Elmer Malec

Elmer Malec

A devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, respected teacher, dedicated coach, talented musician, and faithful volunteer, Elmer lived a life rooted in service, generosity, and love. His kindness, gentle humour, and unwavering commitment to others touched generations of students, athletes, friends, neighbours, and family.

Born in Tarnopol, Elmer carried fond memories of his childhood throughout his life and often spoke warmly of the community and experiences that shaped him. He was predeceased by his parents, Stephen and Ksenka; his parents-in-law, James and Sally; his beloved grandsons, Adam and Thomas; his siblings, Frank, Paul, Baldwin, and Emily; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in-laws, and dear friends.

Before beginning his career in education, Elmer proudly served in the Royal Canadian Air Force. His military service reflected the spirit of dedication and service that would come to define his life.

Teaching was more than a profession to Elmer – it was his calling. He dedicated his life to education, spending many years as a teacher and mentor. He often reflected on his teaching career with great pride and possessed a remarkable ability to remember the names and stories of former students long after they had left his classroom. To this day, many former students still remember “Mr. Malec” and the positive impact he had on their lives.

A lifelong lover of baseball, Elmer began playing at a young age and later became a coach when his son started playing. What began as helping one team evolved into more than 30 years of coaching and leadership, including serving as president of Softball Saskatchewan. His commitment to youth sports helped shape opportunities for countless young athletes. Throughout his career in education, he also championed the growth of school sports programs, helping introduce and expand baseball and hockey opportunities for students. His dedication to sport and community was recognized through honours including Nation Builder, Man of the Year, and Sportsman of the Year.

Following retirement, Elmer continued to devote his time to the people and causes he cared about. He remained actively involved in sports organizations, volunteered faithfully within his church community, proudly served as president of his cultural club, and celebrated his Ukrainian heritage by volunteering at community and cultural events.

In 1962, Elmer married the love of his life, Margaret. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, friendship, and a shared love of music. Their love story began when Margaret fell for a talented young musician who spent summers performing at many of her family’s weddings. Music remained a constant thread throughout their marriage. Together they performed in a band during their early years, sang in their church choir, recorded a few CDs, and continued to share the gift of music throughout their lives. Even in his later years, Elmer’s love of music never faded. He could often be found singing to his “grand-dog,” bringing a smile to everyone around him.

Elmer was immensely proud of his children, Michael, Pamela, and Andrea, and loved each of them deeply. He cherished his grandchildren, Chad (Rotha) and Lauren (Brendan), while holding close the cherished memory of his beloved grandson, Adam. His great-grandchildren, Cali, Elah, Avah, and Samuel brought him great joy and were held close in his heart.

Those who knew Elmer will remember his generosity, unwavering work ethic, deep faith, and wonderful sense of humour. He never met a joke he didn’t like and could always be counted on to bring laughter to those around him. More than anything, he will be remembered for the way he invested in people. Whether as a teacher, coach, volunteer, musician, husband, father, grandfather, or friend, Elmer had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcome.

Elmer passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and comforted by the familiar melodies of his favourite old-time music – a fitting farewell for a man whose life was filled with love, laughter, and song.

A private family service will be held to celebrate Elmer’s life.

Though the music has quieted, the kindness he shared, the lives he touched, and the example he set will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.