Elgin Ernest Strocen

Elgin Ernest Strocen (1942-2020) of Yorkton, SK., beloved husband of Carol Strocen, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Canora, SK to Paul and Lena (Mykytyshyn) Strocen, Elgin grew up on the family farm before moving to Yorkton in grade 8. Elgin’s homestead was near the Assiniboine River, which led to a lifetime of time on the water, mainly fishing. In the pioneering days fishing was a necessary source of food, while later trips were for enjoyment with family and friends .After high school, Elgin received his teaching diploma, married his sweetheart Carol in 1963, and started his teaching career alongside his new bride in Neidpath, SK. In the 12 years that they spent in southwest SK, Elgin and Carol touched the lives of many people, including friends that remain to this day. During this time, Elgin furthered his love of athletics, and began hunting for big game and birds. In 1975, Elgin and Carol returned to Yorkton and taught within the Yorkton Public School Division for the remainder of their careers. Both Elgin and Carol formed many friendships with their fellow educators that continued through the rest of their lives. It was in Yorkton where their two children, Michele and Mitchell were raised. When not teaching, Elgin spent countless evenings in his shop focussing on woodworking and carpentry. He also continued his love of fishing and hunting, while beginning to focus on wildlife conservation efforts. He volunteered many hours to the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation and acted as an official measurer for the Henry Kelsey Club. Elgin’s love of the outdoors was truly reflected in his hobbies and passions. Elgin always joked that once he retired he couldn’t get a day off from his “boss” – which of course was himself. Retirement kept Elgin very busy, and he found ongoing enjoyment spending time working on his hobbies, at his hunting shack north of Pelly with his grand-dog Stewie, and gabbing over coffee with friends. A regular topic was the Yorkton Terriers, as both Elgin and Carol maintained season tickets for years. As cancer started to touch the lives of many family and friends, Elgin found he could give back to the community by combining his passion for woodworking and wildlife into building birdhouses for people in exchange for donations to the Cancer Foundation. While Elgin always enjoyed visiting with friends, he would get most excited to see his family. He saved his biggest hugs for these visits and would be sure to plan the next trip before the current one concluded. Elgin is lovingly remembered by his wife of 57 years, Carol (Beblow); daughter Michele Strocen; son Mitch (Taryn Bogdan) Strocen; grandchildren Olivia and Alexis Strocen; as well as many extended family members and friends. A private family Graveside Service was held Monday, October 5, 2020 in the Garden of Devotion at Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Crystal Bailey, Certified Celebrant officiating. Memorial contributions can be made ‘In loving memory of Elgin Strocen” to the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan: 200-4545 Parliament Ave, Regina, SK., S4W 0G3 or the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation, 9 Lancaster Rd., Moose Jaw, SK., S6J 1M8 as tokens of remembrance.