Community mourns the loss of Paul Ortynsky

March 26, 2007 -- It is with a mixture of joy for a life well-lived and deep sadness at our loss of a truly remarkable and gentle man, that the family announces his passing on March 21, 2007

Paul is survived and fondly remembered by his daughters: MaryAnn (Dr. Bernie) Trischuk and their children Gregory, Devan, Taisa and Lucia of Yorkton, SK, Lesia, (Dr. Wayne) Woloschuk and their daughter Alicia of Calgary, AB, and Audrey (Tim) Michayluk and their daughters Katrina and Julianna of Calgary, AB. He leaves sisters Nellie Pawlik (Winnipeg), Bernice Mysak (Saskatoon); brother Nestor (Jennie) (Canora); sister-in-law Lillian Ortynsky (Canora); and many nephews, nieces and their children. Paul was predeceased by his wife Doreen (2004), daughter Dianne (2003), father Joseph (1963), mother Mary (Chocholik) (1988), brother Peter (2000), sister Zoria Shevchuk (1995) and sister Stephania (1928).

Born May 26, 1919 in the Verigin, SK District, Paul completed primary education at Terpenia School and high school at the Yorkton Collegiate Institute. Paul received his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (1947) from the University of Saskatchewan while residing at Mohyla Institute.

On June 15, 1946, Paul was united in marriage to Doreen Gregory of Regina. Together they built and established Canora Drugs. After twenty years, he embarked on another venture becoming the Director of Pharmacy for the Canora Union Hospital, also serving Preeceville and Invermay Hospitals, while maintaining his retail ties as a part owner of Baker’s Drugs in Yorkton. Paul has always supported and held the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy and the Pharmacists’ Association of Saskatchewan in highest regard.

Paul found an outlet to his diverse interests and leadership skills in a broad assortment of activities. Sharing these leadership qualities, he carried on an interest in the university by promoting University of Saskatchewan Alumni affairs, serving on the University of Regina Senate, being appointed to the Parkland Regional College and to the council of Saskatchewan College of Physicians and Surgeons for a number of terms.

As a Veteran of WW II, Paul maintained his support of the Royal Canadian Legion, most recently as a District Zone Commander. Always interested in young people, he was involved with the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Movement in the capacity of Area Director and held various executive positions.

As an entrepreneur, he has involved himself organizationally with many projects and was a visionary in many aspects. Active with the Chamber of Commerce locally and provincially for many years, he especially took pride in his appointment to the Saskatchewan-Ukraine Advisory Council. Paul shared his business acumen by serving as an executive member of the Sask. Economic Development Council.

Committed to the betterment of the Ukrainian community, he held various executive positions in his local Ukrainian Orthodox Church, was a charter and executive member of the Order of St. Andrew and the Ukrainian Self-Reliance League of Canada. He worked diligently promoting the Ukrainian Professional Business Men's Association becoming National President. The Ukrainian Canadian Congress, both locally and provincially, profited from his executive skills, as he maintained strong ties to the members over the years.

Paul’s association with a variety of organizations in member and executive capacities reveal his diverse interests: Agricultural Society, EMO, Coroner for the Province of Saskatchewan for many years, Red Cross, Heart Foundation, Hudson Bay Route Association, Masonic Order, Shriners and Kiwanis. He worked his way through various levels of Canora community government holding positions with the School Board, Housing Authority, Canora Centennial Celebration and the 2000 Saskatchewan Centennial Committee. An alderman and past Mayor he was proud to be a builder and activist in his community. His endeavours have brought honour and distinction to his town, cultural community and his profession.

In recognition of his significant contributions to society, he was awarded the Lt. Governor’s Centennial Medal (2005), the Lt. Governor’s Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal (2002); the USRL “Award of Excellence” (2003); UCC-SPC Nation Builders Award (1999); the “Shevchenko Medal” (1998); the 125 Saskatchewan Medal (1993), the prestigious Pharmacy award, AH Robin’s Bowl of Hygeia (1984). Paul was honoured to achieve a 5-year-certificate from the Masonic Order (2006). This April (2007), Paul is to be honoured at the annual Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists Conference for his distinguished and outstanding contributions to the profession of Pharmacy. As a graduate of 60 years from the College of Pharmacy, Paul has been a dedicated member of his profession and community.

An active community leader, pharmacist, promoter of multiculturalism and supporter of educational and charitable causes, he will be best remembered for his gentle humanity and kindness. His sensitivity to others, and willingness to listen and help, earned him the respect and affection of people from all walks of life. Through the years, his associations were many and he always continued to hold his roots, his family, his many friends and his community in the highest regard.

Most importantly, Paul was a wonderful and caring husband, father, and Gido to a family that will cherish his memory and his commitment to them. He left a legacy of love and respect. Paul Ortynsky will always be fondly remembered. Vichna yomu pamiat!