PILIKOWSKI, Kevin

PILIKOWSKI, 

Kevin

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin Peter Pilikowski of Strathmore, Alberta, devoted husband of Carlee, loving father to Jake and Amy, #1 father-in-law to his favourite daughter-in- law Ashley, and proud Papa of Anna and Piper. Kevin made his exit suddenly, on Thursday, April 25, 2024, surrounded by his dear friends in a place he loved. Kevin is survived by his beloved sister Valerie (Gary), Mother-in-Law Alvine and Auntie Carol, sister-in-law Joyce (Tom), brother-in-law Randy (Sandy) and cherished nieces and nephews whom he loved so dearly.

Kevin was born in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan to Peter and Catherine on August 7, 1955, and later moved with the family to Calgary. In his younger years, Kevin was a talented athlete and especially enjoyed playing hockey. He passed his love of sport on to his children, who he supported in all of their endeavours, always catching Amy’s basketball or volleyball games or spending countless hours touring the southern Alberta arena circuit with Jake and committing his time to coaching minor baseball. He was always happy to offer sage advice for us all – always keep your stick on the ice and your eye on the ball. Kevin’s granddaughters were his pride and joy. “Papa P” loved to support his girls at their dance recitals and in all of their activities (usually showing up with chocolate in hand.)

Kevin was larger than life. A man of enduring strength (you’d have to be, in order to survive as a life-long Saskatchewan Roughriders fan.) When he wasn’t tending to his home and family or coaching his beloved Riders through the television, he could be found catching a blues hour and cataloguing his extensive music collection, or down at the Legion with his friends, where he was a long-time member.

Although he never made it to the Blarney Stone, Kevin was nevertheless blessed with the gift of gab. A spirited storyteller and purveyor of nicknames destined to stick like glue, an encounter with Kevin was certain to be anything but dull. Beneath his teasing nature was a tender and generous heart and always a helping hand at the ready.

Kevin retired from Calgary Transit in 2021, after 32 years of service. He started as a painter by trade and finished his career as Coordinator of Buildings for Calgary Transit Infrastructure – a testament to his tenacity and ability to solve any problem put in front of him. Kevin awoke long before dawn each day to commute to Calgary, always with the future of his children and devotion to his wife at top of mind.

Celebrating 45 years of marriage on April 14, Kevin remained devoted to caring for his beautiful wife Carlee until his very last breath.

Kevin is predeceased by his father Peter, mother Catherine, Father-in-Law Ernie, Uncles Stan and Danny and his fabled cousins.

Please join us in Celebrating the Life of Kevin Pilikowski on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall #10 (Strathmore) from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. It was Kevin’s wish that his life would be celebrated in full color – please wear whatever makes you happy.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kevin’s name directly to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #10, Strathmore AB, 230 2 Ave, Strathmore, AB T1P 1K1.

To send condolences, please visit Kevin’s obituary at www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca.