JOHN (JOHNNY) JOSEPH MARUSKA

John (Johnny) Joseph Maruska, born May 30th, 1933, in Vanguard, Saskatchewan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13th, 2026, at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.  Dad’s will to live was strong, but God had other plans for him.  

Johnny grew up on the family farm near Vanguard and attended a small rural schoolhouse before continuing his education in Vanguard.  He later studied at Campion College in Regina, SK and completed a welding course at Peacock Technical School in Moose Jaw.  Although his father hoped he would choose a path away from farming, Johnny’s passion for the land was undeniable.  At just 16, he purchased his first piece of farmland and began the life’s work he loved.  

In early 1955, Johnny met the love of his life, Ellen Porter.  They married on July 31st, 1956, and built a happy home together, welcoming seven children.  In 1973, Ellen and Johnny packed up the kids, the machinery, the livestock — and even the house Dad built for Mom — and moved to the Moose Jaw area.  There they purchased farmland and began developing what the family lovingly calls “The Farm.”  The Farm became a labour of love, a place where they taught us the value of family, hard work, and accomplishment.  We shared many adventures, including family trips to Disneyland and Disney World — outings meant for “us kids,” though Dad may have enjoyed them even more.  

As empty nesters, Ellen and Johnny continued to travel.  They took dance lessons and made several trips each year to Danceland in Watrous, SK where they delighted in evenings spent dancing together.  

Faith was central in Johnny’s life.  He served as an altar boy in his youth, became a member of the Knights of Columbus at age 18, and remained an active member of St. Joseph Roman Catholic Parish until his passing.  Family meant everything to Johnny.  The more of us gathered around him, the happier he was.  In the weeks before his passing, we were blessed with precious time to share stories, laughter, and love.  Even as his time drew near, he welcomed company with a warm smile and his great sense of humour.  

He was predeceased by his parents, Elise (1933) and Martin (1973) Maruska; daughter, Connie Maruska (1989); sister, Rita Wall (2015); and parents-in-law, Dorothy and Leonard Porter.  Dad will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 70 years, Ellen Maruska; and their children: Sheila Maruska, Laurie (Mike) Thibert, Debra (Rick) Windsor, Janice (Scott), Darren (Michelle), and Kirk (Jody). He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Adrien Thibert, Paul Thibert, Nelson (Sarah) Windsor, Aleah (Dane) Hearn, Jenna Windsor, Nicola (Timo) Kornelsen, Aaron Maruska, Cassey (Tyler) Patsack, Chelsey Tyshynski, Denym Maruska, Braydon (Tatum) Maruska, Kaylee (Adam) Williams, and Jaicee Maruska; as well as 17 great-grandchildren and counting.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff who cared for Dad with such compassion during his time in hospital.  

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 13th, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 1064 3rd Ave NW in Moose Jaw.  In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes in Johnny’s name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200-325 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 or to a charity of one’s choice.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550