WILLIAM OPALKA

1933 ~ 2020

An Uncle is a blessing

It means so many things

Words could never tell

The joy an uncle brings

An Uncle is a band of faith

That even time can’t sever

A gift to last all our lives

An uncle is forever.

William (Bill) Opalka, beloved husband of Geraldine Opalka, passed away in Medicine Hat on Friday, August 7, 2020, at the age of 87 years. Left to cherish his memory is his niece, Pam (Mike) Hole; nephew, Darren (Rose Ann) Rud; great-niece, Hannah Rud (Jeff Newman); as well as Gerry’s children, Brennan (Susan) Schneider and their family; Cindy (Tom) Roberts and their family. He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Michalina Opalka; one sister, Minnie Rud and a brother-in-law, Tom Rud. He was a man with a strong belief in God and his Catholic faith was important to him. He held on to that faith until the end of his life. He enjoyed running well into his 70’s, playing bridge, and loved a good bowl of ice cream. He was a loving Uncle who cared for his nephew and niece as though they were his own kids. Uncle Bill always brought a present when he would visit, would plan great activities to parks followed by a trip to Dairy Queen for ice cream. Bill was an intelligent and generous man who took great pride in his work. He was extremely proud of his profession as a Chartered Accountant. He achieved his dream by going back to university and being named to the Alberta Bar while in his late 40’s. He cared deeply for those he was close to and has lifelong friends who will miss him very much. He struggled the last few years of his life with a mind that worked but a body that failed him. Bill’s family extends its gratitude for the kindness and patience of his many caregivers over the years. Due to Covid restrictions, a Private Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta on Wednesday, August 12, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemtery. Those wishing to experience the service via the live stream are encouraged to visit www.cooksouthland.com and click the view broadcast button on the homepage at service time. Memorial donations in Bill’s name may be made directly to either the United Way of South East Alberta, 928 Allowance Ave.SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 3G7 or to Holy Family Parish (Bishop’s Appeal TIA), 1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4V3. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouth land.com) Honoured to serve the family is

Cook Southland Funeral Chapel Crematorium & Reception Facility, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 www.cooksouthland.com “Locally owned & directed”