July 23, 1937 - March 26, 2026
Edward "Eddie" Rybak, age 88, passed away peacefully with family by his side, on March 26, 2026.
Eddie was born on July 23, 1937, though a lifelong debate with his brother Paul over whose birthday fell on March 16th meant Eddie's was celebrated on that day instead. He began his life on the family farm in the Fort Pelly District of Saskatchewan and spent most of his years in Port Arthur and Thunder Bay, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, friendship, and kindness.
He is lovingly remembered by his children Sherry (Gord), Randy (Lisa); his grandchildren Brittany (Dave), Justin (Leanne), Dylan (Molly), Tyson (Sarah) and Jessica (Romy); and his great-grandchildren Mason, Makenna, Benjamin, Amelia, Emma, Bianca, Everett, and Mira.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 59 years, Miriam (1941-2020), and his son Daryl (1964-2008), both of whom he missed deeply.
Eddie dedicated over 43 years of service to United Grain Growers (UGG), where he served as Head Grain Inspector until his retirement in 1998. He was known for his unwavering work ethic and passion for his work.
Above all, Eddie will be remembered for his warmth and generosity. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, whether it was with a simple "How you doing there, kid?" or the famous "You hungry there, buddy?" He never passed up a chance to strike up conversation and was always ready to lend a helping hand (especially when he wasn't asked for help first) to neighbors, family, and friends.
He loved cribbage, long drives, and rooting for the Toronto Maple Leafs. He enjoyed daily walks, keeping a tidy home, and spending time with his family and friends. His morning crib games with Miriam and Randy, along with his daily walks with Bentley and then Dually, were a cherished part of his routine.
Eddie lived a life defined by devotion to his wife, his family, and the people around him. His kindness and loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
A service will be held in the R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 Cumberland Street North, on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11:00 am presided by Jari Lahtinen followed by a luncheon and later interment at Riverside Cemetery.
In keeping with Eddie's spirit, the family asks that he be remembered not with sadness, but with a smile and maybe a good game of crib. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eddie's memory to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, in loving memory of his wife, Miriam, whom he missed deeply. Donations can be made online at
www.braintumour.ca The service will be livestreamed at
www.harbourviewfuneral.ca where condolences may be offered as well.
Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Mar. 31, 2026.