Donald’s Obituary
At the age of 70 years, Donald John Naclia passed away peacefully at home in the Swan Plain district, SK, on Monday, June 22, 2020.
Don was born on March 18, 1950, to John and Anna (nee Rusnak) Naclia at the Norquay Hospital, Norquay, SK. He was raised on and helped on the family farm.
He was tired of farming, so he quit school in grade seven and went to Vancouver, BC, to work with his uncle in the construction industry. He never stayed long in one job or province, as he’d get bored and look for new opportunities to try new trades.
On July 5, 1969, he married Beverly Koroluk and they had two sons, Murray and James.
Throughout his life, Don’s passion was in construction work and he found great joy in learning how to navigate, operate, and run new equipment. His work led him to Flin Flon, MB, and to the mines in Ontario. He also worked in the logging industry, hauling logs to the sawmills in BC and Saskatchewan as well as doing various welding jobs in Fort McMurray. He then moved to Seebe, Alberta, where he worked for Kananaskis Park, building trails, bridges and roads. In 1988, he helped build the Calgary Olympic Stadium and then relocated to Weslock, AB, where he became a locksmith. After a couple years, he sold his business and moved to Lloydminster, SK. He worked for Ridgeline Const. as a consultant and for Bob’s Backhoe, cleaning toxic soil from the oil patch.
In his spare time, he was a talented musician and loved playing steel guitar at dances, gatherings, and even at home for his own enjoyment. One of the greatest moments he recalled and reflected upon was when his nephew, Cody, shared this interest and wanted to learn to play the steel guitar.
In May 2019, Don decided to visit family in Norquay. During his visit, he became quite ill and was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. This was his final move. Don lived his life his way and on his own terms. As he reflected upon his life in preparation for his passing, Don’s unique personality was evident. He indicated his best vacation was a trip to the San Diego Zoo, greatest weakness was chocolate, and favorite song as “I Hope You’re the End of My Story.” Furthermore, he altered the words “date of marriage” to “fate of marriage” and added the word, “divorced.” He liked to have the last word, portrayed a “matter of fact” outlook, and was never one to be afraid to try something new. As he worked in every province in Canada except the Maritimes, he likely left a lasting impression on anyone he met throughout the country. His raw, undeniable sense of humour was appreciated by many and he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Don was predeceased by his parents, John Naclia and Anna Naclia-Melnychuk; and his brother, David Naclia.
He is survived by his sons, Murray Naclia (Morgana Amber) and James Naclia; his granddaughters, Baila Breanne, Eloise, and Odelia Naclia; brothers: Eugene (Sharon), Bernie (Judy), and Brian (Wendy); sisters, Phyllis (Mike) Holodniuk and Marcella (Gary) Tress; sisters-in-law, Darlene Naclia and Margaret Naclia; and his ex-wife and mother of his children, Beverly Naclia; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Don always complained about being cold. It makes perfect sense his service would take place on a nice, hot day. In his honour, a Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 27, 2020, from the Chapel of Leson’s Funeral Home, Canora, SK, with Rev. Fr. Petro Tsenov officiating. Interment will follow at Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery, Swan Plain, SK. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations to Norquay Home Care, as tokens of remembrance, in memory of Don Naclia.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Donald Naclia 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Canora, Province: Saskatchewan
Rest in Peace Don, no more suffering you are know in God’s hands. My deepest sympathy goes out to your family.
God Bless your cousin Cori and Ken Leavitt