Mr. Peter Bondarenko, resident of Sexsmith, AB, passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2016, at Points West Hospice in Grande Prairie, AB, at the age of 82 years.

Peter was born in Sexsmith on June 26, 1934. He married Rita Julia Harback in July, 1976.

He will be remembered for his love of gardening, including far more beautiful flowers than many other women’s yards. His cherry, plumb, apple, pear, pine and spruce trees displayed his pride.

Peter loved children, although he had none. He was always so excited when any kids came over whether they were nephews, nieces, or neighbour’s kids. When we were kids, he spent countless hours taking us to see his garden, yard, ducks and crops and explaining everything to us, teaching us to love the beauty and learn the true value of nature.

He also loved fishing, hunting, and music. He learned to play every instrument he put his hands on. He played violin, guitar, accordion, organ, harmonica and, years ago, the banjo.

If we had to choose one word to describe Peter, it would be “strong”. Whatever situation came up in life, he faced it with courage and determination and made the best of it. He was never one to complain or spend time feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he had a positive attitude and a great sense of humour. Surely it was those two attributes that helped him through many difficult hurdles and helped his family deal with the sadness of seeing him grow old and feeble. No matter if we saw him recently, or hadn’t seen him for a while, and didn’t know how sick he was, when we asked how he was dong, his answer was always the same: “Pretty good”.

Peter is survived by his sisters: Agnes (John) Smichura and Marigold (Bob) Gorgichuk; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife Rita; brothers and sisters: Olga Reynolds, Annie Hoy, Alex Kabanuk, Edward Kabanuk, Lily Johnson, Henry Kabanuk, Martha Irvine, Sarah Parsons, and Elma Gordey.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2016, at 1:00pm, at Oliver’s Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave.).

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.