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Obituary of John Joseph Sanko
The passing of a loved one is never easy, especially one who was part of so many lives.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Sanko, affectionately known as Gigi to so many people. Surrounded by love, he left this world as he lived – deeply cherished by his family, friends and countless lives he touched.
He was a loving and devoted husband to Charlene for 61 years. A caring father to Ron (Stephanie), Jay (Natalie) and Tanya (Pete) … Gigi was the cornerstone of our family. Of all the roles he played in life, being a Gigi was the one he cherished most. His greatest joy was his grandchildren, whom he loved beyond measure. Whether cheering from the corner of the rink, sharing stories or offering words of wisdom, his love and pride for each of them were endless. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all seven; Luke (Kristin), Jack (Amanda), Brianna (Adam), JJ (Kaitlyn), Vic, Cameron (Ness) and Marc.
John cherished the beautiful relationship he had with his sister Rosalie and brother Jimmy. He was predeceased by his parents James and Mary, his brother Ron and sisters Shirley and Patricia.
He always held a special place in his heart for all the dogs in our families. You could often hear Gigi whispering to one of them, “Who’s your best buddy?’, knowing quite well that if they could answer it would be “Gigi”. All the dogs will miss you and the never-ending table scraps that you provided.
John was born and raised in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario and then moved to Windsor in 1960 where he completed his degree in Honors Business at the University of Windsor. This is where he met the love of his life and set down roots for the next 70+ years. His career span from Hudson Bay Company to owning his own business “Bumper Mart” and finally retiring from the WECSSB. He was a proud Heritage Member of Beach Grove Golf & CC and will be missed by all his Sunday morning golfing buddies. Gigi was also a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus
It was in the Soo where Gigi’s passion for hockey began. He dedicated much of his life to minor hockey, whether it be coaching, working for Hockey Canada or simply having those much needed “hot stove” discussions in the arena lobbies. His unwavering love for the game and all the hockey families made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Beyond the ice, Gigi was a man of kindness, humor and wisdom – always ready with a story, a piece of advice or a helping hand. His love for his family was boundless, and his legacy of generosity, dedication and love will live on in all of us.
Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – Banwell Location, 11677 Tecumseh Rd. East, Windsor (519-253-7235) on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 1 pm – 4 pm and 6 pm – 9 pm with parish prayers at 7:30 pm. Family and friends are invited to gather directly at St. Anne’s Parish, 12233 Tecumseh Rd E, Windsor, on Friday February 28, 2025 from 10 am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11 am. Cremation to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VON Windsor or Golden Rescue (an animal foundation close to our family’s hearts). Online condolences can be made at www.windsorchapel.com
Rest easy Gigi – your love, wisdom and spirit will never be forgotten.
August 30 1936 February 25 2025
Death notice for the town of: Windsor, Province: Ontario
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obituaries notice John
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We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of John
Joseph
Sanko and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
