Russell Michael Krawetz

August 20, 1957 – April 20, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Russell Michael Krawetz, beloved husband, father, dido, brother, uncle, and friend, who left us peacefully surrounded by his family.

Russ was predeceased by his parents Michael and Olga Krawetz (née Susick); infant son Eric; sister Mary Krawetz; sister-in-law Debra McLean; brothers-in-law Blair Simpson and Garry McLean; and father- and mother-in-law Douglas and Marie Simpson. He will be forever loved by his devoted wife Catherine of 44 years; children Melissa Kroeker (Benjamin) and Nicholas (Natalia); and cherished grandsons Lev and Yan. He is also remembered by his three sisters, Janice, Donna (Jerry) and Patricia (Russ), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins across Canada, the United States, and Ukraine.

Russ and Catherine’s love story began in Transcona, where they grew up and later married on May 30, 1981, building a lifetime together rooted in enduring commitment and devotion.

He dedicated 33 years to public service with the federal government, including roles with the Canada Revenue Agency and Industry Canada, where he became Prairie Region Director for the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy. He earned deep admiration from colleagues, known for fostering a workplace rooted in encouragement and mutual respect. Following his retirement in 2013, Russ faced his diagnosis with courage, strength, and grace, never complaining and living each day with quiet resilience.

Raised in Transcona, Russ grew up playing hockey with the Railers and working at the golf course where he developed a lifelong passion that he proudly shared with his son Nick. He was a loyal fan of the Boston Bruins and Winnipeg Jets, enjoyed blues music, gourmet cooking, woodworking, landscaping, and expressing his sense of humour with superb timing. In 1993, he built the family cottage in Belair, Manitoba, which soon became the family’s beloved home, filled with laughter and love before moving to East Selkirk and later Winnipeg as the children grew older.

Above all, Russ was a devoted family man. He was the most supportive and loving husband and father, fully present in every chapter of his children’s lives – from helping with homework to graduations, extracurriculars, and new pursuits. He lived for his family, and they are forever grateful for his unwavering encouragement, kindness, and steady guidance.

Russ also took great pride in his Ukrainian heritage, traveling to Ukraine four times to visit his grandparents’ villages and reconnect with relatives. These journeys left a profound impact on him, and his love for Ukraine and its traditions will be proudly carried forward by his children and grandsons in his honour.

Those who knew Russ will remember his calm presence, thoughtful wisdom, and lasting influence. He lived by the values of perseverance, hard work, and integrity.

The family sincerely thanks the staff at the Movement Disorder Clinic, Community and Riverview Palliative Care programs, and all healthcare professionals who cared for Russ with compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Brain Canada Foundation or Canada-Ukraine Foundation.

Russ, Dad, Dido – our role model and inspiration – you will be deeply missed and forever loved and remembered.

A Memorial Service will take place on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Cropo Funeral Chapel in Transcona (1800 Day St), with reception to follow.

Vichnaya Pam’yat – Eternal Memory