We Remember
HOVORKA, Daniel Douglas
September 5, 1922 — July 20, 2023
Surrounded by loved ones and heartfelt goodbyes, Dan was peacefully ushered into God’s hands on July 20, 2023.
Dan was born in Kamsack, SK, to Frank & Regina Hovorka. He was the second youngest of eight children (4 brothers + 3 sisters).
Predeceased by his brothers and sisters, Dan is survived by his loving wife Laura and his sons, Dan Jr (Kathy) Hovorka and Tim Hovorka.
During the war, Dan was especially proud of the notoriety he received and quoted from the newspaper clipping he has, “Congratulations are in order to the team from A-1 C.A.T.C. representing Petawawa Military camp in the snowshoe race at the Winter Carnival. The team took top honours, finishing 1, 2 and 3 ahead of all other competitors. Bdr (artillery rank) Dan Hovorka of the A-1 P/T staff, lead the entire field”.
As a young man coming out of WWII, he settled in Kamsack and found work with Canadian National Railway – and became an Engineer in 1947. In 1950, he met Laura, and they were married June 1, 1952. Dan continued his role with the CN, and in 1962, they moved from Kamsack to Canora, SK. Dan supported his wife’s dream of opening a ladies wear shop (Laura’s Fashions).
Dad loved the outdoors, he especially loved having a cottage at Crystal Lake, then the cottage they built at Madge Lake (Duck Mountain Provincial Park). The fishing, getting involved with his sons and their friends, and water-skiing was always special. Dan loved to sing and play the guitar. Being at the Lake around late night fires with family and friends was just a given.
In the early 70s, Dan and Laura discovered Hawaii. They just loved it over there, investing in timeshares, for 2–4 weeks in Waikiki each year right up to 2012.
Dan loved to curl, and when the bonspiels were in full swing, you would find him leading a sing-song after the curling was complete every night. Dad followed his sons as he watched them play hockey throughout Saskatchewan. He was also very particular about keeping his grass the greenest and the driveway the cleanest in the neighbourhood.
Dad retired in 1979 from CN after spending 35 years, from shovelling coal in the “good ole” days, to operating the newest diesel locomotives of his time.
Laura sold her Ladies wear in 1985, and the decision was made to move west into the Okanagan (West Kelowna, BC) in 1985. They met many new friends through newcomers and enjoyed many different activities.
Dan attended Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, was actively involved in the Knights of Columbus, and was especially proud of becoming a 4th degree knight. Dan was passionate about his role as a lector, performing this duty with much dignity until the age of 96. Dan also ensured he was an hour early for 5:00 pm Mass on Saturdays, in order to lead the rosary.
Many thanks to Dr. Verster and his staff at Highroads Medical, who were so good with Dan. Also thank you to the Kelowna General Hospital staff and the Cottonwoods Short Stay Unit staff who showed such amazing compassion and care. Thanks to Janice and Kim of Interior Health, who were so helpful as we pivoted from one concern to the next.
A Viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 5:30 pm, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 2547 Herbert Road, West Kelowna.
Mass of Christian Burial, with Father Cerlouie presiding, will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 2547 Herbert Road, West Kelowna, BC.
LIVESTREAM:
Visitation
Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 5:30 pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Church
(2547 Herbert Road, West Kelowna, BC)
Service
Thursday, July 27, 2023, at 11:00 am
Location
Our Lady of Lourdes Church
I missed all the stories of your service overseas when we chatted before you led the rosary at the 5 oclock masses They reminded me of the talks with my dad about his time over there. They also made me realize the uniquness of your generation I know that Dan Jr always let me know how you were doing A lot of people will miss him
Our sympathy to Laura, Dan & Tim. I worked in Canora as an operator in the station from 1968 to 1972 and Dan & Steamer were unforgettable railroaders, real characters. Dan and his guitar were synonymous with good times especially recall him entertaining us all during the annual Canora men’s bonspiel. His life was full and well lived.
Laura, Wayne and myself send our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dan. We enjoyed our visits and stories of your life together. Thinking of you.
My deepest sympathy to you Laura and your family, Dan was a great railroad man and highly thought of, May he rest in peace.
Murray Flynn
Elaine and I send our thoughts and prayers. Dan has a special place in our hearts and will be fondly remembered.