Nikola (Nicholas) Dudar

Mr. Nikola (Nicholas) Dudar, age 99 years, of Thunder Bay, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2021, at Pioneer Ridge, where he had resided for the past 4 years. Nikola was born in Ethelbert, Manitoba on January 26, 1921, the youngest son of Paul and Nellie Dudar. While he spent his early years in Ethelbert, he later moved with his family to Thunder Bay. Nikola served with the Royal Canadian Navy during WWII, and after returning to Thunder Bay, later met the love of his life, Clara Louise Mascetti. They were married on August 6, 1949 and made Thunder Bay their home where they raised their three children. Nikola obtained a business diploma, and then worked as the office & business manager with an industrial supply company for 37 years, until his retirement.

Nikola loved the outdoors, especially working in his yard and taking long daily walks. He was an avid golfer and bowler, capturing many trophies in both single and team events, actively participating well into his early 90’s. Nikola also enjoyed traveling throughout eastern and western Canada, and his many camping adventures with family.

Nikola was a long-time member of the Moose Lodge and Prosvita Society and was well-known as a bingo caller. He also participated in team oration competitions with the Moose Lodge, bringing home several trophies. Nikola was also an active member of St. Patrick’s parish.

Nikola will be fondly remembered by family and friends, as outgoing and caring, for his laughter and sense of humor, and willingness to always help others. Nikola is survived by his children: Bonita (Walter) Spahmann (Airdrie), Ron (Angie) Dudar (Calgary) and, Lori (Rob) Goose (Thunder Bay); 7 grandchildren: Stephanie and Travis Spahmann; Tara (Randy) Barnas; Derek (Tracy) Dudar; Jonathan, Kyle, and Adam (Nicole Avella) Goose; 2 great grandchildren: Aiden and Myla Dudar; his sister, Anne Witol; sister-in-law, Gloria Palin, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Nikola was predeceased by Clara, his loving wife of 70 years, on December 23, 2019, and by his parents, two brothers and three sisters.

Due to COVID-19, a private family service will be held with interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy memorials made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, would be appreciated.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff and all team members at Pioneer Ridge, especially those on Plaza 2 for the care provided to our Dad over the past 4 years.