Shewchuk Family History Report
Shewchuk Family History Report
(1) 1 Stefan SHEWCHUK 
Birth14 Dec 1854
Birth PlaceBorivsti, Bukovina, Ukraine
Death1923, age: 68
FatherIvan SHEWCHUK
MotherVasylena HUNCHAK
Occupationfarmer
SHEWCHUK Family Tree
by Harry F. Shewchuk
When Austria, Russian and Prussia invaded Poland in 1772 during the reigns of Maria Theresa of Austria and Catherine II of Russia, the province of Galicia was taken over by Austria, while the rest of Poland was divided by Russian and Prussia. Three years later in 1775, Austria drove Turkey out of the province of Bukovina and occupied it also.
When Austria occupied Galicia, Austria had not taken away all the power from the Polish landlords. They had the right to maintain an army for its own protection, however, some of the young men they recruited were sent into the Polish guerrilla army. These young men were selectively picked from the surrounding towns and villages over which each landlord dominated.
Two Shewchuk brothers, who lived in the village of Chorney Potik in the province of Galicia, refused to be taken into the landlords army and fled the village. They crossed the Dniester River and proceeded south to live in the province of Bukovina, which was less populated and a much safer place to live. One of the brothers settled in the village of Borivtsi and the other settled in the village of Kitsman, several villages to the south east. The latter Shewchuk brothers’ family history is unknown.
The Shewchuk that settled in the village of Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine had two sons, one was Stefan and the name of the other is unknown.
Stefan married the daughter of Ivan Skoreyko and had three daughters and a son Ivan. Stefan lived until he was 93 years old. Stefan Shewchuk’s son Ivan married Vasylena Hunchak, daughter of Onufrei Hunchak. They had three sons; Stefan, Petro and Georgi.
Ivan and Vasylena Shewchuk’s first son Stefan was born December 14th 1854 in Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine and married Anastasia Fedorak, who was born April 2nd 1859 in Bukovina. Seven children were born in the Ukraine namely: Elena, Ivan, Georgi, Maria, Vasyl, Michael and Onufrei. They immigrated to Canada, sailing on the SS Assyria from Hamburg Germany on May 5th 1900 and arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 18th 1900. An eighth child, Nicolai was born in Canada. Upon arriving in Halifax they traveled by train to Strathcona, Alberta (now Edmonton), the trip took approximately one week.
On arrival in Edmonton, Alberta, they were to be met by Stefan’s brother-in law Ivan Shymko, he misjudged their arrival time and was not there to greet them. Son Ivan Shewchuk , age 17, with friend Ivan Farrus took off walking along the Victoria Trail following telegraph line to Pakan, Alberta. They met Ivan Shymko along the trail coming into Edmonton by horse and wagon to pick them up and take them to their homestead. They lived for a time with Ivan Shymko on a farm near Andrew, Alberta. Later Ivan Shymko moved to Eagle Hill, AB. Stefan Shewchuk moved to his new homestead in the Whitford, Alberta area.
Stefan filed claim on land SE12-57-15W4, N.W.T. on July 19th 1900, which was the original homestead, and still remains property in the family. Having lived in Canada for three years and having complied with all requirements of the “Naturalization Act”, Stefan Shewchuk and family were naturalized as British subjects in the Dominion of Canada - North West Territories on October 26th 1904. Stefan was thereby granted all political and other rights, powers and privileges entitled to a natural born British subject.
by Harry F. Shewchuk
When Austria, Russian and Prussia invaded Poland in 1772 during the reigns of Maria Theresa of Austria and Catherine II of Russia, the province of Galicia was taken over by Austria, while the rest of Poland was divided by Russian and Prussia. Three years later in 1775, Austria drove Turkey out of the province of Bukovina and occupied it also.
When Austria occupied Galicia, Austria had not taken away all the power from the Polish landlords. They had the right to maintain an army for its own protection, however, some of the young men they recruited were sent into the Polish guerrilla army. These young men were selectively picked from the surrounding towns and villages over which each landlord dominated.
Two Shewchuk brothers, who lived in the village of Chorney Potik in the province of Galicia, refused to be taken into the landlords army and fled the village. They crossed the Dniester River and proceeded south to live in the province of Bukovina, which was less populated and a much safer place to live. One of the brothers settled in the village of Borivtsi and the other settled in the village of Kitsman, several villages to the south east. The latter Shewchuk brothers’ family history is unknown.
The Shewchuk that settled in the village of Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine had two sons, one was Stefan and the name of the other is unknown.
Stefan married the daughter of Ivan Skoreyko and had three daughters and a son Ivan. Stefan lived until he was 93 years old. Stefan Shewchuk’s son Ivan married Vasylena Hunchak, daughter of Onufrei Hunchak. They had three sons; Stefan, Petro and Georgi.
Ivan and Vasylena Shewchuk’s first son Stefan was born December 14th 1854 in Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine and married Anastasia Fedorak, who was born April 2nd 1859 in Bukovina. Seven children were born in the Ukraine namely: Elena, Ivan, Georgi, Maria, Vasyl, Michael and Onufrei. They immigrated to Canada, sailing on the SS Assyria from Hamburg Germany on May 5th 1900 and arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 18th 1900. An eighth child, Nicolai was born in Canada. Upon arriving in Halifax they traveled by train to Strathcona, Alberta (now Edmonton), the trip took approximately one week.
On arrival in Edmonton, Alberta, they were to be met by Stefan’s brother-in law Ivan Shymko, he misjudged their arrival time and was not there to greet them. Son Ivan Shewchuk , age 17, with friend Ivan Farrus took off walking along the Victoria Trail following telegraph line to Pakan, Alberta. They met Ivan Shymko along the trail coming into Edmonton by horse and wagon to pick them up and take them to their homestead. They lived for a time with Ivan Shymko on a farm near Andrew, Alberta. Later Ivan Shymko moved to Eagle Hill, AB. Stefan Shewchuk moved to his new homestead in the Whitford, Alberta area.
Stefan filed claim on land SE12-57-15W4, N.W.T. on July 19th 1900, which was the original homestead, and still remains property in the family. Having lived in Canada for three years and having complied with all requirements of the “Naturalization Act”, Stefan Shewchuk and family were naturalized as British subjects in the Dominion of Canada - North West Territories on October 26th 1904. Stefan was thereby granted all political and other rights, powers and privileges entitled to a natural born British subject.
Origin Of Names
~ Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
G Grandson to Stefan Shewchuk
Ukrainian names, their spelling and pronunciation come in various forms as they were influenced by the German, Polish, Russian and Romanian dialects.
The name Shewchuk as used today was spelled Schewchuk as indicated on Stefan’s birth certificate. The ch is shown as r in cryillic form used by Romanian clergy.
As Petro Shewchuk traveled to Poland his passport showed him as Petro Szewzuk.
In the Ukraine today, translated in English, Shewchuk is pronounced and written as Shevchek.
It was an old custom with Ukrainians to name children after Saints and historic Christian characters. First names were taken from the birth date of the Patron Saint. For example, Mykailo (Michael) was given to the child born closest to November 21st or in memory of a family member of the same name.
Names were also changed, for example, the Ukrainian name Onopriy was used as Onoprey, Onufrey or Onufrie. In Canada it was translated to Humphrey, Fred or Frank. The name Mykola was used and spelled as Nicoli, Nickolai, Nicholas, Nickolas or Nick.
Anglicization of Ukrainian names began in the late 1920’s. Stephan (pronounced Step’han in Ukrainian) was Stefan and Anglicized to Steve, Stephen or Steve. Vasyl and Wasyl was Anglicized to Basil, Bill or William. Anastasia or Nastasia became Nancy or Nettie when Anglicized.
We did try wherever possible to use the original baptized name or the name the person was known as or Anglicized at present.
In the case where corrections are required you should advise the contact person for your part of the family as detailed earlier in this booklet.
~ Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
G Grandson to Stefan Shewchuk
Ukrainian names, their spelling and pronunciation come in various forms as they were influenced by the German, Polish, Russian and Romanian dialects.
The name Shewchuk as used today was spelled Schewchuk as indicated on Stefan’s birth certificate. The ch is shown as r in cryillic form used by Romanian clergy.
As Petro Shewchuk traveled to Poland his passport showed him as Petro Szewzuk.
In the Ukraine today, translated in English, Shewchuk is pronounced and written as Shevchek.
It was an old custom with Ukrainians to name children after Saints and historic Christian characters. First names were taken from the birth date of the Patron Saint. For example, Mykailo (Michael) was given to the child born closest to November 21st or in memory of a family member of the same name.
Names were also changed, for example, the Ukrainian name Onopriy was used as Onoprey, Onufrey or Onufrie. In Canada it was translated to Humphrey, Fred or Frank. The name Mykola was used and spelled as Nicoli, Nickolai, Nicholas, Nickolas or Nick.
Anglicization of Ukrainian names began in the late 1920’s. Stephan (pronounced Step’han in Ukrainian) was Stefan and Anglicized to Steve, Stephen or Steve. Vasyl and Wasyl was Anglicized to Basil, Bill or William. Anastasia or Nastasia became Nancy or Nettie when Anglicized.
We did try wherever possible to use the original baptized name or the name the person was known as or Anglicized at present.
In the case where corrections are required you should advise the contact person for your part of the family as detailed earlier in this booklet.
Canadian Journey
By Harry F. Shewchuk
(G. Grandson to Stefan & Anastasia Shewchuk)
Emigration
“Come to Canada! Be your own master on your own land!” In the last decade of the nineteenth century the call went out throughout Europe. The European peasants were to give up their present life of poverty for a better future in the rich lands of the Canadian West.
For this reason, Clifford Sifton, minister responsible for immigration in the Laurier government, turned to continental Europe, and in particular middle and eastern Europe, in his search for immigrants.
To make the prospect of homesteading attractive, Canada offered 160 acres of land for the nominal sum of ten dollars. The immigrants would have an opportunity for greater prosperity than would ever have been possible in their homelands.
The peasant farmers in the western Ukrainian provinces of Galicia and Bukovina, which were under Austrian rule, heard of the call and lost little time in taking advantage of Canada’s offer. The great majority of Ukrainian peasants were born into a life of extreme poverty and oppression, from which there was no prospect of improvement. Canada offered them hope for the future.
Encouraged by letters from friends who had gone earlier, and by shipping agents commissioned by the Canadian government to recruit immigrants, thousands of Ukrainian peasants decided to make the break with their homeland and seek their fortunes in faraway Canada.
The decision to relocate to a foreign country halfway around the world was not an easy one to make. To break ties with the relatives and friends was a painful step. But the situation at home was hopeless.
Vasyl Eleniak and Ivan Pylypiw, two men from the village of Nevilius in Galicia, were officially recognized as the first Ukrainian immigrants to Canada. They arrived in Montreal on the ship “Oregan” in September 1891 and settled in Alberta, Eleniak near the present town of Chipman, and Pylypiw at Star. Alberta, a hamlet located forty miles east of Edmonton, was the site of the first permanent Ukrainian settlement in Canada.
During the first few years of immigration into Canada, Ukrainians were registered under a wide variety of national categories. When registered by citizenship, they were called Austrians. When registered by province of origin, they were called GaliciansRuthenes, Rusyns and Bukovinians. Many were recorded as Ruthenians, little Russians or Poles. The term Ukrainian was rarely used before the First World War.
Most Ukrainian immigrants came from the western provinces of Galicia and Bukovina, which was swallowed up by the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
As Austrian subjects, all men of Galicia and Bukovina were inducted into the Austrian army for three years at the age of eighteen. To avoid military service, it became common practice for the young men approaching their eighteenth birthdays to emigrate to Canada, usually with their families.
In 1899 thirty-two families from the village of Toporiwtsi, in Bukovina, emigrated to Canada together and settled seventy miles north east of Edmonton. During the decade 1900 to 1910, more families from Ukraine abandoned their villages for Canada.
Preparing To Leave
Permanent relocation to Canada required extensive preparation. Once the decision to emigrate was made, each family had to find the means to gather significant amounts of money. There were numerous expenses to be met. First, the cost of the journey, by land to the port of departure, usually Hamburg, then by sea, then by land again to the chosen destination in Canada. This traveling expense for a family could easily come to two or three hundred dollars.
In addition, each family had to have at least twenty-five dollars upon landing in Canada. This was insurance to guarantee that none of the immigrants would require immediate assistance from the Canadian government. Immigrants were also encouraged to bring extra cash to tide themselves over until such time as they could establish themselves on their Canadian homesteads.
The Journey
Stefan and Anastasia Shewchuk and their seven children Elena, Ivan, Georgi, Maria, Vasyl, Michael and Onufrei (an eighth child, Nicolai, was born in Canada) left their village of Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine in the spring for the departure port of Hamburg Germany. On May 5th, 1900 they sailed on the ship SS Assyria arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia May 18th, 1900.
Immigrant memories of the ocean voyage to Canada were almost always the same. People were crammed into ships in large numbers, the food was inedible, sea sickness was universal and at times deaths occurred on board.
Upon landing in Halifax the immigrants were met by government officials who checked their financial resources and by doctors who examined them for communicable diseases.
Then the second leg of the journey began, the journey by train to the prairies. The train ride of several days ended in Strathcona, Alberta (now Edmonton). The railroad stations were packed with people speaking a wide variety of languages most of which the Ukrainians did not understand. Some immigrants were met at the station by relatives or other countrymen who had come earlier. Others gathered in large immigration halls erected by the government as temporary shelters.
To The Homestead
The trails to the homestead were rough, often crossing deep pools of water. Sleeping in wagons overcrowded with baggage, or beside campfires. One was fortunate to encounter an earlier settler who would offer lodging for the night.
The land in western Canada was surveyed and divided into townships and sections. Each township consisted of thirty-six sections; a section being a square with sides one mile in length and contained 640 acres. The homesteads that were offered to the new settlers for the fee of $10.00 were a quarter section of land; one and a half miles square containing 160 acres.
Making A Home
During the initial period on the homestead, the settlers were concerned with only one thing: survival. The first 3 to 4 years in the new land were the hardest.
When erecting the first shelter on the homestead the only consideration was speed and ease of construction. The settlers quickly cut down trees and put together a log and sod-brick dugout. The dugout provided shelter from the elements.
Finding food was an ever present problem until some land was cleared and cultivated. During the first summer on the land the settlers began the work that would take many years to complete.
Stefan did not need to leave home to seek work as did many other settlers because he had sufficient money to purchase both horses and primary equipment when he first arrived in Canada. Since he already had horses, he could earn additional money by providing transportation and freighting services for other local pioneers.
Stefan’s progress was slow and steady, the mammoth job was to clear and cultivate acreage that would take many years to complete. They dug out trees, picked roots, hauled heavy stones and broke virgin soil. With seeds brought over from the old country they planted their vegetable gardens. It would be years before they harvested their first cash crop. Following is an outline of his progress:
Year…..Acres Cleared…..Crop……..Animals
1900…………6……………..0……2 horses, 6 cattle
1901…………2……………..8……2 horses, 11 cattle
1902…………6…………….14..…2 horses, 12 cattle
1903 ……….9.5………….23.5….2 horses, 20 cattle
1904 …………2…………..25.5….2 horses, 25 cattle, 2 pigs
BULDINGS:
20 x 40 log house
14 x 14 log stable
30 x 35 log granary
26 acres fenced
In the period of five years he had accumulated what in those days was a substantial empire.
Retrospective
This was the background from which Ukrainian immigrants emerged. On their homesteads they set out to recreate the way of life they had known in their native villages. They were in a new world and slowly they began to turn their eyes towards it.
Ukrainian immigrants came to Canada seeking a better life. Some thought they were coming to the Promised Land and were disappointed. But eventually most of their dreams were fulfilled. They came for land, and they got land, more than they ever imagined. They wanted freedom from wars and oppression and a brighter future for their children. Today their grandchildren live in peace, liberty and prosperity. It has taken many years, a great deal of hard work and much suffering, but they got from Canada what they wanted. At the same time, they gave much more.
By Harry F. Shewchuk
(G. Grandson to Stefan & Anastasia Shewchuk)
Emigration
“Come to Canada! Be your own master on your own land!” In the last decade of the nineteenth century the call went out throughout Europe. The European peasants were to give up their present life of poverty for a better future in the rich lands of the Canadian West.
For this reason, Clifford Sifton, minister responsible for immigration in the Laurier government, turned to continental Europe, and in particular middle and eastern Europe, in his search for immigrants.
To make the prospect of homesteading attractive, Canada offered 160 acres of land for the nominal sum of ten dollars. The immigrants would have an opportunity for greater prosperity than would ever have been possible in their homelands.
The peasant farmers in the western Ukrainian provinces of Galicia and Bukovina, which were under Austrian rule, heard of the call and lost little time in taking advantage of Canada’s offer. The great majority of Ukrainian peasants were born into a life of extreme poverty and oppression, from which there was no prospect of improvement. Canada offered them hope for the future.
Encouraged by letters from friends who had gone earlier, and by shipping agents commissioned by the Canadian government to recruit immigrants, thousands of Ukrainian peasants decided to make the break with their homeland and seek their fortunes in faraway Canada.
The decision to relocate to a foreign country halfway around the world was not an easy one to make. To break ties with the relatives and friends was a painful step. But the situation at home was hopeless.
Vasyl Eleniak and Ivan Pylypiw, two men from the village of Nevilius in Galicia, were officially recognized as the first Ukrainian immigrants to Canada. They arrived in Montreal on the ship “Oregan” in September 1891 and settled in Alberta, Eleniak near the present town of Chipman, and Pylypiw at Star. Alberta, a hamlet located forty miles east of Edmonton, was the site of the first permanent Ukrainian settlement in Canada.
During the first few years of immigration into Canada, Ukrainians were registered under a wide variety of national categories. When registered by citizenship, they were called Austrians. When registered by province of origin, they were called GaliciansRuthenes, Rusyns and Bukovinians. Many were recorded as Ruthenians, little Russians or Poles. The term Ukrainian was rarely used before the First World War.
Most Ukrainian immigrants came from the western provinces of Galicia and Bukovina, which was swallowed up by the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
As Austrian subjects, all men of Galicia and Bukovina were inducted into the Austrian army for three years at the age of eighteen. To avoid military service, it became common practice for the young men approaching their eighteenth birthdays to emigrate to Canada, usually with their families.
In 1899 thirty-two families from the village of Toporiwtsi, in Bukovina, emigrated to Canada together and settled seventy miles north east of Edmonton. During the decade 1900 to 1910, more families from Ukraine abandoned their villages for Canada.
Preparing To Leave
Permanent relocation to Canada required extensive preparation. Once the decision to emigrate was made, each family had to find the means to gather significant amounts of money. There were numerous expenses to be met. First, the cost of the journey, by land to the port of departure, usually Hamburg, then by sea, then by land again to the chosen destination in Canada. This traveling expense for a family could easily come to two or three hundred dollars.
In addition, each family had to have at least twenty-five dollars upon landing in Canada. This was insurance to guarantee that none of the immigrants would require immediate assistance from the Canadian government. Immigrants were also encouraged to bring extra cash to tide themselves over until such time as they could establish themselves on their Canadian homesteads.
The Journey
Stefan and Anastasia Shewchuk and their seven children Elena, Ivan, Georgi, Maria, Vasyl, Michael and Onufrei (an eighth child, Nicolai, was born in Canada) left their village of Borivtsi, Bukovina, Ukraine in the spring for the departure port of Hamburg Germany. On May 5th, 1900 they sailed on the ship SS Assyria arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia May 18th, 1900.
Immigrant memories of the ocean voyage to Canada were almost always the same. People were crammed into ships in large numbers, the food was inedible, sea sickness was universal and at times deaths occurred on board.
Upon landing in Halifax the immigrants were met by government officials who checked their financial resources and by doctors who examined them for communicable diseases.
Then the second leg of the journey began, the journey by train to the prairies. The train ride of several days ended in Strathcona, Alberta (now Edmonton). The railroad stations were packed with people speaking a wide variety of languages most of which the Ukrainians did not understand. Some immigrants were met at the station by relatives or other countrymen who had come earlier. Others gathered in large immigration halls erected by the government as temporary shelters.
To The Homestead
The trails to the homestead were rough, often crossing deep pools of water. Sleeping in wagons overcrowded with baggage, or beside campfires. One was fortunate to encounter an earlier settler who would offer lodging for the night.
The land in western Canada was surveyed and divided into townships and sections. Each township consisted of thirty-six sections; a section being a square with sides one mile in length and contained 640 acres. The homesteads that were offered to the new settlers for the fee of $10.00 were a quarter section of land; one and a half miles square containing 160 acres.
Making A Home
During the initial period on the homestead, the settlers were concerned with only one thing: survival. The first 3 to 4 years in the new land were the hardest.
When erecting the first shelter on the homestead the only consideration was speed and ease of construction. The settlers quickly cut down trees and put together a log and sod-brick dugout. The dugout provided shelter from the elements.
Finding food was an ever present problem until some land was cleared and cultivated. During the first summer on the land the settlers began the work that would take many years to complete.
Stefan did not need to leave home to seek work as did many other settlers because he had sufficient money to purchase both horses and primary equipment when he first arrived in Canada. Since he already had horses, he could earn additional money by providing transportation and freighting services for other local pioneers.
Stefan’s progress was slow and steady, the mammoth job was to clear and cultivate acreage that would take many years to complete. They dug out trees, picked roots, hauled heavy stones and broke virgin soil. With seeds brought over from the old country they planted their vegetable gardens. It would be years before they harvested their first cash crop. Following is an outline of his progress:
Year…..Acres Cleared…..Crop……..Animals
1900…………6……………..0……2 horses, 6 cattle
1901…………2……………..8……2 horses, 11 cattle
1902…………6…………….14..…2 horses, 12 cattle
1903 ……….9.5………….23.5….2 horses, 20 cattle
1904 …………2…………..25.5….2 horses, 25 cattle, 2 pigs
BULDINGS:
20 x 40 log house
14 x 14 log stable
30 x 35 log granary
26 acres fenced
In the period of five years he had accumulated what in those days was a substantial empire.
Retrospective
This was the background from which Ukrainian immigrants emerged. On their homesteads they set out to recreate the way of life they had known in their native villages. They were in a new world and slowly they began to turn their eyes towards it.
Ukrainian immigrants came to Canada seeking a better life. Some thought they were coming to the Promised Land and were disappointed. But eventually most of their dreams were fulfilled. They came for land, and they got land, more than they ever imagined. They wanted freedom from wars and oppression and a brighter future for their children. Today their grandchildren live in peace, liberty and prosperity. It has taken many years, a great deal of hard work and much suffering, but they got from Canada what they wanted. At the same time, they gave much more.
Loyalty to Country
by Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
Stefan and Anastasia had immigrated to Canada from the Habsburg Austria Crown Land of Bukovana. Their citizenship, but not their nationality (Ukrainian), was officially described as “Austrian” or “Austro-Hungarian”. Other Austrian ethnics in this category included Croatians, Serbs, Slovaks, Poles, Italians, Bulgarians, Slovens, Hungarians, Russians, Jews, Romanians and other Europeans. Under the terms of the “War Measures Act” of World War I (1914), those so categorized were subject to imprisonment in one of the twenty-four receiving stations and internment camps across Canada. This same War Measures Act would later be used against Japanese Canadians (1941) and the Quebecquois (1970).
Ukrainians and other ethnics were classified as “enemy aliens” and obligated to report regularly to special registrars or to local North West Mounted Police forces. Stefan Shewchuk, together with his friends, Ewoniak, Hawreliak, Semeniuk, Huculak, plus many other neighbours and friends were given identity cards. These registered “enemy aliens” were required to report each month to the Chief of Police, Postmaster or Justice of the Piece at a place of District residence. Those failing to do so could be subjected to arrest, fine or even imprisonment.
Having naturalization papers and being loyal citizens avoided confinement but still required monthly reporting. The loyalty of Ukrainians to Canada was never in doubt and was openly recognized by the British Empire at that time. Sadly this loyalty was not recognized by the Canadian Government at that time. Several memorials were erected to commemorate these loyal and industrious people, one such monument is erected at the Ukrainian Village east of Edmonton, Alberta.
by Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
Stefan and Anastasia had immigrated to Canada from the Habsburg Austria Crown Land of Bukovana. Their citizenship, but not their nationality (Ukrainian), was officially described as “Austrian” or “Austro-Hungarian”. Other Austrian ethnics in this category included Croatians, Serbs, Slovaks, Poles, Italians, Bulgarians, Slovens, Hungarians, Russians, Jews, Romanians and other Europeans. Under the terms of the “War Measures Act” of World War I (1914), those so categorized were subject to imprisonment in one of the twenty-four receiving stations and internment camps across Canada. This same War Measures Act would later be used against Japanese Canadians (1941) and the Quebecquois (1970).
Ukrainians and other ethnics were classified as “enemy aliens” and obligated to report regularly to special registrars or to local North West Mounted Police forces. Stefan Shewchuk, together with his friends, Ewoniak, Hawreliak, Semeniuk, Huculak, plus many other neighbours and friends were given identity cards. These registered “enemy aliens” were required to report each month to the Chief of Police, Postmaster or Justice of the Piece at a place of District residence. Those failing to do so could be subjected to arrest, fine or even imprisonment.
Having naturalization papers and being loyal citizens avoided confinement but still required monthly reporting. The loyalty of Ukrainians to Canada was never in doubt and was openly recognized by the British Empire at that time. Sadly this loyalty was not recognized by the Canadian Government at that time. Several memorials were erected to commemorate these loyal and industrious people, one such monument is erected at the Ukrainian Village east of Edmonton, Alberta.
Loyalty to Family
By Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
(G Grandson to Stefan Shewchuk)
Stefan and Anastasia Shewchuk followed the old Ukrainian tradition; to ensure the entire family was assisted in establishing a future. Sons had to have land after marriage, daughters and their husbands were all assisted in getting established. Stefan’s life ended in 1923 at age 69 in a horse related accident. Anastasia passed away in 1938 at age 73. Both were laid to rest in the Shandro, AB, Russo Greek Orthodox Church, north of Willingdon, AB; a church which they help start in circa 1905.
Stefan’s oldest son Ivan (John) was of age to own his own land and acquired land north of Stefan’s original homestead. He later acquired additional land further north and east of there.
Elena (Helen) Shewchuk, Stefan’s oldest daughter, and Michalio (Mike) Fedorak acquired land west of Stefan’s original homestead and later purchased land across the road to the West. John and Maria Fedorak’s (Stefan’s daughter) original homestead was east of Ivan’s place. They later moved south of Mike Fedorak’s west quarter, then to the Boian District before purchasing a half section two miles north of Willingdon, Alberta (AB). The land was sold and a new quarter purchased north of Willingdon where they retired.
George acquired land one half mile east of Willingdon. After farming for some time, he sold the land and purchased a livery barn in Vegerville, AB. This he sold and moved to Lavoy, AB, and took employment with C.N.R. (Canadian National Railroad), working there until retirement.
Vasyl (Bill) farmed a half mile north of the homestead. He sold this land and opened up a barbershop business in Willingdon and Lac La Biche, AB, and later in Hamilton Ontario.
Onufry’s (Frank’s) land was two miles west and two and one half miles south of Stefan’s original homestead. Upon selling the homestead he moved to Bellis, AB, where we worked as a mechanic at an agricultural implement agency. He later moved to Willingdon, AB, taking employment as an agricultural equipment repairman before moving to Hamilton, ON, to work for International Harvester’s agricultural manufacturing division.
Michael (Mike) was the main family contributor for work on the homestead with his father Stefan. When Stefan passed away each son inherited one sixth of the original 160 acre (one quarter section) homestead. Mike purchased his brothers shares of the farm, taking sole possession of the homestead circa 1924. With the additional purchase of the adjacent C.P.R. quarter section south of the homestead (bordering Cucumber Lake), he now owned two quarters of land or approximately 320 acres. Upon retirement he moved with his wife Christina (Huculak) Shewchuk to Willingdon, AB. All his land, including the original homestead, was sold to his grandson Gerald Tatarin (son of Lena Tatarin (Shewchuk)) and remains in the family to this day. Approximately four acres of Mike’s original land purchase, on the south shore of Cucumber Lake, remains in the Shewchuk family name, owned by David Shewchuk, son of Paul M. Shewchuk, grandson of Mike Shewchuk.
Nicholai (Nick) operated an agricultural implement business in Bellis, AB. Upon moving back to Willingdon, AB, he established “Doris Services” (an agricultural implement business), was a grain buyer, and was an agent for the Alberta Treasury Branch. Throughout this time he also served as Justice of the Peace for the Willingdon District. Upon retirement he was appointed Provincial Magistrate for the Vegerville, Smoky Lake District until his passing in 1968 at age 66.
By Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk
(G Grandson to Stefan Shewchuk)
Stefan and Anastasia Shewchuk followed the old Ukrainian tradition; to ensure the entire family was assisted in establishing a future. Sons had to have land after marriage, daughters and their husbands were all assisted in getting established. Stefan’s life ended in 1923 at age 69 in a horse related accident. Anastasia passed away in 1938 at age 73. Both were laid to rest in the Shandro, AB, Russo Greek Orthodox Church, north of Willingdon, AB; a church which they help start in circa 1905.
Stefan’s oldest son Ivan (John) was of age to own his own land and acquired land north of Stefan’s original homestead. He later acquired additional land further north and east of there.
Elena (Helen) Shewchuk, Stefan’s oldest daughter, and Michalio (Mike) Fedorak acquired land west of Stefan’s original homestead and later purchased land across the road to the West. John and Maria Fedorak’s (Stefan’s daughter) original homestead was east of Ivan’s place. They later moved south of Mike Fedorak’s west quarter, then to the Boian District before purchasing a half section two miles north of Willingdon, Alberta (AB). The land was sold and a new quarter purchased north of Willingdon where they retired.
George acquired land one half mile east of Willingdon. After farming for some time, he sold the land and purchased a livery barn in Vegerville, AB. This he sold and moved to Lavoy, AB, and took employment with C.N.R. (Canadian National Railroad), working there until retirement.
Vasyl (Bill) farmed a half mile north of the homestead. He sold this land and opened up a barbershop business in Willingdon and Lac La Biche, AB, and later in Hamilton Ontario.
Onufry’s (Frank’s) land was two miles west and two and one half miles south of Stefan’s original homestead. Upon selling the homestead he moved to Bellis, AB, where we worked as a mechanic at an agricultural implement agency. He later moved to Willingdon, AB, taking employment as an agricultural equipment repairman before moving to Hamilton, ON, to work for International Harvester’s agricultural manufacturing division.
Michael (Mike) was the main family contributor for work on the homestead with his father Stefan. When Stefan passed away each son inherited one sixth of the original 160 acre (one quarter section) homestead. Mike purchased his brothers shares of the farm, taking sole possession of the homestead circa 1924. With the additional purchase of the adjacent C.P.R. quarter section south of the homestead (bordering Cucumber Lake), he now owned two quarters of land or approximately 320 acres. Upon retirement he moved with his wife Christina (Huculak) Shewchuk to Willingdon, AB. All his land, including the original homestead, was sold to his grandson Gerald Tatarin (son of Lena Tatarin (Shewchuk)) and remains in the family to this day. Approximately four acres of Mike’s original land purchase, on the south shore of Cucumber Lake, remains in the Shewchuk family name, owned by David Shewchuk, son of Paul M. Shewchuk, grandson of Mike Shewchuk.
Nicholai (Nick) operated an agricultural implement business in Bellis, AB. Upon moving back to Willingdon, AB, he established “Doris Services” (an agricultural implement business), was a grain buyer, and was an agent for the Alberta Treasury Branch. Throughout this time he also served as Justice of the Peace for the Willingdon District. Upon retirement he was appointed Provincial Magistrate for the Vegerville, Smoky Lake District until his passing in 1968 at age 66.
SpouseAnastasia FEDORAK (2 Apr 1859-1938)
Birth2 Apr 1859
Birth PlaceBorivsti, Bukovina, Ukraine
Death1938, age: 78
FatherDimitri FEDORAK
MotherMagdelena ?
Married NameSHEWCHUK
ChildrenMECHAILO (Michael, Mike) (1898-1980)
Elena (Helen) (1880-1949)
Ivan (John) (1882-1972)
Georgi (George) S. (1883-1972)
Maria (1893-1972)
Vasyl (Bill) (1895-1974)
Onofrey (Frank) (1899-1961)
Nicholai (Nick) (1902-1968)
(2) 1.1 MECHAILO (Michael, Mike) SHEWCHUK 
Birth19 May 1898
Birth PlaceBorivsti, Bukovina, Ukraine
Death24 Aug 1980, age: 82
Death PlaceEdmonton, AB
Burial28 Aug 1980
Burial PlaceWillingdon, AB
MemoBorowich Cemetary
Emigration19 May 1899, age: 1
Emig Placecame to Canada
FatherStefan SHEWCHUK (14 Dec 1854-1923)
MotherAnastasia FEDORAK (2 Apr 1859-1938)
OccupationFarmer, Two Hills County Council Member
EducationGrade 5, Borowich School
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
SpouseChristina HUCULAK (3 Jul 1903-26 Jun 1985)
Birth3 Jul 1903
Birth PlaceWhitford, AB
Death26 Jun 1985, age: 81
Death PlaceEdmonton, AB
Burial3 Jul 1985
Burial PlaceWillingdon, AB
MemoBorowich Cemetary,
FatherSemion HUCULAK
MotherKatrina BALONKO
OccupationHome Maker
EducationGrade 5, One room school house, Shandro School, County of Two Hills, Alberta
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
Marriage25 Jul 1920
Marr PlaceShandro, AB
MemoSt. Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church
ChildrenKatie (Kathleen) (1934-)
Stefan (Steve) M. (1925-)
Paul M. (1931-2014)
Nastasia (Nettie) (1922-)
Elena (Eleanor) (1924-)
Wasylena (Lena) (1929-2005)
Vasylena (Died as Child) (1921-1927)
(3) 1.1.1 Katie (Kathleen) SHEWCHUK
Birth25 Jun 1934, age: 88
Birth PlaceWillingdon, AB
Memo@ home, on farm
FatherMECHAILO (Michael, Mike) SHEWCHUK (19 May 1898-24 Aug 1980)
MotherChristina HUCULAK (3 Jul 1903-26 Jun 1985)
OccupationSecretary, Home Maker
Education12 grade
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
DegreeMcTavish Business College, Edmonton (1952)
Married NameHuculak
SpouseJohn HUCULAK (20 Dec 1933-16 Feb 1998)
Birth20 Dec 1933
Birth PlaceShalka, Two Hills, AB
Memo33-08-410629
Death16 Feb 1998, age: 64
Death PlaceEdmonton, AB
Burial19 Feb 1998
Burial PlaceEdmonton, AB
MemoCremation remains @ home of Kathleen Huculak
FatherJohn HUCULAK (16 Dec 1904-26 Jan 1974)
MotherAnnie DARDA (1907-1960)
OccupationFInishing Carpenter - owned his own business
Education8th grade, Deep Lake School (one room)
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
Johnny was born on December 20, 1933 near Willingdon, Alberta on the homestead of his parent’s John and Annie Huculak. In his youth he attended Deep Lake School, a one-room schoolhouse, with his brother’s Metro and George and his sister Doris. John had many fond memories of the games and tricks they played on each other on those long 3 mile walks back and forth to school. As Johnny tells the story, the walk was uphill both ways. After completing the 8th grade, John’s education continued with life experiences of travel, working in logging camps and construction.
John met Kathleen in 1952 where shortly thereafter Kathleen followed him to Edmonton, where as Kathleens versions is opposite. John and Kathleen were engaged in 1955 and married June 16, 1956. For eight years they travelled extensively and enjoyed each other. Their lives changed forever in 1964 with the birth of their first child, Brian. Their first of two daughters Lee-Ann arrived in 1966 and Sherri in 1969.
John worked hard to provide for his family. His love of woodwork enabled him to eventually fulfil one of his dreams , opening his own business. Many friends and life long relationships developed over the course of his career.
John’s greatest pleasures were attained by spending time with family and friends, as exemplified by the birth and time he spent with his first grandchild Alesia Gwyn. The love and attention John gave to all his family and friends symbolizes the essence of his life.
John is survived by his loving wife kathleen; son Brian; two daughters, Lee-Ann and husband Berry Emment, Sherri and fiance David Macki, and the apple of his eye, Granddaughter Alesia Gwyn Emment ; one sister Doris Davie and one brother George and wife Ricky. He was predeceased by his brother Metro and parents John and Annie.
John met Kathleen in 1952 where shortly thereafter Kathleen followed him to Edmonton, where as Kathleens versions is opposite. John and Kathleen were engaged in 1955 and married June 16, 1956. For eight years they travelled extensively and enjoyed each other. Their lives changed forever in 1964 with the birth of their first child, Brian. Their first of two daughters Lee-Ann arrived in 1966 and Sherri in 1969.
John worked hard to provide for his family. His love of woodwork enabled him to eventually fulfil one of his dreams , opening his own business. Many friends and life long relationships developed over the course of his career.
John’s greatest pleasures were attained by spending time with family and friends, as exemplified by the birth and time he spent with his first grandchild Alesia Gwyn. The love and attention John gave to all his family and friends symbolizes the essence of his life.
John is survived by his loving wife kathleen; son Brian; two daughters, Lee-Ann and husband Berry Emment, Sherri and fiance David Macki, and the apple of his eye, Granddaughter Alesia Gwyn Emment ; one sister Doris Davie and one brother George and wife Ricky. He was predeceased by his brother Metro and parents John and Annie.
Remberences of John Huculak
by Pearl Murray, Feb 1998
---------
My recollections of John Huculak dwell mostly on his young life at the farm and on our experiences at Deep Lake School. Johnny, as we called him in those days, came to my attention when he was a preschooler. My brothers and sisters and I, also children from farms on the North of us passed the Huculak home on our way to school. His siblings Doris (Dora), Metro and George often joined our group as wel took short cuts to school through the Huculak and Yurko fields before we reached the road allowance where we headed West another mile before we reached our destinations. The school was a one-room country school accommodating eight grades taught by one teacher. Enrollment at the school fluctuated between thirty and fifty students.
I recall one autumn afternoon as we returned from school, John’s parents were digging potatoes. John’s father called us to the potato patch where beside the strewn potatoes, was a pit of smoldering embers. John’s father smiled at us with the usual twinkle in his eyes and quickly dug into the embers to retrieve a number of roasted potatoes. The ashes were wiped clean and a potato offered to each child. It was a most kindly gesture, I thought, as we were always hungry after the long trek from school. As well, the unusual method used to cook the vegetables made me curious. The potatoes were delicious ! Another time as we passed by their farmhouse, John’s mother offered us a fresh cabbage from here garden. The cabbage was quickly shared and completely devoured by the time we reached our own home !
John began school in grade one, when I was already in the upper grades. After my eighth graded I attended high school in Hairy Hill which was the nearest town to our homes. The was had just ended leaving a desperate shortage of teachers so I answered the call and took one year of teacher training to help fill the need. This resulted in my return to Deep Lake School as a teenage teacher where I renewed my acquaintance with John who now was in the upper grades. With his older brother George, they crossed the fields alone. A teacherage near the schoolhouse was my place of abode.
The quite and gentle manner John possessed appealed to me. He seemed aware of the need for cooperating with the young inexperienced teacher whom he remembered as a neighbour and former fellow student. I do not recall a single instance when John needed reprimanding for discipline. School work seemed a challenge at times, but he did his best. Recess was a favorite time; especially when I participated in softball games, running races and sledding in the winter. When the teacher crashed into a snow bank with the children on the sled spilling on top and around her, the experience was relished and recounted to his family many years later.
Our homestead was immediatley north of the Huculak farm, intersecting in the middle of a large slough with the Hunchak and Shukaliak farms. During the winters when the snowfall was not deep, we used grain shovels to clear a small rink where we tried out our home-made skates.
In the 1940s small farmers lives were a struggle. Like most people in the area John’s parents carried on with courage and hope in spite of financial difficulties. Misfortune hit the family when John’s oldest brother Metro who was in his early twenties died of polio. Their mother Annie was extremely saddened and devastated especially since she was refused to view her son and say good-bye. The coffin was sealed. This affected her health thereafter and she too died prematurely a few years later. His father, also named John was saddened but continued to encourage his two remaining sons.
After two years of teaching at Deep Lake School, the Two Hills School District notified us that school buses would transport children to town schools. Deep Lake School was closed forever. I was transferred to a country school near Derwent and eventually to other schools. I married and moved to Montreal and later to Winnipeg.
For several years I lost touch with the Huculak family. However, after our return to Edmonton, I had heard through the grapevine that John had married, had a construction company and was doing well. The news made my heart glad. To know that John had succeeded after his humble beginnings was most gratifying.
While in Edmonton we occassionally met in the country church at Ispas for special celebrations to remember members of our two families who were buried in that cemetary. I was always glad to see John and to meet his lovely wife Kathleen as well as their young family.
The news of John saying his last good-bye was shocking indeed. Kathleen told me that his first and only grandchild was a joy and blessing to him during his last weeks of discomfort. He loved his family dearly.
As my thoughts drift back to John’s early life in the Deep Lake Community, his caring parents and kindly demeanor, his struggle to achieve, his ultimate success and the love and care for his family, I feel a special bond. The loving God he first learned about at the summer Bible schools in the Deep Lake Community needs him now. We’ll accept that as we remember him with tender fondness.
-----------
by Pearl Murray, Feb 1998
---------
My recollections of John Huculak dwell mostly on his young life at the farm and on our experiences at Deep Lake School. Johnny, as we called him in those days, came to my attention when he was a preschooler. My brothers and sisters and I, also children from farms on the North of us passed the Huculak home on our way to school. His siblings Doris (Dora), Metro and George often joined our group as wel took short cuts to school through the Huculak and Yurko fields before we reached the road allowance where we headed West another mile before we reached our destinations. The school was a one-room country school accommodating eight grades taught by one teacher. Enrollment at the school fluctuated between thirty and fifty students.
I recall one autumn afternoon as we returned from school, John’s parents were digging potatoes. John’s father called us to the potato patch where beside the strewn potatoes, was a pit of smoldering embers. John’s father smiled at us with the usual twinkle in his eyes and quickly dug into the embers to retrieve a number of roasted potatoes. The ashes were wiped clean and a potato offered to each child. It was a most kindly gesture, I thought, as we were always hungry after the long trek from school. As well, the unusual method used to cook the vegetables made me curious. The potatoes were delicious ! Another time as we passed by their farmhouse, John’s mother offered us a fresh cabbage from here garden. The cabbage was quickly shared and completely devoured by the time we reached our own home !
John began school in grade one, when I was already in the upper grades. After my eighth graded I attended high school in Hairy Hill which was the nearest town to our homes. The was had just ended leaving a desperate shortage of teachers so I answered the call and took one year of teacher training to help fill the need. This resulted in my return to Deep Lake School as a teenage teacher where I renewed my acquaintance with John who now was in the upper grades. With his older brother George, they crossed the fields alone. A teacherage near the schoolhouse was my place of abode.
The quite and gentle manner John possessed appealed to me. He seemed aware of the need for cooperating with the young inexperienced teacher whom he remembered as a neighbour and former fellow student. I do not recall a single instance when John needed reprimanding for discipline. School work seemed a challenge at times, but he did his best. Recess was a favorite time; especially when I participated in softball games, running races and sledding in the winter. When the teacher crashed into a snow bank with the children on the sled spilling on top and around her, the experience was relished and recounted to his family many years later.
Our homestead was immediatley north of the Huculak farm, intersecting in the middle of a large slough with the Hunchak and Shukaliak farms. During the winters when the snowfall was not deep, we used grain shovels to clear a small rink where we tried out our home-made skates.
In the 1940s small farmers lives were a struggle. Like most people in the area John’s parents carried on with courage and hope in spite of financial difficulties. Misfortune hit the family when John’s oldest brother Metro who was in his early twenties died of polio. Their mother Annie was extremely saddened and devastated especially since she was refused to view her son and say good-bye. The coffin was sealed. This affected her health thereafter and she too died prematurely a few years later. His father, also named John was saddened but continued to encourage his two remaining sons.
After two years of teaching at Deep Lake School, the Two Hills School District notified us that school buses would transport children to town schools. Deep Lake School was closed forever. I was transferred to a country school near Derwent and eventually to other schools. I married and moved to Montreal and later to Winnipeg.
For several years I lost touch with the Huculak family. However, after our return to Edmonton, I had heard through the grapevine that John had married, had a construction company and was doing well. The news made my heart glad. To know that John had succeeded after his humble beginnings was most gratifying.
While in Edmonton we occassionally met in the country church at Ispas for special celebrations to remember members of our two families who were buried in that cemetary. I was always glad to see John and to meet his lovely wife Kathleen as well as their young family.
The news of John saying his last good-bye was shocking indeed. Kathleen told me that his first and only grandchild was a joy and blessing to him during his last weeks of discomfort. He loved his family dearly.
As my thoughts drift back to John’s early life in the Deep Lake Community, his caring parents and kindly demeanor, his struggle to achieve, his ultimate success and the love and care for his family, I feel a special bond. The loving God he first learned about at the summer Bible schools in the Deep Lake Community needs him now. We’ll accept that as we remember him with tender fondness.
-----------
Marriage16 Jun 1956
Marr PlaceWillingdon Alberta, Orthodox Church
Engagement25 Dec 1955
Engage PlaceEdmonton, AB
Birth21 May 1964, age: 58
Birth PlaceEdmonton, AB
MemoUniversity Hospital
GraduationJun 1982, age: 18
Grad PlaceRoss Shephard Composite HS
MemoEdmonton, AB, CDN
GraduationJun 1987, age: 23
Grad PlaceUtah State University, BLA
MemoLogan, UT, USA
Professional AffiliationsAug 1990, age: 26
ProAff PlaceBCSLA Registration, Vancouver, BC
MemoRegistered Landscape Architect, British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects
Emigration2002, age: 37
Emig PlaceSweet Grass Montana - Coutts Alberta - Denver Bound
MemoMoved to U.S. with I-94 visa bound for Denver Colorado
FatherJohn HUCULAK (20 Dec 1933-16 Feb 1998)
MotherKatie (Kathleen) SHEWCHUK (25 Jun 1934-)
OccupationLandscape Architect
EducationHighschool, Technical School, University
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
DegreeBLA, Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Eye colorHazel
Hair colorBrown
Height5’ 10”
Brian is God Father to Catherine Maze, daughter of David and Helen Maze of Lethbridge Alberta.
The friendship shared between Dave & Brian since highschool continued it’s development when Brian was best man at Dave & Helen’s wedding and continued with his acceptance as God Father to Catherine Maze, daughter of Dave & Helen Maze.
Brian is God Father to Benjamin Macki, daughter of David Macki & Sherri (Huculak) Macki
The friendship shared between Dave & Brian since highschool continued it’s development when Brian was best man at Dave & Helen’s wedding and continued with his acceptance as God Father to Catherine Maze, daughter of Dave & Helen Maze.
Brian is God Father to Benjamin Macki, daughter of David Macki & Sherri (Huculak) Macki
Education: Graduated from Ross Shephard Composite Highschool, Edmonton Alberta, in 1982. Attended Northern Alberta Instutite of Technology (NAIT), Landscape Architectural Technology, 2 year program. Prior to graduation @ NAIT was accepted to Utah State University and accepted a job in Orem Utan as a Landscape Architectural technician with Robert G. Scott (former NAIT instructor).
While he did not graduate from NAIT (accepted job prior to graduation) Brian as granted enrollment @ USU in the LAEP (landscape architectural & enviromental planning) program. Based on work experience, highschool grades and course work completed @ NAIT he was granted one year credit. As such, the 4 year, bachelor of landscape architecture program was completed in three years.
Subsequent education after graduation included on the job experience for preparation to write the British Columbia of Landscape Architects (B.C.S.L.A.) Liscencing Examinations. This exam process required two years work experience prior to writing the 7 separate pre exams and final oral exam. Six of seven pre-exams were passed in the first year, the design exam was passed in the second attempt the following year. The final oral examination was passed that same year and a registered seal was granted in 1990, liscence # 185.
The introduction of computers into the practice of landscape architecture saw Brian continue his post graduation education by attending an advanced Macintosh training session in Winnipeg Manitoba with Mr. Lloyd Evoy of Evoy & Associates. This training supplemented countless hours of personal, self taught techniques which has lead to his providing Computer Consulting, Graphics and data base development in addition to traditional landscape architectural skill sets and services.
While he did not graduate from NAIT (accepted job prior to graduation) Brian as granted enrollment @ USU in the LAEP (landscape architectural & enviromental planning) program. Based on work experience, highschool grades and course work completed @ NAIT he was granted one year credit. As such, the 4 year, bachelor of landscape architecture program was completed in three years.
Subsequent education after graduation included on the job experience for preparation to write the British Columbia of Landscape Architects (B.C.S.L.A.) Liscencing Examinations. This exam process required two years work experience prior to writing the 7 separate pre exams and final oral exam. Six of seven pre-exams were passed in the first year, the design exam was passed in the second attempt the following year. The final oral examination was passed that same year and a registered seal was granted in 1990, liscence # 185.
The introduction of computers into the practice of landscape architecture saw Brian continue his post graduation education by attending an advanced Macintosh training session in Winnipeg Manitoba with Mr. Lloyd Evoy of Evoy & Associates. This training supplemented countless hours of personal, self taught techniques which has lead to his providing Computer Consulting, Graphics and data base development in addition to traditional landscape architectural skill sets and services.
SpousePaula Lynne ROSSON (26 Oct 1966-)
Birth26 Oct 1966, age: 56
Birth PlaceWürtzburg, Germany
FatherPaul HEMANN
MotherLinda BIRINGER
OccupationCPA
Married NameRosson
EducationMAcc
Marriage10 May 2003
Marr PlaceMorraine Park, RMNP, CO
Memo10” of Snow!
Engagement29 Mar 2003
Engage PlaceKansas City, Missouri
(4) 1.1.1.2 Lee-Ann Christine HUCULAK
Birth23 May 1966, age: 56
Birth PlaceEdmonton, AB
MemoUniversity Hospital
Grad PlaceRoss Shephard Composite HS
MemoEdmonton, AB
FatherJohn HUCULAK (20 Dec 1933-16 Feb 1998)
MotherKatie (Kathleen) SHEWCHUK (25 Jun 1934-)
OccupationRetail Store Manager
Married NameEmment
EducationHighschool Graduate
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
SpouseBarry EMMENT (15 Oct 1964-)
Birth15 Oct 1964, age: 58
Birth PlacePlymouth, England
FatherGwyn EMMENT
MotherFaye
OccupationCars Salesman / Manager
Marriage13 Aug 1994
Marr PlaceEdmonton, AB
ChildrenAlesia Gwyn (1997-)
Garreth John (2002-)
(5) 1.1.1.2.1 Alesia Gwyn EMMENT
Birth26 Oct 1997, age: 25
Birth PlaceCalgary, AB
FatherBarry EMMENT (15 Oct 1964-)
MotherLee-Ann Christine HUCULAK (23 May 1966-)
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
God Mother = Sherri Huculak
God Father =
God Father =
(5) 1.1.1.2.2 Garreth John EMMENT
Birth29 Apr 2002, age: 20
Birth PlaceEdmonton, AB
FatherBarry EMMENT (15 Oct 1964-)
MotherLee-Ann Christine HUCULAK (23 May 1966-)
(4) 1.1.1.3 Sherri Lynn-Jo HUCULAK
Birth19 Apr 1969, age: 53
Birth PlaceEdmonton, AB
Grad PlaceRoss Shephard Composite HS
MemoEdmonton, AB
FatherJohn HUCULAK (20 Dec 1933-16 Feb 1998)
MotherKatie (Kathleen) SHEWCHUK (25 Jun 1934-)
EducationHighschool Diploma
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
Married NameMacki
SpouseDavid Francis MACKI BSc, MEng (14 Oct 1965-)
Birth14 Oct 1965, age: 57
Birth PlaceLos Almos, New Mexico, USA
Emigration1 Jan 1966, age: <1
MemoFrom USA to Canada
FatherJack MACKI
MotherAudrey KITOSKI
OccupationElectrical engineer
EducationNAIT, U of A, Queens Univ.
ReligionCatholic
Marriage3 Oct 1998
Marr PlaceEdmonton, AB
MemoFort Edmonto Park, St. Micheal’s Anglical Church
Engagement30 Aug 1997
Engage PlaceEdmonton, AB
ChildrenBenjamin John William (2002-)
(5) 1.1.1.3.1 Benjamin John William MACKI
Birth28 Oct 2002, age: 20
Birth PlaceOttawa, ON
FatherDavid Francis MACKI BSc, MEng (14 Oct 1965-)
MotherSherri Lynn-Jo HUCULAK (19 Apr 1969-)
(3) 1.1.2 Stefan (Steve) M. SHEWCHUK
Birth5 Mar 1925, age: 97
Birth PlaceDesjarlais, AB
FatherMECHAILO (Michael, Mike) SHEWCHUK (19 May 1898-24 Aug 1980)
MotherChristina HUCULAK (3 Jul 1903-26 Jun 1985)
OccupationDiesal Technican, and Transport Canada Representative
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
Back To The Homeland: Visiting Georgi’s Family in the Ukraine
By Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk (November 2003)
History shows Stefan Shewchuk had two brothers, Petro and Georgi. Stefan and Petro emigrated to Canada with their families with Georgi and his family remaining in the homeland, the Ukraine. Georgi’s son, Sando, came to Canada in 1929 but returned to the Ukraine the following year (1930). The only other contact between these families was by mail which took weeks and often months to make the trip across the ocean.
Georgi’s son, Michalio and his wife Elena, wrote regularly to Petro’s son Georgi and to Sefan’s son Michael (Mike) in Canada. When Michalio passed away, wife Elena continued the correspondence, writing to Mike (until his passing in 1980), Nettie (Shewchuk) Megley and Steve M. Shewchuk to this day.
The first visit by a Canadian of Shewchuk ancestry to the Shewchuk relatives in the Ukraine came in 1959. During her studies in Kiev, Ukraine, Sylvia Shewchuk, daughter of Andy Shewchuk and granddaughter of Petro Shewchuk, made a point of visiting many relatives in Borivsti. After Sylvia’s marriage to Ted Gestiv, they made many additional visits. One such visit, along with the daughter Julie, was in 1995 and is shown in the accompanying photographs.
Nick and Lena (Shewchuk) Ewoniak were the second Canadian Shewchuk’s to visit the homeland relatives. Nick and Lena tell the story of their having lunch in Vasyl Shewchuk and his daughter Maria (Shewchuk) Stasiuk’s home. Vasly also talked about his Siamese twin sons (Georgi and Sando) who had been successfully separated. Photos here show the young boys standing next to their mother’s coffin (Maria (Fedirchuk) Shewcuk).
The third visit from Canadian Shewchuk’s to homeland relatives came in 1983 when Metro and Nettie (Shewchuk) Megley visited Elena (Kuzik) Shewchuk, her son Demetro and his wife Ohilia. Photos here show their visit.
Stefan (Steve) M Shewchuk was the most recent Canadian Shewchuk ancestor to visit homeland relatives in 2000. This included visits with Elena Shewchuk who had corresponded regularly with his father Mike Shewchuk and family. Photos here also show Sando Shewchuk and family including Sando Jr. who has taken his mother’s maiden name of Krevulich.
It’s hopeful this information will be useful to anyone visiting the Ukraine in the future who wishes to contact family members in the homeland.
By Stefan (Steve) M. Shewchuk (November 2003)
History shows Stefan Shewchuk had two brothers, Petro and Georgi. Stefan and Petro emigrated to Canada with their families with Georgi and his family remaining in the homeland, the Ukraine. Georgi’s son, Sando, came to Canada in 1929 but returned to the Ukraine the following year (1930). The only other contact between these families was by mail which took weeks and often months to make the trip across the ocean.
Georgi’s son, Michalio and his wife Elena, wrote regularly to Petro’s son Georgi and to Sefan’s son Michael (Mike) in Canada. When Michalio passed away, wife Elena continued the correspondence, writing to Mike (until his passing in 1980), Nettie (Shewchuk) Megley and Steve M. Shewchuk to this day.
The first visit by a Canadian of Shewchuk ancestry to the Shewchuk relatives in the Ukraine came in 1959. During her studies in Kiev, Ukraine, Sylvia Shewchuk, daughter of Andy Shewchuk and granddaughter of Petro Shewchuk, made a point of visiting many relatives in Borivsti. After Sylvia’s marriage to Ted Gestiv, they made many additional visits. One such visit, along with the daughter Julie, was in 1995 and is shown in the accompanying photographs.
Nick and Lena (Shewchuk) Ewoniak were the second Canadian Shewchuk’s to visit the homeland relatives. Nick and Lena tell the story of their having lunch in Vasyl Shewchuk and his daughter Maria (Shewchuk) Stasiuk’s home. Vasly also talked about his Siamese twin sons (Georgi and Sando) who had been successfully separated. Photos here show the young boys standing next to their mother’s coffin (Maria (Fedirchuk) Shewcuk).
The third visit from Canadian Shewchuk’s to homeland relatives came in 1983 when Metro and Nettie (Shewchuk) Megley visited Elena (Kuzik) Shewchuk, her son Demetro and his wife Ohilia. Photos here show their visit.
Stefan (Steve) M Shewchuk was the most recent Canadian Shewchuk ancestor to visit homeland relatives in 2000. This included visits with Elena Shewchuk who had corresponded regularly with his father Mike Shewchuk and family. Photos here also show Sando Shewchuk and family including Sando Jr. who has taken his mother’s maiden name of Krevulich.
It’s hopeful this information will be useful to anyone visiting the Ukraine in the future who wishes to contact family members in the homeland.
SpouseSanda (Sadie) SEMENIUK (5 Oct 1924-18 Jun 2003)
Birth5 Oct 1924
Birth PlaceKahwin, AB
Death18 Jun 2003, age: 78
Death PlaceEdmonton, AB
FatherStefan (Steve) SEMENIUK
MotherDomka CEBULAK
OccupationHome Maker
Marriage24 Sep 1949
Marr PlaceSmoky Lake, AB
MemoUkranian Greek Orthodox Church
(4) 1.1.2.1a Robben SHEWCHUK*
Birth31 Mar 1950, age: 72
Birth PlaceTwo Hills, AB
FatherStefan (Steve) M. SHEWCHUK (5 Mar 1925-)
MotherSanda (Sadie) SEMENIUK (5 Oct 1924-18 Jun 2003)
OccupationNurses Aid
Married NameStappard
Married NameMesluk
SpouseJim STAPPARD
Other spouses: Benjamin MESLUK
SpouseBenjamin MESLUK (18 Feb 1952-)
Birth18 Feb 1952, age: 70
Birth PlaceTrail, BC
FatherWilliam George MESLUK
MotherHelen Mary MAKEIFF
OccupationSteel Fabricator
Marriage10 May 1981
Marr PlaceKamloops, BC
MemoAnglican Church
Other spouses: Jim STAPPARD
(5) 1.1.2.1b.1 Mathew MESLUK
Birth24 Nov 1982, age: 40
Birth PlaceKamloops, BC
FatherBenjamin MESLUK (18 Feb 1952-)
MotherRobben SHEWCHUK (31 Mar 1950-)
(5) 1.1.2.1b.2 Amanda MESLUK
Birth19 Jul 1986, age: 36
Birth PlaceKamloops, BC
FatherBenjamin MESLUK (18 Feb 1952-)
MotherRobben SHEWCHUK (31 Mar 1950-)
(4) 1.1.2.2a Karyn SHEWCHUK*
Birth16 Sep 1953, age: 69
Birth PlaceEdmonton, AB
FatherStefan (Steve) M. SHEWCHUK (5 Mar 1925-)
MotherSanda (Sadie) SEMENIUK (5 Oct 1924-18 Jun 2003)
OccupationTravel Agent
Married NameGora
ReligionUkranian Greek Orthodox
SpouseKen GORA
Other spouses: Larry TRUSCOTT