LAWRENCE “LARRY” KICHAK

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Larry Kichak at Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, on May 19th, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born in Winnipeg on October 7th, 1951, Larry will be lovingly cherished and missed dearly by his younger sister Sandy (Darrel); older brother Dennis (Colleen); sister-in-law Issey; as well as his nieces and nephews: Chad, Koreen, Warren, Kevin (Laurie), and Kyle (Niki). He also leaves behind dearly loved great-nieces and nephews, and will be remembered and missed by his dear uncles, aunts, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Nick and Sophie (née Chabluk); his sister, Olive (who passed away in infancy); his brother, Terrence; and his nephew, Jamie.

Larry was a bright student and was exempt from his final graduating exams. He began his career at the Winnipeg Free Press, and later spent most of his working life at Impark, where he was especially dedicated, and concluded his working life at Superstore. In each role, he gave his best and took pride in his work, and was happiest when contributing and being part of a team.

Larry especially treasured his time with loved ones. He held countless dear memories with family and friends, spending time together over coffee and cards, and found great comfort simply being around people. He had a deep passion for music, much like the rest of the family, and was a big fan of sports, especially cheering on his beloved Jets and Blue Bombers.

In his young adulthood, Larry was diagnosed with schizophrenia, a condition that progressed and made it increasingly difficult for him to maintain employment, manage daily life, or feel a sense of belonging in society. Despite these huge challenges, Larry faced each day with great courage and resilience.

Larry’s journey was marked by numerous changes in care, which shows so much of the failings in our system - shifting medications, rotating doctors, and multiple housing placements throughout the city, often in environments lacking understanding and compassion for his illness. In spite of all the struggles, Larry kept unwavering hope.

Larry was a lover of life, a man of deep faith, and held a profound devotion to Mary, which sustained him through his darkest days and kept his spirit strong. Attending Mass brought him great joy, as did the time he spent with his parish community. He spoke often of Jesus, “The Prince of Peace.”

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Father Greg, whose sincere friendship brought light into Larry’s life, and to Maria, from Alphonsus, whose kindness will always be remembered.

A funeral Mass for Larry will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, June 5th at Saint Alphonsus Church, 315 Munroe Avenue, followed by a light lunch in the church hall, and finally, an Interment at Green Acres Cemetery.

Gone Too Soon

He left without a last goodbye,

A quiet hush beneath the sky.

So sudden was the parting day,

We never thought he’d go that way.

A brother dear, with a caring heart,

An uncle that loves us even when apart.

A cousin that loved all music too,

A friend, to many, old and new.

The days now feel a little gray,

Since life so quickly slipped away.

But in our hearts, he still remains,

In memories and love that stay.

We are sad, but not as those who fear,

For in our hearts, he’s ever near.

Until we meet on God’s heavenly shore -

forever his, forevermore.

Larry’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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