Obituary of ALBERT SANKOW

After a long battle with dementia, Albert passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Deer Lodge Center.

He is lovingly remembered by daughters Catherine, Jennie (Jim), son Allan, grandchildren Andrea (Robert), Jesse (Sarah), John (Haley), Rawson (Kiana), great-grandchildren Devin, Spencer, Maisie and Eloise and nephew Walter (Val). He was predeceased by his wife of 70 years Jennie, his parents, brothers Edward, Donald and Vernon and granddaughter Alana.  

Dad was born in Portage la Prairie to Stephen and Mary.  Due to unfortunate circumstances, he and his brothers spent a good portion of their youth in Ituna, SK.

Dad moved to Winnipeg where he met Mom at a church dance. Being the smooth dancer he was, they soon married on September 6,1952 and were together until her passing in December 2022.

Dad was employed by CP Rail where he started as a locomotive fireman and worked his way up to engineer, finishing his career on Via Rail in October 1987.  Never one to sit idle, he continued to work several jobs until his diagnoses at age 80. 

His job on the railway afforded him to be affiliated with the Junior, WHA and NHL Jets.  Affectionately nicknamed Gabby, his most memorable times with the WHA Jets were his trips abroad to Russia, Japan and several Nordic countries. With his love of the game and family, he was a constant figure behind the net at grandson Jesse’s every game.

Dad loved the sun, nice clothes and to the chagrin of we 3 kids, the newest sporty 2 door car that we had to crawl into the back of! 

He was the most generous soul and was always there for us, no questions asked. Coming from such a humble beginning, we will be forever proud of you Dad.

The family would like to thank the staff of Fred Douglas Lodge for their care.  Dad spent nearly 7 years there and made many friends during that time.  We would like to acknowledge the Activity Staff who were especially kind to him.  He was transferred to Deer Lodge Center for the last month of his life and a special thank you to the staff of T3 South who comforted him in his last days.

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held in the summer of 2025.  

If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada.

May you and Mom rest together in eternal peace.