Michael Bert Kostecki

June 16, 1941 – December 9, 2025

Michael B. Kostecki passed away at his home on December 9, 2025, at the age of 84 years, where he had been in palliative care for several months. Michael was born at Russell Hospital, the 11th child born to Michael and Palazia Kostecki. His early years growing up in a large farm family profoundly affected his later life. Family was always the centre of his universe, and he preferred their company during both his greatest triumphs and his lowest moments.

After losing his grandparents and parents within the span of a few months before he had turned five, Michael was raised by his sister Angela and her husband, Mike Ryshytylo. Michael attended Rossburn Divisional School, and in 1956 he enrolled at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. A year and a half later, he moved to St. Catharines, Ontario, where he became employed in construction with his brother John. Michael returned to Rossburn in 1959, and after a short courtship with Myrna Smycnuik, they married in 1961. They moved back to St. Catharines, where he and his brother John were employed with Bohnna Litwin Construction Co. Missing the good old West, they returned to Winnipeg, where Michael became an automotive manager for Joe Vine Ltd. Their first son, Kevin, was born in 1963 in St. Catharines. Two more sons followed in Winnipeg: Richard and Michael Jr. In 1969, Michael partnered with his brother Morley and brother-in-law Bill Kachan in a farm and automotive service centre, along with a mixed farm operation in Rossburn. The farming venture eventually went by the wayside as a Canada Post contract service became of interest. Michael tendered five routes out of Brandon, Manitoba, and later acquired three routes in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. He kept the three boys busy driving mail trucks and servicing the automotive shop. Eventually, the Canada Post routes dwindled to two, which continue to keep son Richard busy. After moving back to Rossburn, Manitoba, two more sons were born: Johnathan and Scott. In 1995, Michael purchased the Rossburn Hotel, which is still being operated by John and Rachael.

Michael was predeceased by his brothers Adam, Stanford, Victor, John, Anthony, and Morley; his step-grandson Luke; and his sisters Louise, Carol, Angela, and Helen.

He is survived by his wife, Myrna, and their children:

Kevin [Lisa Marie] of Tyndall, Manitoba;

Richard [Beverly; grandson Michael (Courtney); granddaughter Michaela] of Rossburn, Manitoba;

Michael [Stephanie; step-granddaughter Shelby; step-great-grandson Forrest] of Miscouche, Prince Edward Island;

John [Rachael; granddaughter Angelina; grandsons James and Johnny] of Rossburn, Manitoba;

and Scott [Lisa; grandsons Dominic and Noah; granddaughter Eden] of Calgary, Alberta;

as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Following cremation, Michael’s ashes will be interred at St. Theresa’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be directed to the St. Amant Foundation at stamant.ca. Michael’s family also gratefully acknowledges the kindness, generosity, support, and prayers offered by friends and relatives during this difficult time.