On December 9, 2017 Fred passed away peacefully at the Yorkton and District Nursing Home at the age of 77 years. Freddie Zwirsky was born on April 4, 1940 to Michael and Eva Zwirsky (nee Sereda) in Jedburgh, SK. He was the youngest of two sons and his birth was welcomed by his older brother Louis. He completed his high school education at St. Joseph's College in Yorkton and then completed his journeyman's mechanic trade in Moose Jaw with his good friend Ray Dubiel. Following the completion of school, he returned to Jedburgh to operate Zwirsky Bros., a farm implement repair shop with his brother, under the proud Case brand. During these years, weekend activities often revolved around weekend dances in various rural halls, attendance at sports days including some mischief and a lot of great memories for he and his friends. It was during one of many of these events that a young lady named Angie Sass caught his attention. On June 26, 1965 Fred and Angie were married at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yorkton. Following their marriage, Fred and Angie were blessed with their son, Delmar, in 1966, daughter, Barbara, in 1967 and daughter, Janice, in 1974. In 1967 Fred and Angie decided to move to the city and purchased a house in Yorkton and Fred began his career with Case Power and Equipment. Many lifelong friendships were established during his working days at the Case dealership in Yorkton, including many post-work staff "choir practices". Fred also worked at York Auto Supply and Joe's Bumper to Bumper until his retirement. In his early years he enjoyed camping and fishing and was active in several sports. He also played in a band with his good buddies and developed lifetime friendships during this time. He enjoyed fixing and repairing equipment and vehicles and could usually find a solution to make thinks work. Unfortunately this trait appears to have skipped a generation in the family. He was a member of St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, a former member of the Knights of Columbus #5182, a hockey coach and provided opportunities for his children to participate in sports and other activities during their younger years. Although faced with several health challenges during his time on earth, Fred proved to be persistent, resilient, humble and strong in all of his health-related battles. Common responses to questions from medical staff or friends and family regarding how he was doing usually included brief answers such "I'm Ok" or "Good". He never wanted others to worry if he was feeling any pain or was uncomfortable. His ability to find inner strength to battle on amazed family and friends and medical staff as well. Fred was predeceased by his parents, Michael & Eva, his brother, Louis, his father-in-law, Metro Sass, his mother-in-law, Margaret Sass and several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins and nephews. He will forever be remembered and cherished by his beloved wife of 52 years, Angie (Sass); his son Delmar (Kim), daughters Barbara (Robert) and Janice and special granddaughter Rio Eva Sadie who always brought a smile and renewed energy to "Grampy". We are thankful for the example that Fred has set when it comes to work ethic, respecting others, your sense of humour and the joy and tears we have shared over the years. Angie and family wish to thank the numerous professional medical staff at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre, the Yorkton & District Nursing Home, the Regina General Hospital and the Pasqua Hospital who were involved with caring and providing support for Fred over the years. We are also very thankful for the prayers, support and words of encouragement from Father Bohdan Lukie, Father Ray Lukie and Father Methodius Kushko of St. Mary's Parish. The Requiem Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Thursday, December 14, 2017 from St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Yorkton. Officiants were Fr. Ray Lukie C.Ss.R. assisted by Fr. Methodius Kushko C.Ss.R. Colette Karapita was the Cantor, assisted by members of St. Mary's Parish Choir. Honourary bearers were Rob Benko, Charles Hyca and William Sass, cross bearer was Darrell Sass, Colette Karapita read the Epistle. The interment followed in the Garden of St. Luke at the Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Mark & Richard Benko, Tim Dubiel, Terry Kuzyk, Bruce Kyle and Allan Pacholko serving as the casket bearers. Memorials in Fred's memory can be made to St. Mary's Church as tokens of remembrance.
