Obituary of Michael Wrishko

WRISHKO - Michael Frank Wrishko, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at Regina Pasqua Hospital with his family by his side. He passed peacefully at the age of 81. He was born in Jedburgh, SK on March 9, 1929 to Peter & Anne (Vernie) Wrishko. He attended school at Forest Nook School, in Jedburgh. Mike united in marriage to Zenitta (Matisho) November 17, 1956 at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church. This union was blessed with seven children. They made their home on the farm by Jedburgh, SK. Through the years, dad was involved in the 4-H Club, his sons' hockey and the local curling club. Dad worked hard with all aspects of the farming operation. In June 1979 they made their home in Yorkton until his passing. While residing in Yorkton, Dad became an avid member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Mary's Church, St. Mary's Cultural Centre and the Golden Agers. Dad was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather & brother who had a zest for life. His greatest joys were his children and he treasured his moments with his grandchildren dearly. His grandchildren always enjoyed being with Grandpa in the garden. His shirt pocket was always stocked with gum for them. Dad thoroughly enjoyed playing cards with friends & family, and attended the odd bingo night. He always looked forward to attending various family activities. Dad made many friends at the Seniors' Hall where he enjoyed dancing on Friday nights. His love for the outdoors took him hunting, fishing and spending time in the garden. Dad was a hardworking, kind, and generous individual. He took great pride in doing what needed to be done from repairing mechanical equipment to refinishing wood furniture and such. He could often be found "tinkering" in his shop or was quick to make a trip to the home of any one of his children who might have a job that needed doing. He never hesitated to help out others, whether it be moving snow for neighbors or assisting with a repair. His optimism and sense of humour made him a joy to be with. He often shared many memories and stories from the past as time with family, friends and neighbours was what he cherished most in life. In Yorkton dad worked as a truck driver with the Shell Bulk Station then spent the latter part of his career working in maintenance at St. Alphonsus School until his retirement. Dad was predeceased by his wife of 47 years, Zen in 2003, his father Peter Wrishko in 1972, mother Anne Wrishko in 1982, father-in-law James Matisho in 1986, mother-in-law Kay Matisho in 2007, an infant sister Irene in 1943, and grandson Collin Boczulak in 2002. He leaves to mourn his passing and cherish his memory, 3 sons, Darrell (Barbara) of Regina, Terry (Trish) of Regina; & Kevin (Nichol) of Yorkton, his 4 daughters, Dianne (Norman) Boczulak of Ituna; Sharlene (Doug) Pascoe of Moose Jaw; Lori (Brent) McInnis of Swift Current and Corinne (Emery) Spronken of Calgary; his 12 grandchildren: Scott (Mackenzie), Jesse & Riley Pascoe; Paige, Jill & Nathan McInnis, Paul & Madeline Spronken; Landon & Kaden Wrishko; Sara & Sage Wrishko; Mike Bernhardt; his great-grandchildren Paisley and Nevaeh; his sister Judy Armstrong of Saskatoon; and brothers Archie (Marie) Wrishko of Edmonton, and Dave (Lynn) Wrishko of Yorkton, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives & friends. Dad we will miss your energy, your ever-loving smile, your weekly phone calls, your laugh and most of all your unconditional love! Prayer Service was held on Monday, December 27th at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Yorkton. A tribute to Michael was shared by Darrell Wrishko & Doug Pascoe. Requiem Divine Liturgy was held on Tuesday, December 28th at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church with Rev. Father Ray Lukie, C.Ss.R. as the Celebrant. The responses were led Ed Pindus, Colette Karapita and St. Mary's Choir members. The cross bearer was Kevin Wrishko and the epistle reader was Corinne Spronken. A tribute in song, "I hope you Dance" was sung by Paige McInnis. The interment followed in the Garden of Crucifixion at Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Terry Wrishko, Doug Pascoe, Darrell Wrishko, Emery Spronken, Brent McInnis and Norm Boczulak serving as the casket bearers. Following the memorial reception words of appreciation was conveyed by Darrell Wrishko. A tribute in song entitled "Today" was shared by Barbara Wrishko. Service Information Tuesday, December 28th, 2010, St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church Interment Details Yorkton Memorial Gardens