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Bruno “Sonch” Michalsky Obituary
Bruno William Michalsky, known to all as “Sonch,” passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on August 3, 1935, in a small house in Bushtown, Sonch’s life was deeply rooted in the Crowsnest Pass, though his adventurous spirit carried him across Alberta.
Over the years, he called many places home — Coleman, the Lake Louise/Banff area, Kananaskis Guest Ranch, Goodfare, Oyen, Paradise Valley — before returning to Blairmore for his final years. No matter where he lived, the mountains and the open air always called him back.
A true cowboy at heart, Sonch worked as a ranch hand, trucker, logger, and miner. He loved working with horses, operating equipment, and spending his days outdoors. Among his proudest accomplishments were helping build the Kananaskis Country Golf Course and leading major reclamation projects at Tent Mountain and the historic Coleman Colliery Tipple site.
Known for his playful, mischievous nature, he delighted in teasing his grandchildren — chasing them with his teeth, hanging them from rafters, or pressing a hot coffee spoon against their hands. He loved sharing a coffee at Chris’ Café, swapping stories, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Sonch will be lovingly remembered by his children: Willa Michalsky; Lita Michalsky (Boyce); Dawn Greenwood (Gary); and Deserie Mosby (Karl). His grandchildren: Colby Michalsky (Amanda); Sasha Lassey (Marty Schmidt); Shanel Michalsky-Sarabalos; Felina Johnson (Mark); Sonch Wideman; Jolene Butt (Stephen); Austin Ewanchuk; Logan Ewanchuk (Sarah); and Brandon Ewanchuk (Kara). He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and his cherished surrogate daughter, Bird Snider.
He was predeceased by his parents, William and Victoria Michalsky; sisters Helen Kropinak, Wilma Pyplacz, and Cara Tanner; and his grandchildren, Kosta Michalsky-Sarabalos and Alexis Bohmer.
Sonch did not wish for a formal service, and his family is grateful to have celebrated his 90th birthday with him just days before his passing, surrounded by friends, family, and laughter.
The Michalsky family’s history in the Crowsnest Pass stretches back to its earliest days, and Sonch’s memory will remain part of its fabric for generations to come. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family who will carry his stories forward.
Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555
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August 3 1935 August 8 2025 90 Years Old
Death notice for the town of: Blairmore, Province: Alberta
death notice Bruno Sonch William Michalsky August 3 1935 August 8 2025 90 Years Old
obituaries notice Bruno Sonch William Michalsky August 3 1935 August 8 2025 90 Years Old
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Bruno Sonch William Michalsky August 3 1935 August 8 2025 90 Years Old and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.