Obituary of RICHARD HALABUS

RICHARD HALABUS August 1, 1946 – October 2, 2015 Peacefully on his 44th wedding anniversary, after a courageous three year battle with cancer, Richard passed away at the age of 69, with the love of his immediate family at his side at the Health Sciences Centre. His memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife Elizabeth; his son Robert; daughter Elaine (Dave) Popove; and grandchildren Tyson and Aleisha; special cousins Jean Sorko with family and Brian (Heather) Urbanowicz; his sister Maria (Jerzy) Sternik in Poland and sons Jack and Mark with families; sister-in-law Weronika Halabus with family in Poland; his mother-in-law Wanda Horodynska; sisters-in-law Donna Krowiak, Mary Wojciechowski, Celina (Bill) Thater, Anne (Robert) Schaffer, Valentine (Paul) Szun; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and many valued and loved friends. Richard was born in Morawsko, Poland, and immigrated to Winnipeg in 1969. He was a plumber extraordinaire, supervisor at Black & McDonald for over 25 years where he was often overheard whistling or singing his favourite songs while working. He was an active member of the Polish community and proudly volunteered at Folklorama for many years with his family. He loved spending his summers at the family cabin in White Mud Falls, fishing on his antique boat, smoking his goldeye catches, gardening and sharing all of this with friends and family. He enjoyed bird watching, feeding animals, mushroom picking, relaxing by the fire while admiring the night sky. During the winters, Richard and his wife often left Winnipeg in search of the tropical sun and warm weather and could frequently be found on Vancouver Island visiting their kids while cherishing time playing with their grandchildren. Richard remained a devoted husband, father and grandfather (dziadzio) who looked forward to spending time with his family and friends. He was always there with a helping hand. Prayers will be said on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 7 pm at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 10:30 am at Holy Ghost Church, 341 Selkirk Ave. Interment to follow at Holy Ghost Cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff at the Health Sciences Centre and CancerCare Manitoba for their care and compassion, especially Brittany. He did not walk this painful journey alone as his hands were held tight by many. For all your kindnesses, the family is eternally grateful. Best friend, dearest husband, wonderful father, fun-loving “dziadzio,” you followed the light, now you’re at peace. You will live on in our hearts, until we meet again. We will always love you. Rest In Peace. “Wieczny odpoczynek racz mu dac panie.” In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation or charity of your choice.