Ernie Surkan

Ernie Surkan, age 79, passed away at home on September 10th, 2022 with his loving family by his side after a long, hard fought battle with cancer.
 
He was born on July 27th, 1943 in Kenora Ontario. Ernie married his life partner Judy (nee Kashuba) on July 2nd, 1966. Living in Thunder Bay, they raised their children Shelli-Rae and Deron.
 
Ernie was an educator for 33 years with the Lakehead Board of Education. He spent the majority of his career as the Principal of Isabella Street School and Sir John A. MacDonald Elementary School.
 
Growing up in Kenora, his love of baseball was evident in the many years he played and excelled at the sport. At the age of 18, he had the honour of being only one of two Canadian players selected to take part in the Milwaukee Braves Silver Slugger’s All-Star Game. The game, played in Milwaukee County Professional Stadium, was the high spot of his baseball career. His love of the game continued, playing baseball for the Port Arthur Red Sox, and playing many years with the Mr. Transmission slow pitch team in Thunder Bay.
 
Ernie was an enthusiastic member of the world renowned Fort William Male Choir for over 15 years. He enjoyed his time with the Choir, travelling and participating in many international festivals and concerts. Ernie and Judy loved hosting MANY “extra long” after glo parties for the Choir. His career with the Choir was highlighted by the opportunity to sing for Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Thunder Bay, and Pope Paul VI in Rome, Italy.
 
Ernie was also a devoted member of the Port Arthur Curling Club for over 40 years. He proudly represented Northern Ontario at numerous National events (5 Men’s Masters Titles, and 5th man for the Bruce Melville 1998 Brier team in Winnipeg). He donated countless hours to the curling community, officiating, fundraising (all those endless football pools), and volunteering at many local events. He felt very lucky to have met many lifelong friends during all of his activities.
 
During Ernie’s retirement years, he enjoyed spending time with friends and family travelling, golfing, and most of all, fishing at ALL of his “secret” lakes. Additionally, he looked forward to his annual Father’s Day fishing trip with Jerry and Company developing endless fishing tales. Ernie also made time to volunteer as a driver for the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre. He took pride in knowing that he could help ease the burden for patients going through their treatments. Above all else, Grampa loved nothing more than spending time with his three grandchildren, Keelan, Katherine, and Mia.
 
Ernie was survived by his loving wife Judy, Daughter Shelli–Rae, Son Deron (Jennifer), Grandchildren Keelan Gregg, Katherine & Mia Surkan. Brother Eddie, Sister-in-laws Carol Larocque, Gale Paske, Kim Black, Brother-in-law Bill Stodolny, and numerous Nieces and Nephews who meant the world to him.
He was predeceased by his parents Alexander and Eva Surkan, mother and father-in-law Marg and Steve Kashuba, Brother-in-laws Jack Larocque, Emerson Paske, Robert Black and Sister-in-law Pam Stodolny.
 
A heart felt thank you goes out to the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre, the palliative care team of Dr. Simpson, Dr. Ward, and the St. Elizabeth Home Care nurses Liz and Sydney for all their amazing care. Your professional manner, kindness, patience and compassion was appreciated more than you know.
 
Cremation has taken place.
 
A celebration of life for family and friends will be held Saturday, October 1st, 2022 from 4pm to 7pm at the Port Arthur Curling Club.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre or the Northern Cancer Fund would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com