Nico was a loving and generous person

Nico Hawryliw

Nicola Edward Kenneth Hawryliw was born January 16, 1992 and passed away April 30, 2011 in North Battleford. Nico leaves behind his broken hearted family – parents Allison (Kennedy) and Lionel, and sister Jane, grandparents, many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Nico was a loving and generous person. His soul was older than he was. His hilarious sense of humor was with him until close to the end of his life. His love of life, family and friends was evident in the way he cared for others, never wanting to hurt feelings. He was intelligent and enjoyed school. He never procrastinated with homework and always did it to the best of his ability. He was unselfish – putting other’s needs before his own. He was compassionate – always worrying that everyone was included. He hoped to become a social worker, after realizing a hockey career was no longer possible. His sister Jane was his best friend – they spent many great moments together.

Nico loved all sports, especially hockey, fishing and golf. He was a collector - never fully using what he obtained, but it was important to him to have it. He travelled from coast to coast in Canada and had visited 22 American states.

Nico was first diagnosed with a CNS germinoma in February 2005. His 6 + years journey inspired us in many ways. He taught us how to love, to be courageous and to never give up. His fortitude united our community and Nico became a local hero, which he modestly denied. In 2010, Nico was awarded the Canadian Cancer Medal for Courage. He was very proudly humbled by this honor.

The celebration of Nico’s life will be Saturday, May 7, 2011 at 7 pm in the North Battleford Comprehensive High School gymnasium. Dress is casual. Feel free to wear your favorite team apparel or Nico’s favorite color - green. Donations may be made to the Nico Hawryliw Fund c/o the Battlefords and District Community Foundation Inc. at RBC Dominion Securities, c/o Rob Rongve, 1101-101st. Royal Bank Tower, Suite 602 North Battleford S9A 0Z5. A tax receipt will be issued and various charities will benefit from this endowment fund. Bob McKay of The Battlefords Funeral Service (306) 446-4200 is in charge of arrangements.