LETTER: Kindness overwhelming Posted 1 year ago

Last Friday, Feb. 19, my family was struck by a tragedy upon being notified that my father, Walter Janik from Edmonton, had passed away due to a massive heart attack he experienced while driving his semi-truck in Grande Prairie.

His heart attack started around the time he was crossing an intersection, 7 p.m. Witness drivers and RCMP described that his truck drove through the intersection very slowly, pulled off to the snow bank and was turned off. Other drivers had stopped the traffic and attempted to assist my father. Upon entering his cab, he was found already unconscious.

I had a chance to thank one of those drivers already via telephone conversation, a kind woman who said she became certified in First Aid and CPR just recently. The ambulance crew as well as the ER personnel at the hospital, who took over the efforts, attempted to resuscitate my dad for several hours. He passed away at 10 p.m. at an age of 55.

Walter was a family man, a wonderful husband, father of three and a fabulous granddad to four grandchildren. He loved the open road, visiting other cities and most of all, he proudly considered himself as a safe truck driver... literally to the last minute.

On behalf of the Janik family, we wish to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who was involved in helping my father that night: The drivers and witnesses at the intersection, ambulance and ER personnel as well as RCMP constables for all your efforts.

Although my father was away from his family and alone on the road, we are comforted in knowing that he did not spend his last hours alone and had the support from wonderful people who came together to help him. Your efforts and kindness will always be remembered.

Olivia Chubey on behalf of Janik Family,

Edmonton