Mr. Michael (Mike) Holomego passed away on March 31, 2015 after a hard fought battle with cancer.
Mike was born in Port Arthur to Alex and Caroline, on November 13, 1925. His first move to Kakabeka Falls was as a young boy of nine and after spending five years on the farm he moved away to find work and eventually raise his family with his best friend and soul mate, Ida (McNally).
Mike and Ida returned to Kakabeka Falls and the original homestead in 1974 with their two youngest sons, John and Scott. Mike’s working life started at the age of fourteen with Rizzo Dairy, followed by Emil Anderson Construction where he took part in the building of the Trans Canada and Alaska Highways.
In 1947 he became employed with the CNR, starting as a fire man, on the end of a shovel, stoking the steam engine. He retired in 1987 as an Engineer. Mike was a true railroader, sharing stories with anyone who enjoyed listening and although he left for a few years as a young man, Kakabeka Falls and the farm never left his heart. Over the years Mike served on several committees and acted as counsellor of O’Connor Township.
Mike went on to host informal political gatherings in the “shop” and later in his home where many heated discussions and friendly “kibitzing” took place. No matter the venue, Mike was a well-respected citizen and friend.
Mike and Ida raised six children and sadly, buried five of them together, Billie (1955), Michael (1977), John (1998), Jimmy (2002) and Mary (2011). In 2010, after 63 years of marriage, Mike lost the love of his life, Ida in 2011.
Mike is survived by his truly dedicated son Scott (Kakabeka Falls), who had also become his Dad’s caregiver and “partner in crime”. He was a loving Grandfather to Christine (British Columbia) and Maggie (South Gillies) and enjoyed visits to the farm from his Great Grandchildren. Mike also leaves behind his sister Elsie, and Stella and he was a special Uncle, cousin and in-law to numerous relatives in both the Holomego and McNally families.
Mike is also predeceased by his parents, brothers, Joe and Stan and several members of the McNally family. The family would like to express a special thanks for the wonderful care provided by Paula Niitynen and Liette Ouellette. Their support allowed Mike to fulfill his wishes to remain comfortable at home surrounded by his family and large circle of friends until the last few days.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday April 7, 2015 with visitation beginning at 10 am and the service at 11am in Jenkens Funeral Home Chapel. Interment to follow at O'Conner Cemetery and lunch at Kakabeka Falls Legion at 1pm.
