John Edward Kurek

John Edward Kurek passed away on October 9, 2020 after a long courageous battle with COPD and Cancer. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Pearl Kurek and his dearly loved big brother Stan Kurek.

John is survived by his beautiful devoted wife of 56 years, Sylvia Jane Kurek; his daughter Cynthia Louise (Tony) Matharu; grandchildren Sona Kaur (Ryan), Kiran Kaur (John); great-grandchildren Alerah Pearl and Rosabel Anne. He is also survived by his loving sisters Fran, Jean and Lorraine; as well as by his numerous nieces and nephews.

Johnny was a generous, hardworking and humble man who loved his family and his community. He gave freely of his time and talents to many of us over the years. He was a fisherman, a hunter, a clay artist, a skilled carpenter, entertainer, storyteller and teacher. If he could possibly fix it himself, he did. John was a master gardener; he didn’t draw his last breath until all of the potatoes were dug up. He took great pride in his fall harvest and was so happy to order seeds and plant in the spring. Ask him what kind of tree or plant this is, he knew the answer. Of course, he built his own greenhouse too.

John was passionate about life, period. His legacy will live on in all the city trees he planted and tended to. His spirit will delight in the sunflowers we grow as he watches over his family. Plant a sunflower for John this spring, help someone without expecting recognition and never, ever litter.

Donations at John’s request can be made to the Canadian Lung Association. The family wants to thank Doctor Rajni Patel, Doctor Arwini, and Doctor Moolla. We are grateful to the staff on Unit 3E at the General Hospital and Main 5 of Wascana Rehabilitation Centre. A Private Celebration of John’s Life will be held in the spring of 2021.