Walter Alexander Wilchowy

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Walter Wilchowy, late of Wakaw, SK at the age of 81 years. He died peacefully on October 3rd, 2021 with his wife and children by his side. Walter was born on January 27th, 1940 in Wakaw, SK. He attended Sokal School until Grade 8 when he quit to farm full time beside his dad and brother on the family farm by Sokal, Northwest of Wakaw. He met Yolande (Boutin) in 1971 and they were married in 1974. They raised five children together and opened their hearts and home to over 150 foster children over a 20+ year period. Walter loved living on the farm, working the land and tending to his animals. He had an incredible work ethic not only farming but also driving school bus for 25 years and operating a Cat Bulldozer. Walter had a quiet demeanor, a gentle heart, a strong faith, and a generous spirit. He loved children and animals and was affectionately known by his nieces and nephews as ‘Uncle Share Bear’. He loved to laugh, especially at the Three Stooges or Abbott & Costello. He got great pleasure from listening to folk music from around the world but especially the Saturday Night Old Time Dance Party on AM radio. He also loved to play cards and dice, enjoyed a good glass of wine or whiskey, and in his younger years he was an avid snowmobiler. He was a talented wood worker who created beautiful bird houses, picture frames and rocking horses that are treasured by many. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he enjoyed watching their sporting events and recitals. He always looked forward to their visits and video calls. Walter was an incredible role model for everyone who met him, as a gentleman, husband, father and hard worker. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Yolande and his children and grandchildren. Wally (Carla), Reid, Greydon; Desiree (Jason) Rattray, Abigail, Oakley; Janelle (Chris) Samoila, Jordan, Victoria (Luke Vachon) Henry; Chloe, Charlotte; Matthew (Leah); Randy Badger; Angel Charles-Tanti (Bew Tantikhajorngosol); and the numerous ‘bonus’ children he and Yolande opened their homes to, including Davis Primeau and Tasha Montgrand; his Aunt Lillian Steranka; and sister-in-law Anne Wilchowy as well as many members of the Wilchowy, Hafichuk and Boutin families. He was predeceased by his parents, Nick & Ellen (nee Bazalo) Wilchowy, daughter Natalia, grandson William, brothers Joey (in infancy) and Mike, sister and brother-in-law Lillian and Fr. Ernie Hafichuk, great-nephew Tyson Wilchowy, and numerous other relatives from both the Wilchowy and Boutin families. Arrangements have been entrusted to Marc Blondeau with Kushneryk’s Funeral Service. The funeral service will be held at St. Theresa’s Parish in Wakaw on Thursday, October 7th at 10:30 am. The family would like to give special thanks to the staff on the 5th Floor at Victoria Hospital for their excellent care and compassion during his final days. We would also like to thank and acknowledge the staff of Wakaw Home Care and Wakaw EMS for their professional care of Walter. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Saskatchewan Alzheimer’s Society.