George Strukoff

STRUKOFF, George A.  Born August 20, 1932 - July 22, 2016 aged 83 years

   George was born on the Strukoff family farm east of Pelly where he grew up with his twin brother Alec, his older brother Fred, and his younger sister Mary.   

   He attended Pelly School where he completed grade 8. He then chose to assist his parents with the daily operations of the family farm. 

   As George grew into manhood, he also grew the small family farm by buying and renting more land, and upgrading farm machinery -- all fueled by a lot of hard work and determination.  In 1972, his parents retired from farming.  George, then age 40, took full ownership of the farm with its four quarters of land and sixty head of cattle.  With continuous hard work and years of prosperity, George eventually farmed more than 11 quarter sections while managing approximately 70 cattle in a cow-calf operation.  He sold his cattle around 2005, and retired from farming in 2010 or 2011.

   George was a skilled welder and metal worker.  He was well known for his well-equipped shop and his ability to fix all kinds of broken parts.  If he couldn’t fix them, he’d fabricate new ones. 

   George enjoyed many successful years of fishing and hunting, especially elk, moose, and deer. 

   On July 4, 1987, at age 55, he married Virginia Vogel (nee Seitz), a long time family friend.  They recently marked 29 years of marriage.  Together they made their home on the farm where they lived until his passing. 

   George was fortunate to enjoy good health for most of his life.  Since mid-December 2015, he bravely faced several health challenges.  He passed away peacefully at Kamsack Hospital only 29 days short of his 84th birthday.   

   George was predeceased by his parents Evdokim (‘Alex’) and Anastasia (‘Nellie’); his brother Fred and sister-in-law Tannis; nephews Robert and David (in infancy).

   He is survived by his wife Virginia and her children Dennis of Martensville, SK and Susan (of Australia); his twin brother Alec (Jean) of Winnipeg , and sister Mary (Walt) of Courtney BC; nephews Fred, Wayne, Brad, and Jeff; nieces Lisa, Brenda, and Beverly; numerous cousins, and many close community friends.  

   He will be greatly missed for his firm handshake and ready smile, his sense of humour and colourful language, and his strength of character and determination.

   Funeral Service was held on July 27, 2016 from Pelly Community Hall, Pelly, Sk., with Ed Strukoff officiating. Interment followed at Riverview Cemetery, Kamsack, SK., Those who so desire may make memorial contributions to the Kamsack Hospital Ladies Auxiallary as token of remembrance. To leave a note of condolence please visit Wolkowski.ca