Obituary of James George Haydu

May 4, 1935 – Wayne, Alberta

December 18, 2021 – Calgary Alberta

Jim Haydu of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at the age of 86 years.

Jim was born in Wayne, AB, on May 4, 1935. Jim married Wonona Lyons on June 29, 1957. Dad served his country from 1961 – 1963 as a Gunner with the 19^th Medium Artillery Unit.  He was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion 264, Local 496 Plumbers and Pipefitters and Northminster United Church volunteering for many events, such as ushering, helping with the Fall Fair, and the Men’s Group. Jim enjoyed camping, hiking, mountain climbing, water-skiing, cross-country skiing and campfires under a full moon. He had a passion for languages, photography and further education. Jim’s most memorable vacation was when he and Wonona took a trip to Spain with friends, Ken and Mary Cumberland. Jim’s favourite saying was “Do you want an action shot?” Jim will be most remembered for his love for his wife Wonona, his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Dave Sharek; four sons and daughters-in-law, Kim and Lorie Haydu, Warren and Sylvia Haydu, Wayne and Debbie Haydu, and Devon and Laurie Haydu; ten grandchildren, Michelle, Lindsay, Robyn, Adam, Lana, Jennifer, Megan, Colleen, Micheal, and Brianna; seven great-grandchildren, Evan, Claire, Ashleigh, Rachel, Kale, Aurora, and Jacob. Jim is also survived by his brother William (Bill) Haydo and his wife Marybeth, his cousin Helena Pollakova as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jim was predeceased by his loving wife Wonona Marlene Haydu, mother Annie Vasilko, father James Haydu, and sister Annie Rose.

Funeral Services will be held at Northminster United Church (3311 Centre St NW, Calgary, AB), on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends may also join Jim’s service streamed live on the day of the service at www.Facebook.com/northminsterunited. A Private Graveside Service to follow at Mountain View Memorial Gardens. Those attending will be asked to provide valid government identification (with name and date of birth) AND confirm one of the following: (A)Provincial vaccine record with QR code (paper or digital); OR (B)negative COVID test (within 72 hours); or (C)valid medical exemption (signed letter); OR (D)under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed here. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Alberta Tel: 403-209-0110, www.alzheimer.ab.ca, or Northminster United Church at www.northminster.ca/donate.

Thank you to Dr. Dhillon and the nurses at the Brentwood Care Facility Second floor Hillhurst Wing who took wonderful care of our Dad and to the Drs. and Nurses at the Foothills Hospital Emergency Department and Unit #31, Dr. Liu, Miranda, Chandi, Michelle, Ty, Irena and to all the other wonderful nurses who were so helpful, kind and compassionate during our time of need.

In living memory of James Haydu, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.