Allan Holitski was born on January 14, 1936 in Grayson, SK, the son of Sigmund and Magdeline (nee Zaleski) Holitski and grew up on a farm near Killaly, SK. When Allan was a young man, his mother underwent surgery and he became her helper and second set of hands. He learned to cook and take on household responsibilities which was a great benefit to him in his later years. Allan always completed these duties willingly and conscientiously. He received his early education in Killaly, and later in life obtained his Grade 12 through G.E.D. Allan was employed for a short time on the family farm but then left for Regina to seek employment. He held a number of jobs, learned about mechanics and welding and was employed for 28 years as a heavy equipment operator. Being raised on the farm provided him with the ethics of hard work, a love of reading and avid sports participation. At forty years of age, Allan married Gladys Derraugh (nee Jones). While living in Regina, he became an avid curler and in his home were shelves full of curling trophies and winnings. In summer he was found golfing and fishing though golfing was his favourite sport. Allan's love for golfing was shared with his grandsons. He coached them and shared experiences with these boys who were two of his favourite people. His retirement was spent in Yorkton where he continued to cook and garden. He excelled in growing tomatoes and shared garden vegetables with nearby neighbours which served to widen his social circle and enjoyment. Another retirement recreation was senior league bowling and even in his senior years, he had a very healthy competitive spirit. Throughout his adult life, Sunday mornings found Allan in his favourite pew at church. Come rain, or shine, or even when visiting out-of-town, his church attendance was always a priority. Allan was an excellent provider, offering assistance to anyone in need. He will be forever remembered and missed. Allan was predeceased by his parents, Sigmund and Magdeline; his brothers, Billie, Joe and John; his sisters, Annie Wiesenberger, Mary McLeod, Sophie Michalski and Eva Klatt and his nephew, Glen Holitski. He leaves to celebrate his life, his wife, Gladys; his daughter, Lori (Leonard); grandsons, Evan and Riley; his brother, Jack (Joanne) and his sister, Margaret McCarthy as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral Services were held on Monday, February 27, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. from St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church in Yorkton, SK. The Cremation Committal followed in Yorkton Memorial Gardens, Yorkton, SK. Friends so wishing may make Mass Offerings or donations in Allan's memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or to the charity of their choice. Friends so wishing may forward their condolences to the family by visiting www.christiesfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Christie's Funeral Home & Crematorium, Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
