In Loving Memory of William “Bill” Sawchuk

June 29, 1937 – April 12, 2024

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our Dad, Husband, Grandpa, Papa, Brother, Uncle, and friend to many, on Friday, April 12, 2024.

He will be sadly missed by his loving and devoted wife, Fern Margaret Sawchuk; his children Enola Bell (Kevin Bell); Donald Sawchuk; his grandchildren Morgan and Payton Bell; his brother Henry Sawchuk (The late Marilyn Booth); sister Bettie (Wally) Sutter; along with many nieces and nephews who were dear to our family.

Bill was predeceased by his loving mother and father, Lazor and Alexandria Sawchuk; his sister Marie (Dave) Friesen; half-brother Peter (Nettie) Kitay; half sister Ruby (George) Woytuck; we least not forget his Son Bruce William Sawchuk. We miss Bruce every day, but he is never forgotten. Bless his soul! Bruce is survived by his three daughters Harvest, Aspen and Evan.

Our Dad was born on his family farm by Perdue, SK and lived there his entire life, just shy of 87 years of age. Bill and Fern were married on November 16, 1963 on a beautiful, warm and sunny day in Biggar, SK. Bill knew from a very young age that he wanted to be a farmer. Not just a farmer, but also talented and gifted in many other ways of life. Grain farming and raising cattle just to name a few. He enjoyed cars, snowmobiling (fixing many others in his shop), welding and getting creative with the lathe, he had that special touch. When he was younger, he played softball as the back catcher for the Perdue Ball Team with his good friends in the area.

Many memories included lake time at Loon Lake, SK waterskiing, fishing, camping and making breakfasts over the fire Bill had a big appetite, fast metabolism, and a sweet tooth, loving his ice cream in the evenings. And as you all know, the “occasional smoke break”. Bill and Fern enjoyed watching the Toronto Blue Jays and Winnipeg Jets games together.

He loved his way of life and was an example of a hard-working man, dedicated, caring soul to all who had the opportunity to know and love him. Bill was loved and respected in the farming communities, whose friendships he cherished and respected. He was a religious man, reading the Bible daily passages every day. He loved his game shows and crossword puzzles. He had a brilliant memory and mind right up to his last days. Bill and Fern were married just shy of 61 years.

We would like to thank the staff and Physicians at the Royal University Hospital for his care during his final days. Lots of times they would mention that he had a “Farmer’s Heart” and we are very proud of that!

A Private Service was held at Wheatfield Cemetery on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at 2:00PM. His wife, children and grandchildren were by his side every step of the way. A big thank you to Gerein Funeral Service and Beautiful U Flowers from Biggar, SK for helping with all the arrangements.

A special thank you to Ken Davidson who spoke on short notice and delivered a beautifully composed sermon which our Dad would have loved! And not to forget Nick Scharf who acted as a pallbearer and friend of the family, you were so appreciated.

Donations may be made to the Wheatfield Cemetery or Jim Pattison’s Children’s Hospital.

“Your memory is our dearest inheritance”

We will always remember you Papa, because there will never be another one to replace you in our hearts and the love we will always have for you! May you meet up with Bruce in Heaven, he will be waiting for you with open arms and a big hug!

“God’s garden must be beautiful, he always takes the best! Part of us went with you, the day God called you home.”

Arrangements entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service.