John Olekszyk

It is with profound sadness that the family of John Olekszyk announces his peaceful passing on November 3, 2025, at the age 85, following a struggle with cancer.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 28 years Barbara, his children Paul (Sherri), Andrew (Jennifer), Douglas, Joanne (Eric), Stepchildren Shane, Brent, Theresa (Ashley), 7 grandchildren -Brigitte, Braeden, Ryan, Matthew, Nash, Andrew, and Tobias, his sister, Sister MaryAnne, his ex-wife Linda, and his little Goldendoodle Maggie.

He was predeceased by his parents Donald and Mary Olekszyk.

John was born near Bonnyville in Dec 1939 and grew up with his sister on the family farm near Ardmore. After graduating from high school, he took a year of engineering at the U of A, but decided chemistry was his passion. He graduated from SAIT as a Laboratory Chemical Technician, worked at Surgical Medical Research for 1 year, then got a job at the U of A Chemistry Department in mass spectrometry, where he worked for 30 years, retiring in 1994.

After retiring, he enjoyed a variety of adventures. He drove a school bus for 8 years, helped his friend on the farm with harvesting each fall, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, St. Vincent De Paul, and the Marian Centre.

John enjoyed gardening, golfing, curling, watching hockey and football. He was an avid Edmonton Eskimo/Elk fan since 1953. He loved to travel, doing many road trips, camping, cruises and trips to Hawaii. He also loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and other family members, friends and neighbours.

Funeral Mass
Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 12:30 pm
Holy Family Parish
75 Poirier Ave St. Albert

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Foyer Lacombe St. Albert, or the Hope Mission.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the St. Albert Palliative Care team, Dr. Doug MacIver, and the staff at Foyer Lacombe for their wonderful care and compassion.