John Makar

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of John Makar of Wanless, MB, on September 8, 2025, at the age of 77, after three years of health challenges.

Born in Chenois, France, John immigrated to Canada with his family in 1952, settling first in Winnipegosis, MB before moving to the Horyn District. He attended school in Winnipegosis and Rorketon. John worked with Midwest Drilling,  REPAP and Tolko, retiring in 2006. Retirement allowed him more time to focus on Manitoba Shiners and Big Bear Paw Outfitters, where he built respected businesses with his wife Allyson. 

John loved the outdoors—hunting, fishing, and trapping. He was especially proud of his garden and the bounty it would produce. He enjoyed visits with friends and family over a coffee or a good game of triominos or cards.

John was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Madeleine Makar, in laws Ronald and Hazel Highfield, brother-in-law Gordon Hrechka and chosen adopted son Tyron Nabess.

He leaves behind his loving wife Allyson, daughters Alison (Brian) Gilroy, Swan River, MB and Heather (Mike) Makar, Sifton, MB, stepchildren Patrick, Mike (Dana), Kim, and Crystal, and grandchildren; Kaili, Brendan, Sydney, Autumn, Samson, McKaila, Luca, Kevin, McKenzie, Brooke, Keanna, Cole, and Tyrone’s daughters, Cambria and Kera; siblings Dominique (Sherry) Makar, Lac du Bonnet, MB; Billy (Susie) Makar, Australia; Helen (John) Makar, Calgary, AB; Mary Anne (David) Dirks, Winnipeg, MB; Wladimir (Janice) Makar of Yukon Territory; Liz (Tony) Veloso, Wanless, MB; and Natalie Hrechka, Brandon, MB; brothers-in law Clifford Sturby- Highfield, and Ted (Margaret) Highfield, and sister in-law Penny (Neil) Summers; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

For John, family extended beyond blood, and many knew him as a father, grandfather, or uncle figure. He touched the lives of hundreds with his kindness, generosity, and good conversation.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, September 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Wanless Community Hall, Wanless, MB. Cremation has taken place and interment will follow at a later date, in a private family ceremony at John’s Minnow Camp. 

John will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed.

Donations may be made in John’s memory to a charity of one’s choice. 

Arrangements entrusted to Hemauer Funeral Home, The Pas, MB.