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Dwayne OSEPCHUK Obituary
May 21, 1950 - April 29, 2015
With heavy hearts, we sadly announce the passing of Dwayne. A devoted husband, a wonderful father and very proud grandfather to his much loved grandson Kane. Dwayne was a musician from the age of 14 and played lead guitar in several rock bands in Edmonton, most notably "The Southbound Freeway." He held the title of Historian to all Rock and Roll history of Edmonton's bands.
He is survived by his wife Darlene, brother Richard (Sharon), his children Shane (Siobhain) and Alicia (Jonathan), his grandson Kane, extended family Sausha, Emma and Rehmy along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will take place May 10, 2015 at Big Al's House of Blues, 15004 Yellowhead Trail, Yellowhead Inn. Doors open at 1 p.m., Ceremony at 2 p.m. with a jam to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
58 Entries
Lesley-Ann Eastwood
April 24, 2020
Darlene, Shane, Alicia, Richard and all family and friends. Living in Toronto, I regret I just learned of Dwayne's passing. Shane...you said it best. "Only the good die young." Dwayne was a genuinely good person; a true friend and a wonderful musician. A kind man with an amazing sense of humour and good fun. Southbound Freeway will remain a joyful memory of our teenage years!
Wayne Adamson
January 4, 2016
RIP
We all miss you
July 19, 2015
Dwayne "Oscar" will never be forgotten ~~~a true Rock N Roll Guitar player
July 19, 2015
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Derryl Harrison
July 2, 2015
My deepest sympathy to you Darlene, your immediate family, and extended family. I just found out by being on the internet. From the days I went to Highlands, Rainbow Ballroom, the "Lakes", and working for the "South Bound Freeway" hauling, setting up equipment, I knew then, as young as I was, this is a special person. My memories of the respect he showed me, to the kid off of 96 street, will never be forgot.
Dwayne Osepchuk
May 21, 2015
Paula Anderson
May 21, 2015
Sending love and light to the Osepchuk family. Dwayne's talent was only outshone by his great heart and good humour. Play On Dwayne... Play On...
Andrea Neil
May 15, 2015
An amazingly strong man who will be deeply missed. Happy in the kitchen making his family wonderful dinners, to amazing crowds with his incredible musical talent. Thank you for all the hockey game your daughter and I got to attend. Beautiful memories we share of family vacations in Fairmont. You were a wonderful husband and an amazing father. Love you always and forever Dwayne
Paddy MacCrimmon
May 14, 2015
To Darlene and Family
In the 60's and 70's we followed Dwayne and Southbound Freeway to the U of A Frat Dances where the Gals would get up on the Guys shoulders and Dance all night long. Groups would head out to the Lakes and enjoy Southbound's Sound, 2 to 3 nights in a row, it was great. Couldn't get enough. In the 80's and 90's I was involved in Hockey drafts and one of the players was Dwayne. We had a Blast. His humor hit the limits. "Oh! it was a good time". In the 2000's Dwayne's Music became increasingly better.....(in my mind) and better with the combination of playing his many guitars and strong vocals. Also all the old friends joining in made me believe they were on a mission. Dwayne had those powers.
And now he's gone to a place that's quiet. He can practice.....he can practice his tunes.
Then when he is up to it, Dwayne can liven up his new world and finish where he was headed.
"Dwayne You Rocked and We are Really Going To Miss You......Man"!!
Joyce Richards
May 13, 2015
Darlene (my hairdresser for 25 years) and family. I was so saddened to hear the loss of your husband and father. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Horst Urbaniak
May 13, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the Osepchuk family. While I never met Dwayne face to face, I spoke to him via phone and facebook the last 2 years.
It was 47 years ago on a Friday night that 2 of my friends and I went to the Rainbow ballroom to check out the "Chicks" The Southbound Freeway were playing and just rocking the Rainbow. I met my future wife there that night. She loved the sound of the Freeway, so did I and she liked to dance.We would dance at the Rainbow Fri night and then on Saturday night It would be off to the Rainbow ballroom for another night of great dancing to the sound of the Southbound Freeway. I married that girl in 1970 and god called another one of his angels to heaven 2 years ago after our 43 year marriage. I am writing our life story so was looking for a few pictures of the band and Rainbow. That is how I came to talk to Dwayne. He was very helpful in providing me with many pictures from back in the day. Thank you Dwayne.
The celebration at Big Al's was a great tribute to one of Edmonton's great musicians and Edmonton's Rock and Roll historian. I was honored to be there. Thank you Dwayne for all you have done for the Music industry in Alberta.
Now I know that my wife will be dancing in heaven to some good old Rock + Roll when you start the band up there.
Once again my sincerest sympathy to the family and friends and to the music world.
RIP Dwayne
Alicia Schneider (Osepchuk)
May 12, 2015
The memories I have of my father will never diminish. He was so proud of his children and he loved us very much. We were also so proud of him and loved him very much in return. His soul will live on through myself, Shane and Kane. I know he is watching us, and I promise to keep making you proud dad. Forever your little girl.
Ann Parker
May 10, 2015
My deepest sympathies to Darlene, Richard, and families, for this tragic and untimely loss. Dwayne was a quality influence in the background of so many lives. Our understanding and appreciation of his influence continues to grow with time, and we will honor his memory always.
Linda Struk
May 9, 2015
I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss
My deepest condolences to you and your family
Ken Melnychuk
May 9, 2015
To my dear cousin,,,,,, We haven't been close but I have followed your musical career all of my life. You were a icon to me . you and Richard. I remember you coming over for dinner with the whole family,,,, and pushing me around in my little blue car. I will miss you even though I haven't seen you in many years. Your contribution to the music industry in Edmonton has been fantastic. I remember your wedding,,,, and I think that's the last time I saw you. I wish I could be there for your Celebration of Life,,,,,, hopefully my son, Zac, can attend. To Richard, I wish we were closer. I went through the same surgery 2 years ago successfully. I am sooo sorry again for your loss.
Danny Zanier
May 9, 2015
I just got back from out of town and was attending a celebration of life for Bob Hunka's mother when Barry Allen informed me of Dwayne's passing.
Though we have not crossed paths in many years I will never forget the many years I spent with Moe Boyer, Ken Koshelak, Dwayne and Richard when they were THE SOUTHBOUND FREEWAY.
There are no words that can express my sorrow.
Together with my wife my deepest condolences to all Osepchuks
Dennis Petruk
May 9, 2015
Saw Dwayne play at a hall party jam last summer. Dwayne had just checked out of hospital after being treated for a serious illness. But there he was, on stage, pale and drawn, enjoying where he had to be. In the 50 years I've known Dwayne, I had NEVER heard him play better. Incredible.......incredible musician!
Condolences to Darlene and family for your loss.
May 8, 2015
Condolences to the family.
As Iain indicated I too have great memories of the band and their music, as well as Dwayne's beautiful smile and friendly nature. He always made time to speak to all who approached him.
Janet (Have) Anderson
Byrd & Hedy Perritt
May 8, 2015
To Darlene & Family,
Our deepest sympathy to you. What a terrible shock to hear of Dwayne's passing. Our thoughts are with you.
May 7, 2015
Firstly, my sincere condolences to your entire family on the loss of Dwayne.
I am originally from Edmonton and have been living in Britain for the last 23 years. I have never forget the music that was given to me by Dwayne and Richard! For so many years, I was involved with the dances at Highlands Hall, which the 'Freeway' were such a huge part of, most especially, the 'so very solid', quality performance of the music that both the Osepchuck's gave to the enrichment of my life as well as to so many others! The 'Freeway' touched a part of me that I will never forget. The tight, driving, precise, funky music that they delivered will remain with me forever. They were such an influence to me and my thoughts about music so much so that I decided to learn and play Flugelhorn, Jazz, Soul, Rhythmn and Blues because of their influence!! I can still see the 'brothers' playing and Kenny playing the 'kit'! I will always hear the music that they gave to so many and 'thank them' for the gift that they gave to so many people! Cheers Dwayne, from Iain MacCrimmon - Scotland.
Janet Clauer
May 6, 2015
Condolences to Dwaynes family... My thoughts are with you and I hope the wonderful memories you have will help you get through this difficult time. My 'better half' Wayne Koebel played with Dwayne yrs ago with The Chessmen and Dwayne had phoned Wayne in Oct.2012 to see if he could come to the R&R Reunion. Unfortunately Wayne passed away unexpectedly the day after at age 63. It would have been wonderful if he could have played again with Dwayne and the other band members. Dwayne sent me links to songs and pics thru his wonderful archiving of Edmontons great music history. A wonderful legacy he has left. Again, sorry for your loss.
Pat Melnychuk
May 6, 2015
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Bev & Robin Lafortune
May 5, 2015
Thinking of you Alicia during this difficult time. Sincere condolences to you, Jon and your families. May the many wonderful memories warm your hearts.
Chuck Frigon
May 4, 2015
Heartfelt condolences to the Osepchuk family, and all those close to Dwayne: Over the years, my family, friends and I were fans of Dwayne and his bands. There was a sense of joy in their performances which became a feedback loop: band connecting to audience connecting to audience and repeating...And Dwayne's positive energy was a major part of that. Some of the most joyful times in our lives involved hearing his music...So we knew he was a wonderful band brother, but it is very heartening to learn (with no surprise)how he was such a wonderful husband, dad, brother and grandfather. Thank you to the family for the upcoming Celebration of Life ceremony and musical event.
Started with a heavy heart, but smiling because I will see you again, as I remember you.
(Bob) Thomas Alexander
May 4, 2015
I was taken with grief, when I first heard about the passing of my Good friend, Band Mate, and co-writer, Dwayne, my immediate thought was sadness, loss and a misunderstanding of the why. The suffering , worry , and the tears of his loved ones and friends, all sat heavily on my heart, until I was made to realize, that all things must come to pass, whether we understand the why or not. Through my own reasoning, I didn't have an answer. as to the why these things happen, and the pain and sorrow placed upon the ones left behind. I had just lost my wife Paulette and lifemate, to cancer in November after 27 years, She was my gift, and the time came when I had to return that gift back to where it came from, I didn't want to understand, all I knew was the loss, the pain and the loneliness, then I began to realize it is all part of the bigger plan, that I couldn't see the bigger picture because of where I was looking. When I looked beyond my understanding of the why It came to me, that even though I still wanted my loved one here with me, God had other plans, and he made me see that my loved one had gone on before me to help prepare the way, they no longer have to suffer the physical and mental restraints that this world has to offer, and that they are in a better place, and I rejoice in the knowledge, that I will see their faces, again, and be able to continue as if we were never apart. Until we meet again, Rest In Peace my brother and friend (Bob) Thomas Alexander.
Réal Fagnan
May 4, 2015
Very very sad to hear of Dwayne's passing, my sincere condolences and sympathies to his whole family and all his wonderful friends. I was lucky enugh to play a few gigs with Dwayne (& Shane) in the last year, and I will never forget his joy onstage-and his kind words to me.Blessings to the Osepchuk family and rest in peace Dwayne.
May 4, 2015
So deeply sorry to hear of Dwayne's pasing. I so enjoyed the time and effort he put into keeping the local music history alive on FB. Music and family a true passion to be certain. Rock on Dwayne...
Carole Zelles
Irene Brady
May 4, 2015
Alicia & Family, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father Alicia. May many happy memories help sustain you through the rough times.
Allan Mix
May 4, 2015
This happened way too soon both Diane and I are still in shock. Love to all the family.
Larry Guthrie
May 4, 2015
Deepest condolences to Richard and the rest of Dwayne's family & friends. You will be missed by many, rest in peace my friend.
May 4, 2015
Hold tight to memories for comfort, lean on your friends and family for strength, and always remember how much you are loved.
May 4, 2015
It's with Sad Heart I bid you goodbye my "Ole" Friend.....many many stages and sessions will always travel with me....thanks Bro.....And to all the Family."God Bless"
Hector & Grace Lefebvre
May 3, 2015
Our sincerest condolences Darlene & Family. It was sad to hear of Dwayne's passing, you will miss him terribly. Dwayne was so much fun. We have fond memories of the Hockey bus rides through remote B.C. and Dwayne would repeat over and over; why, why, why. Why are they here! He just could not fathom why anyone would want to live in a cabin in a remote area of the world.
Wesley Shennan
May 3, 2015
Blessings to the Osepchuk family. And thanks Dwayne for being a great ambassador for Edmonton's music past and present. You will be missed.
Gary Hinton
May 3, 2015
Dwayne, Thank you for all the great conversations that we shared over the years and all the time ,effort and work that you did to bring us some great memories of Alberta's Music History. Thanks for the memories!!! To Darlene,Shane,Alicia and Richard and family, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Percy Marshall
May 3, 2015
Dwayne I only met you a couple of years ago but you left me with the impression of being a wonderful person. Your work in keeping the history of the Edmonton music scene and it's musicians alive was outstanding and very much appreciated. You will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences to your family
Ed Mason
May 3, 2015
If there's a Rock and Roll Heaven, you know they've got a heck of a band...and Dwayne will be up front picking and smiling. Dwayne was a good man and a great player. My sympathies to Darlene and family and Dwayne's musical friends. "uncle" Eddy Mason
Carol Tomasky
May 3, 2015
my deepest and most sincere sympathy to the Osepchuk family. He will be missed by his music family,
Cheryl Struk-Ingoldsby
May 3, 2015
Losing a loved one is one of the worst parts of life. Hold onto your memories. "Time Keeps Slipping Away". I'm sure Dwayne is rocking in heaven!"
Debbie Struk
May 3, 2015
Darlene, Alicia and Shane
I am so truly sorry and saddened to hear of Dwayne's passing. May happy memories bring you comfort during this hard time and make you smile. Stay Strong!
My most sincere condolences to all of you.
Definitely Gone Too Soon
Bernie (Sonny) Senuk
May 3, 2015
Dwayne, It was nice to have known you and remember there's a band up there too. May
you Rock 'N' Forever.
Vic & Vi Sorochan
May 3, 2015
Darlene and Family.
Our condolences to you and your family and may his memories last in your hearts forever.
Brain and Zoria Harrison
May 3, 2015
To Darlene and family. Prayers are with you all. Dwayne was always a very kind spirit. He now has his place in heaven and I am sure he is rocking it.
Terry lovig
May 3, 2015
Such an great dad. Dwayne I'm so happy you always welcomed me and took the time to chat with me everytime I saw you. You always asked what was new with me and how are my parents. Thank you for letting me be such a big part of your daughters life. Please watch over and hold her tight when she is missing her daddy. So much love to you, Alicia, Darlene, Shane, Sioban, Kane. And the rest of the family.
Rest in painless peace and comfort.
Terri Smith
May 3, 2015
Sending love and hugs to Darlene and family, Dwayne was a special kind of person xx
Joanne Coutts- Horsley
May 2, 2015
Darlene
So sad to hear that Dwayne passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jan Wimberly(Burley)
May 2, 2015
Dwayne....your light will shine forever! Thanks for being you. Darlene and family...I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending prayers and hugs to you all.
Bonnie semkin
May 2, 2015
I only met you once, but I have heard so many great things about you.
Gone Away
An Angel whispered
take my hand and
come with me
you're work here is done.
I went away to a place
where there's no tears, nor sorrow
only laughter and smiles,
there will always be a Tomorrow.
As I move amongst the clouds.
I'll look down and smile upon you,
while the angels
sing a heavenly song.
I am not alone
all who went before
are here
they awaited my return.
I know you'll grieve
and wish I was still here
I am here in the memories
you hold dear.
Remember how much I
love you
and know I took your
love with me.
I did not wish for
you to cry, nor feel sad.
My pain is gone and
I am Free!
Soon you'll come to me
until then
God will be with you
Just as he's with me!
Siobhain O'Hare
May 2, 2015
'Until We meet Again Mr.O'
Thank you for loving us and calling us Family.
Las Vegas, Fairmont and Rock &Roll has been forever changed for me-
We promise to keep care of Kaneo; your spirit will live on thru him.
You will be forever missed xoxox
Siobhain, Sausha, Emma & Rehmy
Live on CJSR
shane osepchuk
May 2, 2015
A great Dad~ grandpa~friend... my dad valued life and friendship and always took care of all of us....as the song goes " only the good die young"
Ken Osepchuk
May 2, 2015
To Darlene and Family,
Our thoughts are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. Deepest sympathy.
Rosy Osepchuk, Ted Osepchuk, Ken. & Darlene Osepchuk
May 2, 2015
We have lost a special man with a wonderful talent. Our thoughts and prayers are with Darlene and family. Gary and Kathy Donnelly
May 2, 2015
Darlene and family, We were shocked to read of Dwayne's passing. His talents, kindness, sense of humor ... will be truly missed.
Sincerely Colleen & Bonnie Casson
May 2, 2015
Darlene & Family,
Thinking of you, and sharing your loss with deep Sympathy and Compassion.
Clifford & Gloria Melnychuk
May 2, 2015
Darlene and Family. I have many fond memories of Dwayne and your family. Norm and I share in your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always xo
Norm and Brenda Nadeau
May 2, 2015
With deepest sympathy from Larry and Sharon Todd
May 2, 2015
Sincere condolences from Aunt Pearl Todd and family
Jim & Susan Lega
May 2, 2015
To Darlene and family,
Our deepest sympathy in your loss of Dwayne. Our thoughts are with all of you at this most difficult time.
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