John Stuparyk

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Stuparyk, who died peacefully on the morning of June 30, 2026, at the age of 93.

Following a short illness, John passed peacefully, surrounded by family.

Predeceased by wife Ann, Parents Dora and Alexander, brothers Bill, Steve and Nick, and sisters Annie, Lena, Jenny, and Mary.

Survived by brother Pat(Kay), & sister Elsie. Children Jo-Ann, Marc(Sherry), David, Willard(Lisa), Susan. Grandchildren Amy(Jordan), Timothy, Tanya, Chrystal(Neil), Alexander(Crystal), Matthew, Jonathan(Michaela), Tegan(Ken), Casey(Shantal), Jessica(Ryan), Kayla(Kyle), Krissy(Clay), and Kierra(Mitch).  Great grandchildren Erik, Carter, Rowan, Stevie, Ryker, Ryleigh, Alexis and Skylar.

Born on the farm at Northern Valley, Alberta, John worked at home on the farm until he was 16 years old. He left the farm life and began his work career doing various jobs, including painting and welding. He and his brother Steve broke land for new farms in the Elk Point area with a small Oliver tracked dozer for a period of time. John began his mining career in 1951, working at various small mines ( Stella, Warhorse, Mineral King) in the Kootenay region of BC, before starting in 1958 with Consolidated Mining, later named Cominco. He worked in the fertilizer plant, the Sullivan mine and the pilot mill for 11 years, before transferring to the Pine Point Mine in the NWT in August 1969. John worked as mill supervisor, and was promoted to mill foreman, and eventually to mill superintendent during his career there.  He retired from Tech Cominco in the spring of 1988., and moved to the Shuswap (Blind Bay).

John was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brother Nick, and nephews Garry and Dale, in the Kootenays. John was a co-founder of the Pine Point Fishing Club, and was instrumental in having a fishing camp assembled on a small island in Tsu Lake, NWT along with best friend Gerry Halsall,  for use by all members and guests of the club.

 After retirement, John enjoyed woodworking projects, making many toys and models for his grandchildren, as well as for his friends. The detail was exceptional. He continued building these until he was 92.

Known for his sense of humour, and always had a story or 6 to tell. Never one to be short of words, John could spend hours discussing any topic that came to mind. He could fix anything, and had a knack for using whatever was handy for making repairs.

The family would like to thank the staff (especially Lesley) at Lander's Lodge in Salmon Arm for their assistance, and great meals while he was living there. Thanks also to the Salmon Arm Hospital for their care while John was a patient, and to the Staff at Bastion Place- Palliative care. Thank you to John's friend Tom, and wife Gloria for their long lasting relationship, and being there when he needed assistance, or someone to talk with.

He will be missed.