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Byron ROGALSKI Obituary
1974 - 2013
It is with sorrow that our family announces the passing of Byron Nicholaus Rogalski of Saskatoon, SK. on Saturday, May 18th, 2013 at the age of 38 years, after a courageous year long battle with cancer. Byron was born in Melville, SK and lived there until age 19 years, when he left to work in the Philippines and Australia. He moved to Indonesia where he worked in community development organizations bettering the lives of those around him. He met and married his wife, Dian, of Jakarta Indonesia, in 2003 and they welcomed their daughter, Settena, to the world in 2005. Byron leaves to mourn his spouse, Dian Rogalski of Saskatoon and their daughter Settena; parents, Nick and Theresa Rogalski of Melville; sister, Julia (Mike) Burak of Melville; brother, Michael Rogalski (Michelle) of Saskatoon; brother Alexander Rogalski (Katherine Skelton) of Toronto; In- laws, Bambang A Tjendono & Sri Lestari; sister Galuh Turnip; brother Trianto Aridono; sister Widya Kinanti; and grandma Soetrismi Endardjo all of Indonesia. Our family would like to thank the staff of the St. Paul's Palliative Unit and the staff at the Saskatoon Cancer Clinic for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers Byron has requested that donations be made to the Cancer Centre of Saskatoon or the Saskatoon Canoe Club. A Celebration of Byron's Life will be held on Friday, May 24th, 2013 at 2 p.m. from St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (436 Spadina Crescent East, Saskatoon, SK.) with Rev. Amanda Currie officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Prairie View Chapel & Crematorium (306)-242-7884.
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47 Entries
Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
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Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
Settena Elaine Rogalski
September 9, 2023
Hey dad, it's Settena. Right now it is 07h02, September 9th, 2023, and I'm typing this out from my new dorm room at UBC while from my window, I watch the sun peak and rise over the mountains, and the rest of the world seems to be asleep. Throughout the years I've come across some of the letters you used to write to your parents during your travels and I thought maybe I would do the same. As far as I know though, there's no post office in the afterlife so I figured this was the next best thing.
This May marked 10 years since you've been gone and so much has happened in that time. I finished elementary, learned to drive, worked a few jobs, got a car (her name was Ducky), turned 18, graduated high school (on the Principal's Honour Roll with Great Distinction and a French Bilingual Diploma too btw), moved around a lot, and literally and figuratively climbed some mountains. So far, I think I've completed every white woman's mantra - I've lived, I've loved, and I've laughed (hahaha sometimes I think I'm funny).
It's been a week since I started my new life as a university student. I'm enrolled in the Bachelor of Media Studies program at The University of British Colombia. I don't know how happy you'd be to see how much money I'm spending on what is essentially an arts degree but I hope you would be happy to see me accepted into a special program that only takes about 40 people every year. I wish I could tell you about the classes I'm taking right now. Obviously I'll like them less when I have a bunch of papers due all at once but as of right now, I'm really interested in everything I'm learning.
It's been a really good first week. Oh just like you and Joel did back at that French exchange program, some of us went around my building knocking on everyone's door, blasting music, and inviting them to join us. Once we reached the bottom, we went outside to the courtyard and got to know everyone who joined. My roommate Klaire and I met our downstairs neighbours and we've been sending "mail" back and forth through a janky rope delivery system with our windows. Klaire and I also took some dirt from the ground last night for our new plant. You know, just your average fresh university student activities. We named our plant Kent. Or well, my boyfriend named him Kent. Oh yeah! I have a boyfriend now??? I don't know how you'd feel about that but his name is Jared and I think he's a pretty great guy. No boy has made me feel as seen, heard, appreciated, and respected as he has. I really do like him a lot. I think mom likes him too - especially after he drove us to and from the airport during our trip to Calgary, and after she saw he could handle the spicy food she gave him.
Regarding relationships in general, Lexi and I are still best friends. She's going to college in Kelowna so hopefully we'll be able to visit a little throughout the school year. I'm sure a little distance will have nothing on our friendship. Alyssa and Dylan are still around too. They're staying in Saskatoon so hopefully I'll see them around Christmas holidays. I have all the love in the world for those three.
I made some new friends in high school that I hope will stick around too while I'm away, and I'm starting to make some new friends here as well. Oh and about my roommate Klaire, we came together from high school but mom reminded us that we've actually known each other since preschool! How cool is that?! Do you remember Klaire? She was at my fifth birthday party. Klaire is really great. I'm excited to spend this next year with her.
Oh yeah I also started living with M&M this last year. I really do have the best family. They've been my biggest supporters this school year and I can't even express how grateful I am to have them in my corner.
Overall I really miss you (obviously). I wish I got to know you more but I find comfort in hearing other people's stories about you and all the things you did. I wonder a lot about how alike we are; if we have any of the same interests or mannerisms. I want to explore a lot like you did and I still love going on outdoor adventures so maybe that's something we have in common. I like to think you would've been my best friend - after Lexi of course; she's always going to come first. I hope one day I'll be regarded with as much respect and admiration as others have for you.
Okay I believe that sums up all the big things. I hope I'm making the right choices and I hope you'd be proud of me. Thank you for the years we did have together. I love you and I miss you. -Your Settena
Warren Kozey
May 7, 2019
It is with great sadness to learn of Byron, 's passing. You will be missed, my friend.
Lisa Marcotte
June 16, 2016
I worked with Byron many years ago at Camp Monahan and only very recently learned of his passing. I was reminded of him the other day when I told a co-worker of his goal to live like a turtle... Taking his home with him and going out into the world to travel. So glad he was able to do this! I will always remember Byron as a free spirit with an energy and enthusiasm for life like no other. So very sad to hear of a beautiful life taken far to soon.
My prayers to his family who I am sure continue to feel this great loss.
Lisa Marcotte (Mohr)
Dian & Settena Rogalski
May 18, 2015
Come With Me
The Lord saw you getting tired
And a cure was not to be,
So He put his arms around you
and whispered, "Come with me"
With tearful eyes, we watched you suffer
And saw you fade away,
Although we loved you dearly,
We could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
A beautiful smile at rest,
God broke our hearts to prove
He only takes the best.
It's lonesome here without you
We miss you so each day,
Our lives aren't the same
Since you went away.
When days are sad and lonely,
And everything goes wrong,
We seem to hear you whisper,
"Cheer up and carry on."
Each time we see your picture,
You seem to smile and say,
"Don't cry, I'm in God's keeping, we will meet again someday..."
Two years since God called you... and we miss you dearly..
Kimberly Rempel
May 19, 2014
Praying for you, Dian, Settena, and Rogalski family.
Settena & Dian Rogalski
May 18, 2014
Hope guides me, it is what gets me through the day and especially the night, the hope that after you are gone from my sight it will not be the last time that I look upon you.
With all of the love that I possess I remain yours...
We miss and love you so much Daddy...
Jan Burrows
November 9, 2013
I met Byron during his time in Sulawesi and recall his epic motorcycle trip from Makassar To Manado. We worked together briefly in Tana Toraja assisting/ advising a local NGO. He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.
Jan Burrows Leeds England
August 19, 2013
Our sympathy to you Nick and Theresa with the loss of your beloved son Byron.
Likewise to the brothers, Michael and Alexander besides sister, Julia.
Condolences to Byron's wife, Dian and their daughter, Settena.
My conversation with Byron while he lived in Toronto were a comfortable expression of compassion. Byron, thank you for those memories! May the Lord hold you in his gentle hands.
Veronica and Dennis Neufeld of Surrey, B.C., Canada
Vivian, Lana and Raya Lalonde
June 12, 2013
It is with great sadness that we hear of Byron's passing. We wish to send our deepest condolences to the family as we had the opportunity to experience Byrons spirit when working for our family business. He truly was special in many ways and his thoughfulness, wit and charm will always be remembered.
Kelly Pihach
June 3, 2013
Byron was a very kind person. I remember feeling very lonely when starting high school and I think he sensed that. He went out of his way to make me feel welcome. I also loved that he always questioned the way things were and what he might be able to do to make them better.
Tracy Schwitzer-Stokal
June 2, 2013
I am so sad to hear the passing of Byron. I remember him in high school and how he was always so generous and caring. Also a joker at heart, I remember him teasing us girls as we rode the same rural school bus. May he RIP. Until we meet again....
Derek Keller
June 2, 2013
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Byron. I went to Highschool with Byron and he was one of those guys that no matter what you had respect for him. Byron was an intelligent man and as evidenced by his years of volunteering and work he did he often thought of others before himself. It is unfortunate I lost touch with him after highschool but it does look like he had an exciting life and touched many people during his journey. He will be certainly missed by friends and family
Melanie Douglas
June 2, 2013
I was very saddened to hear of Byrons passing, he was a very good, kind soul. My condolences go out to his family and may his soul be at peace as he watches over his family.
John Paul Hickie
May 31, 2013
I am extremely sad to hear of the passing of Byron Rogalski. While we have been out of touch for a number of years, he has always made a lasting impact on my life. From his wisdom beyond his years in high school to volunteering together in university, it will be something I will always remember. The world has lost another great person.
Rest in peace my friend!
Kylie Head
May 31, 2013
Byron was respected and admired by all who knew him. From a young age he was always willing to lend a hand to those around him, especially to those who needed it most. He was a man of integrity and he made a difference in the world. He could also tell one mean ghost story when we were kids. My condolences to his family.
Trina Stachowich-McKercher
May 30, 2013
I am so sad to hear of Byron's passing. I had gone to school with him from Kindergarden to grade 12 in Melville. We were good friends and he helped me with my first job at the Co-op. He was always so friendly and helpful and I was so proud of him when he left the country after high school. What an amazing man!!
When I first heard about this, I thought someone was joking with me, he took such great care of himself.
Please know that he was an amazing and wonderful guy and that we are not as good a place without him here.
I'm sure that he is looking down right now and glad that you are ok.
Remember that he is no longer feeling any pain. I will remember him forever. I'm so sorry for your loss.
May 30, 2013
I met Byron when I was volunteering in Indonesia from 1999 to 2001. He was so warm, fun, dedicated and a gentleman - an all-Canadian. I remember when his parents visited Yogyakarta and what great family they were. And I will always remember the enormous Christmas party Byron and I threw at his home in Makassar, Sulawesi. About 20 expats and Indonesians from all over the country came to party. It was a feast!
God bless and give praise for our memories,
Rosalind Franklin
862 King's College
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, UK
CB2 1ST
May 29, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to the Rogalski family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you on the loss of your son and brother.
Nelson and Cindy Yelle
Tracy Heshka
May 29, 2013
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart to find out about Byron's passing. It seems so wrong for someone who lived life so generously and free that life itself be taken from him and his young family. Byron touched the lives of so many people and although we did not cross paths in recent years I was fortunate to have him as a friend at one of my milestones in life, my graduation.
Dian and Settena my heart goes out to you in your sadness. Byron was such an honorable man. To the Rogalski family my prayers are also with you during this time.
Rest in peace my friend....
Meagan Smith-Windsor
May 28, 2013
I came into Byron's life only over the past year and am so grateful to have been touched by his presence. Byron approached illness, death and dying with grace, peace, and inspiring generosity. I have a felt sense into the selfless service, love, and adventure of his life. You touched me deeply, Byron. Blessings.
Kendall (Avis) Wicks
May 28, 2013
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to all who shared in Byron's life. You likely don't know me and I only knew Byron for 6 days - he was staff at the Co-op camp I attended over 15 years ago. He remained friends and travelled with my sister Kyla who informed me of his passing. How fortunate I was to have known someone with such energy and passion for all that he did. His enthusiasm and kindness certainly left an imprint on anybody who was lucky enough to know him....even if only for 6 days. I am sending thoughts and prayers for strength and courage during this difficult time. Please know that I am thinking of you all. Much love.
Daphne Krofchek
May 27, 2013
It is with my deepest symapathy and great sadness I write to all of you on hearing of Byron's passing away. There has been a special place in my heart for him for many years as I watched him grow to be the greatest of great men. It makes me sad that you his daughter Settena had so few years to experience life through his eyes, to hear his stories and to share his desire for adventure. I know what you have gained from him you will treasure always. I know how proud he was when he married you, Dian and when you were born Settena. I was so greatful he shared and told his story for me online , sharing all the special ceremonies and explain them to me. He will truly be missed by many but none as much as you. I trust you will find happiness knowing all the lives he touched.
Dian Rogalski
May 27, 2013
Tribute for Byron:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnZ2-MtRDkw&feature=youtu.be
Presented with love by Dian & Settena
November 2012 First Ride of the Season
Michael Rogalski
May 27, 2013
Canada, 2005
Galuh Turnip
May 27, 2013
Kami akan selalu merindukan mu Byron, my Beloved Brother
Canada, 2005......sewaktu jd Settena's sitter on Uncle Xander's wedding....Kami akan selalu merindukanmu , Byron.... Love *Retha, Winda, Klaudius & me
May 27, 2013
Amber Leith
May 25, 2013
To Dian and Settena,
I am Lynn's daughter. I just wanted to send my deepest sympathy and hugs to you both. I had the pleasure of meeting Byron a few times when I would take my kids to visit my mom. He was so pleasant and so gentle to my kids. To Settena, I know how you feel about missing your daddy. Just try to keep your memories of your dad in your heart. Remember it is okay to cry as tears are our eyes way of speaking our feelings and words when we find it hard to speak them. Take solace in Byron's memory and always remember.
Kimberly Rempel
May 25, 2013
Dear Dian, Settena, Mr. & Mrs. Rogalski and siblings... My deepest sympathy and sadness goes to you for the loss of Byron. It's so hard to believe that he, the one so full of life, has passed. I will miss him much, though our paths had not crossed much of late. Please be assured of my prayers and thoughts. I know his family was always dear to him. Take care.
Shauna Vick
May 24, 2013
Though its been a number of years since our paths have crossed, I remember Byron very clearly and fondly. He had an incredible warmth and sincerity that made him impossible to forget. I have little doubt his spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone he met. Rest well my friend.
Byron visited our farm in the summer of 1996 with three Indonesian youth. Our two year old daughter followed them around the farmyard!
Karen Timoshuk
May 24, 2013
Byron was so generous, compassionate and worked hard, yet so naturally, to build a better world. I was blessed to have known and been influenced by you Bryon. Long live your legacies my dear friend. Karen Timoshuk, Canadian Co-operative Association
Karen Timoshuk
May 24, 2013
Byron was the definition of generosity, compassion and optimism for a better world. I was very fortunate to have known and been influenced by Byron.
Debby Cote
May 24, 2013
My deepest sympathies to Dian, Settena and Byron's entire family. I had the privilege and pleasure of working at CUSO with Byron - our first meeting was in Jakarta when he was a CUSO cooperant. Byron was a lovely man and will be missed by not only those who love him, but by those he touched. My prayers are with you. Debby Cote
nana
May 24, 2013
Dear Mbak Dian, Settena n fam
Our deepest condolences
Yvonne Rogalski
May 23, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to you, Dian, Settena, Uncle Nick, Aunt Terry, Julia/Mike, Michael/Michelle, Alexander/Katherine in the passing of your beloved husband, father, son, brother and uncle, Byron Rogalski. May your memories of him last forever in your heart and bring you joy and solace in the coming days, weeks, months and years. He will forever be your special angel looking over you and guiding you.
Vaughn and Yvonne
The Schindel Family
May 23, 2013
To Byron's family..we send our deepest sympathy and prayers. Byron will be missed by so many that knew him,but remembered for all the amazing things he accomplished in his short time on earth. May God grant you strength and Peace in the days and months ahead
Yvette and Elmer Beutel
May 23, 2013
Dian, Settena, Nick, Terry, Julia, Michael, Alexander, and your families,
Our deepest condolences to you on the passing of Byron. You will miss him terribly.
He is an example to us of a life well-lived. He will continue to live in all of you.
Yvette and Elmer
Dian Rogalski
May 23, 2013
You'll be in my heart...
Rany Wijayanti
May 22, 2013
I'm deeply saddened by knowing about Byron's death. I'm very sorry for your loss. This must be very difficult. Please remember that you are in our thoughts and our prayers.
Love and hugs. Rany-Jakarta, Indonesia
Jim Brooks
May 22, 2013
Michael - Very sorry to hear of your brothers passing.
Roger Herman
May 22, 2013
We have lost a dear friend and great human being. Byron brought out the very best in people and was always looking inwardly to ensure that his own actions and words helped rather than hurt. I am saddened by your passing, but comforted by trusting that your unassuming kindness, integrity and genuine caring will live on in the hearts of those that have had the privilege of knowing you. I hope that your family will find some solace in knowing that you have helped to make the world a slightly better place for the rest of us. Rest in peace my friend.
Beth Zorn
May 22, 2013
Our deepest sympathy is sent to you in the loss of Byron. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Beth Zorn & family & Helen Haas
Lane Rathgeber
May 21, 2013
I am so sorry to learn of Byron's untimely passing. Please accept my condolences.
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210A 33rd Street East, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2K8
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