STEVE PRYSTUPA

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STEVE PRYSTUPA
May 14, 1939 - September 13, 2021

Steve passed away in Ottawa, having returned there to spend his final years. He was born on the family farm near Ituna, Saskatchewan where he spent his formative years, moving on to the University of Saskatchewan to complete his undergraduate degree in History. Steve then moved to Winnipeg to complete his Masters degree at the University of Manitoba. He began doctoral studies at the University of British Columbia before returning to Winnipeg to take on a job as Curator and to settle into family life with Maxine and their young family. There Steve launched a long and illustrious career in Museology. He was able to pursue his lifelong interest in multi-cultural and ethnic studies. He initiated and supervised the building of many temporary and permanent exhibits. He moved on to the (then) Canadian Museum of Civilization to work as the Prairie Historian. In this role, he was responsible for establishing many important exhibits representing Western Canada. Before retirement, he returned to Winnipeg to work briefly with Heritage Canada. Throughout his life, he worked with many progressive organizations. Locally, he helped to develop important institutions, including Manitoba Museum and Oseredok in Winnipeg. The high esteem in which Steve is regarded by his fellow professionals is exemplified in this remark by a colleague and lifelong friend: "I urge you to archive his papers, though I know this is a big project. Steve's research was ground breaking and created dozens of leading edge exhibits. He also mentored many community participants, artists and scholars."
Steve was predeceased by his parents, Wasyl and Stephania Prystupa; his sister Mary (Andy Kuzma: Nesbitt (Ernie Nesbitt); and nephew Terry Dlugan. He is survived by members of his immediate family who will miss his stories, camaraderie, dry humour and generous spirit: his siblings, Joseph Prystupa (Gillian, deceased), Peter Prystupa (Jennie, and Betty, deceased) and Elizabeth Dlugan (Metro); his children, Donna Prystupa (Reg Leoppky), Katrina Prystupa (Robert Maule), Chris Prystupa (Stacey), and Mychaylo; his grandchildren, Stephanie Prystupa-Maule, Nikolas Prystupa-Maule, Catherine Prystupa-Maule, Rebekah Prystupa, Ainslee Prystupa, Chantal Prystupa and Naomi Prystupa, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Due to Covid restrictions, the funeral and Celebration of Life events are delayed till further notice.
In memorium donations to the Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre (Oseredok) or the Mennonite Central Committee appreciated.

Rest in peace Dearest Dad,
Grandpa and Brother

Vichnaya Pamyat

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 09, 2021