Obituary of John Washuta

WASHUTA, John Passed away peacefully at the St. Catharines General Hospital surrounded by his family on Tuesday, September 9, 2008 in his 86th year. Beloved husband of Margaret (54 years) and father of Greg (Kathy Sirotnik). John was born in Bruno, Saskatchewan on June 25, 1923. He was the son of Rinko and Anna Washuta and was one of eight children. John is survived by his brother Michael (June). He was predeceased by his brothers Raymond, Peter and Steve Washuta and sisters Annie Hnatiw, Mary Potashnyk and Alice Bilinski. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. John was dedicated to his family and community. He spent 23 years serving as a St. Catharines City Councillor and served on many Boards such as the Folk Arts Council, Niagara Grape and Wine Festival Board and the Twinning Committee. John was employed at General Motors of Canada for 34 years and served as Plant Chair and President of CAW Local 199. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and an usher at St. Alfred's Roman Catholic Church. John took great pride in helping those around him and working to make the community a great place to live and is especially remembered for organizing fundraisers such as Pancake Breakfasts for the St. Catharines General Hospital. He enjoyed his garden and shared his cooking talents with many. Family and friends will be received at George Darte Funeral Chapel, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines on Friday, September 12, 2008 from 2-4 pm and 6-9 pm. Panachyda will be held on Friday, September 12, 2008, at 7:00 pm. A funeral service to celebrate John's life will be held in St. Alfred's Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 9:30 am with Rite of Committal to follow at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the St. Catharines General Hospital Site (ICU/PCU Unit) - NHS, Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital or Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) Niagara Branch. The family wishes to thank the ICU staff, physicians and pastoral staff at the St. Catharines General Hospital Site- NHS for the special care and support given to John and his family.