Orris William Mikuliak
Orris William Mikuliak passed away peacefully at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital in Moose Jaw, SK, on Monday, July 21st, 2025, at the age of 85 years.
Orris was born in Moose Jaw on September 29th, 1939 and lived his entire life in the city. He was educated at Westmount Elementary School and Peacock Technical High School. Following high school graduation, Orris began his 35-year career working at Saskatchewan Government Telephones. There he met the love of his life, Gail Rodwell. Orris and Gail married in 1961. They had 2 sons, Brian and David, and spent a large amount of time in auditorium seats or gym bleachers watching their participation in theatre, concerts, and sports teams! Orris had his own athletic pursuits as a pitcher with the Harwoods in the MJ fastball league, a competitive bowler in several leagues, and a golfer. He was also a fan of the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Blue Jays, and Roughriders. He had a variety of musical talents that included drumming and singing. For a brief time, he was also one of Gail’s piano students. He was a meticulous gardener and a constant carrier of tools in case anything needed fixing! Orris also enjoyed many years of family gatherings at Buffalo Pound Lake. Upon retirement, Gail and Orris enjoyed traveling to many places until Gail’s physical difficulties would no longer allow them to do so.
He was predeceased by his wife, Gail; parents, Nick Mikuliak and Helen Berbenik; and brother, John Oparyk. Orris is survived by his sister-in-law, Gwen Gordy; sister-in-law, Wilma Oparyk; sons, Brian (Shauna) and David (Marina); and his four beloved grandchildren: Joel, Makita (Duane), Jalen (Andie), and Mataya. As well, he leaves behind many lifelong friends, of whom he was extremely fond.
Orris was extraordinarily healthy with infrequent minor illnesses and until passing, had never spent a night in hospital. He touched many with his humour and generosity. He was a genuine and caring person who was always a pleasure to be around. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his family, friends, and neighbours.
Sincere thanks to the wonderful hospital staff and first responders, who cared compassionately for Orris and the family in his final hours. Thanks also to Dr. Mark Brown, whose care and friendship over the past 25 years have been so greatly appreciated and valued by our family.
The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 15th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the Zion United Church Sanctuary, 423 Main St N, Moose Jaw, SK. In lieu of flowers, donations in Orris’ memory may be made to support his faith home, Zion United Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Brian, Shauna, David, Marina and Families; We were so shocked and saddened to learn of your Dad’s passing. I am pleased that I had a short visit with him just last week. We send our deepest sympathies to you. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult and sad time.
Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of mourning. Orris was a wonderful person and will be missed.
We loved this man and enjoyed day greetings from him. He was such a joy to be around and we loved sharing our moments with him. Being neighbours with him showed his high character and integrity. We cannot imagine his family’s loss and we have been so blessed to be his neighbour the last 8 years. We will miss our daily encounters with Orris and we pray for his family as they navigate this huge loss. The world should surely stop spinning for this loss.
To the Mikuliak family:
Plesse accept my sincere condolences on Orris passing. Both of us attended Westmount public school and were very good friends. Sports of various kinds often found us on many of the same teams. In 1954 my family moved to Vancouver, and I never encountered Orris again, but often noticed his name in local MJ dispatches. Orris was an excellent friend, and I was honoured to have known him in our lifetime. Rest in peace my friend, it was a privilege to have been a part of your life.
Sorry for your loss.
Brian, Shauna, David, Marina & family. So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. I have many fond memories of both of your parents. They were truly good people. May your memories comfort you during this difficult time.
Take care.
I have many fond memories of Orris. My deepest condolences.
Orris was obviously a genuine prince of a man. I have many fond memories of him…He was the kind of guy you want your own son to grow up to be like.
I hope you can lean on each other and celebrate what a great guy Orris was.
Dear Mikuliak Family
With our Heartfelt Sympathy on the loss of Orris. We have fond memories of our times together years ago in Moose Jaw. Orris was the epitome of a wonderful kind ,caring man liked by everyone. He will be truly missed by his Family and Friends. Cherish the many good memories. RIP Orris as you join Gail in eternal peace together. Hugs from Marnie and Wayne Ralph and Family.
Our deepest Condolences and prayers for your family.
My sincere condolences to Mikiliak family,
I had a short visit with Orris just a short time , ago at the co-op .
He always so pleasant .He will be missed by many,