Obituary of Tony Zahaik
Tony Zahaik, a cherished barber, community member, and beloved family man, passed away on June 25th, 2024, after a lifetime of spreading joy and goodwill. He was born on September 27, 1941, in Red Lake, Ontario, to Tony and Jean Zahaik. His early years were spent in the vibrant mining community where his father worked, before the family moved to Winnipeg, settling in Theodore in 1947.
Tony's journey into barbering began with a course he took in Edmonton in 1960. By the following year, he had started his long and esteemed career at Ben's Barber Shop in Yorkton. His dedication and skill soon led him to co-own the shop, renamed Ben and Tony's Barber Shop. Though he officially retired in 2010, Tony's passion for barbering and his commitment to his clientele meant he continued cutting hair at home until his last days.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Tony held season tickets for the Yorkton Terriers hockey team for over half a century. He also played for the Theodore Buffalos and the Springside Old Timers, humorously noting his position as "penalty box."
Tony's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional one. He met his beloved wife Joyce at a sports day in Sheho in 1959, marking the beginning of a loving partnership that lasted nearly 59 years. They married in 1965, welcomed their daughter Corry in 1968, and their son Todd in 1972. The family cherished their summers at Good Spirit Lake, where Tony and his father built a cabin in 1978—a place of many joyful gatherings with lifelong friends and family, filled with fishing, playing cards, snowmobiling, and water skiing. His prized possession, a pontoon boat named Eric & Ava after his much loved and cherished grandchildren.
An avid outdoorsman, Tony loved fishing and hunting, proudly drawing a Moose tag this year. God truly does have a sense of humour. Known for his sense of humor, willingness to lend a hand, and an incredible ability to make friends wherever he went, Tony's presence enriched the lives of many. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and community spirit will continue to be felt by all who knew him.
Tony's life will be celebrated privately by his family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, Tony asked, if you wish, to make a donation to the Theodore Buffalos hockey team. E-transfers can be sent to theodorecommunitycomplex@gmail.com . Please make sure to note: “In Remembrance of Tony”. Tony Zahaik is survived by his loving wife Joyce, his children Corry Staff (Les Staff) and Todd Zahaik, along with his children Ava and Eric. His sister Shirley Thompson, best friend Ed Skehar, several in-laws, nieces and nephews and a community that will miss him deeply.
