May 6, 1936 - June 24, 2020
Michael Michalko passed away in Prince George, B.C. at the age of 84 Years. Mike was born on the family homestead near Alvena, Saskatchewan to Nicholas and Frances (Tokar) Michalko.
He was raised on the farm and was the second oldest of six children. In 1954 he left the farm and ventured out to experience the world and all it had to offer. During his life he took on many jobs including train brakeman, hotel & catering manager, fisherman, ambulance driver, hotel owner and businessman.
In 1976 Mike purchased a hotel (Cedar Inn) and settled in the Bella Coola Valley for over 20 years. While in Bella Coola he was a member of the Lions Club and sponsored men's softball and basketball teams. He also loved playing crib ($5 a game, double for skunk).
Mike purchased his mother's family homestead (Uncle Joe's place) in Saskatchewan; and in 1996 Mike and Loraine returned to Alvena and his grassroots where he farmed with friends, siblings, family and his children. Mike became known as the "suitcase farmer" and would travel back and forth between BC and SK for many years. He enjoyed this lifestyle; living out of his suitcase, staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, and talking with people he met on the road.
In 2010 Mike moved to Prince George to be closer to his wife and family. He continued to keep busy visiting friends and family throughout BC. Socializing with people in the community and chatting with those he met while eating a meal or having a cup of coffee at one of his favourite local hangouts.
Mike leaves to mourn his passing and cherish his memory, his children: Barbara, Deborah, Michael (Debbie), Myron (Deb), Mathew (Randeen) and Michelle (Scott); his grandchildren: Jacqueline, David, Alicia, Jessica, Cianna, Cameron, Nicholas, Morgan, Grace, Rachel, Mike, Brooke and Morgan; his siblings: Adeline (Andy), Walter (Bernice), Sally and Nettie (Victor); as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Mike was predeceased by his parents, his wife Loraine, his brother Elmer, his sister-in-law Elnora, and his brother-in-law Nick.
A Grave Side Service was held at the Alvena Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Cemetery near Alvena, Saskatchewan on Friday, July 17, 2020 at 11 am. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Marc Blondau of Kushneryk Funeral Service, Wakaw, SK, 306-233-4403.