gerard's Parish Choir and the Congregation in the Hymns: “All Things Bright and Beautiful'” and “Peace Is Flowing Like A River”. Special music selections “What a Wonderful World” and “Mama, I'm Coming Home” were played. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2003 from St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church Yorkton, SK, with Father Basil Chomos as Celebrant. The organist was Rita Hilbig leading the Parish Choir and Congregation in the Hymns: “Morning Has Broken”, “Psalm 23”, “Prayer of St. Francis”, “On Eagles Wings”, “Song Of The Angels”, and “Though The Mountains May Fall”. The Epistle Readers were Mary Anderson and Richard Till. The Pall was placed on by Derek's parents: Gary and Donna. Brad Haberman was the Cross Bearer. Jason Rohatinsky, Jason Dumka, Andy Johnson, Jamie Johnson, Laura Wasylyshen, Karen Spilchak, Brad Haberman, Sheldon Benoit, Mabel Sham, Amber Chernipeski, Tara Boatness, Stacie Burback, Tamsen Konkel, Tracy Schwab, Jennier Anderson, Kathy Anderson, Nalla and Grizzabella and all of Derek's other friends were Honourary Bearers. The Interment followed in the Garden of Devotion, Yorkton Memorial Gardens with: Wes Dierker, Steve Bilan, Jordin Davidson, Kevin Spilchak, Brett Schwab and Ryan Kitella serving as Casket Bearers. Services directed by Bailey's Funeral Home Yorkton.
Mr. Gordon B. Copan
Mr. Gordon B. Copan of Yorkton and formerly of Parkerview passed away at his home on Saturday,November 1, 2003 at the age of 82 years.
Gordon was born on March 20, 1921 in the Insinger district of Saskatchewan; a son of John and Rose (nee Kereluk) Copan. He attended school in the Insinger District and in May of 1941 enlisted in the Army Division of the Canadian Armed Forces serving overseas as a postal sortee until his honourable discharge in January 1946.
In October of that year Gordon was united in marriage to Matilda (Tillie) Farkas. The couple resided in the Parkerview district where Gordon operated a garage and served as the Parkerview Postmaster. Gordon and Tillie had one son Gary who was born in 1952. The family moved to Yorkton in 1964 where Gordon worked with Bowman Brothers Machine Shop for a brief period before resuming his postal career. He retired from the Yorkton Post Office in 1986.
Gordon was predeceased by his parents John and Rose; his brother Bill; brothers - in - law John Graham and Matt Pawchuk and a grandson Derek. He leaves to mourn his passing and to cherish his life his loving wife Tillie. His son Gary and his wife Donna of Yorkton; grandchildren: Shelly of North Vancouver, B.C., Jason ( Tahirih Schulz) of Red Deer AB; special family friend Kristin Anderson of Saskatoon; a brother Steve of Vernon,B.C.; sisters: Marian Graham of Sicamous B.C., Elsie Pawchuk of Regina Sk.,; sisters - in - law Elsie Copan and Vera Kapin along with many nephews, nieces and close friends.
Gordon was a devoted family man whose considerate and generous nature was an inspiration to all who knew him. He leaves the world a better place .
Prayer services were held on Wednesday evening, November 5, 2003 from The Chapel of Bailey's Funeral Home Yorkton. Funeral services were held on Thursday morning November 6, 2003 from Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Orthodox Church Yorkton, Saskatchewan with Rev. Father Richard Ehrmantraut officiating. William Kozey was the Cantor assisted by members of the parish choir. George Prokopchuk and Matt Riabko were the Palamars. Shelly Copan and Kristin Anderson were the Banner Bearers with Jason Copan serving as Cross Bearer. The Interment followed in the Garden of Devotion Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Emile Lalonde, Stephen Shumay, Merv Palka, Gerald Farkas, Duane Gabriel and Kent Bilokreli serving as Casket Bearers. The Legion Burial Rite was held at the Royal Canadian Legion following the Interment and was led by members of the Royal Canadian Legion General Alexander Ross Branch # 77. Mike Bidnock was the Sergeant - at - arms. The Padre' was Father Basil Chomos with John Zaretski, John Miller, Peter Wyatt, Andy Juba serving as Color Party and Ken Gordon was the Bugler.
Eternal Memory
services directed by Bailey's Funeral Home Yorkton
Marie Crowe
Marie (Mary) Angeline Crowe of Broadview, SK. Following a brief but courageous battle with cancer, our Father in Heaven called Marie home on Wednesday, October 23, 2002. She was 71 years of age. Marie was born on September 14, 1931 on the Cowessess First Nation. She attended school on Cowessess at the Marieval residential school. Marie was a very kind hearted person; her door was always open to everyone. Her hobbies included quilting and canning fruit and vegetables. She loved going to pow wows to watch her grandchildren and great grandchildren dance. She married Joseph Crowe on November 9, 1948. They had 6 children.
She is predeceased by two daughters, Elaine and Frieda, three sons Wallace, Stanford and Vernon (Ross). Her parents Vitaline and Antoine Lavallee, five brothers Peter, Joe-Vincent, Ernest, Lawrence and Robert (Bob). One surviving daughter Sharon (Wayne) Green, her chosen daughter Lillian Simeon (Doug). Six grandchildren, Bradley Louison (Carla), Lawrence Louison (Verna), Sherilyn (Greg) Pachal, Elaine Louison (Abel), Carol and Steven. Eighteen great grandchildren. Three sisters, Rose (Joe) Ewack of Ocean Man First Nation, Jeanette Watson of Ochapowace First Nation, Margaret Lavallee (Norm) of Springside, Sask. One special grandson Nathan Bellegarde. Numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in law and grandchildren. Marie worked as a homecare worker in Broadview until her retirement. She also raised her five grandchildren, Bradley, Elaine, Sherilyn, Lawrence and Nathan in his infant years. We will all dearly and deeply miss Marie and will cherish the wonderful memories she left with us.
The wake vigil began at 4:00pm on Friday, October 25, 2002 at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Parish Hall at Marieval. Prayers were held in the hall at 7:00pm with Mr. Doug Parislau officiating. The organist was Deanna Lerat, the reader was Carol A, Lavallee. The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, October 26, 2002 from the hall with Rev. Father John Moriarty officiating. Tributes were offered by nephew Morley Watson, and by Stan Bob, representing the Kahkewistahew Band Council. Honorary bearers were Farley Sparvier, Neil Louison, Jacob Louison, Dallas Louison, Sharissa Runns, Sarah Louison, Emily Louison, Tina Bear and Lisa Bear. Members of the Crooked Lake Singers performed a traditional hymn during the final farewell processional. The Interment took place at the Kahkewistahew Cemetery with Terry Lavallee, Ernest (Mac) Lavallee Jr., Sheldon Watson, Trevor Ewack, Phillip Crowe, and Linus Wasacase serving as the casketbearers. Arrangements were in care of Bailey's Funeral Home.
Lucien Cugnet
Lucien Auguste Cugnet, husband of Mrs. Margaret Cugnet of Yorkton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 4, 2002 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre with his beloved wife, Margaret and his loving caregiver, Ross Hannant at his side. He was eighty-five years of age. Lucien was born January 4, 1917 on the family farm south of Weyburn. Lucien was the youngest child of Edmond and Therese (Delaye) Cugnet. His parents were born in France and came to Canada as teenagers. They met and married in Weyburn. Lucien was raised on the farm and attended a school nearby at Ralph, SK. During the depression, he and a friend rode the rails from Regina to Vancouver. They slept under the stars at what Lucien said was a chain of "Star" motels, and they knew what it was to ask for food. This experience had a profound influence on Lucien, and also was the beginning of a life long fascination with trains. Upon returning to Weyburn, Lucien worked with his brother at Ray's Radiator Shop, the first to be opened in Weyburn. In 1940, Lucien became the Minneopolis Moline dealer in Weyburn. Lucien enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1942. He was stationed in Halifax but was eventually discharged for medical reasons. Upon discharge, he moved to Yorkton in 1944 where he set up a Minneopolis Moline dealership. He worked long hours and was often the top salesman for the western region. He gave up the dealership in 1954 and moved to Hamilton and Toronto for the next seven years. While there, he established Dairy Mart of Canada, a soft ice cream/hamburger franchise. He set up fourteen outlets in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and had plans to expand across Canada. However, poor health forced him to set aside his plans. In 1961, Lucien returned to Yorkton where he has resided ever since. He designed, built and managed Le Carrousel Apartments - so named because he claimed the project was like being on a "merry-go-round"! From 1970-78, Lucien taught an adult education Basic Job Readiness Training program. He also taught upholstery classes for several years. A community minded person, Lucien was involved in several organizations: the United Commercial Travelers, since 1944; Westview United Church Board, as chairman of the Property Committee; the City of Yorkton Municipal Heritage Advisory Sub-commission; and for 57 years, the Kinsmen and K-40 Clubs. He was an avid supporter and proud member of the Family of Kin. In the early fifties, he worked tirelessly at developing Kin Point at York Lake and setting up playgrounds in Yorkton. He was responsible for the Red Cross swimming program at York Lake and for hiring the lifeguard. It was here that he met Margaret who was one of the instructors. Lucien was actively involved in several conventions and events hosted by the local club. He loved the Annual Perogy Cup hockey tournament and was one of the coaches for the local K-40 team. He was President of the K-40 club for 3 years. In the early fifties, he owned and flew his own plane and was a member of the Yorkton Flying Club. Lucien loved sports: hockey, fishing and hunting were his passions. He participated in curling and bowling and coached girls' softball. Although he was not able to skate due to a childhood injury, he coached minor hockey and was always proud that two of his players were selected to play in the National Hockey League. He rarely missed a local hockey game and whenever possible would visit his favourite NHL team in Montreal. Lucien loved antiques and was a collector of anything old. His interest in cars, (mainly Studebakers) resulted in an inventory of over fifty cars. On December 15, 1962, Lucien married Margaret Harris of Saskatoon. During their marriage of nearly forty years, they enjoyed travelling to many parts of the world. This often gave Lucien the opportunity to speak French, his beloved first language. Lucien had a great love for Cuba. He was there when the revolution started in 1959 and subsequently made approximately fourteen visits there on his own and with Margaret. Lucien and Margaret shared an interest in the arts. Together they attended hundreds of performances in many countries. Lucien was creative and took art lessons for awhile but work commitments did not allow him to pursue this hobby. Lucien was a loving husband and a constant companion and supporter of Margaret in her many activities. Lucien was an entrepreneur with a strong work ethic and loved whatever he did. He could work almost non-stop and never seemed to tire. He was a people person and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He had a ready smile, a quick wit and a keen sense of humour. He liked a good time and was described as a "fun guy." One of his favourite places to relax was at his cabin at Waskesiu where he enjoyed happy days in his little "Le Petit Lac" boat and taught many to fish. He had strong commitments to his family and valued his time with them. The Cugnet family reunions every three years were special times, but sadly he will miss the one next summer, which will be the 100th anniversary of the original homestead. Although he was away for almost sixty years, Weyburn was always home to Lucien and his dearest wish was that he would return there for his final resting place. Lucien was able to remain in his home until shortly before his death on Wednesday, December 4, 2002 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Margaret is forever grateful for the love, compassion and support of Dian and Pat Walsh and Ross Hannant.
Lucien was predeceased by his parents, Edmond & Therese Cugnet; brothers, Edward, George and Raymond; a sister in infancy and two great nephews. Lucien leaves to celebrate his life, his wife, Margaret; son, Darryl (Pat) Cugnet of Winnipeg; grandchildren, Sherry Campbell of Edmonton and Jamie (Louise Coutu) Cugnet of Winnipeg; brother, Albert (Margaret) Cugnet of Halbrite, SK; sisters-in-law, Irene Cugnet, Mary Cugnet, Ruth Cugnet, all of Weyburn; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Patrick and Dian Walsh of Saskatoon, many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, his special caregiver, Ross Hannant and many close friends. Lucien will be missed.
Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 at 2:00 pm from Westview United Church in Yorkton with Rev. Faye Greer officiating. Ross Hannant gave a tribute and words of remembrance. Pianist, Gloria Herauf and organist, Shani Apland with members of the Westview choir led the congregation in the singing of the hymns "Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven""The Lord's My Shepherd" and "We Shall Go Out with Hope of Resurrection". Soloist, Jackie Washenfelder sang, "Wind Beneath My Wings" and "You'll Never Walk Alone". A graveside committal service was held on Wednesday December 11, 2002 at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Weyburn with Rev. Hazel Arbon officiating. The casketbearers for the funeral and committal service were Patrick Walsh, Henry Reis, John Walsh, Ross Hannant, Scott Kendal, Hugh MacGowan, Dick Cugnet, Bill Cugnet, Dan Cugnet and Gene Cugnet. Arrangements were entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home, Yorkton.
