Feb 9, 1936 - Nov 11, 2017
Stephen Michael (Mike) Pistak, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital in Trail, BC surrounded by his family.
Mike was born February 9, 1936 in the Old Trail Hospital to Michael (Mihaly) and Boriska nee Bay (Barbara) Pistak.
Mike grew up in Trail, BC. His education included J.L. Crow, Notre Dame University and The University of British Columbia. He never stopped learning and teaching himself new things. He was widely read and could pull facts out of his head faster than Google. He was an independent drilling contractor and part of the mining community for almost 50 years. He was a 51 year member of the Rossland Rotary Club and recognized by 5 Paul Harris awards. He lived the Rotary motto: Service above Self.
Mike is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Pistak (nee Turner), his children Brian, Stephen, Margit and Karan, the sons and daughters of his heart, Jody, Catherine, Mike and Cameron and his grandchildren Jesse, Nick (Tjasa), Catie (Matt), Sam (Bethany), Micah (Dakota), Claire, Alec, Ben, Tyla and Marie.
He will be missed by his brother David and his wife Helen and his sister Eve along with his nieces, nephews and extended family. Mike was a loving father, husband, grandfather and friend to all. He was extremely proud of his children's accomplishments and let everyone at coffee know.
On Saturday Morning at 9:00, we think Dad decided to go skiing with Nels, Merv, Jimmy and Dave. John was going to meet them after for a shot of single malt. If you come down the face (The Cliff) of Red and hear some hooting and hollering it will likely be some of the Old Bastards Powder Team. Look for the guy in the purple powder suit who skis like he's an eagle soaring in the sky. He will be watching over you.
A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 - 3:00 P.M. on Friday, November 17 at the Rossland Legion (2081 Washington St.).
Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Arrangement Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence by visiting the family's register at www.myalternatives.ca.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to your favourite cause.
Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services