June 27 was a significant day for Blaine Lake Library, Blaine Lake town and the Dutchak family.
The bright sunny day complemented the occasion as many local residents gathered to honour the late Mike and Ida Dutchak with a dedication ceremony. The children and their respective families donated a large gazebo that was erected on the old CN station site, now the public library.
Barb (Dutchak) Woytiuk opened the brief program by extending a warm welcome to everyone in attendance. She acknowledged the library board for decorating the gazebo with hanging floral baskets and the Town for its co-operation though the process.
Mayor Ernie Crowder brought greetings on behalf of council.
"We are proud to have this dedication in honour of Mike and Ida Dutchak," commented Crowder, "and to honour Mike for starting his family business from our small town."
Mike and Ida established Blaine Lake Ambulance often using their station wagon to transport the sick and injured to hospitals. Mike was an unselfish person and always assisted people as much as he could; he made the best of each moment of family time because with dispatch being from his home, many family moments were interrupted with an urgency to respond to a call. The support and love from his family made him proud. Mike then went on to establish M.D. Ambulance in Saskatoon and his children have since followed in his footsteps in the EMS industry.
The gazebo's location is ideal for the dedication as the original site of the CN station also instrumental in transportation and town history.
Barry Dutchak reminisced about growing up in Blaine Lake and thanked everyone for attending the dedication.
"This is in honour of our mom and dad to show how much we appreciated and loved them," said Barry, pausing for a moment to compose himself. "Mom always had a positive attitude and was so accepting of others. She instilled this virtue in all of her children and we have carried on the tradition. Dad always helped everyone and would never turn anyone away. Together they built a business and a loving family."
Barb mentioned the years of attending Blaine Lake Gospel Chapel as a family and the importance of having a firm foundation of faith. Pastor Gerry Epp commented there are many monuments all over the world, monuments that are significant and erected to remember something or someone significant.
Because Mike and Ida loved the town and its people, the Dutchak children found it appropriate to dedicate a gazebo in honour of their parents. It will serve as a gentle reminder that although the road ahead may be full of challenges, the gazebo will be a safe haven for all to enjoy. Whether one wants to go there to sit and relax, reflect upon the past, visit with friends, sit and enjoy a good book or just sit and admire the world from the inside out, it is there for everyone to enjoy. Each time a member of the Dutchak family drives past the gazebo, they can feel proud that their parents' memories are alive in Blaine Lake.
The true love, respect and admiration the Dutchak children and grandchildren felt that day was evident with the smiles, tears and hugs that were shared. Everyone enjoyed the sunny afternoon in fellowship.
