Obituary of John Perko

PERKO, John

1940 – 2023

John Perko, late of Pasqua Lake, SK passed away peacefully on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the age of 82 years.  John is survived by his loving wife Elizabeth (Betty) of 59 years; and children, Larry (Candace) and grandchildren Blayke and Karis; Linda (Cory) Hall and grandchildren Jared, Kayla, and Kaitlyn; Darren and grandchildren Haley and Benjamin; as well as numerous relatives and friends.  John was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Antonija; brothers Frank and Joseph; and sisters Antonija, Marija and Josephine. 

John came to Canada in October 1960 from Slovenija, Europe, and began a career in the construction industry.  He met the love of his life, Betty, at the Trianon Ballroom in February 1962, became engaged on Christmas Day 1963 and then was married on July 1, 1964.

After several years of hard work learning his craft, John achieved the status of Journeyman Carpenter and decided to begin his own framing company, John Perko Framing Construction, in November 1966.  For the next 12 years, John dedicated himself to building high quality homes throughout the Regina area.  He was a successful and sought after builder who never lacked for work, and he shared his skill by teaching many of his employees throughout the years. 

In 1978, John decided to focus his attention on another area and began a career as a Finishing Carpenter at the Regina General Hospital.  Until his retirement in 2000, he built many of the wood fixtures that are still in use today.  John became known as a friendly and modest individual who was dedicated to his work and who could turn a plain piece of wood into a beautiful and ornate piece of furniture.  He also used this skill outside of work and created many cherished pieces for his home and his children. 

John loved to dance and was a sought-after polka and waltz partner at Polkafests and weekly dances.  He was a gracious partner, able to skillfully lead through even the most crowded dance floor.  John also loved classic cars and would attend many car shows throughout the summer months with his 1959 Oldsmobile convertible and two-door hardtop.  He travelled throughout Saskatchewan, Alberta and even the USA gathering many trophies along the way. 

John enjoyed living at the lake during his retirement and often fished and tended his large garden and flowerbeds.  He was especially excited to grow beautiful roses and grape vines each summer.  John also was an avid traveler and spent time vacationing throughout Canada, the USA, the Caribbean and even took his family to visit his many relatives in Europe over a dozen times.

John’s grandchildren were an important part of his life, and he always made a point of attending their activities and taking them for a treat afterward – usually for his favourite, ice cream!  He loved to tease them, and they loved nothing better than spending a weekend at the lake feeding the chickadees and having wiener roasts.  Upon leaving, Grandpa always said, “Look after each other”, instilling in them a deep appreciation for family.

John had a wonderful sense of humour, beautiful blue eyes, a friendly smile, and a handshake for everyone.  He will be greatly missed and will leave a constant void in the lives of those who loved him.   In keeping with John’s wishes, a private celebration of life will be held by the family. 

In lieu of flowers, those so wishing, may make donations, in memoriam to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414. Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com