It is with profound sadness we have to announce the passing of Orest Motkaluk, a beloved partner, Dad, Big brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, Godfather, friend and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.
Orest was born on April 9, 1963 in Kenora, Ontario to Paul and Sonia Motkaluk. He grew up spending a lot of time with his Dad visiting and eventually working on the diamond drill machines his Dad operated. At one time in his life he thought he would make that his career. The world of auto mechanics called his name, and he became a Red Seal mechanic. He spent over 30 years at Kantola Motors becoming a well respected mechanic. When the dealership changed hands, Orest felt he also needed a change. He had spent the last 6 years, at Best Way Rentals, learning the Kubota ways.
Orest had many passions besides auto mechanics, rock music at loud volumes, going to the farm to help his cousins Barry and Kelly with fall harvest, boating on the lake, summer Sunday drives in the Trans Am to Sioux Narrows or wherever the road took him, and of course Bacardi Rum, proven by his Bacardi Bat tattoo.
He was so happy when Marie told him they were going to become parents. As Christopher grew up, Or made sure to spend time with his son giving him childhood memories to last a lifetime. Orest instilled in his son, the strong work ethic that his Dad instilled in him. He and Christopher had many great adventures together, mountain biking in Whistler, week long kayaking on Lake of the Woods, quick turn around trips to Winnipeg for rock concerts getting home at 2AM and going to work on time. Working together Saturday mornings at CJ Edwards & Son, and just hanging out bonding over American Vintage and Bacardi Rum.
Orest was lucky enough to catch the attention of Melany, despite his scruffy beard. They did long distance dating until Melany decided to move to Kenora and be with him full time. They purchased a home and were to be married July 20th this year, with a second ceremony in the Phillipines, which he was so looking forward to. Their love and devotion to each other was immeasurable.
Orest will be deeply missed by his fiance Melany Almosara, his son Christopher (Valerie), his sisters Sandy and Lisa, nephews Ben and Kyle, numerous Aunts, Uncles, cousins, Melany’s family and of course his Sunday morning coffee buddies Frank and Lesa.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 23, 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, followed by a funeral service at 12:00pm with Pastor Daren Gallivan officiating with cremation to follow. There will be a luncheon following the service at Best Way Rentals from 1:00-3:00pm.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital Cardiac Care or Heart & Stroke Foundation, greatly appreciated.