SCHIDOWK, Alexander Schidowka

Passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice. Loving husband of Helen. Cherished father of George, John and Jennifer. Devoted grandfather to Gloria, Avalon, Julie, Brooke and Brent. Brother of Olga Spivak and nephews, Walter Spivak and Nick Schidowka. Predeceased by parents John and Maria Schidowka, brother Nick Schidowka and nephew James Spivak.

Alex led a life of hard work and devotion to family. Born in January 1938 in Poltava, Ukraine, he immigrated to Canada in June 1952. He graduated from Beal High School and went to work at Ontario Hydro, and then opened his own electrical company, “Alex Electric”, in 1971. He returned to school and graduated from Western University in 1982. Always up for a new adventure, he started teaching in 1982, and this became one of his biggest joys in life, sharing his knowledge with young students at Beal and Fanshawe College. In addition, he volunteered his time coaching and as president of his Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

He has been a loving and devoted husband to his dear wife Helen for 63 years. He was Helen’s sous-chef, working alongside her making bagels, pizza and soup that they would share with friends and neighbours. He was admired for his green thumb and had the best yard in the neighbourhood. If not found in the kitchen or garden, he could be found at the Oaks golf course. He loved playing golf with his grandson and his senior league buddies. His grandchildren have many memories of him building dollhouses or fully working cranes out of just scraps in his garage. He has impacted his children and grandchildren with his work ethic, love of country and gratitude for his many life blessings. He may be gone, but his many life wisdoms and love will live on in all of us.

We are so grateful for the remarkable care he received from Dr. Keith Sequeira, Parkwood homecare nurses (especially Ryan and Phil), and the entire loving team at St. Joe’s Hospice. Your compassion and loving care will always be remembered by our family.

In memory of Alex, think of him next time you are on the golf course or simply admiring nature. If you care to donate in his memory, we cannot think of a more deserving centre than St. Joseph’s Hospice of London.