Eric Harry Cholewka

   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eric Harry Cholewka of Coleman, Alberta.  Eric demonstrated incredible strength and courage as he battled his cancer but on July 7, 2020, he succumbed to the disease at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre at the age of 66 years.  He fought a valiant fight and left us with dignity and our admiration and love.

   Eric was born on February 2, 1954 in Beaver Lodge, Alberta to parents, Michael and Valentina Cholewka.  In his younger days, he knew hardships and challenges but he gained wisdom with the acceptance of “That’s the way it is”.   Eric tried not to allow the problems of the world negatively impact his life.  He was a proud equipment operator for CN Rail and was recognized for his hard work ethic and abilities.  Eric found his true love and his best friend in Elsa Hokkanen and they were married on March 21, 1987. When Eric wasn’t working, he enjoyed listening to all types of music.  He enjoyed his large and unique record collection, camping in the wilderness, gardening, crossword puzzles and enjoying relaxing moments smoking his pipe.

   Eric loved to make you laugh and smile.  Eric was generous, kind, unique, friendly and proud with a charismatic personality.  He will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.

   Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life include his sister, Elsie (Thomas) Hill of Sherwood Park; his step children, Sari (Pierre) Carriere, Tiina (Danny) DeLisle and Jani “Eric” (Cathy) Laitinen; his grandkids, Chris (Morgan) DeLisle, Colby (Allison) DeLisle and Makyla (Devon) Laitinen, and Kei-Ann (Cody) Primeau; his great grandchildren, Cheyenne and Louie; his nieces, Kathryn (Jason) Gerling and Sarah (Marc) Silver; his nephew, Edward “George” (Mary) Hill; his good friend, Bruce Guy; as well as his extended family and many friends.  He was predeceased by his wife, Elsa; his parents, Michael and Valentina; his granddaughter, Jasmine Mitchell; and his dear friend, Erkki Laitinen.

   A Memorial Service will be held at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel on Friday, July 24, 2020 at 1pm.  Donations in memory of the late Eric Cholewka, may be made to the Bellevue Vet "Spay our Strays" program, or the Second Chance Animal Centre.  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. 

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.

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