March 7, 1958 – February 12, 2024

 

It is with very heavy hearts, we mournfully announce the passing of our husband, dad, and papa Rick Shakotko.

Rick was born in Benito, Manitoba, on March 7, 1958, and passed away February 12, 2024, in Grande Prairie, Alberta, after a courageous fight with pancreatic cancer.

Rick moved from Manitoba to Alberta at the age of 20 following his brother Ken. He would always tell us he wanted to move to Alberta because he loved the Alberta license plate. He would say it reminded him of a rich province. He then met his future wife of 43 years, Sandy, working on the highway near Valleyview. A short 6 months later they were married. Rick started his career as a heavy-duty mechanic working for Kenworth for 18 years. Later on, he became a Battery Operator and then ended his working career following his lifelong passion as a farmer. He enjoyed his cows and farming alfalfa.

Rick and Sandy had 3 beautiful children they raised in and around Wembley.  In 1994, they found their dream home where they then lived for the next 30 years. You could find Rick driving around in his side by side, visiting the neighbours or anyone else he met along the way. Rick was a friend to all and never met a stranger. If you knew Rick, you knew he always had the best biggest smile. He loved the outdoors; hunting, quadding and sledding.

Rick is survived by the love of his life; Sandy, his 3 children; Ken (Larena), Courtney (Collin) and Mandy along with his 8 grandchildren; Tyson, Tyler, Lexzis, Karsten, Mylee, Markus, Mexen and Carter, as well as his brother Ken (Denise), and numerous dear friends.

Rick was predeceased by his parents Steve and Violette Shakotko, his two brothers; Reg and Rod Shakotko, and his mother and father-in-law Ken and Mae Reber.

We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the Grande Prairie Cancer Clinic and Points West hospice for their unconditional love and patience along the way.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 16, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the People’s Church Grande Prairie, 11850 108 St, Grande Prairie, AB T8V 8G5, followed by his interment in the City of Grande Prairie Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the People’s Church of Grande Prairie for all those who wish to share in good food, and even better memories of Rick.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780 830 7742 bcfh.ca

• Date : 2024-02-12
• Location : Grande Prairie, AB

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