Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Wesley Alexander Lastiwka of Fort McMurray, Alberta on September 6th, at the young age of 60. Wes was predeceased by his parents, Emily and John Lastiwka; maternal & paternal grandparents. Wes is survived by his wife of 38 years, Wendy; son, William; daughter, Whitney; brothers, Tom & Cliff (Joyce); sister, Brenda (Vic Haney); and many other cherished relatives.

Wes moved to Fort McMurray in 1967 with his family and it was there that he met Wendy, his high school sweetheart. They married in 1977 and made Fort McMurray their home, where Wes worked as an automotive mechanic alongside his dad at the Sunoco service station. Wes found employment alongside Wendy at the local Caterpillar dealership R. Angus (now Finning Canada). He specialized in small equipment repairs and was later joined by his son Will, who worked by his side. Wes’ interests included racing stock cars in his early years, and then watching NASCAR in his later years. He enjoyed camping, skiing, and quadding with his family. Wes and Wendy had planned to retire at the family farm outside of Smoky Lake, but Wes’ declining health prevented him from enjoying that pleasure.The family wishes to thank all those who visited and supported Wes and his family during this difficult time. Thank you to the doctors and staff at the Cross Cancer Institute; the staff of the Royal Alexandra Hospital units 31, 54, ICU, Robbins Pavilion 6 West, and 5 East; and a special thanks to the Smoky Lake Home Care nurses for the care and compassion they showed towards Wes.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 10 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Pokrova Orthodox Church, Edwand, 59427 Range Road 162N, Highway 28. Reverend Father Benny Ambrosie will be officiating, with interment in the church cemetery. To send condolences online, please visit www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com.

GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 5626 – 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1 780-645-2677