JANUARY 25, 1930 – MAY 5, 2021
John Strecheniuk of Kamloops, BC passed away on May 5, 2021 at 91 years of age. He is survived by his loving wife Birdie-Ann Strecheniuk, children Joan, Terry, Shelley, Spencer and Vernon, grandchildren Darby and Gregory, great grandchildren Darby Jr., Tanaya and Destiny, sisters Marie and Jean, brothers Fred, Sarge and Peter all of their husbands and wives as well as many nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his father Sergie, mother Anna, brothers George and Bill and his sisters Eula and Vera.
John immigrated to Canada with his parents, brother George and sister Marie when he was just 4 months old. They all arrived in the port of Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 21, 1930 to begin a new life in Canada. In August of 1952, John officially became a citizen of Canada. He spent the majority of his life working as a locomotive engineer for CN and later VIA Rail. From the early days driving steam engines to the later years of operating diesel engines, John always had impressive stories to tell and he even survived some incredible railway accidents. But work wasn’t everything, John also enjoyed playing pool, gardening, fixing up vehicles and he was an impressive jack-of-all-trades when it came to home repairs and renovations. Those who were closest to him would often hear him say “Big respect!”. If you heard that phrase, you knew that you were loved by him.
He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Special thanks to all of the wonderful, supportive and caring staff at Ponderosa Lodge who took care of John over the past couple of years. When the Covid pandemic resulted in restricted family visitation, they all became family to him and he spent his last moments in their loving care.
His family would also like to thank all of the friends and relatives who sent condolences and gifts of flowers, meals and kindness. Your love helps us heal.
A special memorial gathering for close family will be held later in the year when current pandemic restrictions have lifted.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
2 Tributes
I am so sorry fory your loss. Uncle John was a wonderful man. When a was a young girl, his visits to the house always included his latest his stories. They always made me feel that being a train engineer was such an adventurous, if somewhat danerous career. After coffee and a story, he would then treat us kids for a spin in his convertible. Loved his visits. Big respect,Uncle John. Give Mom a super big hug from Gayle and me
Good journey home Uncle John, I’m sure you were welcomed by many. I will miss our colorful visits.