The Stefanik family is sad to announce the passing of John Stefanik. At the age of 93, he passed away quietly at The Vineyards Residence in Kelowna, July 2024, his home for the past 2 years. John was born in Cherhill, Alberta. He was one of eight children of Nickolas and Agnes Stefanik, who had immigrated from Slovakia in 1926 and 1929 respectively. He is survived by siblings, Agnes,(5 children) Ann, (3 children), Bob (Gail, 3 children); Irene, (4 children). He is predeceased by his parents, Nickolas and Agnes; his wife Helen; siblings, Steve, Nick, and Carl; sisters-in law, Pat, Olga and Dorothy; brothers-in-law, Gordon Rogers, Mike, and Harvey.

 John’s father suffered from Asthma and was not able to work, so John left his formal education to work and help support the family. He met the love of this life, Helen, in 1950, and they were married that same year at the Catholic Church in Armstrong.

 Together they pursued many business adventures starting with “The Candy Store”in Kamloops. Shortly thereafter they moved to Montreal where John became a trucker, transporting goods across Canada and the USA.

From there they purchased the Pocahontas Bungalows near Jasper, Alberta where they owned and operated cabins and a restaurant business, often employing and guiding their numerous nieces and nephews in their first employment. Next came the Blue Stream Motel in Vernon, BC where John’s love for ice cream expanded into a very successful handmade gelato ice cream parlor. John made the gelato himself and had many stories to tell of this successful adventure.

 John was a devoted Catholic and regardless of where he was, he always attended services whenever possible. He has always been a kind and generous person and most devoted to his family. He had a great sense of humor and sharp wit and was well known for his contagious saying “You Betcha” and “Oh Boy, Oh Boy!” He was unstoppable and adventuresome and he will be missed by his family and many friends as well as the staff and residents at The Vineyards.

 Service will be held Friday, July 19, 2024 at 11:00 am at Our Lady of The Valley

Catholic Church, 10102 Middleton Drive, Coldstream, BC.

 

 

 

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home,

Phone: 250-542-4333

Condolences may be offered at www.pleasantvalleyfh.com