MIKULIAK
Orris William Mikuliak passed away peacefully at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital in Moose Jaw, SK, on Monday, July 21st, 2025, at the age of 85 years.
Orris was born in Moose Jaw on September 29th, 1939 and lived his entire life in the city. He was educated at Westmount Elementary School and Peacock Technical High School. Following high school graduation, Orris began his 35-year career working at Saskatchewan Government Telephones. There he met the love of his life, Gail Rodwell. Orris and Gail married in 1961. They had 2 sons, Brian and David, and spent a large amount of time in auditorium seats or gym bleachers watching their participation in theatre, concerts, and sports teams! Orris had his own athletic pursuits as a pitcher with the Harwoods in the MJ fastball league, a competitive bowler in several leagues, and a golfer. He was also a fan of the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Blue Jays, and Roughriders. He had a variety of musical talents that included drumming and singing. For a brief time, he was also one of Gail’s piano students. He was a meticulous gardener and a constant carrier of tools in case anything needed fixing! Orris also enjoyed many years of family gatherings at Buffalo Pound Lake. Upon retirement, Gail and Orris enjoyed traveling to many places until Gail’s physical difficulties would no longer allow them to do so.
He was predeceased by his wife, Gail; parents, Nick Mikuliak and Helen Berbenik; and brother, John Oparyk. Orris is survived by his sister-in-law, Gwen Gordy; sister-in-law, Wilma Oparyk; sons, Brian (Shauna) and David (Marina); and his four beloved grandchildren: Joel, Makita (Duane), Jalen (Andie), and Mataya. As well, he leaves behind many lifelong friends, of whom he was extremely fond.
Orris was extraordinarily healthy with infrequent minor illnesses and until passing, had never spent a night in hospital. He touched many with his humour and generosity. He was a genuine and caring person who was always a pleasure to be around. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his family, friends, and neighbours.
Sincere thanks to the wonderful hospital staff and first responders, who cared compassionately for Orris and the family in his final hours. Thanks also to Dr. Mark Brown, whose care and friendship over the past 25 years have been so greatly appreciated and valued by our family.
The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 15th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the Zion United Church Sanctuary, 423 Main St N, Moose Jaw, SK. In lieu of flowers, donations in Orris’ memory may be made to support his faith home, Zion United Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com