Bram Garth Wonko

Bram Garth Wonko passed away in Medicine Hat on March 25, 2024, at the age of 74. He is predeceased by his parents, Frank Wonko of Regina, Saskatchewan, and his mom, Lydia Wonko, (Erdelyan). He is survived by his wife. Carol; two children, Barbara Wonko and Darren Wonko (Carrie); and grandchildren, Paiten, Kyler, Brooklyn, Michael, Brianna, Anthony, and Matthew; as well as his sister, Loralyn (Harold).

Bram spent most of his work life at Federated Cooperatives Limited in Saskatoon before moving to Calgary to manage one of their warehouses. He worked hard throughout the week but enjoyed entertaining his family and friends on the weekends. Bram was the family foodie, spending quality time over the bar-be-que and waffle maker, and at holidays took pleasure in his turkey carving prowess.

Bram loved all sports. He coached Darren’s youth hockey teams and always enjoyed helping fellow pickleball players and golfers improve their games. When Bram was younger, he earned extra money by refereeing old timer’s hockey. One day he came home and shared the story of how a player who was upset with a call and in close range, said, “Jes*s Chris*.” Bram replied, “A simple Mr. Referee will do.” This stopped the player, and he ended up laughing. Bram had a great smile, contagious laughter and a sharp sense of humour.

Fastball provided Bram an opportunity to play in Japan and New Zealand. He played in Saskatoon with K and K Olson Jewelers and the All-o-Matic A’s. Golfing was the next sport that he decided to conquer. He had several good years with Men’s league at Silverwood Golf Course before becoming a member at Moon Lake Golf Club. Bram was able to travel to see his beloved Blue Jays during this time. He loaded up his family and drove a camper across the country to tour the east. He dragged his family to a Montreal Expos game and then to a Toronto Blue Jays game. He kept his love for the Jays throughout his life.

As he moved into a later stage of life and ended up in Medicine Hat, he and Carol were able to travel to Mesa for many winters where he became an avid Pickleball player. He carried that love back to Medicine Hat and played regularly. Another sport Bram loved while in Medicine Hat was Senior Men’s slow pitch and really enjoyed his Logos Rebels experiences.

Remembering Bram without mentioning the Saskatchewan Roughriders would be remiss. Bram LOVED the Riders. He watched every game without fail. He was very generous with his coaching tips for them, and always offered the T.V. his best advice, often very audibly.

A private family gathering will be held later.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, 325 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5, or Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Research, 1800 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 4J5, would be appreciated.