Obituary of Andrew Grech

The family of Andrew Grech of Mannville, Alberta announce with sorrow his passing at 91 years of age, on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at the Vermilion Health Care Centre. Andrew is lovingly remembered by his children - Edward Grech of Edmonton, Jenny Songhurst of Airdrie, Jim (Betty) Grech of Mannville, Teresa (Daryl) Gutfriend of Calgary; grandchildren - Jamie (Kelly) Wilson, Jeremy and Marcus Gutfriend, Calum Grech; great grandchildren - Ryker and Hayz Wilson, as well as by numerous extended family and friends. Andrew will live on in his family’s memory as Pop, Andy, Grandpa and Big Papa. His ninety-one years of life cannot be easily summarized in a few words. Andrew immigrated to Canada when he was 1½ years old but he always said that his life really began when he met Kathleen (Kay) Way while she was teaching at the Scotstown School. Andrew would ride his horse over just to spend time with her. They were married on July 26, 1952 and had four children together: Edward, Jenny, Jim and Teresa. Andrew and Kay worked tirelessly on the farm south of Mannville, but managed to set aside wonderful family time. Andrew was an active 4-H leader with the Mannville 4-H Beef Club and he and Kay hosted many annual 4-H field days on the farm featuring Kay’s famous homemade donuts. Together they built a purebred herd of cattle, grew, cleaned and sold seed grain as well as bulls across the Prairies. Andrew had a talent for standing on the hill top to call his herd from all corners of the pasture. The running cows and calves would be a spectacular site. Andrew was very proud of receiving the Farm Family Award in 1984 but he always said it was his family that was the true prize. After losing his beloved Kay in 2011 Andrew continued working on the family farm with son Jim and daughter-in-law Betty. It was Jim's love and care that facilitated Andrew staying on the farm and enjoying new ventures such as raising lambs and looking after his much loved chickens. Of late, he was teased as being “The Chicken Whisperer” for his flock of laying hens, which successfully resulted in trading free range eggs for goodies. Andrew’s gentle nature was not just for his family but also for every animal in his care. Certain animals would be given a name and thrived from his extra attention. Those who were lucky enough to have him in their lives admired all that he accomplished and the hardships he overcame. He touched so many in his lifetime with his love for family and friends. As per Andrew’s wishes a family memorial will be held in the spring when the crocuses bloom. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Andrew’s name to the Friends of Vermilion Health Care Centre, 5720 – 50 Avenue, Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1K7. Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.crossroadsfuneralchapel.com Card of Thank You The family of Andrew Grech wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Ali Al-Shalchi for his time and care of our beloved father during his recent illness. You listened willingly, attentively and acted compassionately and proficiently through all stages of his care. We also wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to the nursing staff and support staff at the Vermilion Health Care Centre for your expertise, kindness and exceptional care of ‘Pop’. You are all angels wearing running shoes! Many thanks to the friends, neighbors and family who stopped by to visit, bring laughter, smiles and share a story. Your thoughtfulness, prayers, cards and well wishes helped us tremendously. Thank you also to the Crossroads Funeral Chapel for their consideration and services. Thank you, thank you, thank you. The Grech Family