MICHAEL KUCHER (published on May 25, 2010)
| MICHAEL KUCHER On Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 87 years of age, with his loving family at his side, Michael lost his valiant and courageous battle for life. Michael will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mildred. He is also survived by his sister Olga, his children, Mark (Julie), Michelle (Kevin), and his grandchildren; Katriana, Mike, Mark, Stefany, Chris, Donald, Lara, Jodi, Alexander and Julia, and his great-grandchildren: Tyler, Nathan, Kyra and Ethan. Michael was predeceased by his daughter Maria in September 2009, his mother Polly, father Alexander, and brother William. Michael's life epitomized Winnipeg's North End spirit and dream. Born to the Kucher's Ukrainian Bakery family, his strong work ethic was quickly set. At age 18, he enlisted with the Merchant Navy and served his country in both the Atlantic and Pacific theatres for four years. Upon his return from the war in 1945, he embarked on yet another adventure in Canada's North. By 1946 he created his fishing company and spent the next 25 years establishing Kucher Bros. as one of the largest freshwater fish companies in Western Canada. In doing so, Michael became one of the pioneers in settling the North West Territories. At the same time, Kucher Bros. established KB Ranch and introduced the Charolais/ Hereford cross to the Interlake. Michael was an honorable and generous businessman whose word was his bond. Following his business career, Michael concentrated his efforts on his family and community. The ultimate joy of Michael's life were his grandchildren and great-grand-children. His warm smile and open arms were a sanctuary for the children fortunate enough to call him Gigi . He became an active member of the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, achieving a Fourth Degree status. He was also a member of the Merchant Navy and the White Ensign Club, the Royal Canadian Ukrainian Legion Branch 141, the Sons of Ukrainian Pioneers, Oseredok, Royal Military Institute of Manitoba, Devils Lake Maritime Museum, and Federal Superannuates Association. Michael was always very proud of his honorable discharge from the Canadian Merchant Navy and American Coast Guard. Step forward now you sailor, walk peacefully on Heaven's streets for you have done your time in Hell. As you embark on this, your final adventure, you will be loved and remembered forever. The family expresses their sincere appreciation to the staff of the Grace Hospital and particularly the ICU for their professionalism and understanding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Ukrainian Educational Foundation Inc., in care of The Knights of Columbus Canon Luhovy Assembly 0374, 150 Notre Dame Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Knights of Columbus rosary will be held Tuesday, May 25 at 7:00 p.m. followed by Prayers at 7:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Wednesday May 26 at 10:30 a.m. Both services will be held at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 737 Bannerman with Basilian Fathers officiating. Interment will be at Holy Family Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Michael's grandsons and son-in-law. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael's granddaughters. I've lived a life that's full I traveled each and ev'ry highway And more, much more than this, I did it my way. VICHNAYA PAMYAT KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 956-2193 |
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