It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our brother Ronald Peter Proskurniak, who died peacefully on October 18, 2009 of complications from severe diabetes.

Ronnie was born on August 29, 1951 in Edmonton, AB. He moved to Kamloops with his family in 1966 where he attended Kam High. He left many great friends in Edmonton, but quickly made a whole new set of friends at his new school. The ability to make and maintain friends was an attribute that stayed with him throughout his life.

Ron was predeceased by his mother and father Shirley and Peter Proskurniak, brother Gary David Proskurniak, and nephew Christopher David Bell, as well as his longtime friend Len Klassen.

He was the oldest of four children. He is lovingly remembered by sister Mavis Bell (Jason and Michael), of Kamloops, brother Brian (Virginie, Audrey, Alex and Erik) of Ottawa.

His memory will be cherished by his aunts, uncles and cousins and his lifelong friends Robbie Pourbaix and Jimmy Humphrey and many more. A special thank you to Alexander Watt, Susan Duncan, Ken Salter and Dr. Rob Baker for being there for Ron.

Ron was kind and caring, the first to offer help to those in need. He was always ready to share and was ever loyal to his family and friends. His smile and gentle demeanor filled the lives of those he touched and he will be sadly missed by all. Ron faced life\'s challenges with tenacity. He was gainfully employed in Vancouver for many years.

Ron loved music, drama and opera and for the past few years singing karaoke was his favourite past time. He had a great sense of humour and a mischievous grin that appeared even when he was most sick.

At the family\'s request, please bring photos of Ron and friends to display at the luncheon following the service.

Please join us to remember Ron at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, October 24, 2009. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations to ASK Wellness, 250-376-7558 Ext. 232, 433 Tranquille Road, Kamloops, V2B 3G9, where Ron was once employed as a street outreach worker will be gratefully accepted.