John Stephen Zabudney

November 14, 1966 - July 24, 2026

At the age of 59, John Zabudney passed away, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

John was born and raised in Gimli, Manitoba, before moving to Winnipeg as an adult. Although Winnipeg became his home, Gimli always held a special place in his heart. He cherished the time he spent there with his family and was devoted to caring for his parents throughout their later years.  

John was predeceased by his beloved parents, Steve and Lesha Zabudney; his grandparents, Michael and Anna Zabudney, and John and Sophie Hrynewich; his uncle, Orest Hrynewich; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Tadeusz and Stefania Wojciechowski; and his brother-in-law, Louis Albertson.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Barb Zabudney, and his cherished children, Brittany, Stephen, and Alexa (Kaylen), who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Kantyluk (Glen), and nephew, Lennon. He will be deeply missed by his sisters-in-law, Teresa Errett (Phil) and Ursula Schioler (Kai), as well as his cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him.

John was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, and his humour, storytelling, and genuine interest in others allowed him to connect with people wherever he went. He was known for his generosity, compassion, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. Whether supporting family, friends, colleagues, or his community, John gave of himself wholeheartedly, asking for little in return.

Professionally, John dedicated more than 30 years to the City of Winnipeg's Planning, Property and Development Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues through his leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service. He retired as a highly respected manager, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Outside of work, John found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved biking, spending time outdoors, taking pride in a freshly mowed lawn, and going for a drive. He appreciated the everyday moments that brought happiness and connection, and he found fulfillment in staying active, helping others, and spending time with the people he cared about.

Shortly after retirement, John faced one of life’s greatest challenges when cancer took his leg. Despite this tremendous change, he never lost the qualities that defined him. He continued to find ways to contribute, support others, and make a difference with the same courage, determination, and generosity that guided his life. Most recently, he proudly served a one-year term as Chair of the Board at Seven Oaks General Hospital, continuing his lifelong commitment to making his community a better place.

John faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength and determination. He refused to let adversity define him and continued to inspire everyone fortunate enough to know him through his courage, optimism, and unwavering commitment to those around him.

Although John's life ended far too soon, the impact he made will endure. His kindness, generosity, wisdom, and quiet strength have left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and community. He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for the way he made people feel—valued, supported, and cared for.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and healthcare teams at Seven Oaks General Hospital and St. Boniface Hospital for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to John and his family throughout his journey. Their kindness and dedication will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

John will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Father Isidore Dziadyk will preside over a celebration of John’s life which will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., Winnipeg, followed by light refreshments. 

In honour of John’s life and in recognition of the compassionate care he received, the family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.