Those high winds that we have been experiencing in Thunder Bay was John Kowalchuk, running a marathon up to the sky to meet his old hockey buddies.  Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Parents Olga & Joseph welcomed John December 06, 1936, one of 3 boys and 3 girls in the Kowalchuk family.

His first job was with Brewers Retail, selling beer and later became a salesman for Gilbey’s Canada.  He was a true athlete, living in Montreal playing hockey in his Junior years and then played at home with “the boys”- The Thunder Bay Oldtimers.  He was inspired by running & ran many Grandma & Twin City Marathons and qualified for Boston, which was a goal he managed to succeed in his ‘runs’.  He also never missed a 6:30am swim at the University.

One thing about John is: he was generous beyond the meaning of the word.  He had a heart of gold & loved many of our dobermans, and especially his buddy ‘Koach’, his beer drinking buddy in the summer.  

All of John’s family, George, Peter and sisters, Mary, Irene & Barb have all gone ahead.  He is survived by his wife, Carla M. Kowalchuk, stepson Ryan Slivchak and nieces out west.

RIP John, although he was adamant on no service or get together, it’s difficult at best not to do a celebration of life for such a giving, loving fella.  Just remember him as a true sportsman & giver.

A full obituary and online condolences can be found at www.nwfainc.com