Obituary of John Sawka

SAWKA - Mr. John Sawka, of Yorkton, beloved husband of Marie Sawka entered eternal life on May 22, 2009 at the age of 96 years. John was born on December 8, 1912 in the Preeceville area, a son to Wasyl and Mary (Nazar) Sawka. John was united in marriage to Marie Chalupiak and the couple began farming in the Preeceville district until 1966. Upon moving to Yorkton he worked in the carpentry / construction industry until retiring in 1978. He was a parishioner of St. Mary's Church and an active member of the New Horizon's Senior Centre. He had a passion for game playing, particularly cards and pool. He enjoyed going on sight-seeing tours. In recent months, John was content to reside in the Yorkton District Nursing Home where he touched the hearts of staff and residents. Predeceased by his parents; his brothers Paul, Steve, Mike and Clarence and his sister Pauline; John leaves to cherish his memory his wife Marie; daughters Elizabeth "Betty" Burke of Huntington Beach, California and Carroll (Robert) Naphin of Regina; grandchildren and great grandchildren Dave (Tavia) Burke, Jacob, Kayleigh and Jenna, Ray Burke, Sarah and Ashley, Ryan (Lisa) Burke, Alexandra and James, Jill (Brad) Zdunich, Logan and Janae, Joseph (Anna) Naphin and Jude; a sister Stetchy McLeod and nieces and nephews. John will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Prayers were held on Thursday, May 28th at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Yorkton. The rosary led by St. Mary's parishioners preceded. Requiem Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Friday, May 29th at. St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church with Rev. Father Vladimir Kolpakov, C.Ss.R. as the Celebrant . The responses were led by Ed Pindus, Colette Karapita & parish choir members. The cross bearers were Elizabeth "Betty" Burke and Carroll Naphin and the epistle reader was Elizabeth "Betty" Burke. Sacristan, Walter Prystai served at the Altar. The interment followed in the Garden of St. Matthew at Yorkton Memorial Gardens with R. J. David Burke, Joseph Naphin, Brad Zdunich, James Sawka, Terry Chalupiak and Darwin Chalupiak serving as the casket bearers. A memorial reception followed where numerous family members conveyed tributes of their loved one. Vichnaya Pamyat! Eternal Memory! Funeral arrangements were in care of Bailey's Funeral Home. Service Information Friday, May 29th, 2009, St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church Interment Details Yorkton Memorial Gardens