Ernest Wiwchar, known to all as Ernie, was born on August 19, 1930 in the Gorlitz district of Saskatchewan; a son of Mary (nee Mihaichuk) and John A. Wiwchar. Ernie was raised on the family farm and attended the Ukraina Country School. As a young man, he helped on the family farm but as most young farm men in that era, he helped out his relatives on their farms as well. He always remained on the home place, but Ernie worked out at various jobs in addition to farming. Among them, he worked for a number of years in Yorkton at Atlas Concrete. In later years, Ernie eventually rented out his land in order to enjoy some retirement times. He was not one to travel or explore new places, preferring instead to keeping close to home. He battled through some health problems but continued to maintain his independence right up until the end. This past fall Ernie had been hospitalized for a time following surgery and although he was in failing health was able to be home for Christmas. Ernie passed away on January 12, 2012 at the Regina General Hospital. He was 81 years of age. Predeceased by his parents, a sister Anna in infancy, by a brother Alexander, and by his brother-in-law, Mel McDonald. He leaves to cherish his memory his brother Dan (Wilma) of Gorlitz; and sisters, Anne McDonald of Brantford, ON; and Virginia (Willie) Baron of Gorlitz. Also a sister-in-law, Elsie Wiwchar of Belleville, ON; as well as nephews, nieces, and his many other relatives and friends. The funeral service was held on Friday afternoon, January 20, 2012 at the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Crystal Bailey officiating. The eulogy was given by Michelle Smith and scriptures read by Sheila Griffith. "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Amazing Grace" were played by the organist Amanda Buhler. Urnbearer was Michael Smith. Interment will take place in the spring at St. Mary's United Church Cemetery, Gorlitz District. Memorials may be made to a charity of ones choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home. (baileysfuneralhome.com)
