1938 - 2019
After a recurring battle with lung cancer, our Dad, Grandpa, Great-grandpa, Brother, Uncle and Friend, Mike “Papa” passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2019 at the age of 80 years old.
He leaves to mourn, his wife of 56 years, Marilyn; children: Sandy, Randy, Tammy and son-in-law, Chuck; grandchildren, Brittany, Samantha (Thomas), Seth, Mikey, Brant and “Billybob”; great grandchildren, Cooper, Ella and Harper; sister, Jean (Alyre) Theriault from Ontario; brother, Stan (Ann) Garbowsky from B.C.; numerous nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Julia Garbowsky; brothers, Joe Garbowsky and Walter (Mary) Garbowsky and sister Olga (Pat) Fedoruk.
Mike was born in Prosperity, Alberta on November 25, 1938 to Joseph and Julia Garbowsky who originally moved to Alberta from the Ukraine. He eventually moved back to Ontario where he met Marilyn Tuckey and they eventually married on November 23, 1963. In 1978, Mike moved back to Alberta with Marilyn and three children, Sandy, Randy and Tammy. He kept busy over the years truck driving and log hauling. He had a few firsts over the years as well. He started the G Bunch Lunch, St. Albert’s first food truck in the early 80’s and was also instrumental in bringing the first Fat Franks to our St. Albert Farmer’s Market. As a truck driver he was first on the scene of a highway accident where he used his truck’s communication to call for help and keep the victims safe and calm until help arrived. He liked to tinker in his garage, build and repair things to pass time.
Up until the last few years, Mike had a busy life and always loved people to stop by even just for a coffee. He also enjoyed leaving peanuts out for the Blue Jays, his favorite squirrel and visits from the “bunnies”. He was well loved and will always be greatly missed.
The family has decided to not have a service but invite you to visit the family and share a memory or pay your respects on Saturday, November 2, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 56 Springfield Crescent, St. Albert.
A special thank you to the staff of the Sturgeon Community Hospital, Royal Alexandra Hospital, U of A Hospital and the Cross Cancer Institute for all your help during Mike’s illness.
You came here some time ago
But your visit had to end
The heavens called you, you had to go
Now I’m left to mend
You left me sad
So sad you see
But with no pain
You are now free
Free to fly
Free to soar
Your time on earth
Is no more
I know you’re happy
And full of glee
Although I am sad
You are now free
Written by Tammy
To send condolences please visit: www.connelly-mckinley.com
Connelly-McKinley Ltd.
~ST. ALBERT FUNERAL HOME~, 9 Muir Dr., St. Albert, Alberta, 780-458-2222
