John William Kezima

John William Kezima was born to John A. Kezima and Helen (Kach) Kezima on November 29, 1952 in Kamsack, Saskatchewan. He passed away peacefully in the early morning of Thursday, February 8th, 2024 in Saskatoon at the age of 71. He is survived by his two children, Corwyn and Paige Kezima, his sister Debbie (Kezima) Bates and brother Don Kezima.

A quiet and private man, John was loving and displayed a gentle kindness to his children and neighbors alike. He was a zealous reader and music lover. Those who knew him will remember his observant character and curious smile. John had a deep connection with nature, specifically with the land of Saskatchewan and its wildlife.

John grew up on a farm north of Veregin and maintained a connection to the land through farming and with his work for Municipal Hail Insurance. In 1984 John married Linda Osachoff and became step-father to Nick and Tim Haltigin. The arrival of Corwyn and Paige soon followed. The family resided on a farm north of Mikado throughout the 1980’s-1990’s.

He spent much time commuting to dance practices and basketball games and forever as a chauffeur for his kids. A karate enthusiast, he regularly shuttled Nick and Tim to practice. Friends of his children remember John as being ever patient and calm throughout numerous birthday parties and trips to the Fair.

John would often speak of his earlier days in Ottawa and adventures down south to the Canary Islands. He had a fondness for the mountains at Jasper, and recalled his time there with much affection. John was deeply introspective and intellectual, and enjoyed spirited thought and debate with his children. Undoubtedly, his children were John’s greatest pride in life.

Graduating with great distinction, John received a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts from the University of Saskatchewan. John served on the council for Division 2 of the RM of Keys from 2000-2003. He spent 18 years as an adjuster for Municipal Hail Insurance from 2004-2022, first starting as an adjuster and then being promoted to Storm Supervisor in 2012. He was very much respected by his team. John spent many winters as a guard at the RCMP detachment in Kamsack. His volunteer commitments included serving on the Veregin Wheat Pool Elevator board. In his spare time, John enjoyed cross country skiing.

He is lovingly remembered by his aunts Vicki Storle and Mary Wick, his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends made over the course of a lifetime. John is predeceased by his parents John A Kezima and Helen (Kach) Kezima, and his grandparents Jennie & Bill Solomon.

The family would like to thank the healthcare workers and support staff at the palliative ward in St. Paul’s Hospital and the Hospice at Glengarda for their remarkable care and companionship over the past 6 months. Very much appreciated was the loving care of his sister Debbie as well as Don who traveled from Toronto joining Corwyn and Paige in supporting their Dad. Lastly, a special thank you to extended family members - Jane, Liv, Trish who provided a consistent presence during the last stages of his life, and to his longtime friends Grant, Glenn, Dave, and Karl who made a special trip to visit John in hospice.

The family invites you to share your memories of John on this online guest book. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to the World Wildlife Federation Canada. There will be a small Graveside Service for immediate family in the summer of 2024, where John will be laid to rest in the Kamsack cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Travis Minor.