With great sadness, the family of John Kugyelka, 84, formerly of Breton, AB, now of Sidney, BC, announces his passing on June 17, 2018 at the Palliative Care Unit, Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
Born to George and Juliana Kugyelka (ne Besze) in Tilley, AB, John moved to the Breton area in 1940. He grew up in a time when resources were scarce, and learned early to work hard, be strong and resourceful. He faced a number of health challenges in his life, which he met with courage and dignity, and without compliant. “Not too bad today, I’ll feel better tomorrow”.
Wed to Elizabeth on June 21, 1958, they remained on their farm near Breton until 2015. A life-long steward of the land, John was a successful farmer, and also worked as a battery operator for Canada City Service, meat cutter at Max and Max Meats in Warburg, school bus driver for 30 years, pedigreed seed grower and seed distributor for Hanna’s Seeds. He could do business with a handshake. He had a gentle wit, a kind heart, and could fix most anything. He gladly and generously shared his knowledge and experience, and always stepped up to help a friend or neighbor when needed. He loved a good game of cribbage, and is still working to get that 29 hand.
John joined Breton BPO Elks Lodge #402 in 1956 as a charter member and remained a member until his passing. He took great pride in the fellowship and community service this organization provides. He could see God’s miracles in the seeds and the soil and the animals all around him, and was a member of the United Church for 60 years.
John will be sadly and lovingly missed by his wife Elizabeth (ne Vidok), children, Sandra (Dan), Douglas (Stacey) and Janet (Kevin), his grandson David, step-grandchildren, Ian and Farleigh, sister Helen, many nieces, nephews, in-laws and a host of friends. Predeceased by his father and mother, brothers, Louis, George and Steve, and sister Margaret.
Grave-side service with Interment will be held at the Breton Cemetery at 4 p.m. on Saturday June 23, with informal gathering to follow at the Breton RV park.
For those desire, memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to the The Elks & Royal Purple Fund for Children, through the Breton Elks, or mail to Suite 100 2629-29th Ave, Regina, SK, S4S 2N9 or by website: www.elksofcanada.ca/memorial-donations/
John’s life is one of integrity and respect. He did his best. “Take care of each other”.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de John Jim Kugyelka June 17 2018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Edmonton, Province: Alberta
