MICHAEL JOSEPH LARRY ERSTELLE

April 7, 1953 – December 23, 2025

Michael “Mike” Erstelle passed away peacefully at Riverview Health Centre on December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Mike was predeceased by his parents, Leonard and Theresa Erstelle, and his brother, Lenny.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife and soulmate of 52 years, Ruth. He will also be deeply missed by his brothers Robert “Colt” (Shirley), Derek (Linda), Kenny (Tiffany), Allan; sisters Angie and Barbie; along with his Uncle Joey (Diane); aunts Loretta, Rose (Bill), and Flora; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Mike was born on April 7, 1953, in Moosemin, Saskatchewan. After a short time in Alberta, he grew up in Winnipeg’s North End. Even as a young boy, Mike was naturally curious and creative—assembling models and building rockets that he would proudly launch at the old Exhibition Grounds. He later joined the Royal Canadian Air Force Cadets, 553 Squadron, at the Fort Garry Horse Armories.

In 1971, Mike began his working life as a midnight gas jockey at the Econo Gas Bar at Mountain Avenue and McPhillips Street. It was during those early mornings that he noticed a young blonde woman waiting for the bus. On a cold, rainy third morning, he invited her into the station to warm up. That moment marked the beginning of a love story that would last 53 years and 7 months. Her name was Ruth.

Mike and Ruth were married on Saturday, September 22, 1973, at Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Canora, Saskatchewan. She was truly the love of his life.

A skilled mechanic by trade, Mike took immense pride in his work and was always eager to expand his knowledge, earning certifications in propane conversions, vehicle inspections, and many other areas. He loved muscle cars and owned several unique vehicles over the years, including a 1968 Ford Mustang, a 1969 Dodge Charger, a 1968 Plymouth Satellite, a 1969 MGB, and his beloved Ford Rangers—first orange, then green, and finally red, proudly displaying his custom “Mouse” license plates.

Music was one of Mike’s great passions. He loved rock and roll, country, and pop, enjoying his music loud and proud—whether in his music room or at the lake. He was an avid collector of vinyl records, old auto parts, beer steins, and car models. Mike enjoyed playing bingo, singing karaoke with his good friend Mitch (together known as “the M&M Boys”), and traveling, including three memorable Caribbean cruises and many trips back to Saskatchewan to visit family.

Mike was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion, serving faithfully for over 50 years at Branches #141, #117, and finally #246, where he especially enjoyed serving as Sergeant-at-Arms. He was also a devoted Knight of Columbus for more than 30 years—a 3rd Degree member of Father Shyshkowich Council #8925 and Father Filipow Council #8944, and a 4th Degree member of Canon Luhovy Assembly #0374.

Camping was another great joy in Mike’s life. From a simple pup tent to soft- and hard-top trailers, and eventually Camp Rusalka, Mike embraced lake life to the fullest—fishing, golfing, enjoying piva (beer), community music, weekends at the lake, and relaxing under the gazebo.

Mike was a survivor and a fighter. He faced major health challenges in the mid-1980s, battled cancer in the early 2000s, and courageously fought his final health struggle beginning on Thanksgiving Day in 2020. After more than five years of perseverance, he was called home by the Lord, and his suffering came to an end.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Rev. Fr. Isidore Dziadyk, OSBM, whose visits always lifted Mike’s spirits, and to Rev. Fr. Larry Kondra, CSsR, for being present and giving Mike his final blessings on the day he passed.

The family is sincerely grateful to the doctors and staff at Riverview Health Centre, especially the 2nd Floor East Wing. A special note of appreciation goes to Chris—your care and compassion toward Mike were truly a Godsend.

Mike will be lovingly remembered for his strength, loyalty, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family, friends, and community.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 11:00a.m. at St Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parish (737 Bannerman Ave).

Donations may be made in Mike's memory to Riverview Health Centre, 2 East.