Shaun Dennis Kohut

With deep sadness, we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Shaun on December 20, 2021, at the age of 55 years.

Predeceased by his father Maurice Kohut, mother-in-law Leonie Vaz, and father-in-law Richard Vaz, Shaun leaves to cherish his memory his wife Patricia, his mother Stella Kohut, his brother Jim Kohut (Zume Parker), sisters Dr. June Kohut (Brent Day) and Elaine (Cliff) Packer; nieces Dr. Brittney (Caleb) Friesen and Mary Ellen Packer; nephews Mark (Rachel) Packer, Dr. Matthew Packer, Michael Packer, and Maury Packer; grand-nephews Roan, Holden, and Noah; Uncles Peter (Val) Kohut, Walter Kohut, and Bill Mandziuk; Aunt Elsie (Don) Wabick; numerous cousins; brother-in-law Colin Vaz and sister-in-law Marietta Vaz.

Shaun was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on August 7, 1967. Much of his youth was spent at the family hobby-farm in Rosa, Manitoba and the cottage at Lac St. Malo. Along with his brother Jim and cousins David and Nathan, he played in a country rock band “Low Profile”, popular at weddings and socials in small town Manitoba. He was a versatile musician, performing on guitar, keyboard, saxophone, violin, and vocals. Later he and Jim joined with musically talented friends Gord and Andy to form the band “Mirage”, also catering to old style family celebrations.

Belying his unassuming nature, Shaun was a motorcycle enthusiast and avid jiu-jitsu practitioner, travelling to San Paolo, Brazil several years ago to compete internationally. Owning a motorbike was a lifelong dream of Shaun's and spoke to his wilder side, enjoying the freedom and thrill of taking to the open road.

Shaun attended Grant Park High School and graduated with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Manitoba in 1989. He was employed as a Pharmacy Manager at Safeway Pharmacy where he earned the respect of his co-workers for his strong work ethic and easy going manner. It was through work that he was introduced to his future wife Patricia with whom he shared 15 years of marriage. They truly were soulmates, she being the yin to his yang with her sassy wit and artistic sense of style. They complemented and brought out the best in each other. Leisure time was spent curled up with a book in front of the fireplace, watching a Jets game or enjoying the antics of their cats, first Teddy, and then Pixie. A favourite ritual was a leisurely Saturday morning breakfast at the Forks, followed by a visit to their parents. Both devout Catholics, Shaun and Patricia attended St. Ignatius Roman Catholic Church. Shaun's quiet faith guided every aspect of his life.

The Kohut family would like to express our appreciation to family and friends who showed their love and support in our time of grief. We extend our sincere gratitude to the staff at St. Boniface Hospital ICU and the Health Sciences Hospital ICU for their compassionate care during Shaun's illness. Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Safeway Pharmacy, in particular Shaun's colleague Mai, who reached out to offer assistance and condolences. A special thanks to Father Volodymyr Bashutskyy for his continuous pastoral support of the family.

A funeral service will be held with interment to follow at Thomson In the Park Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd., Winnipeg on Friday March 4th, 2022 at 11:00am. Reverend Volodymyr Bashutskyy will be officiating. A memorial service and reception will be held on a later date. Those who wish may follow this link to view the livestreamed service: https://youtu.be/sdAQMqMtptg

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shaun's memory may be made to one of Shaun's favourite charities: Canadian Red Cross Society, Siloam Mission, or Salvation Army.

“Safe in the arms of Jesus

Safe on His gentle breast,

There by His love o'er-shadowed,

Sweetly my soul shall rest.”

(Fanny J. Crosby 1868)