Gail Patricia (Wrixon) Sygutek

GAIL SYGUTEK

(née: Wrixon)

(March 17, 1942 – November 8, 2015)

  It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gail Patricia Sygutek of Blairmore, AB on November 8, 2015 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre.  She was called to be with the Lord while surrounded by the love of her devoted family.  Gail enjoyed 73 years of a full and joyous life. 

   Gail was born on March 17, 1942 in Calgary, AB to proud parents, Charlotte “Hedy” and Bud Wrixon.  She was raised to have a strong work ethic, high morals and values, and to be a kind and compassionate member of society; traits she demonstrated in every facet of her life.  Gail blossomed into a beautiful and intelligent young woman who captured the heart of a handsome, talented and dashing young man, Willy Sygutek.  They were joined in holy matrimony on March 19, 1960 and went on to be further blessed with a wonderful family of their own.  Together, they created a warm and nurturing home in which their children flourished. 

   Gail was a tenacious matriarch who took care of not only her own family, but also the community as a whole.  Her rare integrity, skill for public speaking and competitive, outspoken nature were showcased in her roles as town councilor, school board trustee and owner of the Pass Herald (the second oldest business currently in the Crowsnest Pass), which she purchased in 1968.  Her direct and opinionated character was tailor-made for the newspaper industry and although she was not forthcoming with many apologies, she was honest and more often right than wrong.  Gail was a staunch supporter of the underdog and took pride in representing the people, not the bureaucracy.  She may not have always been liked, but she was definitely respected.  This deep respect and admiration was displayed when she received the “Order of Crowsnest” for her outstanding citizenship and dedication to her community.  Gail was also a passionate member of the Progressive Conservative party and was greatly appreciated by Premier Peter Lougheed and cabinet members. 

   In addition to her many contributions to the community, Gail was also a graceful dancer, enjoyed stock car racing, and was a natural athlete.  She threw a punch harder than most men, was a “ringer” at horseshoes, a great curler and a terrible skier!  Gail also enjoyed partaking in games of chance and travelling to Las Vegas.  Above all else, Gail cherished her family and she was always there to love and support them.  She truly lived life to the fullest and made a tremendous mark in this world.  

   Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life are her children, Gary (Jamie) Chapman of Nampa, ID, Dee Dee Sygutek of Lundbreck, AB and Lisa (Lyle Douglas) Sygutek of Blairmore, AB; her sister-in-law Tammy Armstrong of Calgary,AB; her grandchildren, Ricky Frederickson, Jimmy Chapman, Tanner Sagrafena, Greg Chapman, Tyler Sagrafena, Keiran Douglas, Aiden Douglas and Quinn Douglas; her great grandchildren, Metallia Frederickson and Lyric Frederickson; her longtime friends, Trevor “Bud” Slapak, Midge Stead, Suzanne and Terry Schmidt, Margaret Procknow, Kay Derenzo, Vanessa MacLeod, and Bonnie and Renso Castellarin; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family; as well as countless friends and those she inspired throughout her life.

   She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Willy Sygutek; her parents, Hedy and Bud Wrixon; her son, Ricky Sygutek; her infant daughter, Betty-Jo Anne; her sister, Donna Tymchyna; and her stepfather, Nick Gregory.

Gail ended every one of her famous and infamous ‘Town Talks’ by talking about her ‘Garden of Eden’. She will now forever be able to look down at her greatest love, the Crownest Pass.

  The Memorial Mass was held at the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Blairmore, AB on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at 11:00 am with Fr. Ben Marino and the Very Rev. Fr. Jack Pereira V.G. as Celebrants along with Deacon Renso Castellarin.  Donations in memory of Gail will be gratefully accepted by the ALS Canada Research Program (www.als.ca).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. 

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements.

(403) 562-8555

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