Obituary of Paul Dureski

Paul passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024 at 93 years of age at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital.

Paul was born on a farm near Tyndell Manitoba on October 12, 1931. He was the second child born to Anton and Anne Dureski and spent his youth working on the family farm. After harvest in 1951, he and two friends headed west to look for jobs, eventually landing in Cranbrook BC. The two friends left for home, but Paul stayed and worked for the CPR as a brakeman for two years.

At a dance in March 1952, he met his future wife, Jean Stayura and they married on July 16, 1955. Paul and Jean had celebrated 69 years married this past summer.

January 4, 1954 was his first day of a long career with Canada Post. In 1956, he got promoted to Assistant Postmaster and held that position until retirement in November of 1985. After retiring from Canada Post, he contracted to them for 15 years setting up rural post offices in BC, Alberta and in the Northern Canadian Territories. The more isolated and remote the location the more he enjoyed it.

Paul was a loving husband and prioritized his families well being. He was always willing to lend a hand no matter what the project entailed. He was a hard worker but knew how to take the time to relax. He loved the outdoors. Whether it was camping, fishing or hunting, he enjoyed these activities the most when it involved family. Paul took pride in the property on 12^th Ave. With its extensive lawns and large tree’s it was the site of many family functions.

Paul and Jean liked to travel. They took many trips to the US throughout their life together. They did a Caribbean cruise on the Crown Princess in 1992, and in 1994 took a bus tour of Europe. Paul and Jean traveled extensively in Eastern Canada as part of Paul’s role in the Association of Postal Officers of Canada. Paul was a member of the Eagles for many years and set up various events that utilized the Eagles facilities.

He is survived by his wife Jean, son Brian (Shelly), daughter Sonja (Barry Schmidt), son Gary (Cheryl) and son Larry (Colleen). Grand children Desiree, Courtney, Jason, Emma, Teagan, Shane, Emily, Rosalie, and eight Great Grand children. Sister-in-law Mary Perosa. Many nieces and nephews.

Paul was predeceased by his parents Anton and Anne Dureski and granddaughter Julia Dureski.

A service for Paul will be held at a later date.