Victor Earnest (Vic) Zurba

“A Dear Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather.”

It is with deep sadness that Vic’s family announces his passing on January 31, 2012, in his 78^th year.

Vic leaves to cherish fond memories his wife Ruth of 55 years; daughter Jackie and husband Ian Deg of Brandon; grandson Brendon and wife Karissa Deg and great-grandson Jaxon; granddaughter Lauren Deg and friend Phil; mother-in-law Mary Sawchuk; brothers-in-law Roy (Bev) Sloboda, Ron (Gloria) Sloboda, Fred (Holly) Sloboda; sister-in-law Pat (David) Pascal; as well as an aunt, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Clara Zurba; son Jerry; brother Wally; and brothers-in-law Robert and Russell.

Dad lived and worked in Winnipeg as a CN Fireman in 1955.  Then in 1959 he returned to his current home to farm in the Fork River area.  Dad had a passion for the land.  He was his own educator in many aspects.  He loved to read and learn, and was determined to do the best at whatever it was, and was never afraid to take a chance or risk something new with his farming career.  We consider this part of his life to be very proud and successful.

Dad was not just all work and no play.  Some of the most important pleasures for him were big game hunting and fishing.  His first Alaskan trip was especially exciting for him when he reeled in a 76 lb. King Salmon!

Dad had many hobbies, which included nature, local history and archaeology, wine making, making his own homemade sausage, pepperoni and smokies, smoking fish, and last but certainly not least, auction sales!  He always said, “there was always something for someone,” at an auction.

Dad and Mom enjoyed their retirement and were able to enjoy travelling to Detroit, California, San Francisco, Florida, Alabama, Mexico, Las Vegas and Alaska.  They took their 5^th wheel camping to Manipogo, Blue Lake, Waterhen, and many weekends at Austin Thresherman’s Reunion with friends.

Our family would like to thank the family, friends and dearest neighbours for all of their support, care, and comfort to Dad and us from the bottom of our hearts.  Grateful thanks to everyone for the food prepared and delivered to us.  Each and every one of us will remember what you did and how you made us feel.  To Dr. Trina Mathison and Palliative Care: thank you for caring for Dad.

Prayers were offered on Sunday, February 5, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., from the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Resurrection in Dauphin.  Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Monday, February 6, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., from the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Resurrection, with the Rev. Fr. Oleg Bodnarski celebrating.  Holly Hryhoruk served as Cantor.  The Crossbearer was Allan Sliworsky, and Florence Sliworsky read the Epistle.  Jackie Deg delivered the eulogy, and Lauren Deg read a poem.  Interment followed in the Dauphin Riverside Cemetery.  Laying Victor to rest were pallbearers Craig Cochrane, Garfield Rowe, Barry Honish, Brayden Cochrane, David Zurba and Laurence Dudar. Mac Sliworsky and his sister Lillian Romanchuk performed musical selections at the luncheon.

Donations in memory of Victor may be made to The Dauphin Wildlife Association, or to the Palliative Care Unit at the Dauphin Regional Health Centre.

Arrangements were entrusted to Sneath-Strilchuk Funeral Services with funeral homes in Dauphin, Roblin and Ste. Rose du Lac.

Offer Condolence for the family of Victor Earnest (Vic) Zurba