Terry Zilinski 28/11/1945 - 5/11/2021
The fish can relax, the “fish whisperer” has retired his rod…
Surrounded by loving family in his last days, Terry passed away peacefully at home.
Terry is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diane, sons Daniel (Amy) and Chris, grandchildren Evelyn, Christianna, Shaun and Alex, siblings Annette, John (Louise), Jim (Valerie), Tom (Brenda), David (Beth) and Cathy (Mike), brother-in-law Jerry, and many nieces and nephews. Terry was predeceased by his parents, John and Ivy Zilinski (Hendy), infant brother Randy, parent in-laws Hector and Helen Pedneault, and sister-in-law Michelle.
Born and raised in the “deep north” (Kenora, Keewatin), Terry’s love of the outdoors was only surpassed by his love of family and friends. Apart from fishing, Terry spent many a day out hunting with his son and close companion, Chris. He was an avid member of the Lake of the Woods Aeromodelers Club and, in earlier years, the Kenora Golf & Country Club. Professionally he wore many hats: he was a water distribution foreman for the Town of Kenora for 30 years, followed by positions at Parkland Plumbing, Kipper Mechanical, and for the last 20 years, Terry had his dream job as a guest fishing guide at Maynard Lake Lodge - his summer family - where he created close, lasting friendships with many.
Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2019, his journey in his last years was one of ups and downs. Terry enjoyed his trip to Edmonton last August, chatting with Dan, admiring his grandsons, and watching the Olympics with Amy. Terry was able to fish with his son, Chris, up until 1 month ago, as pictured below.
Diane and her family wishes to sincerely thank all those who provided support during Terry’s treatment.
Donations and offers from family and friends allowed Terry to extend his life by receiving stem cell treatment in Ottawa. Terry received excellent care from many health professionals, especially Dr. Laferiere, Dr. Anthes, Alexis and Emmerson, and chemotherapy staff Stephanie, Candice and Tina. Thanks also to James Beveridge, who offered guidance in Terry’s final days. Special thanks to his brother Johnny, his “Uber driver” for his trips to Thunder Bay for treatment, to close friend Donna who was always there, and to the Pedneault family who offered so much support, especially Kathy Hayberg.
Terry was blessed to be able to say goodbye to the many family and friends who gathered from near and far to support him in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, Diane thankfully requests donations to the Cancer Ward of the Lake of the Woods District Hospital.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Requiem For a Fisherman By: Jeff Wright
A quiet troll across the lake Its surface still and mirrored The moisture in the air so thick As morning sun appears The line is whipped with deft finesse It sails with graceful ease Near reeds exposed, and tangled roots Just missing willowed trees The first bite starts the tingled thrill All time is stopped in place No sound or movement, not a breath This single-focused face A stronger tug, the pole is flicked The hook so cleanly set The game goes on with line kept tight The prize steered toward the net The feeling of accomplishment It saturates your soul Where skill and silent patience Are the answer to the goal You may not get another bite For hours through the day But Nature's sweet serenity Is often why you stay There comes that day for all the best The fishing's done at last The final time you tie a hook The final spinning cast But Lord, we hope a lake exists In Heaven's grand design Where once again you'll feel the thrill Of tugging on your line
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Zilinski family.