We Remember

ILCHUK, John

May 3, 1929 — October 9, 2023

At the age of 94, John Ilchuk died while holding his beloved Evelyn’s hand on October 9, 2023, at Orchard Manor in Hawthorne Park.

John joins his daughter, Sandra Ilchuk, and his siblings Nick Ilchuk, Ted Ilchuk, Paul Ilchuk, and Martha Dyck, who passed away before him. John will be dearly missed by his darling wife, Evelyn Ilchuk; his daughter Cheri & son-in-law Al Campion; daughter Bonnie Dennis; and granddaughter Gabrielle Dennis; as well as his brother Larry & sister-in-law Anne. All, who will carry the memory of John in their hearts.

John, a native of Vermilion, Alberta, spent his formative years in a home overlooking the family farm, later the farm transformed into a bustling cattle ranch and crop fields. His deep-rooted love for horses and cattle was evident throughout his life. In his youth, he would ride his trusty horses to school. John has also always loved hockey, and as a kid he would often join neighbouring children for spirited games on a frozen pond nestled within farmland.

In the 8th grade, John and his family made a significant decision for him to leave school to devote himself to the farm’s daily operations. He raised Polled Herefords. These exceptional cattle were showcased at the Lloydminster Bull Show, where John’s expertise and hard work were consistently recognized with the coveted Champion and Grand Champion ribbons, accolades he earned numerous times.

John and Evelyn married in 1954, and they began their lifelong journey together. Together, they registered the farm as a grain farm named “Ilchuk Seed Farm”. In their partnership, Evelyn played an integral role, skilfully manoeuvring tractors, swathers, and combines, ensuring the farm’s success. John’s farming skill was so extraordinary that the local community college often brought agriculture students to witness his exceptional crops. He understood the significance of forging a “true relationship with the land,” believing that nurturing the land instead of merely taking from it would yield the best results, and in turn nature worked with him. The farm’s surroundings were equally well-kept and exuded beauty, a testament to John’s meticulous care.

John held a special fondness for the John Deere brand, which was a staple in their farming operation. John’s innovative spirit shone brightly as he ventured into inventing and ultimately patenting the “Ilchuk Tree Mover”, a testament to his creative and forward-thinking approach to farming and land management.

In 1997, John and Evelyn embarked on a new chapter in Kelowna, British Columbia, settling in Gallaghers Canyon. It was in this picturesque locale that John learned to golf. That didn’t stop him from tinkering, even in retirement, “nothing was unfixable”.

John, a man meticulously put together (especially for a farmer) exemplified tidiness and organization. His sociable nature made him a welcoming presence within his community. John was generous and helpful, reflecting his deep-rooted love and kindness. These qualities extended beyond his farm and touched the lives of all fortunate enough to know him, earning him a place as a true friend to many.

Memorial donations many be sent to the Alberta 4-H Club.

On MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023, a Reception will be held at 12:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service to honour John at 1:00 PM (PDT), at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME: 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. Afterwards, John will be laid to rest during a private burial for immediate family.  If you are unable to attend the Funeral Service 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 shortly thereafter.

LIVESTREAM:

Service
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023, a Reception at 12:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM (PDT)

Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

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Alberta 4-H Club Link: www.4hab.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for ILCHUK, John is scheduled for MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023, a Reception at 12:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM (PDT). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

2020 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Karen Gannon says:
    October 19, 2023 at 7:43 am

    My deepest sympathy to Aunt Evelyn, Cheri & Al; Bonnie & Gabrielle – you all are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. RIP Uncle John.

    Reply
  • Corinne Knopper says:
    October 19, 2023 at 2:13 pm

    Dearest Bonnie and Gabrielle, our love 💕 hugs 🤗 and God’s love and comfort to you both, and family in your time of loss. Love Eddy and Corinne (Cooranbong, Australia xx xx

    Reply
  • Gaylene Hansen says:
    October 19, 2023 at 4:34 pm

    I wish we were able to be with you all. I have wonderful memories of visiting Uncle Johnny & Aunt Evelyn on their farm. The canola fields and huge tractors were always impressive! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time.

    Reply
  • Sandra Burgess Graham says:
    October 19, 2023 at 5:48 pm

    Prayers for the family. Sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  • Rosanne Stacey says:
    October 19, 2023 at 7:47 pm

    What a wonderful tribute to your Dad. He certainly loved the land, and his community, and was an effective communicator touching many lives. We are thinking of you Bonnie and Gabrielle especially now at this difficult time. His memory will stay alive and well in you both. We send you our love and tears.
    Rosanne and Graham Stacey

    Reply
  • Lorna Vollrath says:
    October 20, 2023 at 12:00 am

    Dear Bonnie
    Our sympathy goes to you at the loss of your Dad
    Love 💕
    Lorna and Roxley xx

    Reply
  • Kathy Hutchins says:
    October 20, 2023 at 6:01 pm

    Bonnie, Gabrielle, and all who grieve this wonderful man.
    I never met him, but have witnessed how special his daughter and granddaughter are. He did something amazing in all areas of his life, I’m told. But, in having loving family members he was rich.
    Sending you all my sincerest condolences.

    Reply
  • Colleen Baxter says:
    October 21, 2023 at 8:32 am

    I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of John. My sincere condolences to the family. ❤️🙏

    Reply

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