KUCAN, Michael (Jr.)

KUCAN, Michael (Jr.)

March 8th, 1937 – January 15th, 2024

Our beloved Father and Grandfather passed away suddenly in his sleep, at home for which we are grateful in his 87th year, after a yearlong illness. Jr. was predeceased by his adored wife, Donna Louise (April 1997). Was the dear father of Shelley (Jim) Hernder, Michael Kucan and Tracey (Ray Hunter) Kucan. Dearest Papa to his grandchildren, Michael (Laura Augustin) Hernder, Brooke Hernder, Trevor Hernder, Devin Hunter and Chase Hunter. His grandpets will also miss their Papa and the treats. He also leaves his furbabies, Whiskey and Shadow without a warm lap to snuggle on. Dad was predeceased by his six siblings, all his best buddies, his dear cousin and good friends. “That was the hardest thing about getting up there, the loss of most everyone,” he said. Born in Thorold South, he moved to a farm, in Virgil with his family and lived the rest of his days in Niagara. Realizing the factory job he held after high school wasn’t for him, Mike followed his older brothers into the trucking business and never looked back. Either working in the managerial and shipping side of the profession or on the open highways in his Mac or Kenworth, he spent over fifty years in the industry he loved. Working into his late 70’s, he still drove transport trucks, delivering loads. “He backed up more miles than you drove forward,” was a familiar line! He travelled afar, through business and pleasure. Loved Hawaii and the White Cliffs of Dover. Moved into and cared for a new home, attended Adanac Lodge #614 (He was Master in 1978) and went to his Shriner meetings. Dad loved good food, a good book, good cars, the casino and animals, especially dogs and cats. Also, Country and Western music, wrestling, his Ukrainian heritage, proud that he spoke the language fluently, the Blue Jays in his later years and playing cards, mostly euchre. He had a gruff exterior but a heart of gold and was wise. We will miss you Dad and your 3X’s a day phone calls, bursting through our doors for dinner, raiding our gardens and yelling our names. Your strength, positivity, generosity and ability to forgive was admirable. Dad, your work on earth is done! Mike’s (Jr.’s) family would like to extend our gratitude to the Personal Support Workers who cared for our Father, at home. Thank you. Arrangements entrusted to HULSE & ENGLISH FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 75 Church Street, St. Catharines (905-684-6346). Cremation to follow. No visitation. A celebration of Michael Kucan Jr.’s life to be held in the Spring, details announced at a later date with interment next to Mom at Lakeshore Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any animal rescue group, in his name. Dad would have liked that. Psalm 23: Yea, though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me.

On-line tributes may be made at www.hulseandenglish.com.