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Paul Wawryko

Image by Nick Andréka

PAUL WAWRYKO, M.D.

December 19, 1981 – December 8, 2023

With immeasurable sorrow and heartbreak, we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Paul Wawryko: son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend-that-was-family to many.

   

Paul's approach to life was one of continuous discovery, boundless adventure, and fiercely deep connections with loved ones. His days were filled with immense purpose, and he achieved more in nearly 42 years than many do in a lifetime: excelling in his career, receiving a University of Manitoba teaching award, completing the Boston and Chicago marathons, an Ironman competition in Chattanooga, traveling to at least 20 countries around the world, and giving back to others, all while prioritizing meaningful relationships with friends and family above all else.

 

Known as being deeply cerebral with a wit that snuck up on you, Paul was an introspective person who constantly challenged himself to grow intellectually – and did so with humility and genuine curiosity to experience as much as he could. He loved a good debate and deep conversations, impressive culinary experiences, local beer, and beautiful music – specifically Taylor Swift’s Evermore album. 

 

Paul had a brilliant mind and gifted his intelligence and tenacious curiosity to medicine as a pathologist [UM/06] specializing in Pulmonary Pathology. He worked at the Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface General Hospital and recently completed a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona. Like all others, his colleagues admired Paul for his thoughtfulness, humour, and altruism. 

 

His intelligence was evident from an early age: as a child, he’d spend his free time reading encyclopedias and writing out words he didn’t know to enhance his vocabulary, writing to medical journals to ask questions (they would often respond thinking he was a physician), and in grade eight, earned a four-year academic scholarship to St. John’s-Ravenscourt. There, with the support of his parents and family, he excelled academically and made lifelong friends- playing hockey and on a variety of sports teams. 

 

Paul always thrived as a multi-sport athlete, finding satisfaction and success in epic physical challenges and seemingly adding more sports with age. From hockey and soccer to cross-country skiing, fitness classes, hiking, and back-country camping to triathlons and marathons, Paul’s schedule and pace eclipsed the average. No matter the activity, he participated with wild commitment, vigor, and sportsmanship… while deeply appreciating the aprés celebrations as much as the sport itself. This is where some of his best memories were made.

 

Paul was the first to show up for others but always last to leave a party, with an introvert-extrovert personality that was as dichotomous as it was endearing: intensely brilliant and methodical, passionate about pop culture, the keenest eye for trends, and was as happy at the Eras Concert as he was hiking outside. 

 

Perhaps the most notable and uniquely-Paul characteristic was his legendary generosity. Always the first to buy a beer (or round… or bottle…), to help a stranger move, to listen with a non-judgmental ear, or to sit in the front row of a performance, Paul seemed to possess boundless energy for helping anyone in need. He also didn’t embarrass easily – a quality that helped him try new things without fear of failure. 

 

Paul loved being an uncle and adored his nieces and nephews. Uncle Paul reveled in celebrating their achievements and milestones, and always eagerly volunteered to be featured in TikTok dances despite always being slightly behind the beat. 

Paul’s close relationships with his sisters – Heather and Ashley – continued to deepen into adulthood, where they completed triathlons together and spent time at the family cabin in Riding Mountain National Park, Brandon, or on family vacations. Paul was protective and proud of his accomplished siblings and loved his family (including cousins, aunts, uncles, and parents) fiercely.

 

As a donor, Paul quietly but impactfully supported causes he was passionate about, particularly those related to the environment, animal welfare, and wildlife.

 

Paul’s happiness was perhaps best measured in the number of friends surrounding him, the miles logged on Strava, or fingers of a distinguished whiskey in an ornate glass. The best day would include all three.

 

Paul is survived by his loving family: his parents, Lindsay and Tony, his sisters, Ashley (Chris) and Heather (Scott), nieces, Payton and Kate, and nephews, Hudson and Luxton. As well as uncles, an aunt and cousins. He also leaves behind many (in reality, hundreds of) adoring friends.

 

A celebration of life is being planned for April 27, 2024 to allow for travel arrangements for friends and family. Please follow this link to RSVP. Time and further details will follow.

 

You can honour Paul in many ways, including donating to animal welfare causes close to his heart: The Winnipeg Humane Society and Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. 

 

Most importantly, as a tribute to a life well-lived, please honour Paul’s legacy by saying yes to plans with friends, taking spontaneous trips, staying for one more round, and putting a few more miles on the road.

 

We love you, Paul.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Carson loveless

May 29, 2024 at 7:37 AM

condolences to his family 

Alan & Anna Shaw

February 20, 2024 at 6:24 PM

Lindy and family,  We are so saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. ❤

Karen Bieber

February 5, 2024 at 10:59 AM

Having just read this beautifully written tribute to Paul, I am in awe of the wonderful and accomplished man he became. I had the privilege of teaching Paul in his primary years at Heritage School. A teacher’s dream, to say the least. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. 

Bette Kleemola

January 16, 2024 at 12:12 PM

To the Wawryko family:  We were so saddened to read of Paul’s passing. As neighbors on Arthur Creak, we remember the cute little boy next door.  Please accept our sincere condolences and know our thoughts and prayers are with you.  Bette and Al Kleemola ❤

Vishala Neppalli

January 8, 2024 at 10:32 AM

I had the pleasure to work with Paul both on regular cases, but on projects to improve diagnostics for patient care.  It was absolutely shocking to hear this news.  One is always at a loss of words when such a promising career comes to an abrupt halt, and to lose a person with an immense potential.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, and his physician family. 

Camelia Stefanovici

January 5, 2024 at 1:58 PM

"What can you say about a n-years old (n.b. - but young person) - , who died? You can say that he was beautiful and intelligent ... and that he loved" ... everything enumerated in this loving and lovely obituary. When I heard of Paul passing, these words from Erich Segal's "Love story" movie/book came to my mind. All that he was, loved, and did, as per this touching obituary, is so true about Paul; but the more it says, the more pain we feel to remember or talk about him, as his life was so intricate, and intense, and beautiful! It will take many, oh boy, so many years, to have the dust settling on these dear memories. And while the pain might subside, the meaning of his life and memory will always be with all of us who knew, loved and worked with Paul.  Rest in peace, dearest Paul! Camelia, colleague from HSC.

Arshad Ahsanuddin

December 31, 2023 at 9:25 AM

I was one of Paul's preceptors in Hematopathology.  I remember him as being bright and conscientious as a resident, and was pleased he chose to join the UManitoba faculty.  I was greatly saddened to hear this news.  I liked him.

Laurel Stevenson

December 29, 2023 at 2:35 PM

Sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Paul. As a fellow North Shore kid, I remember playing with Paul a long time ago. I have a memory of him being outside making bird calls, which seems to fit with his ongoing love of the outdoors and wildlife as an adult. Your tribute managed to capture a beautiful soul. Wishing you all comfort in your memories at this extremely difficult time.  Laurel (Stitt) Stevenson

Jayantha Herath

December 28, 2023 at 8:40 PM

Paul was an amazing friend and colleague. Paul and I started residency together and worked together for some time. I’m so sorry to hear about this unexpected loss of our colleague and friend. Please accept my deepest condolences. Losing someone close to you is never easy, and I can only imagine how difficult this must be for the family and friends. This is a great loss not only for the family and friends but also for the whole pathology and healthcare community. Life is so uncertain, and Paul should have lived at least another 50-60 years. 

Cordell Jacks

December 26, 2023 at 9:36 PM

My brother and I grew up having adventures at Clear Lake with Paul (and Ashley & Heather). He was always a ball to hang out with, and clearly bright from a young age. We reunited years later after both of us had graduated university and randomly ran into each other amongst groups of common friends. I couldn't believe how funny, sharp, and witty he had become.  Those few nights we ended up getting to reunite and laugh together will always be cherished. You will be missed Paul, condolences from a far from our clan to your entire family. 

Tyler

December 26, 2023 at 11:33 AM

Paul was a wonderful friend. I didn’t get to see him much since I left Winnipeg, but I always enjoyed our dinners together when I was back in town. He had an encyclopedic brain and a dry whit. I will miss him dearly. 

john Murray

December 24, 2023 at 3:42 PM

We knew Paul when he was a beautiful little boy. We are so very sad  to learn of his passing.  Love Jake,Bev,Lauren and Andrew

Ashleigh Collet

December 24, 2023 at 12:49 PM

This tribute is so true and has honoured in all ways the beauty and gift that Paul will always be, to those lucky as we were, to have crossed his path.  Paul, I loved all the times I got to spend with you. From being “plus ones” at Blues hockey events to summer cabin weekends in Manitoba and most recently when you visited us in France. Back when I was working at St B, I was so proud to know of all the great ways your incredible brain was at service to Manitobans. What a profound loss for the medical community and Manitobans at large.  Losing you, personally, feels so painful. I am sad to have lost a friend with such wit and intelligent conversation as I always found in you. I adored you. Your smile could light up a room. You leave behind a legacy that will forever shine and remind us all to carpe diem.  Wherever we go next, I feel peace knowing you are there and that I will one day see you again. Forever in my heart my dear friend. ❤Ash

Bruce

December 23, 2023 at 8:04 PM

I only knew Paul for hours as I was his roommate at Saint Boniface Hospital in that short time we had many conversations about many worldly things I could tell he was a brilliant minded beautiful person That he cared for his friends and family passionately. A couple of his doctor friends came to visit, and everything was so upbeat. I am just heartbroken to hear of his sudden passing the very next day he left the hospital 

Bob Williams

December 23, 2023 at 11:23 AM

THANK YOU to whomever that prepared this tribute to Paul. You captured the spirit and how he became friend to many. I was fortunate to spend  some time with Paul paddling wilderness white water rivers. He was the first to swim in the icy cold water ! The camp fire conversations were a combination of loud laughter on the dating scene to deep thoughts on the future. I am so lucky to had  the "Paul" experience. Thank you Paul  With love and respect Bob Wiliams 

Carter Chen

December 23, 2023 at 9:42 AM

Paul, thank you for being in my life.  You're forever a member of "Burger Bus" , Jay, Blake, and Andre and I will continue our ritual and to make sure we always have a Burger on your birthday you were my "Foodie Insider" a true enthusiast and connoisseur.  You lived the best life, packing in as many adventures and journeys as much as you could while also being a great leader and mentor in the medical world.  I am forever gracious to have visited and stayed with you early this year in Phoenix where you took me to see my favorite NBA team the Toronto Raptors, 90's rock band Bush, and TPC Scottsdale to see Maroon 5 and all the best restaurants.  I remember being so proud of you when I met your Pathology colleagues, they spoke so highly of your expertise and proactiveness to rally the team for many social outings.  My heart goes out to your family, will always be there for support.  I love you brother, I know I will see you again in another life

Dawn Bohonos

December 23, 2023 at 8:43 AM

I am so very sorry for the devastating loss of Paul. After reading the tribute, it is evident that Paul did not waste a minute on this earth! As his teacher in middle years, I knew that he was destined for great things and he did not disappoint! What a gift he was! It is heartbreaking that he left us so soon. My condolences to Lindsey, Tony, Ashley and Heather. All my prayers and love, Dawn Bohonos

Kirsten

December 22, 2023 at 11:19 PM

What a beautiful and deeply moving tribute. Our hearts are heavy and cannot begin to fathom the sorrow you are having to endure. We are so deeply sorry for your devastating loss. Love and prayers to the whole family. Love, Kirsten and Ryan 

Jim

December 22, 2023 at 9:50 PM

1st saw Paul sitting in back row U of M science class. For some reason he stood out to me, I liked him & sure enough we became great friends in med school & always afterwards. He was a special friend for me, & I am heartbroken 💔. I will never forget him, & I will miss him forever 💧 Jim

Jo-Anna

December 22, 2023 at 8:31 PM

Tony, Lindsay and family, the loss of  your beloved Paul, is incomprehensible.   What a lovely tribute and story of his life! We  send our prayers and love to you💕 Anna, Jo-Anna and Steve

Justin

December 22, 2023 at 5:00 PM

I first met Paul some 20+ years ago when we were both at SJR. He was one of the few people i've ever met that i would characterize unequivocally as a wonderful human being. Our community, the medical system, the world generally has lost such a treasure. Rest easy brother.

wamda mathers

December 22, 2023 at 4:02 PM

I am overcome with sadness at Paul's passing. I was privileged to know him, and to be his swim coach.  Paul thrived on many life levels so it is difficult to accept that I will not see him again on earth

Lauren

December 22, 2023 at 10:48 AM

Oh Paul. You were meant for so many more years in this life,  but my goodness who lived a more intentionally gracefully abundant life than you?? Your omnipotent presence and legacy will be felt indefinitely with all the hearts you gently touched and there is no doubt your wild spirit will forever flow with the ocean tides and graze those mountain tops. Goodbye dear friend, you are terribly missed.  Lauren xx

Hannah

December 22, 2023 at 10:06 AM

Paul- thank you for being my friend. To his family: he loved you so much. He was a shining example of how much life could be lived in 42 years… and how tragic it feels to lose someone as impactful, kind, hilarious, and brilliant as he was. I’ll miss him forever. 
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Ethical Death Care (Death Care Services Inc.) is privately, independently, and locally owned. Shane Neufeld and the original team of Integrity Death Care own and manage this organisation.

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