William Thachuk

We regret to announce the passing of our Dad, William Thachuk, in Kamloops, BC, on October 6, 2014. Left to mourn are his children: Allan (Gail) Thachuk of Kamloops, BC, Rod Thachuk of Kamloops, BC, Lynn (Bruce) Buchanan of Kamloops, BC, Marlene Allison of St. Catharine’s, ON, Melvin (Dana) Thachuk of Chicago, Illinois.

Also left to mourn are his Grand Children and Great Grand Children: Harmony (Bobby) Ryan (Xavier and Phoenix), and Stacey (Keenan) Todd, Patrick Buchanan, Jessica Buchanan, and Ashley (Rob) De Franco (Nolan), Jason Allison (Su Yi (Susan)). Step Grand Children and Step Great Grand Children: Michelle Chisholm; Chris (Cody) Chisholm (Aiden, Dani, Mason).

Dad is also survived by his sisters (two remaining members of his family): Leda Lanski of Saskatoon, SK and Phyllis Koshley of Kelowna, BC, and many nephews and nieces.

Dad was born on February 20, 1930, in Hafford, Saskatchewan, and he left the homestead at an early age to see the world. He became a Seaman and was a Shipping Master in 1949. He saw many things in his travels and loved to tell his stories. While in Toronto, he met our mother and after getting married and living in Toronto, Dad and Mom moved back to Saskatchewan and eventually ended up in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Dad had many jobs in Prince Albert, he drove taxi and eventually ended up buying two taxis plates, he was a swamper for Western Grocers and worked for CNR out of Saskatoon. An opportunity presented itself and Dad and Mom purchased a corner store and called it “Commercial Grocery”. In 1969, after many years of being in business, Dad and Mom decided to sell the store and move to the warmer climate and Kamloops was the place. After moving to Kamloops, Dad worked for the SAAN Store and then CNR as a Hostler. Dad worked for CNR in Kamloops until his retirement. Dad moved to Harrison Hot Springs and resided there until he had taken sick in August 2014.

Dad’s hobbies included playing the accordion and he was a member in many old-time bands including his own band “The Knights of Rhythm”. After moving to Kamloops, he started up the band again , and this time he was sometimes joined by his two sons, Allan and Rod. The boys would play with Dad when they could.

Dad enjoyed many things, but he especially loved gardening. He said it was like being back home on the farm.

No service by request. A private family gathering will be held by the kids on October 27.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in honour of Dad with the Cancer Society.