top of page

Ernie Dojack

Obituary Photo

ERNEST FRANK DOJACK

October 23, 1943 – March 19, 2026


A Photo Biography Video is forthcoming.

Please check back soon.


It is with profound sadness, and deep gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of Ernie Dojack, on March 19th in Winnipeg, while in palliative care at Victoria Hospital. Ernie had a courageous journey with Parkinson’s for many years, until a rapid decline the past month.


Ernie was born in Winnipeg on October 23,1943, where he grew up with his parents Frank and Ella, and younger brothers Rob and Tom. Ernie’s formative years were greatly influenced by working on weekends in his father’s store, Dojack’s Winnipeg Musical Supply, and singing in the choir at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where his mother was the organist and choir director. He also took up playing both the piano and guitar to accompany his singing, which led to his calling as an amateur musician and entertainer.


Ernie started university at the age of 14. In1964, while Ernie was a student in Honours Chemistry at the U. of Manitoba and working as a student lab instructor, he started helping out a young Jackie Livingston in the chemistry lab, Little did she know, Ernie had ulterior motives. Thus began their love story.


In 1966, Ernie started his career in education as a science teacher at Lakeview High School, with the Lakehead Board of Education. Following their marriage in 1967, Jackie joined Ernie in Port Arthur and started teaching in the same Science department.


In addition to his teaching duties during the early years, Ernie was the music director for several musicals at Lakeview, where he also established a popular folk group. He sang in the Ft. William Male Choir and played the lead role in several community musicals as well.


From 1972-77, Ernie and Jackie moved to Germany to teach for the Department of National Defence at Lahr Senior High School. They embraced all that this experience had to offer - teaching high school students from all over Canada, weekends in Paris or skiing in Switzerland, attending the opera, ballet, and symphony concerts, summer tenting trips to many European countries, and making new life long friends, all while developing a passion for food and wine. While living abroad, Ernie again pursued his musical avocation and established a high school folk group that performed in several countries. He also joined the local German male choir, making friends with many people in the Lahr community. On Sunday mornings, he hosted a classical music radio show on the Canadian Armed Forces channel that gave him an excuse to establish his collection of 1400 long play records.


Returning to Thunder Bay, Ernie taught at or was V.P. at a number of high schools - Churchill, Hillcrest, Northwood and P.A.C.I. He also spent several years as the Staff Development Officer.


Ernie sang in the Thunder Bay Symphony Chorus and Community Choir, he was on the board of the T.B. Community Auditorium and chair of its building committee, and was on numerous boards and committees to support the Arts in T.B.


Ernie’s life was greatly enriched in 1982, by the birth of his daughter Katie. Ernie and Jackie were warned by many that after almost 15 childless years of marriage adventure, they would have to settle down. They took Katie on 12 flights before she turned 1. On deferred salary leaves of absence from work, they spent a year in Europe when Katie was 2, another year travelling in Western Canada, California and Europe when Katie was 7, and 6 months backpacking in Southeast Asia and travelling in Europe when Katie was 12.


After retirement, Ernie kept busy by working extensively for both Elections Canada and Ontario, and also volunteered through CESO, where he attended to both the Philippines and Kyrgyzstan to provide professional development to their teachers.


Ernie and Jackie continued to travel the world with many cherished friends, and ventured to S. America, India, Japan, Egypt, Rwanda, and Morocco. They also went to Europe twice a year to cycle or hike, and to participate in Christmas markets and Advent concerts. Ernie always left everyone with a feeling that there was an adventure not to be missed, just around the corner.


Closer to home, Ernie cycled in the annual 50 Km Eldorado Classic until it ended in 2019, an inspiration to the rest of the cyclists.


Ernie was so grateful to have been welcomed into the St.Croix/ Chochla family, and for the past many years that they included Jackie and him in cherished family events. Ernie travelled on family vacations and attended hockey and basketball games for his treasured grandsons, Jaxon and Liam, up until a few days before his hospitalization.


Ernie will be remembered as a kind, respectful, intelligent, adventurous and fun loving man. Although increasingly restricted in his physical body by Parkinson’s over the past few years, his spirit remained strong. He was loved by many.


Ernie is survived by his wife and life partner, Jackie; his daughter, Katie Dojack; son in law, Chris St. Croix; grandsons, Jaxon and Liam St. Croix; brothers, Rob Dojack and Tom Dojack (Sue); brothers in law, Bob Livingston (Linda) and Don Livingston (Char); and sister in laws, Judy Derksen (Bob) and Kathy Stickney; nephews and nieces with whom he shared a special bond, and many dearly beloved friends.


Although our health care systems are beleaguered, Ernie received excellent and compassionate care from the staff at the hospitals in Thunder Bay and Winnipeg over the past several weeks.


A Winnipeg memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22, at the Unitarian Church, 603 Wellington Crescent and later, a celebration of life in Thunder Bay in August.


If friends so desire, donations may be made to the TBSO, United Way of Thunder Bay, Thunder Bay Community Foundation or a charity of your choice.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

Please share a story, photo, memory or condolence for the family by completing the form below and clicking "Post Comment"

Thank you for your comment!

26 Comments

Leave a Comment

↑ Both fields are required ↓

Upload Photo(s)
Select up to 5 photos

Rebecca Johnson

April 3, 2026 at 12:03 PM

My sincere condolences regarding the passing of Ernie. Go back a few decades with the Lakehead Board of Education. He was always a bright light in the office, in the classroom and around students. His musical abilities were recognized in the community and beyond. Ernie was a gentleman, so important in the various roles he held. When we did meet it was with pleasure. Have many memories of Ernie that will continue into the future. One of those individuals that you never forget. Thank you Ernie for being part of my life. You were a special person.

Bonnie Dinning

April 1, 2026 at 3:31 PM

Dear Jackie and Katie;

I was so deeply saddened to learn of Ernie’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and know that you are very much in my thoughts during this difficult time.

I have been thinking often of our years together in Lahr in the early 1970s—such a special time in our lives. The memories of the four of us travelling together, sharing laughter, and attending concerts and operas remain among my most treasured. Ernie was a talented, vibrant soul, and both he and you brought such warmth and joy into our lives. My late husband and I always felt so fortunate to count you both among our closest friends.

Please know that my thoughts and deepest sympathy are with you. I hope that in time, the many happy memories you shared together will bring you some peace and comfort.

Elizabeth L Thomson

March 31, 2026 at 9:29 PM

Ernie will not be forgotten . We admired how both of you coped with that awful Parkinson's disease and kept living a full and vibrant life . We have great memories of seeing both of you biking on Birch Beach Road and wonderful times at your beloved cottage at Eldorado.

Rest in peace Ernie .

Warmest regards at this difficult time to you Jackie and your family

Elizabeth and Kishore

Hong Kong

Ron Haworth

March 31, 2026 at 1:26 PM

Ernie left a huge footprint wherever he was. The shadow he leaves behind gives him immortality. It was a pleasure to know him.

Best wishes to the family.

Ron Haworth

Charlene and Ian MacRae

March 30, 2026 at 6:05 PM

Dear Jackie,

We are deeply saddened to learn of Ernie's passing. To all, he was a kind, gracious and exceptionally talented friend and colleague. Fond memories go back to Lakeview High School in the late 1960s when the inimitable Dojacks took the Lion's Den by storm! We are grateful for the many special times you invited us to your lovely home. Together, you had a tremendous gift for embracing others into your life and home. And Ernie saw to it that our glasses were always filled with good cheer! We send you and Katie much love and strength to help support you through this difficult time.

Jan Bentley (Mills)

March 30, 2026 at 2:37 PM

Mr. Dojack was a really nice man. I am sure he was relieved when I graduated from his chemistry class in Lahr Senior High School, it was a struggle. I had the privilege of being part of the Folk Group, however I think Mr Dojack got a kick out of delegating the "Rubber Ducky" character to me. The "Sound of Silence" my all time favourite. Ernie and Jackie you are both in many of my cherished thoughts from Lahr Senior. My heartfelt condolences to you Jackie, and all your family. Please remember you both made a difference with your students. Thank you so much.

Chris Bottomley

March 29, 2026 at 5:57 PM

Condolences to ALL on Mr. Dojack's passing. I was fortunate to play piano in his Folk Group at Lahr Senior for a brief while and we had a hoot touring in Netherlands and Germany.

Marina Aubie ( nee White)

March 29, 2026 at 5:53 PM

My favorite teacher of all time. When in the Folk Group in Germany I remember I was his translater when we performed at Germany events. Was very fond of him.

Nancy Mulikow

March 29, 2026 at 5:16 PM

Had so many special memories with Mr Dojak. Shared Folkgroup and trips to Strasbourg. Remember bombing along in the car with the twins Elaine and Liz singing our hearts out.

Tina Lahaie

March 29, 2026 at 5:03 PM

Jackie, Katie and Family, I was so blessed to be in Lahr with Mr Dojak. My favourite teacher, both in class and in Folk Group. I don't know that I was a good student or a good singer, but a good time was always had by all. We travelled far, wide and often, bringing smiles to so many. I remember one night driving home in the bus, we stopped in Freiburg where I had my first Big Mac! My love of music started with my Dad, and blossomed in Lahr. The Sound of Silence will always, always stay with me, and I will forever think of how he taught that one in particular, as the silen-train drops fell. He was truly such a lovely man, widely loved, gifted and appreciated by so many. I share in your loss; please accept my condolences.

Jo-Ann (Byers) Hightower

March 29, 2026 at 4:22 PM

I too was one of the lucky ones to have belonged to The Folk Group at Lahr Senior. Hardly a day goes by that I don't thank Mr. Dojack for instilling in me my love for a wide variety of musical genres. But I especially thank him for introducing me the music of the wonderful Joni Mitchell. My condolences to Jackie and Katie. I hope you find solace in knowing his memory will live on in the many who were lucky to know, we were the lucky ones.

Jan (Melton) Currie

March 29, 2026 at 3:02 PM

Mr. Dojack was a wonderful choir director and was a great influence in my continuing with choir into my late 60's. His love of music was infectious and he made learning and practising fun. I came back to Canada in 1973, but my first trip after graduating high school was back to Lahr. I revisited the high school and met him in the hallway, at which time he immediately invited me and my then boyfriend to come to his and Jackie's for dinner. He was a wonderful person and my heartfelt condolences go out to Jackie and his daughter, and all who knew and loved him.

Kim Coleman Power

March 29, 2026 at 2:59 PM

Mr. Dojack was a wonderful teacher and I was lucky enough to be in his Folk Group in Lahr for 4 years. I also took his Music Appreciation course in grade nine which started my love for classical music. Mr. and Mrs. Dojack are both in many of my cherished memories from Lahr Senior. My heartfelt condolences to you Jackie, and all your family. Thank you so much. Hugs.

Kim Coleman

Yvette Kirk

March 29, 2026 at 2:22 PM

As a Lahr Senior Student in the 70s, Mr & Mrs Dojack were well known to the student body and very much admired. They were both wonderful educators and I was delighted many years later when Mrs Dojack walked into my workplace in Baden-Soellingen and recognized me immediately. I have fond memories of Mr Dojack leading the folk group at Lahr Senior and his immeasurable energy with the group members. I am sure all Lahr students have terrific memories of this teaching duo and I wish Jackie and family much peace while grieving Ernie. May your memories sustain you.

Bill and Alaine French

March 28, 2026 at 11:53 PM

Wonderful tribute to a top man. We cherish our friendship with you and the many wonderful memories we made.. Katie was only twelif when we were in Bali. Ernie was our Miister of transportation a tough negotiator but not a great scouter. driver.. I always enjoyEd singing the 'song' with Ernie and Dale and who ever joined in. (Let a winner lead the way).:Rest in Peace my friend..

Our condolences Katie and Jackie..

 

 

Elizabeth Smyth

March 28, 2026 at 7:54 PM

Dear Jackie and Katie: my deepest sympathies on Ernie's passing. He was a joy to know.. May our memories of this wonderful man be a blessing.

 

Elizabeth Smyth

Lisa Coulouris

March 28, 2026 at 5:45 PM

Dear Jackie, Katie and family,

my sincere condolences and hugs to you all.

I was so saddened to hear of Ernie's passing .

 

Last night I was looking at pictures of Ernie at one of my dad's parties; playing the piano and both singing .

I'm sure they are together playing music again.

He was such a wonderful friend and neighbour.

He will be sadly missed. Xoxo

 

Dwight & Annick Bennett

March 28, 2026 at 3:03 PM

Jackie and Kaite and Family - Ernie was a great great friend since 1974 when we met after a TBSO concert. We will miss Him immensely and remember him as a kind, caring, warm, fun, open-minded man who improved the lives of so many in the schools, community, arts and friends, A truly remarkable person who brought light to wherever he was, and will do so in our remaining years, and in his legacy with Katie and her family. He was blessed to marry our dear friend Jackie. I can remember the day he told me they were about to be parents!. He was so very proud of Katie. Ernesto as we called him was a first rate singer, lover of music and the beautiful things that human create, and he did this always with true humility and grace. Love to Jackie and Katie.

Alex Pincock

March 28, 2026 at 2:22 PM

I hope we remember us, Jackie. We didnt' get a chance to know you very well, but of course Ernie was a university classmate in chemistry and Jim's best man. he was an all-round great guy. You seemed very well suited to each other, so I expect you had a good life together. It sounds like it was an exciting one.

 

I'm sorry that you had to go through an ordeal like Parkinson's. We had our own trials. Jim was diagosed with Alzheimer's disease and died last summer. Condolences to you and your family.

Sabina

March 28, 2026 at 12:22 PM

Sending you both so much love and strength during this time. I have a lot of great childhood memories at Summit Avenue with you all. He was a great man and always so proud of you Katie. Love from Sabina and the Kapoor Family.

Hope Fennell

March 28, 2026 at 11:10 AM

I was shocked and saddened to read of Ernie's passing this morning. Terry and I knew Ernie through the symphony chorus. Ernie was such a pleasure to sing and work with and his kindness and good humour were much appreciated. Ernie's was indeed a life well lived. To Jackie and Katie, my most sincere condolences.

Margaret Kahler

March 28, 2026 at 11:05 AM

Dearest Jackie, Katie, and Family

My very deepest sympathy on your heartbreaking loss. You all fought a good fight against this terrible illness and I know you gave Ernie the love that gave him the strength to kep on going. I have often thought of him choosing an old melody from The Manitoba School Songbook and bringing it to life again. Hia spirit still sings in all of you.

Ric Windsor

March 28, 2026 at 10:15 AM

Jackie & Katie. My sincerest condolences on the loss of an amazing father, husband and friend. I have countless happy memories of years working with Ernie and get togethers at your house. . Ernie's positive spirit, smile and encouragement during the years we worked together were a source of strength for all who knew him. He made a positive difference in my life and this world. . He will be missed.

Tim & Krissie Galvin, Vermont

March 28, 2026 at 9:31 AM

Tim and I were so sad to learn of Ernie's passing. He was an amazing man; one of kind for sure. How lucky we are to have known Ernie and enjoyed time with him and you, Jackie, on many occasions at our camp or yours in Thunder Bay. I will always remember Ernie's quick wit, easy smile and intellectual, engaging conversations. Gosh, he was fun to be around! The world has lost one of its best. Rest now, Ernie. Our deepest condolences to Jackie, Katie, Chris, Jaxon and Liam.

Alison Harrison(nee Lanchbery), Winnipeg

March 28, 2026 at 8:26 AM

One of my favourite teachers at Sir Winston Churchill during the time my family lived in Thunder Bay. It's sounds like he led a full and extraordinary life outside of teaching which probably made him the great teacher he was. I'm the richer to have known him.

Jim and Merla McCuaig

March 27, 2026 at 8:07 PM

Jackie & Katie this is a beautiful and well earned obituary in memory of your husband & father. He will be in our hearts and memory for many year in the future. Love Jim and Merla McCuaig.

bottom of page