January 19, 1946 - March 5, 2019
It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts we announce the passing of Stanley John Zdebiak on March 5, 2019, at the Kootenay Lake Hospital in Nelson, BC.
Born in January 1946 in Willingdon, Alberta and later moving to Vernon, BC where he spent his childhood. In 1963 he travelled with friends to Prince George where he met a shy little waitress. Four years later they were married. Stan and Lois moved to Nelson, BC in 1973 to the small community of Blewett where they raised their three children. After becoming empty nesters, they retired and moved to the community of Shoreacres, built a home by the water, and hosted coffee every morning while watching the birds and wildlife from their windows.
A man of integrity and strength, generous and always willing to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge. Stan created community and lasting friendships wherever he went. Stan loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping with his friends and family, always with his favourite and faithful companion "Dizzy" by his side.
We all fondly remember his quick wit and his detailed telling of the many stories of his life. He will be missed by Cody, his young friend and hunting partner who was a very important part of his life, and Ryan who he treated as one of his own. To those who knew him, he formed a special place in our hearts.
He worked for many years throughout the Kootenays as an electrician with the IBEW. Volunteering many hours as acting IBEW president and mentoring many. He was known by his fellow members for his hard work and humour.
Stan will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Lois and his children, Rene Esovoloff (Lance), Rachel Zdebiak, and Geri Eisner (Brent), and his grandchildren, Ashley Zdebiak (Curtis), Craig Mcknight (Olivia), Cynthia Zdebiak (Kirk), Hailey Eisner and Brandon Eisner, and Great grandchild Sighlas Ashmead.
We will enjoy sharing your life stories with our children as well as the two new great-grandchildren Baz, and Jaxton who are expected in June. We will miss you Grumpy Grandpa.
He will remain an imprint in each of us and will live on by influencing the way we move forward in life. Fulfilled, loved, strong and teaching the next generation what he instilled in each of us. He will always be remembered as a kind and hardworking man who loved his family and made his friends feel comfortable and welcome.
Special thanks to the wonderful nurses and staff at Kootenay Lake Hospital and for Dr. Milde for your wonderful bedside manner and endless support.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.