Stephen WACK

Stephen WACK obituary

Stephen WACK

Stephen WACK Obituary

Published by Edmonton Journal on Apr. 13, 2018.

WACK, Stephen Alan
January 25, 1997 - April 6, 2018
Our guy, Stephen was born in his hometown of St. Albert at the Sturgeon hospital on January 25, 1997. Our family was heartbroken when we heard the news of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in which Stephen did not make it. He had recently turned 21 years old and had a promising future ahead of him. It was confirmed that Stephen died of his injuries immediately and did not endure any suffering.
He will be forever lovingly remembered by his number one fan and brother, Justin Wack, as well as his Mom and Dad, Tricia and Alan; his grandparents, Lois Heinemann, Erna Bitner and John Mifsud, George and Yvonne Wack; honorary grandparents, great- aunt and uncle Sara and Irvine Saxer, who also carried such a special place in his heart, aunty Joy (Allan) Beveridge, aunty Anita Heinemann and cousin Isabella, uncle Terry and aunty Marilyn Wack, with cousins Alicia (RJ), Danika, and Hailey.
Stephen's billet families will always hold a special place with us. They welcomed our boy into their homes as if he was one of their own. The Pilger crew in Camrose, Rene in Whitecourt, and most recently for the last couple years, the Clements in Humboldt. You kept him fed (which we all know was no easy task) and gave him a loving place to stay while he pursued his passion of hockey away from home. For that we will always be thankful.
Stephen is survived by such a long list of loved ones, both family and friends, we can't possibly begin to name them all. It doesn't make any relationship less special, our guy was just so good at making connections. He made such a point of keeping up with his special relationships between both family and friends. Please know who you are, and know that we know that you know.....you know what we mean, ha.
Stephen had a very strong faith, and we know that our big guy is now with the Big Guy. He is reunited with some special family, his uncle Russell and Grandpa (Pa) Heinemann, we are sure were waiting with open arms. Many other great aunts/ uncles/grandparents as well.
Normally, our family would like the world to know all about what an amazing guy we had in Stephen. The magnitude of this terrible tragedy has changed that a bit - many now know about Stephen's hockey life and passion for videography. I guess we could still fill in a few blanks. He was a very intelligent young man - getting through school on the honour roll each year. He was loyal to his friends and family. He was a compassionate human being, never forgetting the underdog. He was witty with such a good sense of humour and infectious laugh. He was just so much to so many.
A service Celebrating Stephen's life will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Roger's Place, Edmonton, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, we ask for Memorial Donations to go to STARS Air Ambulance, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Calgary, Alberta, T2E 8M7 or online at www.stars.ca. Our guy didn't make it, but many Humboldt Broncos did because of their efforts.
We would also like to send a special Thank You to the strong support or our friends and family, all of the first responders, the Humboldt Bronco team that has worked tirelessly, the community of Humboldt who pulled together like family, and the well wishers from all across the country and the rest of the world. Your support is both noticed every day and so very much appreciated by our family.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.


To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Stephen WACK's Guest Book

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June 7, 2018

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May 18, 2018

Catherine Sutter posted to the memorial.

May 13, 2018

Wayne Unland posted to the memorial.

72 Entries

June 7, 2018

Justin, Tricia, Alan,
Can't believe 2 months have passed. It seems like yesterday we were watching the boys play. I am and forever continue to send all of my love, thoughts, and prayers to your family. I can't even begin to imagine what you are going through, but your strength and perseverance to continue on has amazed the entire nation, let alone world. I did not know him, but after hearing all the stories told about him, and social media posts, I fell like I've known him forever. No one will ever forget about what happened on April 6th. No one will ever forget the boys and Dayna. I will always pray for you, Stephen, and everyone affected. I will live my life in a way that honours him. And I look forward to the day I can meet him, give him a big hug, and tell him the void he has left in my life and so many others. All my love.

Catherine Sutter

May 18, 2018

I would like to extend my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Stephen Wack. I am so sorry for the loss of such a multi-talented young man and athlete with a caring, thoughtful heart and great sense of humour. I was very touched by the speeches made at his Celebration of Life, especially by his brother Justin and his friend Curtis, who captured special moments they shared together and revealed a deep and mutual love and respect. I was also impressed with Stephen's videos which displayed a great imagination and creativity. It is obvious that Stephen had a profound and positive impact on the lives of many people and will be greatly missed, but as with all the the other Humboldt Bronco teammates, never forgotten.

Wayne Unland

May 13, 2018

Words cant express your loss
Prayers and thoughts are with your family
always

Condolences from Victoria, B.C.

Robert Thompson

April 23, 2018

Gary Miles

April 23, 2018

May warm memories of Stephen comfort you like a warm blanket as he is by your side.

Please know you'll be in my thoughts and prayers for a very long time to come.

April 22, 2018

This tragedy and the death of your brother and son has touched me in a profound way - we are all grieving for the individuals lost - god speed. ps: DJ Kennington from my home town of St. Thomas, Ont is honouring the Humboldt Broncos when he drives in the Nasscar Cup Series - his car hood is the Broncos logo - it will be auctioned off after his race. RIP xo

Tia

April 21, 2018

I do not know you, but am deeply sorry and saddened to hear about what has happened. I've been getting to know you through social media and wanted to say how much I love your videos. You sound to be an amazing guy and very loved. Rest In Peace.

Linda & Jim Edge

April 20, 2018

When we lose a loved one on earth, we gain an angel watching over us.
It's been many years since we've been in touch but please know that I've thought of you often over the years Tricia. I didn't know Stephen, but we've learned what a wonderful and gentle soul he was. Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved son.
Rest in peace Stephen.

Brad & Kathy Miller

April 18, 2018

Our sincere condolences to you all. May you all find peace and comfort in the days to come. Our hearts go out to you all! rest in peace Stephen

Shona and Evan Eldering

April 18, 2018

I can't express how sorry we are for the loss of your beloved Stephen. I didn't know Stephen personally but my son Evan played hockey with him, Logan and Jaxon at the ODR many times. Evan spoke very fondly of Steven. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest Sympathies are with all of you at this most difficult time. We are so very sorry

Robert Thompson

April 17, 2018

I did not know Stephen or the family but after reading the wonderful obit & listening to the many accolades & accomplishments mentioned at the Celebration..... I do now! What an honour it is for all of us! His parents can be very proud of the son they raised! As a former minor hockey coach in Victoria, B.C., having done the "bus thing" many times, the senseless tragedy that befell Stephen & his "mates", hits home. My personal condolence to the family & know that the Victoria hockey community grieves with you.

April 17, 2018

Alan, Tricia and Justin ~ Our sincere condolences are extended to your family during this very difficult time. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Stephen was a talented hockey player and more importantly an exceptional, kind person ~ he will be forever remembered. ~ The Wakaruk Family

Karen Fowler

April 17, 2018

My families deepest condolences to all your family and friends. God bless each and everyone and if I can offer a little bit of advise that has helped me over the years with the death of many of my families members is to keep talking about them -everyday if you can or later when it is right for you. If we ever meet I am a full time RN at the Sturgeon were Stephen was born and I have worked there since it's doors opened in Jan 1992. My arms are always opened for hugs. Unconditional no explanation and anytime. My wish for you and your extended family and friends and all involved in this tragedy is For Peace in your heart and mind. Please lean on the important people in your lives and accept their help - our community and the entire country is behind you. Rest In Peace Stephen

Sherril Martin

April 17, 2018

My deepest condolences for Alan, Tricia and Justin and all who were touched by this. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers constantly. This breaks my heart. RIP Stephen

Cathy Heikurinen

April 17, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved this amazing young man. This tragedy has hit us all very hard.

Cathy Tocker

April 17, 2018

May you find the peace and comfort you need at this very sad and difficult time as you mourn the loss of your beautiful boy.

Johanne Gamache

April 17, 2018

Your entire family has been in our thoughts and prayers since that terrible night. The Gamache Family

Leiann Aloisio

April 17, 2018

I am sad that Stephen died. I'm also glad that so many people are coming to know Stephen, and that all of them will remember him.

The Huston Family

April 17, 2018

Such a tragedy. I cannot imagine the loss Stephen's family and friends are going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rest in peace Stephen.

Lydia Abel

April 17, 2018

My deepest sympathy to you and your family on the tragic loss of your precious Stephen.

Chuck Nelson

April 17, 2018

I am so very sorry. You have 2 fine sons. Stephen was a very excellent person. I remember him as polite, handsome and a very good athlete. Clarence was so proud of his family. He always reported to me what Stephen was doing. I enjoyed coaching baseball in St Albert an dit was always fun to play Stephen's team. The usually beat our team because Stephen was so good. I love your family.
Sincerely,

Charlie Nelson (aka Chuck)

Tamie, Shaun, Noah and Kailee-Ann Pilling

April 17, 2018

Our Deepest Sympathies on the loss of Stephen Wack. May you find Peace and Comfort during this difficult time.

James Hamper

April 17, 2018

Didn't have too much conversation with Stephen, but I knew him and I knew of his amazing reputation within the St. Albert community.

My sincerest condolences as he will be greatly missed

April 17, 2018

Rest in peace Stephen, your family and friends are in my thoughts today.

Douglas Smith

April 17, 2018

Sending love and prayers to the family and friends of Stephen

Mark, Susie, Ryan and Zach Marano

April 16, 2018

Our deepest condolences to your family. Stephen was a special kid and our older son went to school with him since preschool. He remebers Stephen as a great guy and dedicated to his brother Justin. He was taken way too soon. May he rest in peace.

John and Lynn Davis

April 16, 2018

Sorry for your tragic loss. May you find solace in warm memories.
May the love of friends and family bring you peace and comfort.

Our deepest sympathy.

Gail Blain

April 16, 2018

Dear Stephen's family; Please know I care; thank you for sharing your wonderful son with the whole world; especially, the hockey world; may his shining STAR "STEPHEN", guide you til you meet him, again; am so looking to find a hockey stick to place by my door; I live in FLA in the winter so they are hard to find here; I love the symbol the hockey sticks by one's door shows strength for all of you who are suffering without your young loved ones; wrapping my arms around you with prayers, kind thoughts and concerns.....RIP, LOGAN......hockey hugs, Gail

Inez & Arnie Kreamer

April 16, 2018

We never met Stephen, but knowing you, his parents, we know he must have been a wonderful and caring gift to your family. Such a great loss. Our thoughts are with you at this time.

April 16, 2018

I am a stranger but I am sorry for your loss.
Regards, Elaine Arthur

April 16, 2018

All our family and friends in Aberdeen, Scotland and England are thinking of you all in your devastatingly sad loss and hope all your happy memories will give you peace Bill and Dale Main (Elza's Mum and Dad)

Kelly Montpetit

April 15, 2018

Alan, Tricia and Justin,
Being a teacher I hope that I can have an effect on students lives, but every now and then special students have an effect on my life. Stephen was one of them.
Everyone loved him; he always had a smile on his face throughout the three years that he attended V. J. Maloney Jr. High.
He was so proud of his little brother, and I could see that in him every time he came to pick Justin up or to drop something off for him. As far as big brothers go, he was one of the best!
Bless your family and know that he and all of you were a very special part of our VJM family. Stephen will be fondly remembered in our hearts.

Nancy Relucio

April 15, 2018

I remember Stephen was always waiting for Justin at the bus stop when I was driving for the Neil M. Ross school. I was the school bus driver for Justin. I am saddened and want to send my heartfelt condolences to your family.

Deb Cramer

April 15, 2018

Our hearts are aching for your unimaginable loss! Thoughts & prayers to continue! Stephen Wack playing for the big league!

Teresa Anderson

April 15, 2018

To Alan and the Wack family,

I never had the privilege to meet your son Stephen. I heard that he was a talented loving son. He was also an amazing big brother to Justin. I cannot imagine the pain and shock that you and your family are going through. Please know that I am here for you and if there is anything I can do please let me know.
My thoughts and prayers have been on going since I found out and will continue on for you while you all heal. God bless you all. Call anytime 780-690-1819 ❤❤❤

Heather Fritz

April 15, 2018

Our heartfelt simpathy to your family. We never had the privledge to meet Stephen personally. But we heard about him and your family through Justin each summer he came to NFB convention with us. Both your sons are wonderful people and its a credit to you, their parents, for this. My family on Canada and here in the United States have followed this tragedy since the call from Justin. As many did, our first response was shock. How could this happen.
Just know we are all thinking about you all and if you need anything we are here. We wish you healing and peace.
John and Heather Fritz and family
Stephen Toth and Lindsey Fritz

April 15, 2018

I don't know your family, but I'm overwhelmed by this tragedy and the loss of these incredible men / woman. May yur son and the other lives lost rest in eternal peace - God Speed.

JoAnn Spence

April 14, 2018

I'd like to send my deepest condolences to you and your family. I was Stephen's piano teacher last year in Humboldt. He was an amazing young man and very determined. Stephen told me he wanted to learn how to play the piano so he could play for his Grandma at Christmas. So we started right at the beginning - this is middle C.... The electric keyboard that we had his lessons on at the school was just nearly high enough for his long legs - he was soo tall! Despite all the ribbing he'd get from his other roommates, he'd come back week after week with his practice complete and by Christmas he was good enough to play for Grandma!
I was honoured to have him as one of my students.

Sirgi Korbeci

April 14, 2018

I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.
You are in my prayers.

Sabine Grelowski

April 14, 2018

Bless your beautiful soul, Stephen. May God be there for all your family and friends.

Lyle strevens

April 14, 2018

He may be gone from your today but never from your hearts. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time.

Lyle Strevens

M. Dushenko(nee Schaaf)

April 14, 2018

Please accept our heartfelt condolences for the passing of your son/brother, Stephen. Our thought and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Your Nakamun 'neighbours'.

April 14, 2018

From the Onofrychuks. We used to live in humboldt 12 yrs ago so this has hit us pretty bad. Hugs to all familys

April 14, 2018

Dear Trisha, Alan and Justin,

We remember Stephen with great fondness and memories. He was an upstanding young man and our hearts break for your tragic loss. We think of you daily and keep you in our prayers. Lots of love,

Julie, Leo, Doug, Steve, Stephanie and Greg Parth

Audrey Laschuk

April 14, 2018

My sympathy to you on the loss of a son.brother.Maay you allcherish fond memories of him Gonr to soon only god knows why

Krista Berger

April 14, 2018

To the Wack family, our families do not know one another but hockey binds us together, our 16 year old son plays in Winnipeg and as I write this we sit in a small town in MB to start MJHL camps! EVERYONE has been touched by the loss of all these boys. You are not alone in your grief.... my son today has placed a Humboldt Broncos sticker on his helmet and our guy will be playing for your guy ❤

The Bergers- Kerry Krista and Josh

Karen

April 14, 2018

Hugs, prayers and love to all the family and friends. RIP Stephen.

April 14, 2018

Stephen a beautiful boy! A gift from God!
May every hug, kiss, laugh, tear and joy you shared with your cherished son/brother carry you through your unimaginable sorrow.
George and Susanne Lakusta

Brenda & Bob Melnyk

April 13, 2018

To all of the Wack family and friends;
Our heartfelt condolences on the tragic passing of this young man so filled with promise. Please know that our nation grieves with you. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Prayers for your solace and peace as you face the difficult days ahead. God Bless you. From one parent to another...

Amanda M

April 13, 2018

My heart hurts for you, I can't possibly imagine your pain. I wish you and anyone who had the blessed chance in knowing him all the love in the world and the strength to carry on his beautiful nature.

A Lester

April 13, 2018

What a beautiful tribute you wrote for 'your guy; I didn't know him but can tell he was loved and very special to those who knew him. You are in our thoughts and I hope you find peace in your faith and cherished memories. So very sorry for your precious loss.

Daniel Wack

April 13, 2018

I am a grandson of Ignatius Wack. Our family extends sincerest condolences to your family on your sad loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless your family.

Connie

April 13, 2018

My deepest sympathy to your family at this difficult time.
My condolences Mark and Connie Schmidt and family.

Kendra Nowosad

April 13, 2018

From my family to yours were truly sorry for your loss

Dianne Blum

April 13, 2018

May you feel all the gentle hugs I am sending your way at this time. It's been written, look to the skies tonight and see the series of twinkling stars that are Stephen and his team letting you know they have arrived safely Home. My sincerest condolences.

Pauline Melnyk

April 13, 2018

Words cannot convey a soothing message that was once held by opportunity now lost. Remember he is always with you, this is the bond that can't be broken by physical loss.

Tricia, Alan, Justin and families,
Your loss is nothing we can understand, just know you are in our prayers.

James, Pauline, Mike and Will

Stephanie Gill

April 13, 2018

God bless all of you the world has noticed this tragedy of special people leaving this world too soon. Remember the happy times till you meet again.

Kathy Beaudoin

April 13, 2018

You don't know me, but my heart and prayers are with you on your terrible loss. May God's arms be around you.

Sandra McFadyen

April 13, 2018

My sincerest sympathies for your unimaginably painful loss. Please add my prayers to those of so many who hope to carry you forward.

Kristen Holowatiuk

April 13, 2018

Thinking of you guys day and night. ❤

John, Carol, Joseph and Loriana Caputo

April 13, 2018

Alan, Tricia and Justin
Please know that you are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May it bring you peace and comfort to know that so many are supporting you and praying for you and your extended family.

Donna Phillips

April 13, 2018

To The Family, Friends, Team Broncos of Stephen Wack

Although you do not know me I send my condolences for your loss, may you somehow someway find COURAGE, STRENGTH and LOVE in the days, weeks, months and years moving forward.

Stephan Wack is now playing in the big leagues from Heaven above.

A stranger Prays and sheds tears for you all.

mar

April 13, 2018

"Somewhere my Love" by Andy Williams.... "Somewhere a hill, blossoms in green and gold" my deep sympathy to all.

Sharry Borgwardt

April 13, 2018

Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to all of you involved in this terrible tragedy.We were so BLESSED to know him (and his family) Sending our love
THE BORGWARDT'S
Mike, Sharry.Tim, John.Becky.Betsy Joe

Joe and Colleen Mahe

April 13, 2018

Tricia and Alan,

Our heartfeld prayers of sympathies go out to you and your entire family.

Love and hugs

Mcewans

April 13, 2018

Our hearts are with you to you and your family ❤
May you be surrounded by close friends, family and the hockey community!
Our deepest condolences go out to your family

Rayna Pura

April 13, 2018

I have been thinking of you all so often. I'm so sorry for your loss of Stephen- an incredible person. Justin, you look so great! And have accomplished amazing things! Stay strong ❤
Love Rayna Pura (One of Justin's grade three teachers)

April 13, 2018

Alan, Tricia and Justin

Our hearts broke when we heard about your loss of Stephen. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your extended family. Heaven has a wonderful new angel.


Sincerely

Jerome, Ronnie, Scott & Connor Radawetz

Tammy Carmichael

April 13, 2018

Thinking of all of you during these difficult times. May your precious memories together bring you peace.

April 13, 2018

Tricia & Alan,
We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of your son, Stephen. Sending prayers & hugs to you and your family during this very sad time. Sandra/Mark Kostick xo

Bill and Robbie Tarkowski

April 13, 2018

Sincere Condolences to the family

Judy/Ron Babiuk

April 13, 2018

To the family,
Heartfelt condolences on your loss in such a tragedy. Take solace in knowing so many support and pray for you and the Broncos. God Bless all.

With deep sympathy

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Sign Stephen WACK's Guest Book

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June 7, 2018

Someone posted to the memorial.

May 18, 2018

Catherine Sutter posted to the memorial.

May 13, 2018

Wayne Unland posted to the memorial.