John (Curly) Domitruk

John (Curly) Domitruk

Curly passed from his earthly life to eternal sleep on January 1st, 2026, age ninety-two, surrounded by his loving family.

Curly was born on the farm near Vita August 9, 1933 to immigrant parents Paul and Annie Domitruk. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of nearly seventy years Fran, children Daryl (Rhonda) and Char Henrikson (Gord), grandchildren Kaleigh Henrikson, Brenna Thorvaldson (Brenton), Evelyn Bauer (Mat), Owen Domitruk (Brenna Neufeld) and great-grandson Henrik Thorvaldson. He is also survived by many dear nieces and nephews and sister-in-law Sonia. Curly was predeceased by his parents, sister Florence and brothers Maurice, Tommy, Willy and Steve as well as in-laws Irv, Myrtle, and Jean.

Tragically, Curly lost his father when he was young, but the family persevered and moved to town. Curly became a noted goalie and southpaw pitcher playing for various hockey teams and the Vita Cubs ball club. Those teams provided life-long memories and friendships.

As a young man Curly along with his siblings and buddies enjoyed many barn dances and social events. Dancing became a fixture in his life. In his youth Curly worked at Vita Bakery.

Toward the end of the 1940’s Curly joined Manitoba Power Commission and remained with the utility as it evolved into Manitoba Hydro from where he retired after 37 years of service. Beginning with electrifying parts of rural Manitoba, Curly’s career developed as he and Fran made homes in Stonewall, Powerview and Grand Marais finally settling in Selkirk. He became a pioneer in hot line maintenance leading crews that ensured power flowed from Hydro’s growing electricity distribution system.

Shortly after joining MPC he met Senkiw’s Fran Rybuck at the Vita skating rink. The chivalrous and capable goalie picked her up from a fall on the ice and they remained together from then on. Curly and Fran were married in 1956 and Curly became a keen member of the Rybuck family and enjoyed a deep relationship with his sisters and brothers-in-law with whom may fun times were shared.

Along their journey with Hydro, Curly and Fran started a family. Daryl was born in 1961 followed by Char in 1964. Curly actively supported his children in school, sports and arts while also supporting Fran in her career. The family travelled across Canada in a truck camper. A boating enthusiast, Curly ensured the family experienced fun and adventure at Manitoba’s lakes and campgrounds.

Meticulous and resourceful with a mind for figures, Curly lent his skills to many building and electrical projects for family, neighbours, churches and community facilities.

Retiring to Winnipeg Beach Curly and Fran enjoyed sailing, travelling the province and across North America in their motorhome. It was during this period that grandchildren became the focus of their lives. Along with Fran, Curly was extensively involved in the upbringing of his grandchildren. Supporting the kids in sports and the arts, Curly was a deeply attentive and caring grandpa. “The Beach” was a second home for the grandkids.

This period also saw the establishment and rekindling of many friendships that last to this day particularly through camping and partying with the rambunctious Butter Brickle Gang. Never a great golfer, Curly again persevered and was rewarded with one confirmed hole-in-one (and several awaiting verification).

Eventually, Curly and Fran moved to Kiwanis on the Red in Selkirk where their circle of friends grew even larger and Curly enhanced his reputation as “Mr. Fix-it”. He followed virtually every Blue Jay game from spring training to season’s end. His dedication to the team was rewarded with a birthday video message from Joe Carter.   

Curly prioritized being neat as a pin and infinitely dedicated to Fran. In that fashion Curly passed with dignity and at peace surrounded by his family his status secured as a great family man, community supporter, colleague and friend.

In keeping with Curly’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church, Selkirk. Service will be livestreamed via the following link https://youtube.com/live/lbMSPzTifAM

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Selkirk and District Community Foundation.

Vichnaya Pamyat

Tributes: www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

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