Obituary of Peter Skwernuik

A memorial folder from the funeral service may be printed under the "Memories" tab, then choose "memorial Program". SKWERNUIK - Mr. Peter Skwernuik of Yorkton passed away with family by his side after a long and courageous battle with cancer on August 10, 2013 at the age of 86 years. Peter was predeceased by his parents Peter and Polly Skwernuik, his wife, Anastasia (Nellie), and infant son Timothy and his sister Mary Balaniuk. Left to celebrate his life are his children Wayne Skwernuik (Charlene) of Regina, Brenda Pries (Gordon) of Yorkton, Diana Brenman (Claudio) of Edmonton AB, Donna Balog (Mark) also of Yorkton, and Beverly Kennedy (Alex) of Courtenay, BC, and 10 grandchildren Justin (Sharon), Andrew (Dawn), Jennifer (Ryan), Adam, Ross (Natsumi), Madison, Liam, Grace, Jillian, Rachel, and 5 precious great grandchildren (Aidan, Hanna, Dominic, London, Eric). He will be deeply missed by his sisters Betty Fedor of Hamilton, Anne Tetoff of Wroxton, and Eleanor Cucmak of Winnipeg and many other relatives and friends. Peter was born on June 11, 1927 in the Kamsack district. His parents Peter (Poroftey) and Polly had two family farms (Calder and Two Creeks) where Peter and his sisters were taught how to work hard. Peter later ventured to Hamilton, Ontario where he worked for Dofasco Steel and Lincoln Heating. Peter met his wife Anastasia (Buchko) in Hamilton and they married in 1953. They later moved back to Saskatchewan where for a short time he worked on his parent's farm near Calder and during that time their first son Wayne was born in 1954. The family then returned to Hamilton where Brenda, Diana and Donna were born. In 1965 they again returned to Saskatchewan as proprietors of the Calder Hotel. Along with the demands and success of the hotel, Peter operated a small heating business and served on the Village Council for Calder. In 1972, two years after Beverly was born, Peter moved his family to Yorkton. Peter worked many years as a realtor for Broadway Agencies, Halls Agencies and Nelson Homes. In the 70's and 80's Peter volunteered at the Yorkton Exhibition for rodeo, chuck wagon and variety events held at the grandstand. With Nellie's help, Peter built two prospect homes in Yorkton. Peter joined Deneschuk Homes in 1980 and retired in 1995. Peter and Nellie shared complimentary talents which they used to renovate homes over the years and plus they were always available to lend a hand to their children and grandchildren. Peter met all challenges in life with strength and vigor. His drive to accomplish tasks and perform well, were represented in his passion to repair and recycle things with a determined spirit. He swapped cooking recipes with his sisters and taught his children and grandchildren many kitchen and gardening secrets. In Peter's younger years he curled and played fastball and enjoyed the sport of watching hockey, curling, football, baseball and daily newscasts of places where family members lived. Peter was close to his family and stayed in touch with friends, neighbours and co-workers. The legacy that he created will be cherished. A special thanks to all the family and friends who gave their love and support to Peter and his family during this difficult time. The Prayer Service was held on Friday, August 16, 2013 and the Requiem Divine Liturgy on Saturday, August 17, 2013 at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yorkton with Very Rev. Fr. Peter Pidskalny, C.Ss.R. as the Celebrant. The responses were led by Ed Pindus and parish choir members. The cross bearer was Liam Balog and the epistle reader was Madison Ruff. Serving as honourary bearers were Mark Balog and Jennifer Robinson. The interment took place in the Yorkton City Cemetery with Ross Pries, Adam Pries, Justin Skwernuik, Andrew Skwernuik, Alex Kennedy and Gordon Pries serving as the casket bearers. Memorials honouring Peter's life may be made to the Cancer Society for Prostate Research. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.baileysfuneralhome.com Vichnaya Pamyat! Eternal Memory! Funeral arrangements were in acre of Bailey's Funeral Home. Service Information Friday, August 16th, 2013 7:00pm, St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church Saturday, August 17th, 2013 11:00am, St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church Interment Details Yorkton City Cemetery