It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Eugene Michalko on June 26, 2014, after a long courageous battle with cancer. Although we were not ready to say good-bye, little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but you also lived. Eugene was born June 8, 1930 in Hague, SK. He left his home at the young age of 15 years to begin his life journey. He worked his way across Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Alberta. It was in Imperial Mills, AB where he met and married Anne Hamelin. Together, they had five children. Places they called home were Saskatoon, Bredenbury and Churchbridge before settling in Fort McMurray, AB. Upon his retirement, Eugene moved to Edmonton, AB and kept busy with his horses. In his later years, Eugene moved back to Churchbridge where he and Angie Sveinbjornson developed a very special relationship. Eugene is predeceased by his mother, Anne; father, Steve and his son, Keith. Eugene is survived by his partner, Angie; his four children, Allen, Ben (Charlene), Brenda (Perry) and Randy. He is also survived by his step-children, Audrey (Ted), Joan (Don), Dale, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends. Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 from St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Churchbridge, SK, with Father Bruno Moduthagam officiating. Members of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church Choir led the congregation in the singing of the hymns, "Be Not Afraid", "Peace is Flowing Like a River", "I Will Never Forget You", "I Will Raise Him Up" and "Amazing Grace". The Cross Bearer was Charlene Michalko; the readers were Audrey Petracek and Anne Michalko; the Gift Bearers were Brandon and Jolene Banga and the Intercessions were led by Melanie Walsh. Eugene was remembered in tribute and eulogy by Randy and Courtney Michalko. The honourary pallbearers were members of Eugene's AA Group and the active pallbearers were Ted Petracek, Allen Michalko, Dale Sveinbjornson, Ben Michalko, Randy Michalko and Don Planedin. A Private Family Cremation Committal will take place in the Alvena Cemetery, Alvena, SK at a later date. Friends so wishing may forward their condolences to the family by visiting www.christiesfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Christie's Funeral Home & Crematorium, Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
