Orest Charko, a cherished husband and grandfather passed away on Sunday, November 28, 2021, after a long struggle with cancer and COPD at the QEII Hospital in Grande Prairie, AB, at the age of 74 years.

Orest was the third oldest of 6 kids, and grew up on a farm near Redberry Lake, SK, graduating high school in Borden, SK. He was a natural athlete, a hard worker and had a firm sense of right and wrong. His brother in-law Clarence, helped him start his trade in plumbing/gasfitting that took him and his family to live in various places across western Canada, such as Vernon, BC, Hinton, AB, Jasper, AB, McLennan, AB, Lloydminster, AB, and finally Grande Prairie. He finished his working career as a 3rd class power (steam) engineer at Weyerhaeuser Canada in 2008.

When not working, Orest enjoyed boating, fishing, camping, curling and coaching minor hockey. Later in life, he took pleasure in gardening, friendships and travelling, but his favourite place to be was spending time at his lake lot at Cozy Cove on Sturgeon Lake. As an avid sports fan, he was fiercely loyal to the Saskatchewan Roughriders to the point of buying ownership shares, and a staunch Edmonton Oilers supporter. He was always cheering and watching his grandkid's hockey activities till the end.

Like a fine wine, Orest improved with age and passed away with much dignity and humbleness. He will be terribly missed. May your soul be at rest, Orest you are free of pain now, until we meet again.

Orest is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 26 years Cathy Charko; children Randy (Tammy) and Quinton (Melissa) Charko; grandchildren: Jacob, Kate, Grace, Samuel, Sierra and Hunter Charko. Orest also leaves behind his treasured sisters: Zan Schimnosky, Diann (Clarence) Elliot, Evangie (Richard) Michalenko; as well as a multitude of beloved nieces and nephews.

Orest was predeceased by his parents Walter and Tillie Charko; twin brother Lawerence and brother Gary Charko; as well as nephew Jason Schimnosky.

His wishes were to be cremated with his ashes to be spread at his favorite spot, and for there to be a Celebration of Life at that time.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Canadian Lung Association (502-885 Meadowlands Drive, Ottawa, ON, K2C 3N2).