Murray Wozniak born Donald Murray Wozniak passed away gracefully on February 20, 2022 at the age of 67 years

Murray was born in Spirit River, Alberta – that small town being the nearest hospital to the family farm that his father, Merlin Wozniak, and his mother Alaire (nee Martin) lived on. The family farm was located near Codesa Corner, half way between the small hamlets of Wanham and Eaglesham and approximately 100 kilometres NE of the city of Grande Prairie. If the family farm sounds somewhat remote – it was. But at the time it was surrounded by many other farms including those of Murray’s paternal grandparents, Antoni and Maria Wozniak, and his maternal grandparents, Jack and Ethel Martin. There were also numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins close by.

Murray’s early years were a time when large extended families were important for support. The family farm was a wondrous time for a young boy but it was also a rugged and demanding lifestyle where reliance amongst family and friends was imperative. For the first 10 years of Murray’s life he and his family had neither running water nor an indoor bathroom. It was during these early years that Murray became ingrained with a deep sense of family and friends. A trait that he retained and that strengthened throughout his life.

When Murray was 10 years old his mom, dad, and younger brother Paul moved to the “big city” of Grande Prairie. For the next many years, until Murray finished high school, he shared his time between GP and the family farm. Once Murray finished high school he headed off to Edmonton for a few years for vocational training. After finishing schooling in Edmonton Murray returned to his roots in GP. Murray eventually became employed with the McDonalds in GP where he was a dedicated worker for 20 years. Murray retired soon after the death of his beloved mother Alaire (October/19) and in 2010 moved to Vernon BC to be closer to his father Merlin. Murray and Merlin had condo apartments next to each other in the same building and enjoyed many years together until Merlin’s passing in 2020. They were great company for each other and their proximity strengthened their bond.

Murray was extremely proud of his place in Vernon and it was truly a place he called home. Murray loved friends and family and all the holidays associated with those relationships. Murray particularly loved Christmas time. He was a man of routine and come December 1 his Christmas decorations went up and same were diligently and promptly repacked on January 1st. Those who saw Murray’s place were always impressed with his array of Xmas decorations and his family often joked with him that he “had a world record for most Xmas decorations per square foot”. Murray also loved birthdays and he never forgot a family birthday. He was generous with his cards and his well wishes on these special occasions.

Those that knew Murray well knew he faced certain challenges from a young age and throughout his life. As such, all of Murray’s accomplishments and achievements are that much more significant. Murray was always self-sufficient and made his own way through

life. He was never a burden to family. Conversely his steady nature and complete love for life were traits that those close to him admired and learned from.

Murray also loved sports – especially hockey and golf. He was a dedicated and loyal fan of his local hockey team no matter where he lived. Murray was diagnosed with ALS in April of 2021 which affected his ability to play golf. Prior to being sick Murray often golfed up to a 150 times a year at the Vernon Golf & Country Club – where he made many friends. Murray never really mastered the game of golf (who does!) but his golf score was immaterial to him. Golf to him meant he was outside, getting exercise, and with friends and family. Murray was also a long time member of the Elks (in both GP and Vernon) and the Royal Canadian Legion.

Murray always, and to the very end, maintained contact with many family members and numerous friends. These contacts not only included Murray’s friends but the friends of his family members – particularly his late mother Alaire. He spoke daily with his uncle Alan Martin and every Sunday with his Uncle Roman Wozniak – keeping track of and in touch with both sides on the family. Murray also had several good friends he stayed in touch with throughout life – these included his old high school buddies, Bruce Gillespie, Dave Smashnuk, and Rob McConkey. He thoroughly looked forward to and enjoyed each and every conversation.

Murray was especially close to his nephews Foster Wozniak and Julian Wozniak. He thought the world of both of them – as they did of him. They stayed in constant contact. In Murray’s later years never a day went by without them chatting. And Julian would end every call with the question “who’s the world’s best uncle?” and Murray would answer “me!” and the two would have a laugh and say good-bye. Murray was also very close with his brother Paul – and over the years both relied on each other for comfort and support.

Murray’s greatest legacy though is what he taught those of us around him. And he did so solely through his actions and by example. Murray loved life and would not let anything detract from his innate enjoyment of it. Murray never felt ill-will towards anyone. He preferred to focus his energy on the good in life. He cherished his time with family and friends. He faced life’s challenges without fear, without self-pity, and with unbridled optimism. He never ever complained – no matter what struggles he faced – and this included his year-long and life ending battle with ALS. No matter what life threw at him he remained happy and upbeat. I shall never forget the life lessons he’s taught me. I can only hope to face life with such strength and dignity. It saddens my heart deeply knowing I will not see him again. And I know all who knew him well will miss him greatly.

The family would also like to thank all the staff and caregivers at the Gateby Care Centre in Vernon. Their dedication, care, professionalism, and compassion in caring for Murray has been deeply appreciated by Murray’s family.

Please note that there will be a get together and celebration of Murray’s life at the Vernon Golf and Country Club on Sunday May 15th from 2-5 pm. We hope all those that knew Murray can attend.

Arrangements entrusted to Vernon Funeral Home 250-542-0155