Obituary

John "Ivan" Showkewych, loving husband of 68 years to Ella, passed away peacefully on April 8 2018 surrounded by family including his great-grandsons.  Tato (father) to Orysia (Edward) and Roman, Dido (grandfather) to Andrew (Joanne) , Tiarella Tatanya and Everett (Lauren), Pre-Dido (great-grandfather) to Weston and Desmond.  Borne in the Ukraine, Ivan immigrated to Canada in 1948 and has since proclaimed Canada as the best country in the world!

Ivan was extremely hardworking, fun loving, kind and friendly. He enjoyed pypenky (mushroom) picking with friends, dancing with his wife Ella at various Ukrainian venues, attending church regularly, hosting dinner parties, gardening, wine-making and always fixing things. His most favourite was swimming and basking in the sun with Ella and friends at Wasaga Beach or Florida. At age 80, he rode the Big Bertha (inflatable tube) behind the cottage ski boat, at age 83 he learnt how to make perogies, at age 85 he took over all the household chores and responsibilities including looking after Ella at home when she suffered a stroke and at age 88, he was up on the roof repairing his chimney. What an amazing man!

Though the last year of his life was a terrible struggle, Ivan forced himself to get up out of bed and try to dance  and could still joke and break a smile. His last 8 months were made as comfortable and happy as possible by his angel Elsa, (private PSW) and we are forever indebted to her and also to the staff of St. Josephs Healthcare Center, Toronto.

 Tato's daily motto was "laugh daily -it's good for the heart!" We miss you Tato but you will always be in our heart and soul!

 In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Healthcare Center, Toronto would be appreciated,  thank you.

Visitation

Date
April 13, 2018
Location
Cardinal Funeral Homes, 92 Annette Street
Time
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Service

Date
April 13, 2018
Location
Cardinal Funeral Homes, 92 Annette Street Chapel
Time
12:00 PM

Burial

Date
April 13, 2018
Location
St. Volodymyr Cemetery
Time
02:00 PM
Memo

Arrival time at the cemetery is estimated and subject to change with road and traffic conditions

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April 15, 2018
Szczuryk Family
Our heartfelt condolences I out to your entire family. We very upset as we only found out yesterday of your fathers passing. He was a such a lovely, happy gentleman who we remember dancing with yourMom. May your father Rest In Peace.
April 13, 2018
Ed Hamma
Dear Johnny! I could not have asked for a better father-in-law. You always saw the bright side of life even when you knew the end was near, you never lost your sense of humour and positive outlook. I have so many great memories of great times and great songs and great dinners and great friends at your house. I cherish my memories of working along side you doing projects and enjoying the lake breeze on hot summer days sitting on the deck at the cottage. You have left a wonderful legacy of memories and grandchildren and great grandchildren. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to know you and enjoy so many wonderful times together. Love Ed
April 13, 2018
Lauren Hanna
Dido was one of the happiest people I have ever met! Every day he chose happiness, and every day he cherished each and every moment with the people he loved. Dido’s zest for life was contagious and he influenced everyone around him in such a positive way. He had such a kind and generous heart, and took care of everyone in his life the best that he could. I will remember his warm smile, his laugh, and his singing :) Here’s to you Dido <3
April 12, 2018
Andrew Hanna
My Dido was amazing in every way! From him I learned the value of hard work, to be grateful for what you have, to enjoy all of life’s moments, to be kind to everyone and that family is at the centre of it all. He made me feel like such a special grandson and always treated me with gently kindness and genuine love. He was never without a welcoming smile! His tenderness and respect towards his true love Ella (my Baba) and everyone else around him were qualities that I will never forget and that inspire me to be a good person, husband and father, everyday. We love and miss you very much Dido but know you have found your peace. Your memory and the impact you have had on all our lives will live on in future generations. Love always, Andrew, Joanne, Weston & Desmond XOXO
April 11, 2018
Wolostchak and Swystun Families
Vichnaya Pamyat.
April 11, 2018
Everett Hanna
My Dido was a beautiful man. He loved with all of his heart and laughed with all of his soul. His love of life and ability to appreciate the simplest pleasures shaped me into the man I am today. Thank you for imparting your secrets to living a happy, simple life on me. Nice driveway!
April 11, 2018
Lisa Loyko Baker
I will always remember your father laughing and smiling. Vichnaya Pamyat!