It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved father, grandfather and friend at St. Boniface Hospital. He died peacefully, with family by his side.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Julie; daughters Janet (Brian), Karen and Donna (Gord); and his seven grandchildren, Justin, Mitchell, Danica, Branden, Laura, Emma and Annie. He is also survived by his sister Eleanor Grabowski. Alex was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Nettie Grabowski, his brother-in-law, Jim Znakowski and his beloved dog Ginger.
Alex was a conscientious and dedicated worker who was in the printing business for many years. During this time, he met some of his closest friends. Later in his career he worked for the post office. Alex dearly loved his wife of almost 59 years, Julie. They met when they were in high school and they married on June 2, 1962. They bought their first house in Riverview and lived there together for almost 59 years. His daughters and grandchildren were the joys of his life. Alex put the needs of his family before his own and was always making sure we felt protected and safe. He had a great dry sense of humour and had us laughing all the time.
There are so many wonderful memories of the vacations that dad took us on when we were younger. We would always make a road trip each summer, followed by precious time together at the cabin. Banff became one of our favourite places to go, as dad loved the mountains, the beautiful lakes and walks in nature. It was important for dad to encourage all of his daughters to follow their dreams and to help set us up for success, putting his three daughters through University. He was so proud of the paths each of us took and was always there to give support and lend a hand whenever needed. When his daughters grew up and started families of their own, dad soon became “Bubu.” Dad made all the grandchildren feel special and was their biggest cheerleader at their sporting events and activities. He had the whole crew playing hockey in the basement for hours at a time and family baseball games at the field. There are so many special memories made together at the Sandy Hook Cabin. Hours were spent on the beach and in the water, with Dad in his favourite, shady spot under the tree attentively watching over to make sure the kids were safe in the water and didn’t go out to far. Dad enjoyed sitting in the porch at the cabin and watching the birds come to the bird feeder, no squirrels allowed though. He also gave his grandchildren the special treat of “Saturday Lunches.” Bubu would go all over the city to get the best treats and goodies to have with lunch. Hours were spent around the table eating, laughing together, with everyone looking forward to the next Saturday when we would all see each other again. It was important for Dad to see his daughter and grandchildren that reside in Illinois and he made many road trips with mom to go see them.
When mom became ill, dad’s true strength became apparent. He stepped up like the true hero that he was. Right from the beginning he said, “I need to be the one to take care of mom.” We are so proud of dad as no matter how difficult the situation, he refused to give up and cared for mom right until he could no longer. When dad’s end of life came sooner than anyone ever expected, he was so brave and said he had no regrets in life. We try and take comfort knowing that you left us peacefully and we are thankful we could be by your side to hold your hand.
We could not have asked for a more loving, caring, wonderful dad. We love you dad, and the life you and mom gave us. I know we will all hold you close in our hearts forever.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5