VICTOR ALLAN "VIC" LASKO

(July 17, 1947-February 7, 2026) Vic passed away the morning of Saturday, February 7th, at home, surrounded by his family after a long, hard-fought battle with kidney cancer. Born at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, BC, on July 17, 1947, to loving parents, Mary and George Lasko, Vic was the youngest of six children. His childhood in this large, working-class family instilled a work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit that served him throughout his life. From a young age, he understood that the day started early and there were many things to be accomplished, often quoting the proverb, "Never put off until tomorrow what can be done today." After graduating high school in 1965, he met Dianne in 1966, and they married three years later. During their 56-year marriage, they had two children, Melissa and Michael. Vic believed his family to be his greatest accomplishment. Vic began his career in the beverage industry as a route salesman for Gray Beverage. As he honed his sales skills, he rose quickly through the ranks from a salesperson to a sales supervisor, and later sales manager. In 1979, he was transferred to Edmonton, Alberta, to become the General Manager, where the family would live for 12 years. As GM, he oversaw a dedicated team of skilled employees who were often recognized for their record sales by the larger Pepsi Corporation. During this time, he served as the President of the Alberta Soft Drink Association and represented the industry while liaising with various levels of government. The family returned to Vancouver in 1991, with Vic becoming the VP of Sales and Marketing of BC and Alberta. In 1997, after a 25-year career at Gray Beverage, he started his own company, the Water Market, selling purified water dispensed through machines installed in Safeway stores across Western Canada. After operating the business for six years, he sold it to Culligan Water in 2003 and acted as a consultant for an additional two years. Upon retirement, Vic and Dianne would spend winters at their home in Ironwood, Palm Desert, where they enjoyed golfing, bike-riding, and visiting the Living Desert. Never one to slow down, Vic established a business acquiring and managing commercial property in Calgary with a business partner who would become a close friend. When not working, he could be found watching the business channel (BNN or CNN) to keep abreast of current events and the stock market, playing a round of golf, barbequing a steak, or salmon fishing. He loved being on the water and was happiest spending his free time exploring the San Juan Islands, Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, and Desolation Sound aboard his sportfishing vessel, the Endeavor. The family has been deeply comforted by friends and family sharing their memories of him. They would like to thank his oncologist, Dr. P. Bains, for her exceptional care and kindness, and the Three Bridges Community Health Centre for the excellent palliative care they provided. A celebration of life will be held in May.