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John TREFANENKO
March 14, 1938 - November 16, 2024
Obituary
During the early morning of Saturday, November 16, 2024, John Trefanenko passed away peacefully at the age of 86 at the St. Therese – St. Paul Healthcare Centre with his wife of 58 years, Lucille, by his side, holding his hand. This final moment together showed the deep love and commitment they shared throughout their lives.
John leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his cherished wife Lucille and their children: Koreen Trefanenko (Dean Sonntag) and children Jonathan, Matthew (Emma), and Jacob (Claire); Maureen (Lawrence) Ference and children Zachary, Allison, and Lisa; and Glen (Allison) Trefanenko and children Brooke and Leah.
Born into a close-knit family, John is survived by his brothers Charlie (Sharon), Bill (Rosemary), George (Norma), and Steve (Jennifer), as well as his sisters Lil Yakimishyn and Kay (Arnold) Willekes. He is also survived by his two godchildren, Brenda Binette and Kari MacLean, and by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and their families.
John was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Helen; brother Nick and wife Vicky; sister Mary Kaufman and husband Andy; brother Tom and wife Carol; brother Paul; brother-in-law John Yakimishyn; and infant sisters, Doris and Irene.
John was born in Smoky Lake, and then, at the age of 6, the family travelled by wagon train to Wandering River, where he grew up on the new family homestead. John and Lucille made St. Paul their home for the past 50 years. For 86 years, John lived a life dedicated to helping others. His passion shone through his work as a social worker, his civic duties, and his volunteer efforts. His enduring legacy of kindness and dedication exemplified the value of family, community involvement, and compassion.
A Funeral Rite will be held on Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 p.m. at All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Hall, St. Paul. Reverend Father Peter Haugen will be officiating with interment in Union Cemetery, St. Paul. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haying in the 30’s (Cancer Support Society), St. Paul & District Hospital Foundation (Palliative Care), or a charity of one’s choice ℅ 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB. T0A 3A1.
The Trefanenko family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Therese Healthcare Centre in St. Paul for their exceptional care and kindness. To send condolences online, please visit https://www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com/obituary/john-trefanenko/
GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1 780-645-2677
Condolences
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From: Gerry and Louise Kievits
Relation: Neighbour
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lucille and all the families. RIP John 🙏
From: Cliff and Esther Martin
Relation: friend and member on several boards over that we served on over the years
Our deepest condolences to Lucille and all the family. John will be missed by the entire community
From: Donald Cole
Relation: Friend and Colleague
John and I were colleagues in Health Care in St. Paul and area. I have great respect for his contributions throughout our working years together. Sincere condolences to John’s family. May he rest in peace.
From: Cheryl Crocker
Relation: Friend
We were very sorry to hear about John. We have very fond memories of our time in St. Paul which include John and Lucille. It was always great to reconnect at events even after we left. John was a very dedicated and committed family man and community member. He will be missed. Cheryl Crocker and Wayne Wright
From: Linda and Rod Boone
Relation: work colleague and family friends
Our sincere condolences to Lucille and family.
We will remember John for his kind and pleasant personality and a readiness to share a story or tell a joke. A devoted community leader who was a champion for St. Paul.
From: Prem and Shashi Kalia
Relation: Co-worker and a friend
With heavy heart we send our condolences to Lucille and family. John and I (Sasha) worked at the social services for many years. John was a friend and a boss. He was kind and caring person to every one who ever came to his contact. John and I worked on many projects together for the well being of those who needed it. It’s hard to imagine that John has left this earth. May God give peace to the departed soul and strength for the family to bear their loss.
From: Wayne and Helen Horner
Relation: Friend
Condolences to Lucille and family.I had the pleasure of working with John for a number of years. It was a rewarding experience because of his character.
From: Sally and Pat Vincent
Relation: cousin
Lucille and family
our sincere condolences
From: Jim & Gloria Cole
Relation: Friend
Our deepest condolences to Lucille and family. John will be missed.
From: Yvette & Ovide Langevin
Relation: Friend and family.
Lucille we want to share our deepest condolences to you and your family. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. We are very disappointed that we are unable to attend John’s funeral, because we are out of the country.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
Date & Time:
November 23, 2024
Beginning at 2:00pm
Location:
All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Hall
St. Paul, AB Canada
St. Paul, AB Canada
Memorial Gifts
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haying in the 30’s (Cancer Support Society), St. Paul & District Hospital Foundation (Palliative Care), or a charity of one’s choice ℅ 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB. T0A 3A1.
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