It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather Walter who passed away at the TBRHSC on Wednesday August 2, 2023, at the age of 86.
Since May 2023, Walter was admitted to the TBRHSC with multiple health issues which resulted in organ failure. He suffered in pain, so God took him home.
He was born in Dubno, Ukraine to Stefan and Elena Kotenko as an only child on February 2, 1937. They immigrated to Canada in 1956.
Walter was an accountant and worked at Royal Trust until their closure. He then moved to Pickle Lake with his wife in 1989 and secured a job at Placer Dome, Dona Lake Mine as an accountant until their closure in 1993. He then returned to Kakabeka Falls, O’Connor Township where they built their retirement home with the help of his son, Greg. Walter retired due to health issues. He had open heart surgery in Ottawa, and back surgery in TBRHSC to correct spinal stenosis. This left him in constant pain which he endured without complaining.
Walter was very happy to have Lori, Mike and Isabella take over our retirement home and become the caregivers as he was unable to take care of the property.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth (Falk), the love of his life and constant companion of 61 wonderful years; son Greg (Darlene), daughter Lori (Mike) Krzystofczyk, and granddaughter Isabella (Izzy) Krzystofczyk whom he loved with all his heart; sister-in-law Norma Everett, two nieces and one nephew.
He was predeceased by his parents, Stefan and Elena, and brother-in-law Henry Everett.
Walter was a quiet and a private man who stayed close to home. He doted on his only grandchild and prayed he would see her graduate in June 2023. Unfortunately, he could not attend but was so happy he could watch it livestreamed on television and had the best seats in the house.
Walter being a quiet, private person has chosen to be cremated with no funeral. His wish was to come home, so we are keeping his ashes in a double urn until he is joined by his wife. “Together forever”.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
