Shawn Rylinn Titus Mekish

Shawn Rylinn Titus Mekish (Rylinn) of Winnipeg, MB and formerly of Winnipegosis, MB entered into eternal rest on March 4, 2018. He will be dearly missed by his parents Wynonna Mekish and Shawn Sahulka, his sisters Jhenia and Alena Mekish, nieces Tinzlee and Chasely Mekish Monias, grandmother Brenda Sahulka, grandfather Ken Porter, great grandmother Minnie Sahulka, step siblings Justynn, Ashawntia, Jose’, Dominic, and Raoule, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Rylinn was predeceased by his grandparents Lena and Phillip Mekish, and his great grandfather Peter Sahulka. Rylinn was a friendly young man who was kind, funny, and smart; he was a gentle soul. In his early years, Rylinn and his family lived in several communities before residing in Camperville. At age nine Rylinn came to live with his grandmother, Brenda, in Winnipegosis. He excelled in school and was often on the honor roll. He had a passion for sports and played volleyball, basketball, baseball as well as hockey with the Winnipegosis Tigers. Rylinn also loved fishing and enjoyed the family camping trips and the visits with his cousins in Camperville. When Rylinn was twelve he spent his first of four summers working at Aunty Cindy and Uncle Bob’s farm. He was a quick learner and they had many laughs around the kitchen table. He found a passion for carpentry during this time and used his first paycheque to purchase his own tools. In his late teens, Rylinn became ill and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He spent the past six years in Winnipeg courageously battling his illness, however, this did not get in the way of his love for learning and his goal to complete high school. With determination he completed his Grade 12 GED then went on to attend Neeginan College of Applied Technology where he graduated with his Level 1 Carpenty. Rylinn was honored to be the class valedictorian at his graduation ceremony. Rylinn had a strong work ethic and was employed at several jobs over the years, some of which required him to catch the 5:30 a.m. city bus and to wait in line to be selected for work that day.  At times he was disappointed when no work was available so he had to find other ways to fill his day. Rylinn enjoyed cooking, listening to all kinds of music, watching movies, going to Tim Horton’s for coffee, working out at the YMCA, but most of all talking to and text messaging family and friends. Rylinn also looked forward to and appreciated the outings with Aunty Joyce. Whether it was going to his appointments, shopping, taking in a movie, or going out for lunch, she devoted countless hours to be there for him. Uncle Barry also purchased a bike for Rylinn and they taught him how to navigate the busy streets of Winnipeg. Rylinn also gained a respect for his Aboriginal culture by attending sweat lodge ceremonies with Elder Ovid and was proud to be tasked with building the sacred fire. As well, he found comfort and strength from inspirational messages that he often posted on his Facebook. “It’s going to get harder before it gets easier, but it will get better. You just have to make it through the hard stuff.” Rylinn was also wise beyond his years as he took an interest in what was happening in the world around him and was well versed about the current events of the day. Above all, Rylinn had a great sense of humor and loved to share a good joke. He will be remembered for his infectious laughter and that beautiful big smile. Rylinn had a kind heart and loved his family dearly. Uncle Rylinn adored his nieces and cherished every opportunity he had to spend time with them. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, especially his grandmother, his rock, who he spoke with daily for the past six years. She provided unconditional love and endless support and encouragement. “Remember Rylinn, stroke the good wolf.” We will forever hold you in our hearts Rylinn and there you will remain. Rest peacefully in the arms of God. 
“From the bottom of her heart” Brenda would like to thank mom, Sonia, Joyce and Barry, Elaine and Don who were her support system along with many other family and friends. She would also like to acknowledge Rylinn’s support team from Winnipeg: Guy, Jill, Paul, Terry, Adelia, Mark, Dr. Rothman, Dr. Johnson, and Crystal. 

Celebration of Life was held on Friday, March 16, 2018 at 2:00 pm from Sneath-Strilchuk Family Care Centre in Dauphin, MB with Pat Langlois officiating.  

In lieu of flowers, if family or friends so desire, donations in Rylinn’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shawn Rylinn Titus Mekish, please visit our floral store.