Alvin William Berkan

Al Berkan

1943 - 2019

It is with great loss that we announce the passing of Al Berkan on June 1, 2019 at the age of 75.

Al was born on June 6, 1943 in Southey Saskatchewan, to Bill and Hulda Berkan.  He grew up on a farm near Raymore, Saskatchewan with his parents and two younger sisters.  Al completed his Bachelor of Commerce Degree from the University of Saskatchewan and received his CA Designation in 1968.

Al was an accountant, but to his clients he was a listening ear.  He was a friend who enjoyed getting together for activities with many different groups of people.  He was a volunteer who spent countless hours contributing to various church committees, Rotary Club and Heritage Manor. 

Al was a husband.  He and Shirley spent 52 wonderful years together, sharing a deep and steadfast love. They were best friends and soulmates, and they held each other up through all the ups and downs of life.  Al was a grandpa and his grandchildren were truly his pride and joy.  He knew each one individually and always knew what was going on in their lives.  Al was the best father three kids could ever have. He was a tremendous example of outstanding character; honest, dedicated and level-headed.

Al was definitely “One of the Good Guys”, an expression used to describe him by so many people. Even after receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis, he maintained his positive attitude.   People marvelled at how he could stay so positive during such a difficult time.

Al was a Christian.  He had a personal relationship with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.  He had a rock solid faith that influenced everything he did.

Al fought long and hard to stay here with his family.  We will miss him immensely, as his passing has left a hole that will never be filled. 

Al is survived by his wife Shirley Berkan; his three children, Shauna (Shawn) Klekta and their children, Autumn and Mason, Brad (Christine) Berkan and their children, Seth and Emmy and Sharla (Chad) Haluschak and their children Clay and Cloe; his two sisters Jean (Keith) Roney and Judy (Dick) Weber; along with numerous sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Our family would like to express our gratitude for your many kindnesses demonstrated in thought and deed.

A visitation service was held from the Chapel of Swan Valley Funeral Services on Friday, June 7, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. Interment took place in Birchwood Cemetery at 10:00 a.m.followed by the funeral service from the Veteran’s Community Hall at 1:30 p.m. with Pastor Neal Effa officiating.

If friends so desire, donations in Al’s memory may be made to: Swan Valley Health Facilities – Chemo Department Box 1450, Swan River, Manitoba R0L 1Z0 or to: Temple Baptist Church Memorial Fund
Box 441, Swan River, Manitoba R0L 1Z0

Swan Valley Funeral Services

363 Kelsey Trail, Swan River, Manitoba

204-734-5775   www.swanvalleyfuneralservices.com

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