Laverne "Vern" Alexander Sunduk

September 8, 1954 - August 21, 2024

In loving memory ~

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Laverne "Vern" Alexander Sunduk, who left us on August 21, 2024, at the age of 69 in Norquay, Saskatchewan. Born on September 8, 1954, in Canora, Saskatchewan; Laverne's journey through life was marked by his love for family, boats, strong work-ethic, ingenuity, heritage, and a deep passion for the great outdoors.

Growing up in the rural community of Danbury, Saskatchewan, Laverne cherished his memories of life on the prairies, especially his early memories growing up next door to his best friend (and cousin) Sally Sunduk- with whom he built his very first boat which they launched in his flooded front yard. His early years were filled with adventure, from hunting prairie dogs, to breaking into diners with his teenage friends. At just 16 years old, Laverne followed his cousin Ernie Rostotski's lead and hitched a ride to Prince Rupert, B.C. This is where he began his career as a carpenter's apprentice and began to forge a new life for himself, on the West Coast.

Laverne's career was distinguished by his mastery in various trades, including his roles as a Journeyman Carpenter, Aluminum Fabricator, and Marine Vessel Specialist. His dedication and skills were evident in the notable projects he contributed to across British Columbia, including but by no means limited to: the Alex-Fraser Bridge, the Earl Mah Aquatic Center, the Kitimat Rio-Tinto Alcan Modernization Project, and the Pembina Propane Export Facility. He was also a proud brother to the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, the Carpenter's Union 1735 and the Pile Drivers Union Local 2404. While working alongside these union brothers and sisters, he ran a successful small business, called Skeena Marine Mobile Welding. He made significant contributions to the commercial fishing industry by modifying and repairing fishing boats and completing welding jobs at the local processing plants. Laverne showcased his talents outside of work, as well, by designing and building his family home, constructing his prized jet boat, working on charitable projects, and refurbishing his large ocean vessel, which he took great pleasure in during his retirement.

Beyond his professional achievements, Laverne was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Colleen. He was also a loving and protective father and grandfather to their three children and four grandchildren: Bryce, Lorelle (Mari, Aoife) and Patricia (Roan, Rosie). Vern was an avid outdoorsman. He found joy in fishing and hunting during his free time. He went on many grand adventures; hunting for moose on the Stikine River, fishing trips up the Ecstall River and countless voyages upon the Sea. He spent a great deal of time at Rushbrook docks where he kept his boats and nurtured many friendships. He also loved the open road. He memorably explored the entire western coastline, from Prince Rupert to Mexico and made annual trips back home to Saskatchewan. In the final weeks of his life, he was on holiday with Colleen, visiting with family and exploring Hornby Island and Kimberley B.C. together before making their way to Saskatchewan. True to his Doukhobor roots, Laverne had a passion for charitable projects. On the day he passed, he had been working on the completion of a preservation project at an ancestral Doukhobor cemetery on an old family homestead site near Mikado. His torch has been passed along to local friends and family for the completion of his final legacy project.

Laverne's life was a testament to his hard work, dedication, service, and love for the natural world. He leaves behind a legacy of fine craftsmanship, strong morals, hard work ethic, ingenuity, and a spirit of adventure that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Those left to mourn this tragic loss are his loving wife of nearly 41 years, Colleen Sunduk, their two daughters, Patricia (Patrick) and Lorelle (Nicholas), his son Kalvin (Hong) and his six grandchildren Mari, Bodhi, Roan, Aoife, Zoe, and Rosie. Also left to grieve are his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Laverne was predeceased by his parents George and Annette Sunduk (Saliken); son Bryce; sister Virginia Angelopoulos; and brother Reginald Sunduk.

In his honor, a celebration of his life in Prince Rupert will be held on Sunday, October 20th from 2:00-5:00 PM at the Wheelhouse Brewery Building.

Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Laverne's life and achievements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to his family for the completion of his final project at the Chursinoff Family Cemetery in Mikado, Saskatchewan or to the B.C. Wildlife Federation. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the enduring legacy of his work.

Rest in peace, Vern.

You will be so very deeply missed.

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