It is with great difficulty and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our dad John Ewasko, on October 26, 2020, at Minnedosa Hospital.

John is survived by his children, Theresa (Dick) Bradley, Calgary, Carl Ewashko, Winnipeg, Lloyd (Willine) Ewashko, Sandy Lake, Loretta Hopkins, Gladstone and Christopher Ewasko, Rackham, sister Florence Casciano, Winnipeg and sister-in-law Jean (Moroz) Ewasko, Erickson.  Eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  John, also leaves many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends that were close to him throughout his life.

John was predeceased by his parents Paul and Mary Ewashko.  His brothers and their spouses: Bill (Mary), Pete, Mike (Bretha).  His sisters and their spouses:  Katie (Adam) Wolski, Sophie (Bill) Pestaluky, Margaret (John) McMurray, Anne (Nick) Zahodnik and daughter-in-law Marie Ewashko.

John was larger than life with a wonderful sense of humour, quick witted, determination, compassionate, a gentle spirit, he was a great storyteller, he loved to travel, and always willingly and freely giving a helping hand.  John will be remembered for his infectious smile, laugh and warm and friendly personality.

Some of John’s nieces and nephews and family friends have offered a few of their memorable moments about him:  “his handsome deep voice – nicer than Rock Hudson”, impromptu “meetings”, “always up for a good debate and seeing the funny side of things”, ”cranberry picking”, “Spring Break - ice fishing”, “visits to the farm to see Uncle John“, “tractor rides”, “Great dog handler”, “helping him feed his chickens and gathering eggs,” he was lovingly given the nickname “Bear” by his nieces and nephews, and many who knew him in the surrounding communities respectfully called him “Big John”.

John’s passion was farming, his cattle and all his many other animals on the farm.  He was largely involved in the community and many community events.  John was Councillor and Treasurer for the Harrison Municipality for eighteen years.  He was also, on the Erickson Hospital Board and School Trustee for Erickson School District.

A special thank you to Tamika Baron and all the staff at the Sandy Lake Personal Care Home for their care and being John’s adopted family during his stay.  Thank you to the Doctors and nursing staff at the Minnedosa Hospital.  Thank you to Rick Thom, Shauna and the staff at Rae’s Funeral Home.  We are gratefully to everyone for thinking of our family during this difficult time, your support means more than words can possible express.

Due to COVID-19, a private service was held October 29, 2020 at St. Nicholas Church in Ozerna, MB.  Interment was held at the Ozerna Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the Sandy Lake Personal Care Home or St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Ozerna, MB, C/O PO Box 96, Sandy Lake, Manitoba R0J 1X0

Dad, through you, we have gained strength, courage and love.  You will always be loved and cherished with all our wonderful memories of you and you will never be alone or forgotten.