NYKIFORUK: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tom (Taras) Nykiforuk on July 31, 2014 of North Battleford, SK at the age of 83 years. Tom is survived by his wife Lillian of 55 years; children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Diane (Darcy) - Sarah (Quenten) - Havanna and Isabella; James (Kim) - Cassidy; Janet ; Patricia (Reg) - stepchildren Sarah (Stephen) - Finley, Adam (Marissa) - Lucas and Emma, Joey (Megan); Sandra (James) - Riley, Alyssa; brothers Nick (Mary), Peter (Ina); half-brother Dan (Hazel); sisters Olga (Gillis), Orasie (Fred); numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his father, Mike Nykiforuk and mother Polly (Paraska) Dwiluk; son Brian; brothers Dick, Walter, Morris, Bill, Paul; sister Emily. The Funeral Service was held August 6, 2014 at The Garden Chapel of Battlefords Funeral Service with Father Greg Elder officiating. Eulogy was read by James Bartrop. Tom was laid to rest at the Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford, SK. Tom was born on June 17, 1931 on a farm near Prince. He attended the Glenrose school and from there became a jack of all trades working as an assistant plumber, farming and roofing. Just before he married, he worked in the logging business in Prince George. In 1959, he married Lillian Nachtegaele from North Battleford and had 6 children - 4 girls and 2 boys, losing a boy in infancy. He worked for the City of North Battleford for 25 years as a plant's operator. Upon his retirement, he led a quiet life reading, fishing, puttering, watching TV, listening to music, berry picking, family suppers and barbeques. His greatest enjoyment was his family. If you wanted to see his soft side, just hand him one of the grandkids or great grandkids and he would melt. He lived for his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dad battled prostate cancer and survived, heart surgery and survived and he dealt with diabetes the best he could. We don't want to say goodbye but we will say "see you soon". You have been our rock and will always and forever remain in our hearts. You are finally resting pain-free and in peace. Lots of love forever and always. Remember you are our sunshine. Special thank you to family and friends who brought cards, flowers, food, hugs and support. Bob Mackay of Battlefords Funeral Service, Father Greg Elder, pallbearers, pianist Ross Nykiforuk, Legion auxiliary, nursing staff of 3-N BUH and Dr. Alavudeen. If friends so desire, donations can be made in Tom's memory to Heart and Stroke Foundation or Diabetes Foundation. ____________________________________________________
