GILBERT KALAWARNY

Gil passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. 

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Connie; his daughter, Nancy (Kirk); and his step-daughters, Sherry (Rod), Shantel (Virgil), and Tammy (Dale). Gigi will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Alicia, Nygel, Latisha (Rob), Jaspreet, Victoria (Brandon), Liam, Nathaniel, Tiana, Shyla, Raylin, Jaylin, Raina, Tyus, Jada, Virgil Jr., Misty; and his great-grandchildren, Penny, Adrian, Gabriel, Braxtyn, and Aurora. Gil also leaves to mourn his brothers, Richard and Guy, sister, Christine; half-siblings Warren and Crystal and many more extended family and friends.

Gil was predeceased by his parents, Alvin and Patricia; his brother, Tim; his sister, Wendy; his granddaughter, Latika; his mother-in-law, Yvonne; his father-in-law, John; his best friend Murray, and his beloved dogs over the years - Pierre, Lucky, Sunny, and Chopper.

Gil was born and raised in Winnipeg and often shared stories of his childhood - playing hockey, ice skating, climbing trees, racing cars on frozen lakes, road trips, and fixing up cars in the garage. He loved the outdoors, playing with Richard and living life to the fullest, even when life was difficult. Gil loved sharing stories of his mother’s baking, especially coming home to the unforgettable smell of her cinnamon buns, the best he ever tasted and memories of working side-by-side with his dad, who taught him the art of fixing cars, skills he carried for a lifetime.

Gil grew to be a expert auto mechanic who specialized in transmissions, though there was little he couldn’t fix. After retiring, he and Connie cherished their time together at the lake, enjoying the water, fishing, barbecuing great meals, sitting around the fire, sharing stories, making memories and laughing with family and lake friends. Once it was too cold for the lake, Gil and Connie looked forward to weekends for movie night and sharing Gil’s favourite foods Pizza or Chinese.

Gil was a devoted husband and father who loved unconditionally, his children and grandchildren would proudly say he held the title of “Best Dad or Best Gigi Ever.” His wife Connie would say, he was the "Best husband ever"! He was the kind of dad who didn’t just say he was there, he proved it every time. One call, no hesitation, no conditions. He always showed up! There was never an evening, he didn’t call Nancy to hear how everyone’s day went and check in on his grand babies he cherished so much.  Dad’s calls will be forever missed.

A source of strength, wisdom, and friendship to many, he was known for his big heart, and selfless nature. Gil offered help without hesitation, listened without judgment, and loved his family deeply and fiercely. His kindness and generosity touched everyone he met, leaving a lasting legacy of love and compassion. He will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.

"Go get that BIG FISH GIGI"

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Susan Green at Cancer Care Manitoba and the compassionate staff at Riverview Health Centre for their extraordinary care.

In accordance with Gil’s wishes, no service will be held.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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