Paul Yaworsky

Paul Yaworsky, 80, of Landmark, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, surrounded by family, after a courageous year long battle with cancer. Born on June 6, 1945, in Sturgis, Saskatchewan, Paul was the oldest of four children of Steve and Pearl Yaworsky. He grew up on the family farm near Swan River, Manitoba, where he developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong love for community.

After marrying Lori in 1970, Paul and Lori built their life together in Dufresne, Manitoba, where they raised their children - Janet DeSousa and Scott Yaworsky. There was always an open door to anyone popping in for a visit.

Paul had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people—he was known for his generosity, warmth, and easy smile. Always ready to lend a hand, a tool, or a story, he embodied the true spirit of community. Paul’s warmth and kindness touched everyone he met. He was known as the neighbourhood’s “go-to guy,” always ready with tools, advice, or simply a good conversation, sometimes longer than people expected but always from the heart.

A Red Seal Chef by trade, Paul spent many years sharing his culinary talents at The Manitoba School for the Deaf before finishing his career at The Manitoba Youth Centre, retiring in 1999.

He had the biggest heart. He loved to cook for people as well as being an avid wine maker. There was always a number of batches on the go, keeping the wine cellar stocked. Fun Fact: Many of the neighbours nicknamed his brandy “The baby maker” following a bunch of neighbourhood births in the late 90s and early 2000s.

After Lori’s unexpected passing in 2002, Paul was blessed to find love again when he met Sylvia Friesen in 2005 while catering her sister’s wedding with Jan. Bringing together our families adding step-daughters Corinne Johnston(Eric), the late Kyla Kelsey and Krista Morrell(Jesse) along with 9 grand-children. Together, they shared twenty wonderful years, first in Dufresne and the last year in Landmark.

He was deeply proud of his children, grandchildren and connections with many nieces and nephews; he treasured every moment with them. Dedicated to his community, Paul volunteered as a Scout Leader when Scott was younger and then with St. John Ambulance for over two decades. He also regularly gave blood with 100+ donations, until his health no longer allowed it.

Paul had a passion for travel and meeting new people. There were many family trips across Canada and the USA when Jan and Scott were growing up…the car ride was always an adventure. Later in life, he especially enjoyed his adventures with Jan and friends, which took them from the sunny beaches of the Dominican Republic and Mexico to the scenic glaciers of Alaska. Trips with Sylvia to Texas, Europe and Ontario.

Paul is survived by his partner Sylvia; his children Janet, Scott; his step-daughters Corinne (Eric), Krista (Jesse); his siblings Ernie Yaworsky (Jeannette), Iris Simmans (Brock), brother-in-law Gerald McLaughlin, sister-in-law Thelma Czarnecki, special family friend Barb Halwas (Clare), and cherished grandchildren Clayton (Terri), Brittany (Connor), Elliot, Iris, Addy, Nick, Izzy, Lizzy, Justice, Brielle and Mickie. He is also remembered by our many valued extended family of nieces, nephews, adopted siblings, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, wife, Lori, Step-daughter Kyla Kelsey, brother Wilf Yaworsky, and family friend Cliff Halwas.

Paul’s family is grateful to have celebrated his 80th birthday in June, many thanks to those who were able to come out and celebrate with us. He was surrounded by love, laughter, and cherished memories. He was thankful to all those who supported him during his illness and was able to come visit with him.

In accordance with Paul’s wishes, no formal service will be held. A private family memorial will take place at a later date. Donations may be made in Paul’s name to the charity of your choice. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Southern Health–Santé Sud Palliative Care team and Bethesda Regional Health Centre for their devoted support during Paul’s final year.