Obituary of David Petlak

David Dmytro Petlak

(April 5, 1943 - December 23, 2024)

The family of David Petlak of Goodeve, Saskatchewan, beloved husband of Diana Petlak, sadly announce his passing on December 23, 2024 at St. Peter's Hospital in Melville, Saskatchewan. He was 81 years of age.

David was born on April 5, 1943 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Melville, Saskatchewan, a son to Matt and Olga (nee Daviduke) Petlak.  He grew up in Goodeve, Saskatchewan where he completed his schooling.  Early on in life, David met the love of his life, Diana Kowalchuk, as they lived next door to each other.  They were married on August 15, 1964 and spent the next 60 plus years together.  

David spent his work life in education, first attending Teachers College in Regina.  His first teaching position was at Robert Country School, a one room school, teaching all grades from 1 - 8.  David then spent one year teaching in Pilot Butte, before moving back to Goodeve for the rest of his teaching career, serving as a teacher and later principal of Goodeve School.

David loved playing and coaching all sports, including hockey, curling, golf, baseball, and fastball.  He coached local ball teams in Goodeve, including the men's fastball team, the Goodeve Giants.  David also coached minor hockey teams in Melville, the Jr. B Ituna Leafs, and filled in to coach the Melville Jr. A Millionaires for a few games one season.  David also loved watching the Saskatchewan Roughriders, and was a die hard Toronto Maple Leafs fan.  David also umpired fastball for many years after his playing days were done.  

One of David's proudest sport endeavors was serving as a scout for many years for the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League.

David was very community minded, and volunteered for many organizations in Goodeve.  He also served on the Village of Goodeve Council, serving as the village's mayor for many years.

David was predeceased by his parents, Matt and Olga Petlak.

David will be forever loved and remembered by his wife of over 60 years, Diana Petlak (nee Kowalchuk); his two sons, Stuart Petlak and Jason Petlak; two grandsons, Kain Petlak and Logan Petlak (Kristin); two great grandsons, Kohen Petlak and Kesler Petlak; and his brother Don Petlak (Carol).

As per David's wishes, no funeral services will be held. A Private Family Interment Ceremony will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to a cancer agency of your choice as gifts of remembrance.

Arrangements entrusted to Bailey's Funeral and Cremation Care, Melville.