ORTYNSKI, Edward

February 4, 1930 — April 17, 2026

It is with great love and admiration that we announce the passing of Edward Ortynski, who left us peacefully on April 17, 2026, at the age of 96.

Edward was born on February 4, 1930, in Melville, Saskatchewan, the eldest son of Russell and Josephine Ortynski. His early years were spent on the farm before the family relocated to the small village of Fenwood, where Edward spent much of his youth. After completing high school at St.Joseph’s Academy in Yorkton, he moved to Saskatoon and enrolled in the College of Pharmacy in 1951, graduating in May 1953. Soon after, he was hired as a pharmacist at Langford Pharmacy in Melville. It was during those college years Ed met the love of his life, Dolores at a university dance. The two fell in love and were married in Wilkie on Oct 3, 1953.

Ed and Dolores made their home in Wilkie, Saskatchewan where together they established Ortynski Pharmacy, which opened its doors July 4, 1954. Following their marriage, they welcomed six children into their lives: Darryl, Duane, Meldon, Genelle, Mike and David. Life was rich and full as they raised their children and built their business. Their home was a warm and welcoming gathering place for friends and family, always filled with people, laughter and homecooked meals. In 1984 Dolores left the nursing profession to work alongside Ed at Ortynski Pharmacy, and in 1985, Ed took the part time role of staff pharmacist at Wilkie Union Hospital – a position he found fulfilling.  Ed and Dolores worked side by side until retirement, after which they made their final move to West Kelowna in 1997.

Edward was a devoted member of the Catholic Church, a committed community member and a dedicated family man. His faith was the guiding force of his life, leading him to complete lay formation and serve as a lay minister in his church. He was also recognized as an Honourable Knight with the Knights of Columbus, a recognition that reflects his commitment to his faith and community. After the nest emptied, Ed and Dolores become deeply involved with the Right of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) within the Catholic Church. Ed faithfully served God until his final days. Beyond the church, Ed served his community through his work as a business owner in Wilkie and through his commitment to caring for others as a pharmacist. Outside of work, he cherished his time with family –  summers were spent fishing, camping, and RVing- and in retirement, he and Dolores happily traded the cold Canadian winters for Arizona warmth and sunshine, shared with family and friends. Edward took pride in his family legacy and the roles he got to fulfill in his life: husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend.

Edward leaves behind his children Duane (Edith), Meldan (Janice), Genelle, Michael (Phyllis), and David (Lorna); 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren with one on the way. He is predeceased by his wife Dolores; their infant son Darryl (1958); grandsons Jason and Chad; and brother Irvine.

Though he will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing that Edward is at peace and reunited with his beloved, Dolores. His life will be honoured in the stories we share, the prayers we offer, and the loving memories we will forever hold in our hearts.

Prayers will be held on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026, at 5:00 PM, located at OUR LADY OF LOURDES, 2547 Hebert Road, West Kelowna, BC.

The funeral will be held on THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2026, at 11:00 AM, located at OUR LADY OF LOURDES, 2547 Hebert Road, West Kelowna, BC, with a reception to follow. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view in 3-5 days.

There will be an interment at a later date at the Wilkie Cemetery in Saskatchewan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Edward’s honour to a charity of your choice.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM PROVIDED BY SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME: