Harold Lawrence Kopetsky

In the early morning of September 7th, Harold Lawrence Kopetsky peacefully passed away at the Charleswood Extendicare Centre in Winnipeg MB.

Harold was predeceased by his wife, Lorrene, an infant son, son Darren, as well as parents John and Mary, sisters, Ella (Louis Bezo) Elma, Erna and Margaret (Bill Hansen), parents in-law, Jim and Merle Scott, and Scott family members Gladwyn, Gayleen and Mervyn Stimpson, Fran and John Doroshuk.

He leaves to mourn and celebrate his life, daughter Lauree (Bill Kearns), sisters Martha Stark (Reg, deceased) and Ann Dilella (Al, deceased), sister-in-law Marguerite Scott, brother-in-law Glennis Scott (Faun) and sister-in-law Barb Scott (Peter Mikulin) along with extended family members including three generations of nieces and nephews on both sides of the family. He is also survived by his former wife Zoe Doucet.

Harold was born in Boulton Municipality on March 22, 1935 to John and Mary Kopetsky. He was the youngest and only son, beloved and “spoiled” by his six older sisters.

Dad was raised on the family farm, attended Boulton School (he was still able to recite Pauline Johnson poetry and shared many fun memories of those days). He completed his schooling at Russell High School. After a much enjoyed, but too short time working in Toronto, ON for Lever Bros, he returned home to the farm. He married Lorrene Scott on August 9, 1958. Daughter Lauree was born on May 14, 1962, son Darren was born January 4, 1965 and infant son, December 1967.

Dad and Mom enjoyed their lives working on the farm and being a part of Inglis and the surrounding community. Dad was actively involved in a number of local groups, the Inglis Trinity Lutheran Church (Council and the Christmas Eve Concert), the local 4-H Conservation Club, Inglis Community Club, Langenburg Chapter of Barbershoppers, Centennial Choir, other community choirs and the Board of Directors of the Russell Personal Care Home.

Farming and Mom’s teaching kept both Dad and Mom busy but they always made time for fun and time with family and friends. In the winter there was ice fishing or curling - Silverton and Dropmore Bonspiels were annual highlights. During the summer there were regular camping trips which often included fishing at Child’s Lake and other spots around Manitoba, western Canada and into the northern United States.

Farming was an important part of Dad’s life and he was grateful to share that and annual deer hunting seasons with his brother in law, Louis Bezo. Over the last few months, Dad shared many fond memories of their time together.

Dad loved music and that was evident at every Scott gathering when songs were sung around the piano. Old time dances were a big part of his life from the days at Silver Beach Dancehall to community dances and then further afield when attending fiddle festivals. Thank goodness Lawrence Welk still played on reruns and Portage la Prairie aired the weekly polka show on the radio. Being part of the Barbershoppers gave Dad the opportunity to share this love of music with his fellow Barbershoppers at the annual show along with attending other Chapters’ concerts.

One of Dad’s most enjoyed pastimes was non-fiction reading. He had a strong understanding of local, national and world history which gave him a sense of the importance of understanding and respecting diversity. Reading led him to travel; an Alaska road trip, Alaskan and Baltic cruises, and travels to various parts of the United States and Mexico.

Dad was a loving and caring father providing us with many opportunities. He was proud of both Darren and I, but often ended any compliment with “Don’t let it go to your heads.” It was an important lesson.

Dad moved from the family farm and lived in Inglis for a number of years; first at the “family” house on Blighty and then across the street. During those years he and dear family friend Deanna Koss (deceased) enjoyed time together visiting with friends and family and attending musical concerts around the area.

He moved to Winnipeg to be closer to family, starting off in assisted living. When he became frustrated with the meals, he moved back to independent living at St. James Kiwanis Courts East to be able to cook how he wanted a meal to be cooked. Dad was a fine and capable chef! His borscht was always a family favourite. During this time he was also a regular attendee at Saint James Lutheran Church and attended as long as he was able. Three years ago he moved across the street to an assisted living apartment at St James Kiwanis Terrace. He made a number of new friendships during the time he lived in Winnipeg, but always kept up with what was happening at home in Inglis.

Dad was hospitalized after a mild stroke in February of this year. Subsequent medical issues prevented him from returning to his home. He moved to Charleswood Extendicare on August 23. We are grateful for the kind and compassionate care Dad received at Health Sciences Centre, Misericordia Transition Centre, Seven Oaks Rehabilitation Centre and Charleswood Extendicare. Thank you to Pastor Beinert for the spiritual care visits provided, while Dad was hospitalized.

Dad’s strong faith supported him as he faced the challenges and losses in his life and through his last days. He will be greatly and dearly missed by those that knew and loved him.