Edward Tysowski

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Tysowski, who departed this world on September 14, 2024, at the age of 90. Ed is survived by his devoted wife Natalie, with whom he celebrated 65 years of marriage, and their four children: Angela (Andrew) Cassidy, Mark Tysowski (Dona Johnson), Gregory (Lianne) Tysowski, and David Tysowski (Gaeil O’Donovan). He is also lovingly remembered by his nine grandchildren: Sheena and Erika Cassidy, and Jack, Evan, Zoe, Ash, Daniel, Everly and Fairah Tysowski. Ed is further survived by his sister Jeanette Deptuch of Saskatoon, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and a wide circle of friends.

Born on July 8, 1934, Ed grew up on a farm near Veregin, Saskatchewan. He attended school in Veregin and Kamsack before earning degrees in Education and Arts and Science from the University of Saskatchewan. During his university years he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps and was later promoted to Captain.

Ed began his 35-year career in education in 1957 at Porcupine Plain Composite High School, where he served as a teacher, guidance counsellor, administrator and coach. He taught history, social studies, geography and industrial arts. He was actively involved with the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation at both local and provincial levels.

Ed’s commitment to community service was profound. He joined the Porcupine Plain Lions Club in 1958 and held leadership roles for 65 years, continuing his involvement after moving to Calgary in March 1998. His service also included time on the Porcupine Plain Town Council, including two years as Mayor. Ed co-founded 745 Porcupine Air Cadet Squadron, serving as Commanding Officer and Area Director and was involved with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health’s Advisory Committees on health reform and the Pasqua Health District Board, where he was Chairman from 1996 to March 1998.

A devout member of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, Ed was active in both Porcupine Plain and Calgary parishes, participating in the choir, playing bass in a senior’s band, serving on the Parish Council and as President of St. Stephen’s Plus 50 Club.

A musician and creative soul, Ed taught himself to play multiple instruments and played a key role in designing and managing a new theatre in Porcupine Plain. He enjoyed woodworking and was passionate about sports, particularly curling and following his Saskatchewan Roughriders and Toronto Blue Jays. Ed and Natalie traveled extensively, exploring Canada, Ukraine and other cities in Europe, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean.

Ed will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, dedication to community service and his ability to inspire and lead. Funeral Liturgy will be held at St. Stephen Protomartyr Ukrainian Catholic Church (4903 45 Street SW, Calgary, AB) on September 21, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada in his memory.

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