ELCHUK, GEORGE CARL

1937-2024

George passed away on August 18, 2024 at the age of 87.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years Nadia; sister Maryanne Lopatka (Neil), cousins/sisters Marilyn Hankinson (Kevin)  and Carol Pashak; stepbrothers and stepsisters Gerald, Irene, Ernie and Lorraine.

He was predeceased by father Steve Elchuk and mother Jean Maricle, stepfather Frank Maricle and stepsister Audrey.

After completing high school in Vilna George worked at  jobs in the logging, oil and meat-processing industries before returning to work on the farm during the spring and summer.

George began farming on a full-time basis on his parent’s homestead farm north of Bonnyville in the early sixties.  His farm bordered the Beaver River, which provided friends and family an ideal location for swimming, fishing and gatherings. He had a mixed farming operation where he took great pride in raising a variety of animals. He showed great devotion to his land and his animals. Many relied on him for veterinarian advice and assistance with their stock. His many skills were known in the community  and he was  happy to mentor those in need. He was always ready to lend a hand to friends, neighbors, and even strangers, often putting his own work aside. His experience in commercial butchering led to establishing his own fully functioning shop on the farm. This provided an invaluable service for many in the area.

George was interested in the history of people and places in Alberta. His vast knowledge was often sought by many. His love of auction sales and membership in various agricultural organizations gave him the opportunity to travel where he met and communicated  with many people. His knowledge of world affairs and exceptional memory for details like names, dates and other pertinent facts about most topics made him an extremely interesting conversationalist.

Thank-you to all George’s friends and neighbors  whose assistance enabled him to continue life on his beloved farm before his illness progressed forcing him to move into long term care. Many thanks to the staff at the Lamont and Bonnyville Long Term Care Facilities for the excellent care they provided. Special mention to Lise Langridge for her invaluable assistance in Georges final years.

Respectfully submitted by the Elchuk family