Obituary of Michael Sterezylo

STEREZYLO, Michael, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on July 28, 2014 in his 89th year. Michael was born on May 25, 1926 in Olsha, Ukraine. During World War II he was deported to Austria where he was blessed to have had food and shelter, and made many lifelong friends. Shortly after WWII, Michael immigrated to Nova Scotia, Canada where he lived most of his life in Enfield, and in his 70s built a home in Milford, before moving to The Admiral in Dartmouth. Michael was an accomplished carpenter having built many homes in the Maritimes, as well as smaller projects like a swing set for his daughters and even the family camper! In retirement he took up wood carving, creating intricate frames which he lovingly adorned with photos of his grandchildren. Ukrainian heritage was an important part of Michael's life. He was a member of the Ukrainian Club of Halifax/Dartmouth, travelled annually to Ukrainian festivals in New York and shared his culture and traditions with his family through dance, food and song. Michael's passion in life was music, whether playing accordion or dancing. If there was music playing - especially a polka - his feet couldn't keep still and he'd have you up dancing, whirling effortlessly across the dance floor. Throughout Michael's life a few key persons on his dance card were Joan, Laura and Verna. Michael leaves behind his daughters and their families; Natalia Sterezylo-Handrahan (Ian - Coltin, Reddin) of PEI; Sylvia Sterezylo (David - Emilie, Michael, Owen, Sophie, Samuel) of Kingston, ON and Lucy Sterezylo (Sarah - Simon, Maude) of Toronto, ON. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Ettinger Funeral Home. Funeral to take place 11 am, Thursday in St. Bernard's Roman Catholic Church, Enfield, NS, Father Frank Pellerin officiating. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff for their compassion, support and comfort during Michael's years at The Admiral /Glades Lodge. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society. Condolences, words of comfort and memories of Michael may be shared with the family at: www.ettingerfuneralhome.com