Henry (Hank) BRANISKY

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Henry (Hank) Ronald Branisky on November 3, 2017, just shy of his 74th birthday. Hank was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, and he lived life to the fullest; taking off with his brother in their teens to travel throughout Europe, even sleeping under the Eiffel Tower, hitchhiking their way to Amsterdam, finally ending up on Vancouver Island.  Hank lived life on his terms; he enjoyed playing fiddle in several bands, country bar jam sessions and bluegrass festivals, with kids in tow. His greatest passion was music and was happiest toe tapping along to any genre. He enjoyed his years spent as Gate Security at Nanaimo Lakes where, most people would know him as Smiley. Hank played that fiddle for the whiskey jacks, shared the odd brownie with the squirrels & ravens, loving the wildlife and nature of where we live.  Hank also could be found having a smoke with the regulars and sharing such wisdoms as – “Ah throw some duct tape on it…good to go! It’s the Ukrainian way!” He was a real people person and that came thru in his sense of humour and his huge smile. No one could ever forget that grin!

Predeceased by his father John, mother Olga, brother Larry, and infant sister Arlene.

Hank is survived by his loving wife of almost 50 years Cheryl, twin daughters Jennifer (Cale), Sabra, and son Nicholas (Kelly).  He also leaves 8 grandchildren as well; Austin, Alexandra, Ry, Dodge, Nash, Ravyn, Chevelle, and Lincoln.

There will be no service as per Hank’s request, but a private family ceremony will be held. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Hank’s name to the Island Wildlife Sanctuary on Vancouver Island. Or please do an unexpected, unsolicited act of kindness for someone and hopefully they will pay it forward as well.

“Music - speaks what cannot be expressed soothes the mind and gives it rest heals the heart and makes it whole flows from heaven to the soul”-unknown

“The violin sings, but the fiddle dances” -unknown

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