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Terry Sokolowski

TERRANCE (TERRY) MICHAEL SOKOLOWSKI
February 4, 1956 – March 3, 2026
Born February 4, 1956, Terry passed peacefully March 3, 2026, at St. Boniface Palliative Care, after a courageous three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Terry faced every step with strength, dignity and grace. In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.
Terry's kind heart, warm and loving personality, boundless generosity and jovial sense of humor touched all who knew him. Terry will be forever cherished by his wife, Natalie, he was her rock, best friend and the love of her life. Terry will always remain in the hearts of his sons, Daryl Hicks-Sokolowski, Michael (Kristen) Sokolowski; step-daughters, Samantha Sarty, Sara Hulkowich; grandchildren, Daniel Petitpas, Autumn and Spring Hicks, Alaric Sokolowski; siblings, Sharon (Mick) Leblanc, Gary (Linda) Sokolowski, Dale (Julie) Sokolowski; mother-in-law, Mariam Woodruff; father-in-law, Joseph Woodruff; sister-in-law, Krista (Derrick) Cook; brother-in-law, Vaughn (Katie) Woodruff; nieces and nephews, Tracy (Bill) Norris, Chris (Heather) Leblanc, Angie (Jeff) Weeks, Jason (Debra) Sokolowski, Mark (Esther) Sokolowski, Brian (Hilary) Sakaluskas, Jillian Sokolowski, Gage (Emma) Tippett, Jacob Woodruff; his great-nieces and nephews and numerous friends. Terry was predeceased by his mother, Catherine Hazlett; father, Theodore Sokolowski; stepfather, Glen Hazlett; sister, Kelly Hillier and niece, Melanie Sokolowski.
Terry had a fulfilling 40-year career with the Department of National Defence. He served his country for 34 years in the Royal Canadian Airforce, first as a photographer then as an Administration Officer. He spent most of his career in Ontario and Manitoba including three overseas tours, two in Italy and one in Afghanistan. Once Terry retired from the military, he was employed as a public servant for six years. He will be lovingly remembered by many colleagues and friends he encountered throughout his extensive career.
Terry had many passions throughout his lifetime. He loved all things Italy, travelling, wine, coffee, clothes, shoes, watches, gardening, music and dancing. He was enthusiastic about cars, especially Mustangs, Porsches, Ferraris and Alpha Romeos. He was a fan of Formula 1 and his favorite drivers were Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. He was athletic and enjoyed cycling, strength training and ran many marathons. He remained deeply engaged in photography; his curious eye and fascination with current technology enabled him to capture creative photos and videos. His love for the art was a language and gift for those who had the privilege of being a part of it.
Terry and his family extend their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at CancerCare Manitoba and St. Boniface Hospital. A special thank you to Dr. Joel Gingerich. Throughout the years, his attentive and compassionate care brought great comfort to Terry and will always be remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the 17 Wing Spiritual Well-Being Centre, 2235 Silver Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba. Terry’s final resting place will be at the Beechwood National Military Cemetery in Ottawa, Ontario.
Those wishing to express sympathy may consider donating to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation at https://www.cancercarefdn.mb.ca/in-memory/.
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Memories, Stories and Condolences
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Jen Campbell
March 20, 2026 at 3:16 PM
My sincere condolences Natalie. Terry was such a watm and welcoming face at 1 CAD when I first joined the A1 team - always a kind word and a willingness to help, share information or provide guidance. It's clear that you built a beautiful life together. You and your whole family are in my heart as you grieve.

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Todd Peddle
March 19, 2026 at 2:24 PM
Dear Cousin Natalie, so sorry to hear about Terry's passing. I first met Terry in the early 90s when I replaced him as the Administration Officer at AMDU in Trenton. I wasn't too happy. about having to replace Terry because I knew I'd be walking into a job with big shoes to fill. He was the consummate professional in everything that he did and was well liked and admired by all of his peers and colleagues. Terry always had a great sense of humor and extremely pleasant. All those who knew Terry have been truly blessed. A person of his character are few and far between and he will be sorely missed by all.
Natalie, my heart, thoughts and blessings go to you and the entire Sokolowski family at this time.. Terry was one of a kind.
God Bless

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Maryse Simard
March 16, 2026 at 1:12 PM
What sad sad news, I am so so sorry for your loss Natalie, Terry's smile and positive attitude were a ray of sunshine. I briefly worked with him, yet he left a lasting memory.
My heart goes out to you and your family in these tought days. I hope you find a little solace in knowing how much Terry was appreciated by all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

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David Podolchuk
March 15, 2026 at 11:05 AM
I first met Terry oversead on our deployment to Naples. We both ended up loving the place and returning. There are many things I will warmly remember about Terry but the three things that stood out were his great sense of humour, his positive energy and his competence in everything he did. When you with him in a room you knew he was probably the smartest person there. I was very fortunate to work for him for three years. We always talked about the Gimli Speedway he loved to go to. Above all Terry was a family man who was always there to help someone or words of quiet advice. I shall miss him greatly. To Natalie and family, my condolences and thoughts go out to and all your family.

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Steve Davenport
March 14, 2026 at 9:42 AM
I am gutted. This is such sad, sad news. Terry and I worked very closely together at Trenton for a number of years in an effort to enhance the quality support our members (posted or visiting) received so they could focus on their operational responsibilities.
Terry always had a smile and always improved my day by just entering my office to simply say good morning. Terry's mark on Trenton will be everlasting yet most will never know of his tremendous impact. Never one for the spotlight, I recall a visit by the MND for the opening of the New Yukon Lodge (his baby). Terry did not want the recognition I gave him in my speech; however, privately, he did thank me. That was the essence of this most outstanding human being.
To his family, his friends, and all of his colleagues, of which I am so proud to belong, may our collective memories never fade. You will never walk alone, my friend.

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Manivone (Panyasith) Morrison
March 12, 2026 at 9:30 AM
I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of someone who was not only a boss (Basic Training List, BTL) but also a mentor and a true friend. He was a genuine leader who always looked out for the people around him. His passion for fitness, his encouragement, and the way he inspired others to be their best will never be forgotten. We have across paths many times before you became my boss.
Thank you for your leadership, your guidance, and the example you set for so many. Your service with the Canadian Armed Forces and your dedication to others showed the strength of your character and your commitment to something greater than yourself.
You made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege to know and work with you. I miss seeing you and Natalie at the Wing Commander’s coffees or simple gatherings at the Mess, I miss getting trinkets from you that you brought back from Italy that you go every year. I miss our O groups. You will be greatly missed.
Our prayers go out to his family, friends, and all those affected by his passing. You are greatly missed. 🫡🫶🏻
Manivone Morrison, CD
Maj (Ret’d)




Louise Maziarski
March 11, 2026 at 8:35 PM
Deepest condolences to the family. Terry had to be one of the funniest guys I have ever known. Always in a good mood, beautiful smile and ready to help. Just a prince of a guy. I am simply heartbroken to hear this news. RIP mon ami. You will be missed.

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Joanne Ubell
March 11, 2026 at 6:58 PM
My sincerest condolences. Terry was a friend, a mentor, a colleague, and someone who could bring light into anyone's day. His kindness and his laugh are things that I will always remember. My thoughts go out to all of his family and friends.

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Paula Fraser
March 11, 2026 at 5:54 PM
I cannot believe what I am reading! Terry was an wonderful human! i see him still in Trenton just pushing forward with his calm, steady and so pleasant attitude! He was a great man, great officer!

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Marianne Kaduck
March 11, 2026 at 5:36 PM
My sincere condolences to Terry's family and friends. I remember him fondly as a great colleague who always offered a smile and a laugh. Strangely, I can hear his voice as I write this. Rest in peace, Terry.

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Celine and Francois (Frank) Emond
March 11, 2026 at 11:17 AM
It’s only been three years since Terry attended my wedding and just about the same time as he began his treatments for what was to be a long road ahead. What I remember about Terry, was that he knew it wasn’t going to be easy. Whenever I saw him, he would smile and provide me with an update on his progress. He was very optimistic and saw lights at the end of the tunnel. The bright lights we saw weren’t the ones we expected Terry would see, as those one turned off when he came to the end of the tunnel. The bright ones are the ones that Terry left us with. His smile, his strength and his willingness to live is something that we shall all remember him by. He enjoyed life to its fullest and we shall do the same. So to Natalie and his immediate family, please accept our sincere condolences. Thank you for your service Terry and now, RIP my ami.


