ELI POTKONJAK

Condolences & Memories (15 entries)

• Sincerest sympathies to Barb, Evan, and Amy from the Huculak/Sukha family in Toronto. We have such great memories of Eli’s visits since the 60’s. As children, we’d be so excited to hear uncle Eli was in town – we enjoyed his playfulness, high energy, and warm personality. A kindred spirit christened “mophead” by Eli, I loved his often naughty, always funny and endearing sense of humour – if he liked you, he would tease you – the more you could handle, the more he’d dish out. It was a sign of warm affection to hear an “Eli-ism” come your way. Our family has such fond memories of our Manitoba trips which included visits to Flin Flon,where we enjoyed boat trips, blueberry picking, and visiting with Eli’s family and friends. It was easy to see where Eli got his love of people, especially family. We were showered with warm hospitality, great meals, and lots of laughter by Tilly, George, Ron, and other friends. When we were introduced to Barb, we were thrilled that Eli found “the one, special enough” to marry, and then were blessed with the arrival of Amy and Evan. Distance, time and changing family dynamics meant we kept in touch by phone or mail, enjoying the messages from Eli and his mom Tilly. Eli still made his Toronto pilgrimages,even when his health declined. This didn’t slow down his ability to poke fun and warmly connect with his friends and family. Eli asked me why I didn’t come to Manitoba. “I use my holiday time to visit places like the Grand Canyon” I replied. “Well, we have some pretty big holes here in Manitoba, you know”, he quickly replied. How do you top that? Eli was so proud of Evan pursuing his studies at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario. He announced this by saying “my son is following in his old man’s footsteps”. We enjoyed Eli’s more frequent visits and got to know Evan better during his Sheridan days. As a cousin already mentioned, Eli was above petty interpersonal nonsense, and really cared for a person’s true character. He wasn’t afraid to give critical opinions and suggestions – a true sign of caring when one tells you things you don’t necessarily accept right away. We enjoyed many chats about what was really important in our lives. His great circle of friends, family and relatives were so valued by Eli. Although his health was compromised for a while, he was a very rich man – by leaving such a wonderful legacy of fond memories of those who knew him. I’m sure he’ll be entertaining the folks “up there” with his humour and warmth, as did while alive. So fondly remembered – and very blessed to have known you, Mophead aka J. Huculak, Toronto - Posted by: Jane Eliz. Huculak (neice from Toronto) on: Dec 19, 2014

• So sad to hear of Eli's passing. We hadn't seen him for a few years and really missed yanking his chain. To Barb, Evan and Amy, our deepest condolences. We know we will miss the old bugger! - Posted by: Ian & Darlene Bremner (Friends) on: Dec 11, 2014

• Dear Barb and family, we were so sorry to hear of Eli's passing. He was such a help to us a few years ago and he could cheer a person up by making a joke and making you feel better. I know he was a good father and husband and he will surely be missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time. Love Lorence & Carol - Posted by: Lorence & Carol Yaciuk (Family friends) on: Dec 04, 2014

• Barbara and family. So sorry to hear of Eli's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. - Posted by: Darlene Kuryluk ((friend of Ali & Fred)) on: Dec 04, 2014

• Eli was in my class at Ryerson and my - very strong - memories of him are his warmth and his generous nature. Not to mention, his intelligence. This quiet man was one of those people who are instantly liked, and I certainly fall into that category. So so sorry to hear about your loss which has obviously deeply affected many many people. - Posted by: Gay Claitman (Ryerson classmate) on: Dec 03, 2014

• Eli was a classmate and also became a friend: a fellow "Nontario-ite" and a fellow Northern I swapped tall tales with; embroidered from our similar wood burning, waterless plumbing roots up North. In his quietly humorous manner, Eli was a memorable presence. I've though about him from time to time over the years, wondering what he did and what his journey took him. It is a comfort to me to know how well he did in life; of the loving family around him. Eli was one of those few, very special people that bless one's life with their presence in yours, however briefly. My condolences to family - Eli is fondly remembered by this RTA classmate. - Posted by: Roman Bittman (RTA classmate) on: Dec 03, 2014

• My thoughts are with you, Barb, and your family. When Darlene emailed me just yesterday, I was so saddened. It also brought pleasant memories, though, of the good times when Bryan and Darlene, Rick and me and Ely and you gathering at Bryan's and Darlene's, but especially the time we were up in Flin Flon water skiing and Ely's mom, Tilly. - Posted by: Lynda Boyd (Friend of his cousin, Darlene) on: Dec 02, 2014

• Dear Barb and family, sorry to hear of your loss. Eli was a good friend and bro to me when we where young (1950's & 1960's). You are in our prayers. Love Dorothy and John Devries - Posted by: john devries (very good friend ) on: Nov 28, 2014

• Barb, Amy and Evan, My heart is hurting for you all at this most difficult time. I know how much your husband and father meant to you. I think back on the delightful conversations we used to have when we worked together at St. Gerard School. Eli always treated me with utmost respect and kindness. He will truly be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. God be with you. You are all in my prayers. - Posted by: Bonnie Slobodian (friend of Eli and Barb) on: Nov 28, 2014

• I always liked Eli. I always knew where I stood with him. In a time of dishonesty and insincerity I valued the "straight-shootingness" of Eli. One time Eli said something to my Dad, which my Dad didn't like. Eli was stating it as he saw it. He wasn't being malicious or hurtful. It was like "this is the I see it. You may see it differently. In either case no harm done". After my Dad got over the initial pique all was forgiven and forgotten. It interested me that my Dad would enjoy visits at Eli's. My Dad would pinch a red tomato from the vine. (As if Eli didn't know. And Eli would look at him as if to say you are welcome to many more). My appreciation of Eli included his seeing the relations brown sugar. Petty bickering was way below Eli. Without judgement he saw his mother and my mother (they were sisters) for what they were fallible human beings. The inter-family nonsense was a blip in his radar. While others would be mired in their own tar-pit of bad feelings, Eli was immune. When Eli, first got seriously ill I blurted an "Eli-ism" to Eli. I said "I heard you found a good way to diet". Without blinking, swiftly he replied, "Yeah you should try it sometimes". How could you not revere a human like that? In the sixties he was practicing "his voice". He'd say "My name is Bond, James Bond". In my mind he was James Bond. Life challenges interfered with my visiting Eli over the last few years. I thought of him often. Eli was a good man. He'll be missed. - Posted by: Dwight Waly (Cousin) on: Nov 28, 2014

• Dearest Barb, so sorry for your loss. I'm so glad that we were able to spend some time together a couple of years ago. I'll never forget Eli's relentless teasing because he and I were political polar opposites ;) Know that both of you will always be in my heart! Love ya! - Posted by: Dorothy Hebert Pascher (Cousin-in-law) on: Nov 28, 2014

• Dear Barb, and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Eli was that teaser as you said. He always had that smile on his face and a few comments to make. I would run into him here or there in our area. He was always happy to see you and give a big hello "Hello Mrs. Sych, with his voice. You couldn't forget that voice. Enjoyed working with him on the St. Gerard school board years back when Kristen and my late son Brandon were attending school there. Our prayers are with all of you. Take care and hugs to you. Our sincere condolences. Brian & Caren Sych and Family. - Posted by: Caren and Brian Sych and Family (Friends ) on: Nov 27, 2014

• Our sincere condolences to Barbara and family for your loss. Len and I met Eli for the first time many years ago at a function at the Valley Gardens Community Center and although we have not kept in touch we often recall his "teasing". As you, the members of his family mourn your loss, hopefully fond memories will brighten these most difficult times. - Posted by: Len and Vicki Lazaruk (Valley Gardens Community ) on: Nov 27, 2014

• Remember many chats as we were first to hapnot in grade 11 and would talk as others were arriving. A great guy. Sorry, never connected after, although Barbara taught at van bellegham where my kids went but didn't connect that she was Eli's wife. - Posted by: moira frankenberger nee Mcfarlane (grade 11 friend) on: Nov 27, 2014

• On Nov. 23rd we lost an amazing person, a person who loved his family, friends, and life in general. In the summers you would always find him in Flin Flon, sitting on the deck listening to the waves and watching the sun rise and the joy of the kids at play. Uncle Eli, you will be greatly missed and I will miss our time together, Always and forever in my heart, thank you for the memories, I Love You. - Posted by: Norma Potkonjak (Neice) on: Nov 27, 2014