Michael Matiowsky

On the twenty-second day of May in 2020, Michael John Matiowsky of Edmonton, Alberta, passed away at the age of 82 years. Michael was born in Olha, Manitoba, to Mike and Rose (nee Boychuk) Matiowsky on April 3, 1938. He grew up on the family farm near Menzie, Manitoba with his two older sisters. Michael had an opportunity to farm but “wanted to see the world” and left home in 1955.

He will be missed and lovingly remembered by his sisters Martha Filipchuk and Marie (Frank) Jirik, and his sisters’ children and their spouses and children. Michael was predeceased by his parents; close and dear friend Margaret Driscoll; brother-in-law Sam Filipchuk; nephew Conrad Loch and Frank John Jirik Jr. and many of his friends that he merited through his work, adventures and revelry.

Michael was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was a dependable and trusted employee, co-worker and comrade. He worked all over Canada, in the U.S. and overseas, and he especially loved the Canadian North. He traveled extensively, and his free spirit made a great and lasting impression on all whom he encountered and befriended. Michael was well-read and well-informed, and this contributed greatly to his unassuming, unbiased, considerate, friendly, and generous nature. He was strongly libertarian and intensely independent, qualities which were ingrained early in his life by his family, reinforced by his career and travels, and maintained right up to the end of his life. All of us who knew him were deeply influenced by him, and we will never forget him.

Michael wished that his cremated remains be scattered in the Yukon Territory. This will likely occur after some months when long distance travel is safer for everyone. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Royal Alexandra Hospital and the Norwood Hospice, with Dr. Emily Walter and Unit Manager Christina Rumsey receiving special mention.