Daniel (Don) Stephen Kowalchuk

Obituary

Passed on

December 10, 1943 – May 18, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dad, Don Kowalchuk, on May 18, 2026 at age 82. Left to cherish his memory are daughters Pam Woods (Jon) and Erin (Kenton) Byle and his grandchildren, Cale and Jace Woods, and Sydney, Reid, and Wade Byle. Survived by his brothers Mike and Harry and sisters Mary and Adeline. Predeceased by his wife Heather of 54 years; parents Nicholas and Anna; brothers Joe, John and Bill; and his sisters Ann, Pauline, Jean, Rose and Pearl.

Dad was born in 1943 into a large family. He grew up in Komarno, MB and met mom at high school in Teulon. They married in 1968 and began building a life together in Winnipeg. In 1979, dad and mom bought land near Balmoral, built a house and barn, planted countless trees, and worked hard to fulfill their dream of raising their family in the country. Growing up, we were always excited to tag along with dad, whether it was going to the auction mart, picking mushrooms, or riding on the hay rack while dad baled. Dad taught the gradkids about farm life, took them for numerous tractor rides, and later taught them all to drive on the back roads. Many great memories were made on the farm and we all treasured our time there. While dad worked most of his life at Livingston’s distribution warehouse in Winnipeg, farming was always his true passion. He was happiest when he was with his cows, working away on his tractor, and puttering in his shop. Dad and mom retired to Stonewall in 2018, and in 2024, dad moved to Lion’s Manor where he was grateful for the new friendships he made there.

Dad was always content with his life and never placed much importance on material things. He was generous and always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He never judged others and accepted people as they were. He had a happy disposition and a way of making people feel special. He loved when friends and family stopped by for a visit, and enjoyed shop parties with the guys, playing cards, and a good prank. Although dad preferred to stay close to home, he did look forward to hot holidays with the family. Later in life, his happy place was his comfy recliner, where he watched sports and his favourite shows, and never grew tired of playing crib. Although Dad faced his share of health challenges, he kept chugging along, no matter what life put in his path.

Thank you Dad for making us feel so loved. We miss you. 

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Dad’s life on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Red Barn, located at the South Interlake Rockwood Agricultural Society grounds, just south of Stonewall on Highway 236.

---

Comments