Terrance (Terry) Wayne Pawliw

September 4, 1952 – March 31, 2026 

Terrance (Terry) Wayne Pawliw — or simply Dad, Grandpa, Life Partner, and friend to those who loved him most — was born on September 4, 1952, in Balcarres, Saskatchewan to Grace and Peter Pawliw, both predeceased. He was also predeceased by his sister, Brenda Harradence; his brother, Darryl Pawliw; and his nephew, Riley Pawliw. We sadly said goodbye to Dad on March 31, 2026, following complications from surgery. 

Dad grew up in Regina, attending Thompson and Haultain schools before moving on to Balfour for high school. He made many friends and spent much of his childhood playing hockey. He often reminisced about how simple life felt back then — especially when shaking his head at the price of modern hockey sticks, insisting wooden ones were more than good enough “back in the day.” 

At just 15, Dad began working at Safeway, where he discovered what would become his lifelong profession and true pride: being a butcher. Though he held various jobs over the years, nothing defined his work life more than his dedication to the trade. He continued working almost full‑time until this past summer at Harbour Landing Co‑op. He loved the early mornings and took great care in preparing the counters — presentation mattered to him. Even after stepping back, he often stopped in to pick up prescriptions and bring donuts to his coworkers, simply to stay connected. It was clear how much he missed being part of the workforce. 

Dad was never one to sit still. He was always puttering in the yard (even when he should have been resting) and was always there to help his kids around their homes — whether it was the last time we moved out, the second last time, or maybe even the third. 

He was the family’s cat whisperer and loved hosting the occasional grand‑cat for extended stays. The squirrels in his yard will miss him too; he had them their own picnic table and kept their peanut buffet well stocked. 

Dad was the go‑to person for family and friends needing deli trays for special occasions. He never prepared anything that wasn’t done right — perfection was his standard. He also took immense pride in making sausage in his home shop, a skill he lovingly passed on to his sons‑in‑law, Trent and Dustin. No freezer in Dad’s family ever went without being stocked with his homemade sausage, often given as cherished Christmas gifts. 

Dad was also an incredible cook. Family gatherings were always centred around the meals he prepared — a skill he thankfully passed on to me. I’m almost certain he is looking down now, worrying about whether Cheryl is having proper suppers; taking care of his family was always his priority. 

Dad passed down his strong work ethic to all of us. As his daughter, one of the most important lessons he taught me was the value of doing a job — and doing it well. 

Over the years, he collected many nicknames, including T‑Bone and Fish, fondly given by friends. But the name he cherished most was Grandpa. Dad was blessed with ten grandchildren: Max, Alma, Thea, Tyler, Noah, Bradie, Camryn, Kruz, Lux, Axl,. He rarely missed a football, hockey, or ringette game, and his presence at those events will be deeply missed. 

Every child who came to the house knew Grandpa had the best selection of Ju-Jubes, chips, and pop. Kids from the street often came by looking for the grandkids — though the treats may have helped. Dad could often be found in his garage, his beloved “man cave,” where neighbours, friends, and family gathered for drinks and CFL football, or his newer love, the Blue Jays (thanks to Dustin). He was a generous host who made sure everyone had what they needed. 

Earlier in life, Dad and his partner Cheryl spent many memorable years at the Regina Beach Campground with an amazing group of friends. Themed parties, mock weddings, and legendary giant breakfast potlucks were just part of the fun. He also enjoyed many trips to Puerto Vallarta with friends, including one that Courtney and I were lucky enough to join — memories we will always treasure. 

Dad leaves behind a grieving daughter who will miss him terribly, and a family he loved deeply. He is survived by his partner, Cheryl Frank, and her children: Jessica (Trent) and their children Noah and Bradie; Courtney and her daughter Camryn; and Allison (Dustin) and their children Kruz, Lux, and Axl. He also leaves behind me, Robin, and my partner Belton, along with our children Tyler, Max, Alma, and Thea; as well as his former wife and mother of his children, Anna Pawliw, and his son, Peter Pawliw. 

Dad’s legacy lives on through his family, his work ethic, his generosity, and the countless meals, lessons, and memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

Robin Johnson 

Celebration of Life 

Saturday, May 16 1:00–3:00 p.m., Come and Go at the Hungarian Club 1925 McAra Street 

Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Terry’s honour may be made to the Regina Cat Rescue Program: https://sosprairierescue.com/donate