Nicholas Swaluk

October 7, 1917 – July 15, 2011
With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Nicholas Swaluk on July 15, 2011 at East Gate Lodge in Beausejour, at the age of 93.
Nick leaves behind his sisters Ann Nolan, Mary Hanney (John), Tina Guspie, all of Toronto; his in-laws Mary Kowalchuk, Helen Bretchka, Kathy Glowacki, Betty Regula (Stanley), Lawrence Bialek (Joan) and many nieces and nephews.
Nick was predeceased by his brothers George and Harry; his sisters Martha and Barbara; and most recently, his wife of 63 years, Adeline.
Nick was born to John and Magdalena Swaluk on a farm in Hazelglenn, Manitoba, the third son in a family that grew to eight. As a young man, he worked as a heavy equipment operator, building Manitoba roads. During the war he was stationed in Aldershot, Nova Scotia from 1942-1945 with the Winnipeg Light Infantry, and held the job of army cook. When he returned from the war, Nick met Adeline, and in 1947 they married, and Adeline became not only his wife, but his best friend. They returned to the Swaluk family farm, and worked there together for 30 years. They had a mixed farm with grain and livestock, and every summer held their own farm camp for a multitude of nieces and nephews. They continued farming for some years after their move to Beausejour in the late 1960’s. Nick also worked with the municipality of Brokenhead, and was foreman until his full retirement in 1981.
Nick’s strong work ethic was coupled with a commitment to his community. He held three two-year terms as a councilor for the Rural Municipality of Brokenhead. He served as a School Trustee and Financial Secretary for the Cloverleaf School, where he had been a student. Nick was a member of the Holy Ghost Ukrainian Church in Beausejour, and was the Church Treasurer for ten years. He also served as President of the Beau Head Seniors Club. For 25 years of service with the Knights of Columbus, Nick received a Knighthood Degree. Years before, Nick had volunteered his time and skill during the construction of the Cooks Creek Ukrainian Catholic Church.
Nick enjoyed an active and healthy retirement. He maintained a strong social involvement, continued his interest in hunting and fishing, and honed his skills as a cribbage and whist player, winning many tournaments. He travelled with family and friends across the United States, made at least five winter trips to Hawaii, and made many visits to family in Toronto. He was also able to connect with relatives and visit them in the Ukraine.
Funeral Services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at Sobering Funeral Chapel, 1035 Park Avene E., Beausejour with Rev. Fr. Isadore Dziadyk officiating. Interment followed in the Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery. Friends may view at the chapel prior to the service.
The family would like to thank the entire staff at East Gate Lodge for making the Lodge his home; for the sensitive, respectful care and for their genuine compassion and love for Nick. His last days were spent with dignity.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nick’s memory to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 200-6 Donald St., Wpg. R3L 0K6.
Vichnaya Pamyat
www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

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