WALTER JOHN GRUZAS
1930 – 2020
Walter was born on April 9 1930, in Marijampole Lithuania. He passed away from cancer at home in the early morning hours of June 6 2020.
Walter leaves behind his wife of 68 years Lucija, who he loved with all his heart and soul. Sons Wally (Kristi), Rick (Diana) and Mike (Laurianne). Daughter Sylvia (Guy). Grandchildren Cody, Samantha, Michelle (Lucas) Chris, Andrea & Jenna. Great Grandchildren McKenzie and Harrison. He was a loving and caring son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.
A firm handshake and a warm smile. He would gladly tell stories to anyone fortunate enough to listen. Anecdotes of his childhood memories of family and friends. The good times and the bad. Losing everything to the second world war (as did Mom) and of his coming to Canada as a young man to start a new life.
He enjoyed his early days in Canada working as a miner in Northern Quebec, then as a cowboy in the Alberta Badlands. Later retuning to Montreal, where he met and married Lucija (Mom). While raising a family with his wife he put himself through university to become a technical illustrating supervisor. A diligent hard worker who constantly strived for knowledge.
After a long hard life of work and supporting his family, Mom and Dad retired to Victoria and finally settled on Salt Spring Island.
He loved family, life, people, music, art, wildflowers and birds. Going for long drives on clear, crisp autumn days.
Miss you Dad.
Thank you to all that made Dads life more comfortable towards the end and to his many friends and your kind words.
Please consider donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Lady Minto Hospital.