Benedict "Ben" Janostin

Ben Janostin, “Big Ben” passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 17, 2011. He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Jeanette and his five children, son Michael(Shelly), Kent and Cole Janostin, daughter, Michelle(Ed), Tyler and Jayden Kolodychuk, son Patrick(Sally), Brendan and Connor Janostin, daughter Patricia, and son Christopher(Jennifer), Stephan and Kristen Janostin.

He was predeceased by his parents, Stefan and Maria Janostin, in-laws Mike and Mary Bilanski, sisters Veronica Janostin, Teresa Weston, brothers in-law, Joseph Skuban and Stan Weston.

Ben was born to the parents of Maria and Stefan Janostin at Hafford, SK on July 4, 1933. He spent his entire life on the family farm until recently retiring to North Battleford. As a farmer his days were immersed in agriculture production growing crops that were abundant and others that were not. Over his lifetime, he saw many innovations and inventions in farming. He was at the forefront of farming practices such as seeding winter wheat and loved trying out new John Deere equipment. He also had a sideline of various custom work, bulldozing, custom seeding, pasture reclamation work which involved seeding and discing from Consul, SK to The Pas, MB. He embarked on large farming ventures that he got great enjoyment from.

He enjoyed spending hours checking crops, touring the country side and visiting with his neighbors. He was affectionately nicknamed the “Road Warrior” by his children.

He spent years contributing to the life of the community of Hafford. He was a Councillor in the RM of Redberry, St. Solange parish member and executive member and contributed to the Hafford Communiplex and other local charities. When he couldn’t contribute his time he would offer his children to the various projects. He loved discussing and debating Saskatchewan politics and we all knew who he voted for!

He was an avid sports fan and his favorite team was the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He travelled to many games in Regina and across the country taking his children to many games and Grey Cups. He was a Director of the Roughrider organization in the 1970’s and early 1980’s. He introduced football to many people in the Hafford area. Ben organized many games and road trips for his friends and neighbors. As it turns out Ben was watching the football game on Saturday when his health followed the fortunes of the Roughrider football team! Fortunately, he was able to attend one last Rider home game on July 3rd along with many members of his family; this will be long remembered by his children and grandchildren.

Dad had four passions in life; God and family, farming, sports and games of chance. He knew what he liked and didn’t deviate from the plan. He enjoyed life to the fullest and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Prayer Service will be held on Friday, July 22nd at 7:30pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 23rd at 10:30am. Lunch will be served after the funeral service. Private interment will follow later that day at St. Solange Cemetery. Services will be held at St. Solange Roman Catholic Church at Hafford, SK.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in the memory of Ben Janostin to St. Solange Roman Catholic Church. Masses in Ben Janostin’s memory may be made at St. Solange Church or your church of choice.