Mike Odowichuk
Mike passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.
Born five days into 1920, the start of a new year and a new decade, Mike was the fourth of nine children born to William and Martha at their small farm near Glendon, Alberta. Mike was predeceased by his parents, his eight siblings: Mary, Nick, Steve, Ruth, Harry, Jeannie, Agnes and John, as well as three of his children, Stephen, Patrick and David.
Mike is survived by his wife Eileen and five children Ron Odowichuk (Judy), Julie Jackson (Gerry), Michael Odowichuk (Danielle), Jenny Sawatzky (Howard), and Connie Cross (Barrie). He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Stefan, Margo, Corey, Gabrielle, Madeleine, Bryan and Dylan, 3 great-grandchildren: Brett, Gavin and Ashley, and sisters-in-law Julie, Flo (Trev), Rosemarie and Mary.
Mike saw many changes over his 92 years, however some remained constant: his love of family and music, his wonderful sense of humour, his strong work ethic and determination are only some of the many unique qualities that endeared him to family and friends.
Mike was a veteran of WW2. Before completing his service, Mike married Eileen and they spent the early years of their marriage moving throughout BC while Mike worked various construction jobs. Among those, the ‘new’ John Hart hydro project and townsite, as well as construction of the Elk Falls Mill. In 1956, he accepted a permanent position in the carpenters’ shop at Elk Falls where he worked until his retirement in 1985. Mike had a passion for construction and a tireless work ethic. During those years, he completed many renovation and building projects. Mike and family bought acreage north of Campbell River in 1962 and he took on the daunting task of clearing land and building a new house for the family.
Mike was also known to attend or host the occasional social event where he was very popular because of his wit, violin playing and old-time dancing skills. He thoroughly enjoyed a game of cards or a watching a hockey game. After retirement, Mike enjoyed more time gardening, collecting firewood, fishing, and being the best Grandpa ever.
Mike was one of the original seniors to live in the ‘assisted living’ wing of the Anchor Inn while Ironwood Place was under construction. He then moved to the new Ironwood Place, and later on to the Evergreen Seniors’ Home.
To all of Mike’s caregivers, and particularly the folks at Evergreen, we send love and appreciation. These recent months and days have been challenging for everyone involved in Dad’s care. We are very grateful to the capable, compassionate and caring staff. We also offer heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ian Marsh, (to whom Mike’s large family offers apologies for occasionally exceeding the seating capacity of his small offices.)
Dad, Mike, Grandpa, Uncle, Friend. We say goodbye for now with tears of sadness, but also of joy for a life well-lived. With eternal love and gratitude, we wish you well deserved peace. In the jokes, laughter and warmth of family gatherings, when we hear a fiddle play and feel the music we will smile and think of you.
Family requests no flowers please; anyone wanting to do so may make a donation on Mike’s behalf to the Salvation Army or the charity of their choice. Dad appreciated and remembered the kindness offered to him by the Salvation Army while he was in the service.
A Funeral Service will be held at Sutton’s Funeral Home 502 S. Dogwood St. Campbell River, BC on Thursday, June 21, 2012 at 1:00pm.
Messages of condolence for the family may be left at www.suttonsfuneralhome.com
Sutton's Campbell River Funeral Home
250-287-4812