May 28, 1938 – May 12, 2024

It is with deepest sorrow we announce that Kenneth John Sawka, 85, of Kamloops, B.C., passed away on May 12, 2024, as a result of a stroke. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Jack & Annie, his wife Pauline and his daughter Milynda. He is survived by his son Andre (Jessica), granddaughter Addisyn, brother Mel (Elaine), sisters Jane (Frank), Alice (Ludwig), numerous nieces and nephews, and his good friend Velma who was a comfort in later years. 

Ken was born on May 28, 1938, in the Tisdale Hospital in Saskatchewan. In 1955, he headed west landing in Clinton, B.C., before making Kamloops his home. In 1957 he started his forestry career at the Mill in Savona becoming a member of the IWA, the majority of his career working as a night foreman with never missing a day of work. He married the love of his life, Pauline Bloski in 1962 after meeting in Melfort while home helping his dad on the farm. They had two children Milynda in 1971 and Andre in 1974.  Ken was a faithful parishioner of the Ukraine Catholic Church (The Holy Trinity) as well as being heavily involved with the Ukraine Orthodox Church. When the kids were young Ken spent many hours driving his son Andre and his soccer crew to games home and away, never missing a game. He was the first to call bingo at the hall and volunteer time at local community events in the city he loved. 

After Pauline’s passing, Ken stayed active by volunteering at the Kamloops Senior Centre, spending many weekend nights dancing, bartending as well as calling bingo.   Ken was an avid lottery player always hoping his numbers would win big. He would make yearly trips to Calgary to visit his family never wanting to miss his son and granddaughter’s November birthdays. A family man first Ken always took care of everyone he loved especially his granddaughter who made his hazel eyes sparkle whenever he saw her.   He will be deeply missed and forever loved. 

Viewing will be held at the Kamloops Funeral Home (285 Fortune Dr.) on Monday, May 20, at 7:00 p.m.  Prayers will be at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church (118 Don St. / 109 Tranquille Rd.) on Tuesday, May 21 at 11:00 a.m. followed by a short lunch and funeral procession to the graveside service, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved Polly (Pauline). Celebrant, Rev. Andrze Wasylinko. 

If you wish to send flowers please send to the Kamloops Funeral home or in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Sawka family.

• Date : 2024-05-12
• Location : Kamloops