Maryka: Walter, a long time resident of Trail and Genelle, passed away at 87 years of age in Calgary, AB on 06 October 2011. Walter is survived by his beloved wife Nelda, his children - Michael, David, Stephen, Jill and Lori, sister Natalie Milligan, and brother Peter Maryka. (Predeceased: brother Leon, sister Alice.) Walter was born the eldest of 5 siblings, first generation Ukrainian, in Buford, Alberta in 1924. He left his farming roots and moved to Trail in 1947 and became a Cominco career man, retiring from Security in 1984. He married the best looking nurse at the Trail Hospital, Nelda Caplette, in 1956. They lived on Shavers Bench in Trail awhile and then moved to Genelle in 1961. There he sunk his roots and established his legacy. Walt and Nelda raised five children, and dedicated themselves fully and joyfully to the Genelle community. Walt was very active with Genelle Recreation, as well, he was a member of the Elk's Club and the Rossland Trail Golf Club. On his acre & a half of land in Genelle, he created an amazing home for his family, with a yard that welcomed and entertained all. The infamous toboggan slide he constructed every winter will go down in Genelle history. Walt was always available to help his neighbours whether it be fixing equipment, pruning trees, snow blowing driveways, or building tire stairs up the steep hill to the school. He and Nelda grew a garden large enough to rival his Italian neighbours and feed many. Service and generosity came naturally to Walt. In 1998, after kids where launched and now fully retired, they moved from Genelle to Airdrie, Alberta to spend their remaining senior years closer to children & grand children. They spent many happy years in Airdrie till Walt's gradual decline and move to nursing home in Calgary. Walt lived a life marked by purpose, hard work, inventiveness, dedication to family and community, and enjoyment of life. He was a man who understood and was content with his place in space and time. He is deeply loved and deeply missed. A memorial with family and friends was held in Calgary on Oct 14th.
Condolance wishes and Donations to the Genelle Community Hall may be directed to Natalie Milligan, ph 250-693-5576