MATODY (MAC) MARCHENSKI
1925 – 2025

He was a devoted family man—generous, hardworking, always up for a good prank, and known to pour a stiff drink.

Born four years before the Great Depression in Winnipegosis, Manitoba, Matody Marchenski was the youngest of seven children. Some of his fondest childhood memories included accompanying his father on trips to Dauphin in their Model T Ford. Immersed in his father’s sawmill and lumber business from an early age, he developed the skills and work ethic that would shape his own livelihood.

At 18, during World War II, Mac enlisted in the Canadian Army and was assigned to the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders. In 1944, alongside thousands of other Canadian troops, he sailed from Halifax to Europe aboard the Ile De France. Much of his service was dedicated to the liberation of the Netherlands. He was one of the lucky ones who returned home in 1946.

While visiting his brother, a young woman caught his eye—Natalie (Tillie) Tuer. At 23, he married her, and together they built a life spanning 76 years. They settled in Birch River, Manitoba, where they established a successful business, Marchenski Lumber and Building Supplies. For 50 years, Mac worked six days a week, often into the evenings.

A dedicated member of his community, Mac served for many years on the Swan Valley School Board and was actively involved in the Legion. He took great interest in village and municipal affairs, always striving to contribute to the betterment of his community.

An avid curler and baseball player, Mac had a deep love for sports and camaraderie. Sundays were spent boating and fishing with family at Steeprock Lake, always hoping to hook “the big one.” Mac and Tillie enjoyed a rich social life with their many friends, especially their neighbors. At dances, he was known to “kick up his heels.” In later years, they played on the Silver Foxes baseball team, traveling to various competitions across Manitoba.

In 2006, Mac and Tillie moved to Sidney, BC, to be closer to family. There, they joined a curling club and enjoyed many trips to Washington State.

Mac leaves behind his beloved wife, Tillie; children Maxine, Michael, Marcia, and Monica; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. We will miss him dearly, but above all, we celebrate his life and are immensely grateful for the long and happy years he enjoyed.

A private ceremony will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.