Mike Drozdiak
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mike Drozdiak of Colinton, AB on January 6, 2024,
at the age of 98.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 69 years Nila, children Barry (Lynn), Michaelle and Butch. Grandchildren Jeron (Kirby), Brayden (Sarah), Alia (Danny), Danielle, Shontelle (Ryan). Great grandchildren (his Bambinos) Sullivan & Lucy, Bryn, Milo & Izzy, Jackson & Auston, Walker. Siblings Helen, Henry, Annie, Johnny (Jeanette) and numerous other family members and friends.
Predeceased by his parents John & Ksenia; sisters Mary & Olga and brother Sam; Son-in-law Keith Snively and great-grandson Sebastian Snively.
He was born on October 30, 1925 in the Ukraine. At 6 years of age, he crossed the ocean with his mom and siblings, immigrating to Canada. He often said that he remembered “just wanting to get off that ship”. Then, traveling by rail they met their dad who had purchased a homestead south of Colinton. Growing up working hard on the family farm, school, hunting, playing ball, oh he was a good ball player. Then as a young man he spent the winters working up north at Great Bear Lake, skidding and hauling logs across the ice. A very scary day when the bulldozer he was driving broke through the ice - his quick thinking saved himself and his coworker. Mike so enjoyed to re-live those days, telling the grandchildren and friends all those amazing stories.
Then in 1954 he met and married Nila, together raising their 3 children on their first farm south of Colinton, then in 1969 moving to a farm north of Meanook. While farming he also worked his D4 then later D6 bulldozer all over the county building roads, leases and clearing land for farmers. He was born to be a farmer (and cat skinner); with the help of Nila and the kids they grew various grain crops, raised pure bred Limousine cattle and horses.
A favourite pastime for Mike and Nila was traveling around the province going to rodeos. He loved to be surrounded by family or having a coffee and visit with friends.
Mike’s handshake and word was as good as any contract. Leaving a lasting legacy, he will be forever remembered for his love, generosity, kindness, hard work and dedication to his family.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in Mike’s honour to Heart and Stroke Foundation
(100-119-14 St NW Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6).
To send condolences, please visit:
www.athabascacommunitychapel.com
Athabasca Community Chapel
780-675-3996
