Obituaries & Memorials

Elmer Ermolenko

May 19, 1942 - June 21, 2021


Obituary Posts

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elmer Walter Ermolenko of Biggar, SK.
Elmer was born on May 19, 1942 to parents Abe and Lena (nee Vinnick) in the Louvain district,
and a little brother for Edna.

Before Elmer started school, the family moved to the Elwell district where Elmer started school
and completed his school years at Petroffsk.

He grew up, as farm boys do, bearing to be a farmer by working with his dad. As Elmer became more capable and Abe less so, their roles were reversed. Elmer became the farmer with Abe never far away. As the years went by, Elmer continued to live with his parents and farm.

He was a gregarious person who enjoyed having company whether it was a barbeque or a
game of cards. After the Siduns became his closest neighbours, Elmer and Clarence spent
many hours visiting and reliving old time. Once when the Solanik kids were there to clean up an old garage, Trishell disappeared only to be found at Elmer’s kitchen table having cookies and pop with him.

Cabbage rolls, perogies, borsch and headcheese were on his favorite list. He also had a real
weakness for dark fruit cake.

One of his favorite pleasures was playing Kaiser. He enjoyed trips to Vegas and other places
with friends. There was even an occasional fishing trip.

Elmer was known as a friendly, helpful neighbour. Whether it was watering trees for Peter and
Doris while they were away to their homeland in Switzerland, or driving Vinnick boys to appointments in the city, or harvesting with Solaniks. He was always willing.

He was also known for his phenomenal memory. He could tell you what the weather was like at
any given time. He had a knack for remembering people’s birthdays, anniversaries and even
the birthday of your dog.

Something he was most proud of was his years on the Glenside R.M. Council. He served as
councilor from 1975 to 1988 and as Reeve from 1988 to 2008.

At that point his health was beginning to deteriorate so he sold his farm and moved to Westview
Apartments in Biggar. Here he enjoyed several more years with the help of services like
Homecare and Meals on Wheels.

Elmer died suddenly on June 21, 2021 at the age of 79 years. A life well lived.

Elmer was predeceased by his parents Abe and Lena Ermolenko; his sister Edna; his
grandparents James and Alexandra Ermolenko and Samuel and Sophie Vennick; many aunts
and uncles.

Elmer is survived by many cousins and friends.

Thank you to the very supportive people at Gerein Funeral Home for helping with arrangements.

His interment will take place at a later date in the Arelee Mennonite Cemetery.


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