Michael "Mike" John Kondra

Mike Kondra of Dauphin passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22, 2024 at the age of 74 years. Mike was born on Feb 1, 1950, to John and Anne Kondra of Valley River, where he grew up on a small mixed farm.

From a very young age, and throughout his life, Mike's hard work and helping hand were essential to keeping the family farm going. He often helped his nearby uncles and neighbours as well, always willing to give a hand. He enjoyed when all the nearby family gathered for dinners, wiener roasts, and the cousins got together to play cricket, baseball, or hockey on the frozen river.

Mike attended Trembowla and DCTI schools, and went on to work in Dauphin, except for a brief period when he moved to Calgary. Mike was well known in the community for his quality work as a career machinist. He had a heart of gold, and his kindness, generosity, and genuine friendly nature touched the lives of everyone he knew. He loved to reminisce about his younger days and shared many entertaining stories, not to mention all the risky jokes that made our jaws drop or gave us a good chuckle. When Mikes’ career as a machinist came to an end, he enjoyed various other jobs in the community, where he took pride in being able to help and serve others.

Mike was passionate about boating, camping, fast cars, music, and his beloved pets. He was meticulous in maintaining all his vehicles. It was common to see him drive around town in his rust colored 1979 Thunderbird, always polished up and spotless. Then there was his jet boat, powered by a Ford 460 V8 engine, this was Mike's pride and joy. Nothing made him happier than being out on the lake, making rooster tails and cruising at full throttle.

The greatest blessing in Mike's life was his stepchildren Leslie and Christopher. He was so honoured to be a part of their lives, and cherished the special bond they had. 

Due to compromised health, he spent the last few years at the Personal Care Home in Dauphin. This was a understandably a challenging transition, and he certainly kept us all on our toes with his fiery spirit even in these later years.  The family is deeply appreciative and wishes to thank Compassionate care, all the Medical and PCH staff who were involved in Mike's care and wellbeing; as well as his friends and family who stopped by to visit or talk to him by phone.  

Mike was predeceased by his parents John and Anne Kondra, sister Elizabeth Fournier and her husband Pierre.

He is survived by his sister Evelyn Chura (Glenn), nephew Dan, niece Candice, stepdaughter Leslie Huber (Jason), and stepson Christopher Lee (Sara), extended family, and friends.

If so desired, donations in Mike's memory can be made to the Parkland Humane Society or the Sts Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Valley River Farm Church, Box 94, Sifton R0L 1X0.

Funeral service was held at Sneath-Strilchuk Family Care Center on December 5, 2024 at 10:30 am, with private interment at a later date.

Rest in Peace Mike, Vichnaya Pamyat
 

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