Michael Shkrum

Michael Shkrum, age 88 years, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2011 in the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre with his son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Susan, by his side. Born in Strymba, Poland, he was one of three children of Dymitri and Eudokia (nee Tudubiszak) Shkrum. Michael was an excellent student in his formative years and was fluent not only in his native Ukrainian, but also in Polish and German. Following the chaos of the Second World War, he emigrated to Canada in 1947 and worked in a bush camp in the Beardmore area. After completing his work commitment there, he moved to Fort William where he met Anne Danchyk. They were married in 1951 until her death in 1969. They had one son - Dr. Michael James Shkrum (wife Susan and children Stephanie and Paul). In 1970, Michael married Barbara Wood (nee Okolita) who died in 2009. Variably employed in the construction and railroad trades, Michael concluded his working career in the forestry industry, specifically as a tree feller. His son fondly recalls the life experience of working as his skidder operator for two summers. Michael enjoyed his retirement with various fix-it projects around the house. He was an avid gardener and excellent cook. The weekend before he became seriously ill, he had made his own potato pancakes. Michael was a natural story-teller. He held any audience in rapt attention as he recounted stories from his childhood, wartime exploits and adventures in his adopted country. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. in the Blake Funeral Chapel with Rev. Andrija Petresin officiating. Interment will follow in St. Patrick's Cemetery . Visitation will be held on Tuesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. If friends desire, memorials to the TBRHSC ICU would be appreciated. A tree will be planted in memory of Michael Shkrum in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 10, 2012. On-line Condolencesmay be sent towww.blakefuneralchapel.com"