Obituary of ANTON PIKEL

ANTON PIKEL Suddenly on Wednesday, December 5, 2012, Tony was called Home. He was the beloved husband of Frances for almost 56 years. He was also the father of five children: Joseph (Gwen), Stanley (Mechelle), Vladimira (Bob), Philip (Cathy) and John (Jody) and the proud grandpa of 15 grandchildren. He will also be sadly missed by his 6 sisters and numerous relatives in Slovenija. Tony was born on May 30, 1930 in Sv. Miklavz, Slovenija. He grew up working hard on the family farm while also finding time to learn the carpentry trade. At 16 years of age, he served in the army. Tony and Frances were married in Austin, Austria on December 29, 1956 and shortly after, took the long journey to follow their dreams in Canada. Tony and Frances settled in Winnipeg and found their home within the Slovenian community through Our Lady of Lourdes Church and the Slovenian Club. Tony had a real passion for music and song. He composed his own music and for many years he led the church choir. Whenever there was an opportunity to sing his Slovenian folk songs he did so with great happiness. Even though Tony loved his home in Canada, he never forgot his roots and love for Slovenija. He was very happy for any opportunity to visit his sisters, nephews and nieces. When he retired, Tony and Frances purchased a farm near Gimli and continued to work hard. He enjoyed the last 16 years of his life working on the farm and visiting with family and friends. Special thanks to Ron and Judy for being there in our time of need. We truly appreciate it. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes, 95 MacDonald Avenue. Viewing will be from 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. in the church with Father Diosdado Parrenas presiding. Interment will follow at Green Acres Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba.