John Udchitz

John Anthony Udchitz was the only son of Mary and Anton. John and his two sisters, along with their parents, immigrated to Canada to settle on a primitive homestead in Rocky Rapids. Dad's first language was Russian with English as his second language that he acquired when he started school.

Dad married Louse Smolski and they stated their large family of 7 girls and 2 boys. Their hearts were broken with the loss of David (Duffy) and Susie. Over the span of their life time they proudly welcomed 14 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. Their home was always open and was filled with children's friends and neighbours.

John supported his family in a variety of ways which included lumbering in southern Alberta, farming in the Evansburg area, teaching, hotel management, as well as working for a security company. Dad claimed that he never planned to retire, however when he turned 80 the choice was taken from him as he was no longer covered by insurance.

Dad was a critical thinker and was interested in a variety of subjects such as religion, metaphysics, and politics. As a result no topic was taboo and we had many lively debates throughout our childhood and whenever we had a visit with dad.

In 1975 mom and dad sold the farm and bought the hotel in Thorsby. From there dad ventured into the hotel business in Regina where he met Yvette Morgan. Dad and Yvette made their home in Calgary and after retiring moved back to Evansburg. It was time to reconnect with his sisters, children, and friends.

Dad was fortunate and managed to maintain relatively good health without the need for 'that cursed exercise'. We hoped Dad would enjoy his 90th birthday but that was not to be. We love you dad and you will be forever in our hearts.

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