Obituary of MICHAEL JAMES KLYMENKO

MICHAEL JAMES KLYMENKO Michael James Klymenko passed away peacefully on February 24, 2015 in Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre, surrounded by family, due to stroke. He was 67. Michael is survived by his wife Sonia (née Chernichko) Klymenko. They were married for 33 years. Michael was Sonia's rock and soul mate and they loved each other very much. All they ever needed was each other. "Misha" is preceded in death by father Iwan "John" Klymenko from Minsk and mother Anna (née Harochaw) Klymenko from Bobruisk. Michael was a proud father to two surviving daughters: Danishka Esterhazy of Winnipeg/San Francisco and Catherine "Katia" Klymenko-Lacey of Winnipeg/Toronto. He supported both of his daughters through their university educations - giving them not only financial support, but encouragement and endless hands-on assistance to help them achieve their dreams. His intellectual curiosity inspired them to pursue higher learning and his faith in them continues to be the foundation for all their achievements. "Mike" was a loving brother to surviving siblings Valerie Debarr, Helena Desrosiers and John "Johnny" Klymenko. He was a cherished older brother, loving and kind, who often offered guidance and, sometimes, that little push to do the right thing. Michael will be greatly missed by son-in-law Jonathan Esterhazy, son-in-law Hugh Lacey, sister-in law Christina D'Abramo, brother-in-law Bruno D'Abramo, brother- in-law Alex Chernichko, brother-in-law Lenny Chernichko, sister-in-law Jan Marsh- Klymenko, brother-in-law George Debarr, brother-in-law Jacques Desrosiers, nephew Curtis Gesell (and Jenna), nieces Xsenia D'Abramo, Natalia D'Abramo, Diana Chernichko and Taisa Chernichko, nephews Billy Chernichko, Adam Chernichko,Markey Chernichko and Yuri Chernichko and former wife Maureen Tays. He will also be missed by close friends Victor Schmatkow and Bruce Lynn and Tony Mewusch. He was also loved by great-nephew and great-nieces Jerehmy, Shelby and Cori. Michael was born September 14th, 1947 in Watenstedt-Salzgitter, Germany. Both his parents were from Belarus (Belarussia). At age 4, he immigrated to Manitoba with his family and became a proud Canadian. He grew up on the family farm in Spruce Siding, Manitoba. Later, he moved to Winnipeg and attended the University of Manitoba, where he majored in Electrical Engineering. Michael will be remembered for his warm heart and his selfless generosity. His zest for life, his bravery, his optimism and his kindness will continue to inspire his friends and family. His donation to Lions Eye Bank and Tissue Bank of Manitoba will help many. His gentle spirit will not be forgotten. A funeral is scheduled for Friday, February 27th at 11am [viewing at 10:30am) at Southside Bible Church, 1269 St. Anne's Road, with interment to follow at Glen Eden Memorial Gardens, 4477 Main Street, with a reception to follow at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Pastor Jacob Friesen will officiate the ceremony, All are welcome to attend and celebrate Michael's life. Pallbearers are Bruce Lynn, Hugh Lacey, Jonathan Esterhazy, Mark Chernichko, Adam Chernichko and Billy Chernichko. Honorary pallbearers are Alex Chernichko and George Debarr. Evening prayers (with viewing) will be held the evening before the funeral, Thursday February 26th, at Cropo Funeral Chapel at 7pm.