Peacefully, with family by his side, Pete passed away at St. Boniface Hospital on September 13, 2023 at the age of 86.
He is survived by his loving wife Donna, daughter Arleigh and her mother Julie, stepdaughters Leanne (Lance), Deidre and Leslee (Ben), stepson Wade, and sisters Florence (Julian), Virginia, and Gwen (Colin) and also many nieces and nephews. He will be lovingly remembered by his 8 grandchildren: Steve, Scott (Michelle), Michelle (Mitch), Dylan, Emilie (Erik), Jenna, Shélyn and Gabe; and 6 great-grandchildren: Melany, Savanah, Charlie, Joey, Blake and Addison.
Pete will be fondly remembered for his sense of humour, his kindheartedness, and his generosity. He maintained these qualities throughout his health battles these last several years, which he faced with grit and optimism. Pete possessed an innate intelligence to go along with his refreshing common sense; he was well-informed and loved a good debate. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding joy in their innocence.
Pete was born at home on a farm near Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba, the 6th oldest of 10 children. Pete knew work even as a very young man. He worked on the farm with his father, worked construction around Lac du Bonnet, and worked as an electrician’s helper/apprentice. After getting his GED, he later became a certified electrician. Pete was also an excellent carpenter and plumber, a real jack-of-all-trades. He and Donna built a house near Lorette in 1996/97.
Pete’s talents and work ethic took him to Thompson, Manitoba in 1972 where he worked for the Province of Manitoba for two decades. He retired in 1991, a few years after moving to Winnipeg. Pete and Donna enjoyed annual trips to Hawaii for many years - Pete loved the beach and the sun! In later years, Pete enjoyed coffee breaks and fall suppers with his neighbour Rene.
Pete is predeceased by his brothers Art, George and William (Bill) and sisters Patricia (Pat), Olga, and Josephine (Josie), brother-in-law Sandy, and son-in-law Casey.
The family wishes to thank all of Pete’s health care providers, in particular the staff at St. Boniface Hospital.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Pete’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at Green Acres Funeral Home, Highway 1 East at Navin Road, Winnipeg.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.greenacresfuneralhome.com for the Hunchak family.
