Obituary of Walter Benjamin Studak

A Life Well Lived They say a man's friendships are the best measures of his worth. If this is true - and we have no reason to doubt - Wally Studak was indeed a very wealthy man. A true "good guy" if there ever was, Wally Studak was perpetually surrounded by friends, family, music and laughter. Whether playing professionally with Ivan, Rod and Alex or leading a rag tag group of friends and relatives, he brought his love of music and fun to every event. As a father, Wally was all-in. Fill the "woody wagon" with kids and head to the latest event. Did he really have the credentials to coach hockey? It didn't matter. He brought an attitude that players loved. Highland dancing? Well... while certainly born for a kilt, Wally carried the swords for Sue and Jude and certainly found kinship in the bagpipers! But it was not all fun and games for Walter. There was a successful professional career that spanned 30 years and an early retirement. In his role as Benefits Director (aka the "numbers guy") Wally was responsible for shaping union contracts for Bendix manufacturing plants across North America. No small feat. Golf was an essential part of the equation, including a cast of characters that included Andy, Bill, Dan, Joe, Mike and Wally (Robson). Trips to The Masters created the chance to introduce the thrill of Augusta National to friends and relatives. Travel and family holidays were also key, with summer trips to the Ipperwash Beach cottage and then winter holidays in Portugal. (also frequently referred to as Sue's winter vacation home). Above all else, Wally was a humble man and truly practiced gratitude every day. He cherished friends and family and especially loved being a part of the McCuaig clan - Shirley, Ken, Dave, Mavis, Heather and Judy - and would have insisted on a heartfelt thanks to Ida and Oliver for their warm welcome. And, of course, raising a spectacular daughter. If you're wondering where this all began, it was 87 years ago, with parents Steven and Mary Studak and sister Albina. When Steven passed, Mike Uzelac took over as family patriarch, bringing Dan, Nedge and Dee onboard, as well as access to preferred tee times at Dominion Golf Club! 58 years ago, Wally was able to sway Phyllis McCuaig to the Croatian way - with more fun and four kids to follow - Susan, Judy, James and Brian. The Studak roster now features Joe, Claudia and Lauren and a stellar cast of grandkids, Rachel, Alexander, Nigel, Mikaela, Jesse, Samuel, Ivan and Enzo. Which brings us to today - and a life well lived. If you would like to join in celebrating Wally's amazing life, we invite you to Roseland Golf Club, on April 20, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Wally will be there in spirit, and we look forward to celebrating his life with friends and family. Cheers Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE CREMATION CENTRE (519-254-2585). Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca.