Mike Kushnir. Much loved husband, father, Gede, and brother, Mike passed away at his home (William Albert House) on June 14, 2014. He was born October 27, 1919, to Metro and Anne Kushnir, of the Rhein, SK district. He served in the Canadian Army from 1941-1946, doing two tours of duty in Europe and one in the Aleutian Islands of the North Pacific. It was at Dundurn Military Base that he met Thelma Purves - they married in 1947 and had 65 years together, farming for 50 years at Riceton, SK and then living in a condo in Regina. Mike was an excellent farmer, with an eye for detail and skills as a carpenter, machine repairman, blacksmith, welder, jack of all trades. He had a strong sense of community, and served for years on the Wheat Pool, Credit Union, Coop, United Church and other community Boards and committees. Mike drove a school bus for 4 years, earning many cookies and hugs for his kindness with the children. His years as a 4-H leader saw him pass on woodworking skills to many young men in the district. Mike loved horses, especially the Belgians and Clydes, and often said he wished he had added these wonderful animals to his experience on the farm. In later years, Mike spent many winters doing archive and library research on his family history. Biggest fan of all events involving grandchildren, Mike could be seen at school celebrations, dance recitals and hockey games across the province. He was predeceased by four of his much loved eight sisters; his wife, Thelma in September, 2012. Mike leaves two children: Lynda (Ray Pekrul) of Regina, and Amcie (Nancy) of Saskatoon. Four grandchildren loved him dearly and will remember him always, Meghan Kushnir (Victoria); Ryan Kushnir (Quebec); Raena (Shawn Peasley, Regina); Dr. Chris Pekrul (Bretty, Saskatoon). Thank you to Dr. Salgado for his excellent care and kindness over these many years. Mike and Thelma moved into William Albert House in August, 2011, and the family want to acknowledge the wonderful care and excellent staff - thanks so much for supporting Mom, Dad and us over the years! A CELEBRATION OF MIKE'S LIFE will be held at Regina Funeral Home, Hwy #1 East, Regina, SK on Saturday, June 21, 2014 with Reverend Dennis Hendrickson officiating. A lunch will follow the service. Burial will be at the Riceton Cemetery later Saturday afternoon. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in memory of Mike may be made to the Hope Cancer Help Centre, 129 D Pinehouse Drive, Saskatoon, SK. S7K 5W1. Family and friends are invited to sign the online obituary and tributes page at www.regina- memorial.ca. Arrangements entrusted to Regina Funeral Home (306) 789-8850.
