It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Muftey Wakaluk of Blairmore, Alberta who died on November 26, 2013 at the Crowsnest Pass Continuing Care Centre at the age of 84 years.
Myron Muftey Wakaluk was born on November 17, 1929 in Bellevue, Alberta to Maftey and Marya Wakaluk. He loved his family and received immense encouragement and support. His interest in hockey was nurtured and honed to an amazing level. At age seventeen, he was drafted by the NHL’s New York Rangers but declined their offer to remain and support his family.
Muftey married Mary Petrini and they enjoyed many years together until Mary’s passing in 1974. With his heart broken, he sought for someone special to share his life and ease his grief. He found a devoted companion and compassionate soul mate named Sharon Sterba (nee: Cartwright). They blessed each other’s lives for the past 38 years.
Muftey had many passions in this world including fly-fishing and tying his own flies, pheasant hunting, playing cribbage, camping, big band music and watching sports on the television. In his later years, he truly enjoyed his time with his coffee buddies at the Cedar Inn Restaurant and when his step-children stopped by to visit. He was a member of the Sentinel Masonic Lodge and was employed as a Linesman with Calgary Power and later Trans-Alta.
His appreciation for all he had and positive outlook on life could be summed up by his often phrased expression for us all, “Christmas should be every day of your life!” Thank you Muftey for the time you spent with us. Your life was our gift.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Sterba of Blairmore; his step-sons, Clint (Susan) Sterba of Okotoks and Craig Sterba of Blairmore; his step-grandchildren, Shayla, Cara and Ben; several cousins especially his beloved cousin, Tina (Vince) Colucci of Blairmore; and his numerous special friends including Vic & Sharon Gleason of Fernie and extended family.
He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Wakaluk and his parents, Maftey & Marya Wakaluk.
With respect for Muftey’s private nature, no funeral services will be held. Donations in his memory may be made to the Crowsnest Pass Health Foundation’s “Long Term Care” fund where Muftey received such wonderful care. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel assisting the family. (403) 562-8555.