Melvin Robert Zurkowski , (1932 - 2021) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

88 years old
Born on August 14, 1932 in Ethelbert, Manitoba, Canada
Passed away on January 6, 2021 in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Melvin Zurkowski 88 years old, born on August 14, 1932 and passed away on January 6, 2021. We will remember him forever.

Click here to view the video of the Memorial service, graveside, and special memories from family members:
https://youtu.be/nMRwQFqee34

Tributes

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August 14, 2022

Remembering Dad today. The hole is very big in our hearts, but so blessed to know he is is well again and home with Jesus. Dad was the hostess with the mostess, always taking care of all our needs, especially what drink we would like to have! So celebrating what would have been his 90th today, with a glass of something special! Missing him!

January 6, 2022

It's been 1 year today that we gathered around your bed, with the Ukrainian Christmas Carols playing, prayed with you your favourite prayer, THE LORD'S PRAYER and you closed your eyes and peacefully went into the Lord's waiting arms. Absent from the body, but present with the Lord!
We have had a crazy year with mom, but a very blessed one, as we have spent cherished times together. Reminiscing with her all the amazing good times and hard times you both had together over the 63 years you knew each other.
So thankful to God for all the amazing memories that are in our hearts forever.
You truly are never forgotten, always missed, but looking forward to being together one day!
Love you!

August 14, 2021

One of the days that I always cherished was calling to wish Mel a happy birthday. Miss you cousin.

August 14, 2021

Remebering Dad today on his 89th Birthday! First August 14th without him here to celebrate. So very thankful to have had such an amazing father. Always loved and never forgotten!
Melanie

March 15, 2021

I am so sorry to hear that Mel has passed away. I used to live in Mel and Chris's place as a homestay student in 2001. Even though I had been with them for only three months, but they made me and Noah feel something more than kindness, and I still remember the scenes and feelings of that time. I could find us at that time among the photos Noah posted. Thanks to Noah. I don't know why, but I suddenly wanted to search Google for Mel's name for the first time in 20 years, and I just realized that he passed away last January. So sad. My condolence to Chris and Mel's family on the passing of Mel. In addition, I hope that Chris is healthy.

March 8, 2021

So sorry for your loss. Thank-you Melanie for sharing with us today. Lon and Marian Towstego

February 7, 2021

Mel was always Mr. Hospitality. We remember his and Chris' warm welcomes. Mel was always a better host than we were guests. An example for all of us.

January 28, 2021

Dear Zurkowski Family,

Mr Z's heart was as big as he was. I'll always remember him trying to be small (with modest success), sneaking down the aisle at church while taking a picture of a play his children were in. Also, I remember the day Tanya brought him for 3rd grade show-and-tell. He had a banana in his holster. Mr Stern was our neighborhood giant in more ways than one. My condolences to all.

-lc

January 24, 2021

We were so sorry to hear of Mel’s death but was so glad that he was home with all his family surrounding him.We were so fortunate to have Mel & Chris as neighbours upon our move to Regina in 1966 from London England.Mel & Chris made us so welcome & despite the fact that both our families had many moves throughout Canada we remained great friends & visited whenever possible .We are just so grateful that we were able to visit this past August.Alec,Elaine,John,David,Jason & Ian wish to send our condolences to Chris,Melanie,Dana,Tanya & families on the death of Mel such a wonderful & kind man

January 23, 2021

What a wonderful and fitting tribute to a great Guy! Thanks Melanie.
Mel was definately a favourite cousin. Mel & Chris have always been on my mind throughout the years and I treasured the times that we did get together and/or chatted. He will be greatly missed. Sincerest condolences from Leonard & Marilyn

January 22, 2021

We were so sad to learn that Mel was no longer with us.
We were so fortunate to have had him as our neighbour.
He became a true friend,kind,compassionate and supportive both to ourselves and our children.
He was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed by all.
Our condolences to Chris and family.

January 22, 2021

We feel a real loss in Mel's passing and want to extend our sympathy to you and all the families. We will always remember Mel as an honest, generous, giving person. Without fail he always had a hug to give! Our family was privileged to have known him. God called home a remarkable man.
We send our prayers of healing and comfort during this time.
Love Chris & Arleen

January 22, 2021

We send our sincere condolences to Chris and the family.
When one remembers Mel you always think of his wonderful smile and his kind heart. He was a real gentleman and a sincerely caring person.
We have great memories of so many gatherings at Lambrick Park Church with Mel and the family. Many fun times which he was heartily involved in will stay in our hearts.

January 20, 2021

I have a heavy heart with the loss of our dear friend Mel, we have so many memories of years passed and they will always be in my mind. Our laughs when we were able to see each other after many months or in the later years when we compared our aches and pains as we gained our grey hair each day. You have gone home to be with your lord and savior - rest easy, until we meet again. Emma Alfred

January 18, 2021

I have such fond memories of being included with your family throughout my teens. Being Dana's closest friend, I was able to see first hand what a close loving family you all were/are and all the love that was poured into the girls by both Mel and Christine. Mel was my first window to what a Christian man was. I saw that he was constant and unwavering in his love of the Lord, his love for his wife, his love for his daughters and for his friends. I always felt welcomed in your home and will never forget how Mel came with me to buy my first car. During the bargaining phase, he asked me to leave for a bit and when I came back, the price was taken down considerably. I was so grateful that he took the time to do this for me. He used to tease me about my hugs when saying good bye after spending a weekend with Dana. When my daughter was at church one day, he hugged her and said with a wink " she hugs just like her Mom". We had a good laugh at this and I will look forward to one day getting a big bear hug from him in Heaven. ♥

January 18, 2021

Chris and family,

Mel was a great friend to my father through their service together with the RCMP. I remember Mel, together with Murray Brown, Chris, Jan, and my mom, Jennifer and father Frank, having dinner parties at our house. I remember the laughter and the warmth and friendliness of those get togethers. It was a different time but I always thought how great it was that my parents had such wonderful friends. Mel was such a nice man. I will remember him fondly.

January 18, 2021

We have known Mel for over 20 years. Mel and Chris were our first small group leaders when we came to lambrick church. They both have been like family away from home for us. Mel always had a kind word and a big hug every Sunday morning. He truly emanated the kindness of Christ. When my dad came to live with us Mel and Chris were very welcoming in the church with my dad and now Mel and my dad can have coffee in heaven. Have always respected and loved advice from Mel. Our hearts go out to all the family. Just know, that your husband, dad, and grandpa was well loved. We will truly miss him. ❤️ love Ken and lorelee Bergeron

January 18, 2021

I have many fond memories of our Uncle Mel. The wonderful times when Uncle Mel, Auntie Chris & family would come to Baba & Gedo’s farm. I remember Uncle Mel setting up his screen and movie reel to show all of us the family movies he took. He was so happy and excited to show us the family movies! Uncle Mel, Auntie Chris & family came for our wedding in Dauphin and that meant a lot to me! And the one most recent memory that I will always cherish is when Uncle Mel and Auntie Chris came all the way from Victoria to see me while I was in Peace Arch Hospital. Uncle Mel took my hand and said a Healing Prayer for me before they left. It was at that moment I knew I would be okay, Uncle Mel’s prayer touched me deeply. Uncle Mel, you will be in our hearts forever. We love you! Love, Louise, Rene, Marc, Nicole.

January 18, 2021

Chris & Family: Our sincere condolences on Mel's passing. Mel was one of the good guys. He will be missed. We have fond memories of our many Alert Bay reunions. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Love Paul & Jeanette Ouellette

January 17, 2021

To Auntie Chris and family,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Uncle Mels passing. I loved so very receiving the annual Christmas card and newsletter with pictures and hearing how everyone was doing. Although distance kept us apart, I always received the updates from Baba and Gigi. We are thinking of you all during this difficult time. All our love, Amanda, Jeff and boys

January 17, 2021

Mel was one of the kindest and generous men I have ever known. I boarded with Mel, Chris and Tanya in 1988-89 after my parents moved to the mainland. They became my 2nd family. Over the years, Mel and Chris and family were always supportive and helpful and I only have fond memories of their family. Special condolences to Chris, Melanie, Dana, Tanya and family at this time.

January 15, 2021

My most sincere sympathy to Auntie Chris, Melanie, Dana, Tanya and families.
So many treasured memories of Uncle Mel. He truly loved his family and will be dearly missed. May he rest in peace.
Love Bill

January 15, 2021

Dear Auntie Chris, Melanie, Dana, Tanya and family,
What a beautiful page you've shared with us. I can't think of another person in my life who was such a great role model demonstrating his love for family and God. I will always remember being so excited to see your whole family in the summer in Dauphin, what joy you brought to us all! I will forever be grateful for seeing him in Victoria at our reunion in 2019 and spending some time with you all. Watching the slideshow of old pictures and hearing the stories he remembered so well is a memory I will cherish forever! You are in our prayers and our heartfelt condolences go out to you during this time. Love to all, Jodi Palin, Aaron and Justin Hermstedt.

January 14, 2021

Our sincerest condolences to Auntie Chris, Melanie, Dana & Tanya (& families). Uncle Mel will always hold a special place in our hearts and he will be missed dearly. I will forever cherish my memories of when he and his family would arrive at our farm where my cousins and I had so much fun during the summer months. I will always remember his gentle nature, warm smile, faithful words and humour. My mom has often told me stories that when she was a little girl how Uncle Mel always took care of her and was a very protective brother. I have always admired the beautiful and close knit family that he and Auntie Chris have raised. Everlasting memories! Vichnaya Pamyat!

Love Lisa, Mike, Matt, Mikaela & Tyler

January 13, 2021

Auntie Chris, Melanie, Dana, Tanya & families:
Some of my favourite childhood memories were our annual summer vacations to the farm and Dauphin. I always admired my Uncle Mel, his sheer stature, warm smile and kind eyes will forever be in my heart. As my Dad's only brother - I loved seeing Uncle Mel and my Dad converse, never running out of words to say and always sharing lots of laughter. Ever since I can remember, my Dad has always displayed his and Uncle Mel's pictures in their police uniforms on his filing cabinet. Two farm boys who grew up to dedicate their careers to helping others. Faith and family are two words I think of when I think of Uncle Mel. I always loved getting cards and letters from Uncle Mel where he would send a family picture and write every person's name, in order, on the back of the card! He was so proud of his beautiful family.
We love you Uncle Mel and we know you are a shining light up in heaven. Sherry, Charlie, Mikayla & Madelyn xoxoxoxo

January 12, 2021

Dear Aunty Chris and family

It is sincere condolences that we pass on to you Aunty Chris, Melanie, Dana Tania and families. There will always be a special place for Uncle Mel in my heart as I realized early in my life that he had taken on the responsibility of having me as his God Child. Although we have lived far apart, every time we did get together through the years, it created special memories. Seeing Uncle Mel and my Dad in their respective Police uniforms, influenced me throughout my young life to somehow follow in their footsteps. His presence in a room could be felt and respect was automatic. Your love of family and faith were inspiring. You will always be remembered with the highest esteem.

Love Vern and Christine

January 12, 2021

A wonderful tribute to a wonderful man - Uncle Mel has been such an inspiration to me and our own family. His faith, love for family and others is what we all aspire to - while we will miss you so much Uncle Mel, you are always part of us. Love Jamie, Daron, Ella and Mitch Dolynchuk

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August 14, 2022

January 6, 2022

August 14, 2021

One of the days that I always cherished was calling to wish Mel a happy birthday. Miss you cousin.

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His Life

Melvin Robert Zurkowski (Obituary)

January 14, 2021

Melvin Robert Zurkowski (Stern)

August 14, 1932- January 6, 2021

Peacefully at home, our precious Mel went to heaven on Ukrainian Christmas Eve, with family surrounding him in prayer. Son of William and Rose Zurkowski (nee Petrash). He will be greatly missed by his loving wife  of 60 years Christine , daughters & families, Melanie ( Mike, Brendon(Brianna) Elya,  Shaylyn, Rachelle),  Dana ( Ken, Philip, Daniel & Joshua) Tanya ( Rick, Liam (Amber) Bethany),  and siblings, Margaret (Walter)  John  (Shirley) Sylvia ( Bob)  Linda ( Lorne) & many nieces and nephews.

Mel was born in Ethelbert, Manitoba. His family farmed in Ethelbert municipality and he began teaching at 17 in Baden with special permission. He went to Normal School in Winnipeg and then taught school in Portage la Prairie, Northern Manitoba, at the home for boys, where he was encouraged by visiting officers to join the RCMP.   When he was 23, he began his career in the RCMP. He was stationed in many cities from Regina, to Alert Bay, BC where he met his sweetheart, Christine Cook. After 30 years in the force, Mel began a new career in the B.C. Provincial Government developing the Suggestion Awards Program .  Ten years later, he retired and began “Versatile Ventures”, where he was able to use his talent and determination to fix just about anything.

But Mel’s first love was his Savior, Jesus Christ. He served God with his whole heart and soul. He and Christine attended Lambrick Park Church since 1974. Here he loved to serve and care for others.  His warm smile and big hugs gave joy to all who received them.

He will be dearly missed, but he is now healthy again, praising his heavenly Father.

Thank you Dr. Woodley, for your compassionate care over the years and for the loving nurses and doctors on VGH 7B who went the extra mile to keep Mel comfortable. Thank you family & friends for your prayers and support, we have felt God’s strength and comfort.

Well done, good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of the Lord.     Matthew 25:23

Please go to melvin-robert-zurkowski-forevermissed.com to view the Memorial Service & more!

Donations in honour of Mel  to Camp Imadene 1 800-445-7575    www. imadene.com or Salvation Army would be gladly  accepted.

Playhouse Move

January 17, 2021

Dad made our kids a playhouse and when we had to move from one house to another I did not want to leave it. So dad spent a few days thinking about how he could move it. It was a tall playhouse on stilts. So he had to rent jack's and a flatbed trailer. He jacked it up and put fence posts under it and rolled it onto the flatbed. Very ingenious. Even strapping it on was hard work. Then he had to drive the trailer to the new house and carefully roll it onto the new spot. I was so impressed.. The kids loved this playhouse and even though we had to leave it when we moved, it is still standing tall today!

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