John Stefaniuk

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of John Stefaniuk on August 19, 2026, at the Pinawa Hospital with family by his side. He leaves to mourn sons Bryan, Barry (Jo Ann), daughter Janet (Jimmy Hladki), grandsons Dustin, Teague, Joseph (Erin), and great-grandchildren Bradley and Emma. He is also survived by his sister Stella (Henry) Regnitter, sister-in-law Sylvia Stefaniuk, brother-in-law Barry Kutcher and many nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his wife Bernice (nee Kutcher) in 2024. He was also predeceased by his parents William and Mary Stefaniuk, brothers and sisters Mike Stefaniuk, Pete (Helen) Stefaniuk, Jerry Stefaniuk, Anne (Andy) Dutchysin, Jean (Frank) Matlashewski, Helen Stefaniuk, and niece Lori Ann Stefaniuk.

John was born and raised in the Sifton area where he worked on the family farm for many years before venturing on to other interesting occupations in Toronto, the Vancouver area, Dauphin, and finally landing in Pinawa with his family in 1976. Wanting security for his family and future, he committed to a career with Protective Services at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited until his retirement in 1998. During that time, he proudly served as union president for local F-160, volunteered with the Pinawa Fire Department and Lions Club, and loved hosting the No Sox for a cold one after every slo-pitch game. In retirement he picked up a bus driving gig, (we’re sure it was only to guarantee him and mom a seat on the casino trip), and volunteered his driving skills for organizations like Cycle of Hope and the Pan Am Games.

Along with his devotion to family and community, John enjoyed annual moose hunting trips, fishing, a good game of crib, and armchair coaching the Winnipeg Jets with his nephew, David Stefaniuk. It brought a smile to his face and put a twinkle in his eye whenever he spoiled the dogs in his life or lured in the chipmunks and hummingbirds.

John was incredibly proud of his family with unwavering support and patience whenever we needed it. He gave his time freely to anyone who needed it, and without expectations of anything in return. Sadly, his big, generous heart could no longer keep up.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff who treated John with respect, kindness, and compassion while he was in the hospital. Cremation has taken place, and John and Bernice will be interred in Dauphin at a later date. A celebration to honour them both is being planned, with details to follow.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion – Lac du Bonnet Branch #164 (PO Box 777, Lac du Bonnet, Mb, R0E 1A0 or ldbbranch164@gmail.com), or to another community-based charity of your choice.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com