April 4, 2021
1931-2021 ~ It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sam John Streleoff of Pass Creek, B.C. Sam died peacefully surrounded by his family on April 4th, 2021 at the age of 89 years old. A funeral service was held on April 13.
Our dad, grandfather and great grandfather Sam John Streleoff was born in 1931 in Pass Creek to John W Streleoff and Mavra Semeonovna (nee Verigin).
As a child Sam grew up and experienced life in a Doukhobor village. He learned everything he needed to tend the farm and developed the ability to repair whatever needed to be fixed. He was dedicated to his family and his farm, respecting the lifestyle that he grew up with. Sam remained on the family farm where he was born until his last few months.
Sam began logging with his family at an early age. He soon became a very knowledgeable and skilled faller and was well respected for his work and work ethics.
In his elderly years Sam enjoyed tending gardens and flowers, building birdhouses and woodworking which he shared with his family. He especially enjoyed growing his giant pumpkins that he was so proud of.
Sam was known for the amazing rock work that he completed at his home, the front of his house, garden beds and the rock picnic table, benches and barbeque he created in his backyard. This was a special place where his family would gather to celebrate birthdays, share meals and visit with him.
Sam had a sense of humor like no other. He liked to play practical jokes and make people laugh. He said life was easier with a smile on your face.
Dad's final year was a challenging one for him, living with serious health issues and under the constraints of Covid. We are however so very thankful that he was blessed with the genuine care and relationships of so many caregivers at Talarico Place and Dr. Smart. These compassionate people made such a difference in his life and ours. We cannot thank them enough.
Sam was predeceased by his parents, his brothers John, Pete, Paul, sister Mary and Son in-law Wayne Drouin.
Sam, our father will lovingly be remembered and missed by his children and their partners; Sam (Sonya), Marj (Walter), Jack (Connie), Loretta, Kaye (Cam), Fred (Jane), Bob (Maribel), Amanda (Mike), his 27 amazing Grandchildren and 14 beautiful Great Grandchildren.
Thank you to Bill Strilaeff and Castlegar Funeral Chapel, Marcia Strelaeff, the people that prepared our father's resting place, the lovely singers and all those who supported our father and us during this time.
Rest in Peace Dad. We will always be reminded of you when we see the birds, hear the wind in the trees and enjoy the fragrance of a flower, especially peonies.