Henry (Butch) Raymond Kordalchuk

Henry Raymond (Butch) Kordalchuk
September 2, 1937 - May 20, 2025

On the morning of May 20th Henry passed away quickly and without suffering. A small comfort to his daughter close by and his beloved wife who held his hand as his heart gave its’ last beat.

Born to Mary and Fred on the small family farm, where his Ukrainian immigrant parents had made a home, Henry was the youngest of four. He was predeceased by sister Irene (Muryn, Chicago), Fred Jr. and leaves a surviving sister, Doreen (Manahan).

The Kordalchuk family were proud early settlers to the area and contributed to its’ growth and development. Henry, alongside his dad, helped build The Ukrainian Home and Reading Society (The East Selkirk Hall). Henry’s family tree remained rooted in the community with both his son and daughter raising their families on land he once tended.

Henry attended East Selkirk Happy Thought School, where classmates gave him the nickname “Butch”, and it stuck. Funny story... when he met the love of his life, a beautiful nursing student
from Saskatchewan, Jean (Halko), it wasn’t until the day of their wedding rehearsal and after two prior years courting, that she learned his given name wasn’t Butch. Butch married his true love and best friend in 1961 and it has been a 64 year love story in the making. They were seldom seen apart and that suited them just fine. Even before they were married, together they helped Butch’s mom and dad clear land at Falcon Lake and built a cozy cottage. That is where over a span of some 50 odd years the most cherished of family memories were made.

Butch supported his family through a 38 year career with the CNR. At the Transcona shops (where he was known as Hank) he worked his way from laborer, to Foreman to the Corporate position of Equipment Officer, where he retired in 1992. Besides iron and steel, friendships were forged in the rail yards and Hank faithfully attended the retirees lunches for over 30 years, to see that those bonds remained. Had he not been a rail worker, there was a time when he might have had a hockey career. Butch was recognized as a talented defenseman while playing for the 1956 (Provincial Champions) Selkirk Fisherman. Sadly, an injury dashed that dream but not his love for the game. Butch coached for years in the Old Selkirk Barn and returned to play Old Timers hockey as #8 on the Selkirk Settlers. Senior’s hockey created a unique opportunity for Butch and Jean to take a trip of a lifetime. The team played a series of “friendlies” on a European tour. They saw Germany, Finland and Italy. Butch and Jean were thrilled for the time in Rome where they visited St. Peters Square and The Vatican - special because of their shared strong faith and dedication to their
Ukrainian Catholic parish. Butch’s love of travel stemmed from the joy it brought him and Jean to make friends wherever they went. They worked hard to make many return trips to Puerto Vallarta where locals grew to know and love them and anticipated their return. Fellow snowbirds, from across Canada, considered them friends and kept in touch with calls and cards. They have precious memories, preserved in beautiful photographs, from Vegas, Hawaii and Florida.

During his 87 years in the community Butch joined many clubs. Together with Jean they bowled, curled, played slo-pitch and golf. Golf was a beloved pastime and he is on record at the Selkirk
Golf and Country Club as one of a small number to have made a Hole in One. Jean has proudly saved the newspaper clipping that commemorates it. Butch served his community well, volunteering whenever asked. He and Jean worked the Manitoba Summer Games and Men’s Provincial Curling Championships. He joined the Selkirk Kinsmen Club and gave of his time generously. Butch proudly supported local business and went from customer to friend with many proprietors.

He was known around Selkirk for the smile on his face, the twinkle in his eye, the butterscotch and root beer candies in his pocket, the friendly teasing and jokes and the kindness shown to all.

Besides his life partner, Jean, left to cherish his memory are daughter Leanne (Steve), granddaughters Crystal (David and step-son Gordon), Jennifer (TJ) and Lorrin-Jeanne. Dad and Gido’s timeless stories, quick wit, years of wisdom and guidance will be missed. Dad can now reunite with his son Don (1961-2019).

A private funeral service has been arranged.
There will also be a service of Intent and Divine Liturgy, open to all, on Sunday, June 1st at 9:00a.m., Holy Eucharist Church 380 Sophia St.
 

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