Strelaeff, Tom

TOM STRELAEFF

AUGUST 30 1935 – DECEMBER 18 2016

South Slocan, British Columbia

 It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of our father, Tom. He left with a whisper to walk with his wife Mary in God’s gardens. With his time here, Tom always lent a hand, offered age old advice and always tried to help his family and friends. Born in Glade, BC in a family of 6 children and 2 parents, Tom spent his early years working in the Okanagan and eventually making his home with wife Mary, sons Dan and Edward and a daughter Linda in Passmore on an acreage growing fruit trees and a garden. He worked for nearly 30 years at Slocan Forest Products sawmill as a saw filer and retired in 1995. During his retirement years, he built a home in South Slocan where he remained till his passing.

He enjoyed woodworking, reading and was an expert at re-purposing materials to save the pennies. He was an active member of the Slocan Valley Lions Club and the Brilliant Culture Center Men’s Club offering sage advice and woodworking knowledge. Visiting his brother and sisters was always a priority for him and he never missed an opportunity to call or spend time with them. He enjoyed quiet evenings visiting his neighbour watching hockey or baseball or spending time on the computer.

Sadly, he leaves behind a family that misses him dearly…. Oldest son Dan Strelaeff (Pat), Daughter Linda Verishine (Ron), youngest son Edward Strelaeff (Charlene). Grandkids Joshua & Jesse Strelaeff, James & Alaya Verishine, Dylan & Brynn Strelaeff and Great grandchild Anika Pongracz-Strelaeff. As for remaining brother and sisters, he leaves behind Philip Strelaeff (Liz), Vera Rezansoff (Dave), Anne Andriaschek (Rick) and Mary Verigin (Paul) along with their respective families. Finally…..Greeting him at Heaven’s Doors will be his wife Mary, parents Molly and Peter and his sister Nellie.

Dad’s life was all about simplicity, therefore honouring his wishes, he will be cremated and a Celebration of Life for Tom will be held in spring of 2017 (date to be announced later).

In lieu of flowers, the family would like those who wish, to make a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation in Tom’s name…..https://www.heartandstroke.ca/get-involved/donate or call 1-877- 882-2582

You are forever in our hearts Dad….. May you walk in peace with Mom…….. We Love You….. Till we all meet again……