Steve Zaharko

It is with deepest sadness to announce the passing of Steve Zaharko.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children Sharon (Mick) and Miles; grandchildren Sheldon (Jessica), Kyle (Kirsten), and Brittney; brother Andy; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, sisters in law, brothers in law and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Ruth; parents Sam and Anne; sisters Mary, Bessie and Stella; brothers Mike, John, Paul, Nick, and Emil.

A private service will be held.

Memorial Donations may be made to Cross Cancer Institute or charity of choice.

Steve grew up on a farm north of Derwent as one of ten children to Sam and Anne Zaharko. Sam passed away in 1944, leaving the children to attend to all the farm duties. Entertainment on the farm was learning to play the fiddle, saxophone, guitar, and accordion, with the fiddle being his favorite instrument throughout his lifetime. Winning various fiddle contest, it was more than a hobby. Steve formed his own band and played at numerous weddings, dances, and parade floats.  

Steve married Ruth in 1954 and had two children. He started his own business in Mannville after acquiring his barber license and running a four-table pool hall. The family lived in a house attached to the business until 1969 when they moved to Vermilion and Steve started working for Lakeland College. He retired from the College in 1989.

Summertime always meant trips to the mountains, Banff & Miette being his favorites. After many years of the tenting the family moved up to a small trailer. After his wife Ruth passed away in 1990, he maintained his own household, doing the shopping, cooking, cleaning, and planting his garden of at least 100 hills of potatoes as well as carrots and beets. The family would always get together to help dig potatoes and end the day with a wiener roast.

He loved to drive his tractor and quad to visit the pond and watch the birds, beavers and the occasional moose or bear. This was his resort.

Steve was always a loving grandpa to all his grandchildren.

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