During the early morning of Saturday, November 16, 2024, John Trefanenko passed away peacefully at the age of 86 at the St. Therese - St. Paul Healthcare Centre with his wife of 58 years, Lucille, by his side, holding his hand. This final moment together showed the deep love and commitment they shared throughout their lives.
John leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his cherished wife Lucille and their children: Koreen Trefanenko (Dean Sonntag) and children Jonathan, Matthew (Emma), and Jacob (Claire); Maureen (Lawrence) Ference and children Zachary, Allison, and Lisa; and Glen (Allison) Trefanenko and children Brooke and Leah.
Born into a close-knit family, John is survived by his brothers Charlie (Sharon), Bill (Rosemary), George (Norma), and Steve (Jennifer), as well as his sisters Lil Yakimishyn and Kay (Arnold) Willekes. He is also survived by his two godchildren, Brenda Binette and Kari MacLean, and by numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and their families.
John was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Helen; brother Nick and wife Vicky; sister Mary Kaufman and husband Andy; brother Tom and wife Carol; brother Paul; brother-in-law John Yakimishyn; and infant sisters, Doris and Irene.
John was born in Smoky Lake, and then, at the age of 6, the family travelled by wagon train to Wandering River, where he grew up on the new family homestead. John and Lucille made St. Paul their home for the past 50 years. For 86 years, John lived a life dedicated to helping others. His passion shone through his work as a social worker, his civic duties, and his volunteer efforts. His enduring legacy of kindness and dedication exemplified the value of family, community involvement, and compassion.
A Funeral Rite will be held on Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 p.m. at All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Hall, St. Paul. Reverend Father Peter Haugen will be officiating with interment in Union Cemetery, St. Paul. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haying in the 30’s (Cancer Support Society), St. Paul & District Hospital Foundation (Palliative Care), or a charity of one’s choice ℅ 5626 - 51 Street, St. Paul, AB. T0A 3A1.
The Trefanenko family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Therese Healthcare Centre in St. Paul for their exceptional care and kindness.
To send condolences online, please visit https://www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com/obituary/john-trefanenko/
