Obituary of Orest Shpuniarsky

SHPUNIARSKY, Orest (aka Spooner) October 20, 1936 - August 8, 2022 Orest passed peacefully August 8, 2022, at Hotel Dieu Grace. Staff provided compassionate care and were amused and bemused by his word play, allowing him to "O-rest in peace." Gratitude to Drs. Pizzuti and Bagherli. Orest is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years Anna May (née Mills); devoted children Michael (Mary Rella), Annalee and Derek (Clarisa Peer); dear granddaughters, Ava and Brynna Shpuniarsky, and step-grandchildren, Talia Este and Paolo Santalucia; loving brothers Eugene and Zenon; caring sisters- and brothers-in- law; and 13 nieces and nephews. Orest was born October 20, 1936, in Moose Jaw, SK, the eldest son of Jacob Shpuniarsky (Kopyczynce, Ukraine 1900) and Anne Semeniuk (Shiho, SK 1917). In youth, he excelled in academics and sports. He studied engineering at U of T, then switched 'courses' to major in golf. In 1957, he was caddy master at Toronto Golf Club. In 1958, he became a CPGA member and an assistant pro. From 1967 to 1971, he was head pro at London Hunt Club, hosting the 1970 Canadian Open. In 1972, he became head pro and club manager at Lakewood GC in St. Clair Beach, affectionately known as "Big Guy" and "Big O." In 1989, he moved to Beach Grove G&CC, working as an associate pro and then 1st tee facilitator. He was also draw master for their curling club, a skill honed at Windsor Curling Club. Beach Grove honoured him with a life membership. In April 2022, in failing health, he reluctantly resigned his position and was then granted a life membership by the CPGA. Orest and Anna May traveled to the Caribbean, Hawaii, South America, Europe, Singapore and China, visiting Xian and viewing the Terra Cotta Warriors. Cremation Services were provided by Simple Choice. Orest always strove to earn a living and he will now urn eternally. A memorial service was held at Unity Spiritual Centre. A celebration of life will be held at Beach Grove in November.