top of page

Stan Hnatiuk

Image by Nick Andréka

STANLEY NICHOLAS HNATIUK

January 21, 1957 - May 24, 2023

With broken hearts, we announce that Stan passed away at the age of 66 years on May 24, 2023 after a heroic battle with cancer. The strength, positivity, courage and grace he exhibited throughout the course of this journey - and throughout his whole life - is awe inspiring.

 

Left to cherish Stan’s memory are his wife Nancy of 38 years, and children Garrett and Laura. Also mourning Stan’s passing are his mother Gladys, brothers Jeff (Terry, Brayden, Colton (Kelsey and Rory)), and Glen (Julia, Aileen and Morgan). Stan was predeceased by his father Stanley Casmer Hnatiuk.

 

Stan was a man of so many talents and interests. A charismatic, friendly and affable person that people gravitated towards whenever he walked into a room. He was a compassionate man, who put his kids, wife and family before anything else. At any party, he was a hit.  At work, he was a leader. On the rink or the golf course, he was a mentor.  To his family, he was a goofy, witty, fun loving, larger than life personality, who kept us all in stitches with his comedic improv and mimicry skills.

 

Born in Selkirk, MB, Stan enjoyed a childhood filled with love, support, and every activity and sport imaginable.  Growing up, Stan played football, golf, hockey, and baseball. He loved all outdoor activities.  In his teen years you could find him on the Red River casting for catfish, at the beach, tearing up the volleyball court, or playing guitar in his garage band.  

 

After attaining degrees in environmental studies from the University of Winnipeg, and parks planning from Lethbridge College, Stan began a long and fulfilling career in environmental management with the Government of Canada.  He also was active in the community, convening and coaching kids hockey, soccer and volleyball.  Upon retirement, Stan began his dream of “snow-birding”, spending his winters in south Florida, golfing, pickle-balling, biking and dodging alligators down his favourite hiking trails.  He also loved his overseas cycling, travel and ocean cruising adventures, and his annual Caribbean getaways with family and friends.

 

Stan lived a life of adventure and fun, all the while providing a loving, positive, and supportive foundation for his family. Stan greeted the world with optimism and positivity, choosing always to walk on “the bright side of the road”.

 

Thanks to all those who supported Stan on his last journey, including the kind and compassionate staff of Manitoba Cancercare, Princess Margaret Cancer Hospital and the WRHA Palliative Care program.

 

A celebration of Stan’s life will be held at 2 pm on Friday June 23, 2023, at Glendale Golf and Country Club in Winnipeg.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation or Cancercare Manitoba Foundation, and help support research to combat the “quiet pandemic” of cancer.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary 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!

32 Comments

Leave a Comment

↑ Both fields are required ↓

Upload Photo(s)

Bruce bruyere

July 3, 2023 at 12:55 PM

To Mancy hnatiik and children of Stan:  I had the privilege of working with your husband and dad for many years with the federal govt! It seems we were drawn together by some strange force but we became good friends! We played baseball and won many times in the 16 teams made up of federal departments operating out of Winnipeg! He had exceptional skills in all aspects of the game, especially at bat! He gave his all and we would win most times! He was so athletic and had and even greater attitude! At a time when racializing was a common practise and part of Canadian culture, Stan showed none of that sickness! Instead he saw people as individuals and sports and friendship was the glue that kept us together over the many years! When there were times of celebrations, my friend knew when to go home unlike some of his die hard friends! When we speak of reconciliation now between Canadians and indigenous people, we should only look at Mr Hnatiuk’s example who saw no colour and saw only the hood in people! He knew he came from another oppressed culture! See you soon my dear friend!  Bruce.bruyere@gmail.com

Kerry Nicholl Poirier

June 29, 2023 at 11:39 AM

Heart felt condolences to the family,  neighbours from Selkirk the Nicholl family💙

Jeff Eyamie

June 22, 2023 at 4:04 PM

I'm so grateful to have worked with Stan at both INAC and Health Canada, and what I have learned from him goes far beyond how to be an employee or manager. I'll be forever grateful to have met Stan. Like so many people, he changed my life for the better.  So many memories, but mostly I'll remember that way he would bring you in close to tell you a little something in confidence, and he would give you that nasal low voice that wasn't really a whisper. That's when you knew you were in on the secret.  See you on the 19th, Stan. My deep sympathies to Nancy and family for your loss. 

Harold and Lois Hnatiuk

June 22, 2023 at 3:27 PM

Our deepest sympathy to you Nancy, Garrett and Laura. It is so sad that he was taken so young.  He enjoyed his life to the fullest extend and had a wonderful family to share it with. Condolences to Mom Gladys and brothers Jeff and Glenn and their families. 

Marianne Caine

June 20, 2023 at 1:30 AM

Nancy, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I have fond memories of the time when Stan, you, and I worked together early in our careers, and Stan always had a way of lightening the mood when work became tedious. I enjoyed playing on our work slowpitch team with you both and, when Stan took over as coach and made us practise, we actually started winning some games. He always had a smile for everyone and he will be missed.

Loren Remillard

June 17, 2023 at 10:27 AM

To Nancy, Garrett and Laura. My deepest condolences on your loss. To this day, Stan remains a role model for me, not just as a former boss, but as someone who embraced life to the fullest, always with a smile on his face and nary a worry in his heart. And to have had the pleasure of working with/for both Stan (Health Canada) and Nancy (Environment Canada) is something that I shall always cherish.  While out of province business leaves me unable to attend the service, please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.  People come into our lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime...anyone that had the privilege of welcoming Stan into their lives in any way is indeed a better, richer person.  Rest in peace Stan.

Ev Schroth

June 14, 2023 at 4:45 PM

I worked for Stan at the tail end of his career, at HC. He was a terrific boss and mentor. He provided a very easy-going work environment, was patient with all our foibles, and supportive of us as individuals. Very sorry to hear of his passing; but, based on some of the comments and the photos above it looks like he enjoyed his retirement, as I fully expected he would. Glad to have known him.

Anna Fontaine

June 12, 2023 at 11:23 PM

To Stan’s family. Stan was a great coworker. he was smart, intelligent, hardworking, personable and just easy to work with. I was so sorry to hear about his passing. I am sending my sincerest condolences and I am sure he journeyed well into the next life. 

Richard Alwine

June 10, 2023 at 2:51 PM

Dear Nancy and Family, Bev and I are so sorry to learn of Stan’s passing. Sadly, he was taken from his beautiful family and all of his friends way too soon. Stan was one of those people who had a special zest for life. We are all blessed to have had him touch our lives with his warm personality and enthusiasm. I look forward to his friendly smile greeting me at the first tee when we meet again.

Pat Gass

June 10, 2023 at 1:33 PM

Nancy, we are so very sorry to hear of Stan’s passing. While we did not know him well, we do remember his big smile, enthusiasm and love of all the activities and people at Pelican Sound. Sending hugs and strength to get you through the tough days ahead. Pat & Mike Gass

Dave Bahnick

June 10, 2023 at 6:57 AM

Our prayers and sympathies to you and your family.  I always enjoyed my time with Stan!  As a fellow “Ukie” Stan and I shared a passion for pickleball and fun in the sun at PS. Dave and Theresa Bahnick 

Frank Best

June 10, 2023 at 6:40 AM

Knew Stan from PS...biking and p ball. Sincere condolences. Frank Best

John and Joanne Bailey

June 9, 2023 at 3:34 PM

Nancy, Joanne and I are so terribly saddened to hear of Stan's passing. It seems such a short time ago that you were kind enough to invite us to Stan's surprise 60th birthday party at Pelican Sound and we got to know you much better. Playing golf with Stan was always such a fun experience because Stan always had a compliment no matter how many bad shots you hit. His good cheer and friendly demeanor will be greatly missed. Our sympathies to you and your family.

Cliff and Dianne Bridges

June 9, 2023 at 2:42 PM

Dear Nancy, Dianne and I are shocked and saddened by Stan’s passing.  We never met a nicer, friendlier guy than Stan.  Please accept our deepest sympathies.  Cliff and Dianne Bridges

O’Briens

June 9, 2023 at 11:27 AM

Nancy, please accept our condolences on the passing of Stan.  We are sad to hear of your loss at such a young age.  Peace to your family and may the best memories remain in your hearts! Steve and Maureen O’Brien

Martin and Birte Reader

June 9, 2023 at 9:33 AM

Birte and I are very sorry to read about Stan.  He will be missed by the "walkers" at PSGRC.  Always enjoyed having a fellow Canadian and Canadian humour on the course and driving range.  He had an infectious smile and brought out the good nature in all around him.  He will be missed. Martin and Birte Reader

Cliff and Elaine Hamm

June 9, 2023 at 8:57 AM

Nancy, We were shocked and beyond saddened to read of Stan's passing today in an email from PS.  Stan was simply a wonderful, friendly, giving person.  Always an "up" person.  One of the good guys.  He will be very deeply missed. Cliff and Elaine Hamm

Marilyn and John Sciuk

June 8, 2023 at 7:06 PM

Nancy, We were surprised and deeply saddened to hear about Stan’s passing. We feel so grateful to have seen both of you this winter. Wishing you and your family much love and comfort at this difficult time. John and Marilyn Sciuk

Tom Rhoades

June 8, 2023 at 3:55 PM

Nancy and family, Bev, and I are very sad to hear of the passing of Stan. As is evident from the comments below he was a great person and was liked by all who knew him. My time spent with him while working together will be something I'll remember for the rest of my life. Take care! 

Se and Jeff Hahn

June 7, 2023 at 11:14 AM

Nancy and Family,we are extremely sorry to hear of the passing of our friend Stan.He was the best fellow that you could meet.Despite his many talents he was the most humble and nice man to many people.We will cherish our times together playing golf and having a cold beer at Pelican Sound in Estero Florida when he and Nancy would venture down here south for many spring months over the years.We lost another young friend too soon.We hope Nancy and family the best thoughts of him during this difficult time.Sadly,Sue and Jeff Hahn   Estero,Florida

Bruce bruyere

June 7, 2023 at 10:18 AM

Condolences to Nancy and the family and friends! Stan was a great buddy and an even greater competitor! Like his attitude in sports he gave it his all! In a time when there was rampant racism in our communities he recognized inequalities and all injustices towards different groups including his own, he didn’t have to be told about reconciliation! He was Mr reconciliation  who saw people as people! He was genuine! We had many chances of cutting the carpet late into evening but he went home because he knew someone was waiting there he loved dearly! I had plans of getting together over a game of golf! But we will still have that game together! It hurts buddy! 

Val and Ted Lewis

June 6, 2023 at 6:11 PM

Nancy, Garrett, Laura and the Hnatiuk family, we were so very sorry to hear of Stan's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family as you mourn this terrible loss for your family! Stan was a great guy, friendly and always smiling! He will be missed by all who knew him! Take care, sending hugs! ❤

Dave Kitchen

June 6, 2023 at 9:45 AM

I'm so saddened to hear about Stan's passing. All the years I worked with him I was delighted by his energy, sense of humour, and kindness. I have some wonderful memories including getting lost on a mountain road in the mountains north of Montreal, and of him flipping burgers at many work barbecues. He was always enthusiastic and proud to 'brag' about his family and all they things they were up to. Despite leaving an left absence he has left behind a bigger legacy.

Gary & Elvie Lombaert

June 4, 2023 at 12:48 PM

So sorry to hear of Stan's untimely passing.  Always enjoyed working with him at HC, but simply loved the many rounds of  golf with him.  Always positive and supportive, the golf course is not the same without him.  Sympathy and condolences to Nancy and the entire family.

Rod Dushnisky

June 4, 2023 at 11:47 AM

Hey Gooly, nice day today.  Just sitting on my deck enjoying a BUD in your honor.  Your favorite.  Lots of memories flashing through right now, especially the ones that involved all the trouble that we used to find when we were kids in Birtle, Selkirk, and Elphinstone.  And always dragging Jeffries in for the ride (pun)!  Then as we grew older the vacations that we were able to spend together, gun times and trouble that followed.  Toilet paper toss being one of our favorite vacation mischievous events!  Really missing you buddy.  The good Lord must have something very special planned because he took one of our very best!  I know you are watching over me right now which gives me a great deal of comfort.  Keep smiling and hey, if in our new journey you run into the Kawas see if you can grab a pound of ham and find a way of getting it to me.  And if you find any great cakes send me a slice along with a couple of pop filled wax cigars! Nancy, Laura, Garrett, Hnatiuk families, we are thinking of Stan and you every day.  Our mutual loss is still a shock.  I lost my all-time favorite cousin, friend, and accomplice. Good bye Gooly, you behave.  😳❤

Dennis Banash

June 4, 2023 at 11:20 AM

Sympathy is extended to a wonderful family. Stan was a friendly outgoing guy with a smile for everyone. 

Mark Neskar

June 3, 2023 at 9:15 PM

We are terribly saddened to hear of Stan's passing.  We were close friends through our school years then careers took us in different directions.  I remember fondly the band, school, sports and frequent family get togethers.  Our condolences and prayers to all.  Mark & Annette Neskar

Suzanne

June 3, 2023 at 2:54 PM

Nancy, so sorry to hear of Stan’s passing. The video really shows his love of life, I am sure he will be missed but so many beautiful memories. Thinking of you and your family. Sending hugs, Suzanne and Claude Lavallee 

Louis Bedard

June 3, 2023 at 2:54 PM

We were deeply saddened by the news of Stanley’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences to his Wife and children, sadly I have never met them. To me, Stanley had a signature voice and always a smile! I will remember him fondly! Louis and Shirley Bedard

Jo-Ann Cumming

June 3, 2023 at 12:35 PM

Nancy, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, which, although not unexpected, is still a shock.  Stan was one of the “good guys” in life.  My experience of him through curling was of kindness, optimism, good humour and encouragement.  I always enjoyed being in his company.  My sympathy to you and your kids.  

Joyce Duma

June 3, 2023 at 10:56 AM

So sorry to hear of Stan’s passing. Brad and I were just thinking of you both, as we walked past your house in Whyteridge the other day. Wishing you strength and comfort, at this difficult time.  The Duma family 

Cathy Kindrat Bedard

June 3, 2023 at 8:27 AM

I am truly shocked and saddened to hear of Stan’s passing, our deepest condolences to all of your family. We grew up together, going through all of our school years and as family friends. Fly high in the sky Stan, joining those who have gone before you……see you on the other side🙏🏻.
bottom of page