Stanley Chura

1915 ~ 2016

After a century of living, a century of change, Stanley Chura passed away peacefully on November 27, 2016 at his home in East Gate Lodge.    He leaves to mourn his children Barbara Sobetski (John), Norman (Connie) and Judith Chura Habing (Les);  also his grandchildren John (Heather) and Brett (Rayeann) Sobetski, Jill Chura,  and step-grandchildren Tracey (Dave) Gill, Reid (Tasha) Habing;  great grandchildren Rory, Kyra, Dayne, Austin, Keiran, Jenna, and his sisters-in-law Kay Brunet, Louise Malegus and Moira Malegus.  He was blessed with the arrival of his great grand-daughter Rory 100 years after his own birth.   His beloved wife Olga predeceased him in 2014.

Stan was born November 20, 1915 in Cloverleaf, Manitoba to Michael and Kataryzyna Czura.  He was the last surviving of 10 children:  Nick (Anne), Mamie Protosavage (Ted), John (Kay), Frank (Alexandra), Casey, Nellie Ruchkall (Joe), Lily Lucko (Walter) and 2 infant siblings.  He was also predeceased by his in-laws, Nikita and Mary Malegus, John and Lena Malegus, Josie and Bill Stanko, Peter Malegus, Nick and Sophie Malegus, Mike and Eleanore Malegus, and John Brunet.

As a young man looking for work in the midst of the Great Depression, his early life was forged by adversity and his character defined by resilience and a strong work ethic.  His early life’s challenges could have jaded him, but these experiences led him to embrace family and celebrate the good fortunes life made available to him. He lived, worked and played hard, setting an example of extraordinary work ethic, endurance, strength and courage with a zest for life.  He became an inspiration to all his family as well as his wide circle of friends.

It was a beautiful day in Winnipeg when he met the love of his life, Olga Malegus.   On July 26, 1947 – Stan and Olga were the first couple to be wed in St. Mary’s Church in Beausejour.  And so began a full and adventurous journey together.  They raised 3 children and hosted many gatherings.  Throughout their entire life, Stan and Olga entertained frequently and there was always plenty of food, drink and laughter in their home.

Stan loved to enjoy life – entertaining or visiting, attending social gatherings, playing cards with friends, picnics, trips with his RV, basking in the sun on a tropical beach or a day at the casino. He loved the action of bright lights and the excitement of an adventure.   He remembered the ill and shut-ins with visits, and with Mom delivered ‘meals on wheels’ for a number of years.  He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.  Over all the years and all the changes he experienced, the one thing that Dad always enjoyed was the company of family and friends – especially at his 100^th birthday party.

He was a self-taught mechanic – a necessary skill for a farmer, which he continued to do until he reached the age of 90.  He also owned and operated a gravel truck and drove school bus for the Transcona-Springfield School Division for many years.  He was always happy behind the wheel where he could find new adventures and acquaintances around any corner.

Indeed there are angels that walk among us. Once again the family extends our deepest gratitude to the staff of East Gate Lodge, in particular those on the Shamrock Unit and the Recreation. He found comfort in the care and support shown to him.

So now Dad’s time has come.  May he find his soul mate Olga.  He had been missing her terribly these past 2 years.  May they both rest in peace.

Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Saturday, December 3, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Roman Catholic Church, 516 Atlantic Avenue, Beausejour. There will be viewing at Sobering Funeral Chapel from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be in the Eastdale Cemetery following lunch. Anyone wishing to make a donation in his memory may do so to a charity of your choosing.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

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