Milan Henry Cherwonack

1925 – 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Milan Henry Cherwonack after a short battle of bone cancer on February 13, 2023 at the age of 97.

He will be greatly missed by his sister Mary Thorndycraft of Vancouver, granddaughter Lisa Telfer of Regina, nephew and niece Vince and Tina Thorndycraft of Vancouver, as well as many other relatives and friends in Prince Albert, Whitewood, and Winnipeg.

Mel was born October 7, 1925 to parents Bill and Tillie (nee Pariuk) Cherwonack in Whitewood, SK.

Although he was born in Canada the family decided to go back to Ukraine shortly after he was born, and Mary came 4 years later. When there was talk of war the family decided to come back to Canada and put their roots down on a small farm outside of Whitewood, SK.

Milan, or Mel as everyone called him, had a simple upbringing, working hard along side his father on the farm. It wasn’t always easy growing up in a one room home but with loving parents, that set the tone of who Mel became as a man. He worked for a short period of time in Edmonton but then took over the farm when his father passed away. He married the love of his life Frances “Fran” Telfer in 1965. Mel was a wonderful step father to Fran’s son Allan from her first marriage. Mel and Fran worked the farm until 1979 then they moved to Prince Albert. They had a wonderful full life working at Eds Inn until retirement. When Fran passed in 1995 Mel kept himself busy with volunteering at bingo, Meals on Wheels, Mont St Joseph care home, walking dogs, and always helping someone in need. He was a person you could always count on.

Thank you to all the friends that helped him in the last few years of his life especially the ladies in his old apartment building, his granddaughter Lisa, and a very special thank you to family friend Judy Tubman for all your hard work. He truly cherished you and all the good times you had and as a friend he could trust.

At Mel’s request, there will be no formal funeral service.

Mel had no request for donations upon his passing. For those wishing to make a donation in Mel’s memory may do so to the Canadian Cancer Society – Saskatchewan, 1910 McIntyre Street, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4P 2R3.

Family and friends may leave online condolences at  https://grays.ca/tribute/details/2824/Milan-Cherwonack/obituary.html#tribute-start

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of Gray’s Funeral Chapel, (306) 922-4729, Paula Hanson, Funeral Director, and Mary MacWilliams.

• Date : 2023-02-13
• Location : Prince Albert, SK