Obituary of Michael Robleski

ROBLESKI: Michael Robleski (The Whistling Tinsmith) of Brandon passed away peacefully at the Assiniboine Centre on January 24, 2016 at the age of 91 years. Mike is survived by his daughter Michelle Ricketts (Steve), granddaughter Jessica Hinch, son Randy Robleski (Heather) (Hope, Mikala and C.J.), granddaughter Jennifer Kolesar (Shayne) (Bethany, Ryleigh and Madilyn) and Trevor Hinch. Mike was predeceased by his wife Jessie (née Hocking) parents Frank and Rose Robleski, and brothers Joseph, Sam and Paul and sisters Nell and Kay. Mike was born on September 29, 1924 in Brandon, and attended David Livingstone School. He married the love of his life, Jessie Hocking on May 31, 1958. Mike and Jess set up a home on 8th street, in Brandon's North End and went about starting their family welcoming daughter Michele in 1962, and son Randy, in 1964. Michele and Randy remember their father as a kind, gentle loving man who was always there for his family friends and community. Mike went to college to train as a sheet metal worker and quickly learned the heating and plumbing trade, working initially for Relf's Plumbing and Heating and then for 22 years at Brandon Heating and Plumbing. Mike was a true professional at his craft and was a trusted and valued employee. He was given the nickname "The Whistling Tinsmith" because you always knew when Mike was in the building, whistling away while he worked. Mike retired when he was 65. In the 1970's Mike was voted in president of the North End Community Centre where he worked tirelessly alongside Jess and a close team of family and friends helping to build a strong Community Club. Many an early wintery morning Mike could be found down in the freezing cold, garden hose in hand, standing for hours creating a hockey and skating rink for the children and adults of the North End. He coached the community hockey team for many seasons. Mike and Jess, along with the other members of the Centre formed a Bingo association and Mike was the resident Bingo caller every Sunday night. He also loved bowling. Both ten and five pin as well as lawn bowling, and won many trophies and awards over the years. He was still bowling in the Senior league well into his eighties! He enjoyed going on bus trips and made the most of his senior years. Mike loved his garden, planted one without fail every year that he lived on 8th street North. He was always garden proud! In 1985 he had to rebuild his life when his wife Jessie suddenly passed away. With a heavy heart he grieved the loss of his beloved Jess, but always said that life must carry on. So with a brave face that is what he did. The years that followed saw him become a devoted grandfather and he took on that role with the same love and devotion he did with his own children. In spite of adversities, Mike simply loved life. He gave of himself without hesitation and always looked at his glass half full. Even when his heart was breaking, he was brave and moved forward, learning from each challenge he had to face and each life experience. The world is a better place for having had him as a part of it. We are grateful to have had him in all of our lives. A memorial service will be held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel, 332-8th Street on Monday, February 1, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Arlene Robertson officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mike may be made to a charity of choice.