1938 ~ 2020
It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, Gigi and great gigi John Potorieko on Friday December 4, 2020 at the age of 82.
He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years Irene; daughters Debbie Bryk, Doreen Brown, Cynthia (Bill) Witherspoon, Kimberley (Bert) DeBruijn and son John Michael jr. (Tanya) Potorieko; grandchildren David (Eryn) Kowalchuk, Dana (Ryan) Heroux, Brittany (Steve) Buchak, Stacey (Neil) Regula, Brendan (Sarah) Bryk, Cody (Kandyce) Bryk, Shemaine Potorieko, Chloe Potorieko and Dmytro Potorieko; as well as 11 great grandchildren
John was predeceased by his parents Dmytro and Katie, brothers Walter, Mike Potorieko and Sister Mary Prychak; sons-in-law Richard Bryk and Robert Brown; and great grandson David Buchak in infancy.
John was born in Invermay, Saskatchewan on September 2 , 1938 in a barn located on the family farm. He attended the local school and grew up working on the family farm where he met and married the love of his life Irene, they were married on August 2nd, 1958 in the very same barn where he was born.
In the early years of their marriage they moved to Winnipeg where he began his career as a Mechanic at Canadian Tire, working his way up to service Manager.
John was a family man and loved spending time with them, taking many trips in the RV, hunting and fishing. He loved old cars and spent time restoring a 1955 Chevy Belair as well as a 1947 Pontiac. He never missed a Hockey, Ringette, Football or Baseball game where he would watch his grandchildren play. Many winters were spent saddling up the horses for the family sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and camping.
John was laid to rest at a private family interment in St. Michael’s Cemetery in Tyndall. We look forward to celebrating his life with everyone once we are able to gather.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Cardiac Unit at St. Boniface Hospital.
www.soberingfuneralchapel.com
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Sherry strassel/Kokolsky
I am a friend of the family who grew up with Kim. Mr P always made me feel welcome in their home. Always made me laugh and usually blush too. I always had a great time with them. A great family. Hugs and prayers to you all. XO
Betty Anne Yarych
We are very sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers .Lots of love Richard and Betty-Anne Yarych
Joy Stodgell
My heartfelt condolences to the family who has lost a kind, caring man.
Joy Stodgell
Gloria Maximuik
My Condolences to Irene, Kim, Deb, Dorreen, Cindy and John. He was a great man he will be missed. God Bless you all.
Dougie
Dear Auntie Irene, Deb, Doreen, Cindy, Kim and John Micheal. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We love Uncle John so much… we feel your grief… he will always be remembered.
Alvin and zenda Rueckert
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest sympathies to all the family.
Dexter Shewchuk
Deepest sympathy from Dexter and Darlene Shewchuk, and families. Carrie and Scott Wilson and family, Tifanie and Bryan Possberg, and family. Lindsey Shewchuk and family, Dustin and Janella Shewchuk and family.
Joe & Dolores Gozda
Our sincere condolences to Irene and family for their loss of a very loving husband and father and GiGi. He always had a friendly welcome and smile when we’d meet.
Joe and Dolores
Roger and Sylvia Mroz
Thoughts and prayers to Irene and all her family on your Dad’s passing, he was a very friendly person, known him since the hockey games at the Beausejour Arena. May he rest peacefully.
Roy and Sharon Naurocki
Our sincere condolences to all the Potorieko family on the loss of John. I always enjoyed our talks when he stopped for corn in his vintage cars. We always had plenty to talk about and he always mentioned his family . Kim, Roy and I are so sorry for the loss of your dad, and Irene, the loss of your dear husband. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Alicia Kalyniuk-Topor & Richard Topor
Dear Irene & family. We have been your friends since you came into Winnipeg so many years ago. My Dad was godfather to one of the girls. Helen & I babysat occasionally for you when your family was young. Your Dad will be missed by all very much. May God open his Heavenly Arms & welcome John into Heaven & may your Dad Rest In Peace. Vichnya Pamyat
Antonio Aluotto
My parents and I offer our deepest condolences to Irene and all the whole family. John was a great man. We will all cherish his memories.
Vincenzo Aluotto and Family
Karen Hlady
Our sincere condolences to John’s family at this sad time. We are so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories of him.
Memory Eternal
Karen and Ken Hlady
Ed and Connie
Our condolences to Irene and Family…We remember lots of fun at many weddings and socials and our short visit just a year or so ago….sad for your loss!!!