The Family of Eddie Sokalski
Born August 13, 1927, Eddie Sokalski was the second of three children born to Karol and Mary Sokalski. His Catholic faith was a big part of who he was. He served altar at Holy Trinity Church at New Kiew (near Two Hills, Alberta) for many years, contributing much of his time and resources to the church throughout his life. Growing up as a third-generation farmer in Canada, Eddie began working alongside his father and brother at a young age. He picked eggs, fed cattle, and worked in the field with the horses. These early beginnings were a foundation for his life’s work of tending land and animals.
He attended a rural school until grade nine when his studies required him to transfer to a school in Vegreville and live in town during the week. As a true farm boy, that was too much time away from his operation and he elected to put his schooling on hold. Eddie picked up his studies in his 20’s at the Vermilion School of Agriculture. He graduated in 1951, won a scholarship in Mechanics and won 1st prize in Blacksmithing. Many fond memories were made during his studies and he was happy to attend the annual class reunion, even in his later years.
In 1953 Eddie was married to Marsha Pehowich and they had seven children; multitudes of grandchildren and great-grandchildren followed and Eddie was dedicated to his many loved ones. As the children and grandchildren grew, swimming, fishing, boating, mushroom-picking and auction sales provided many joyful times. Eddie continued to farm, fix, rebuild and invent machinery when necessary (and sometimes just for the challenge!) He had a knack for carpentry and enjoyed building cabinets and other projects for his family and for others.
Throughout his farming career, which spanned many decades, he continued to educate himself by reading and attending workshops and seminars. This was the foundation and springboard he used to practice new and improved techniques in anything related to agriculture and mechanics. He had a zest for learning, analyzing, assessing and implementing. He lived an experiential life, and was at his finest when others shared in those experiences.
He spent his life helping family, neighbours and his community. He was instrumental in organizations such as Unifarm, the Lavoy Rural Electrification Association (and later the Lakeland REA) and Minco Gas Co-op, as either director or active member. His hard-work, faith and unwavering spirit were what made him a great mentor and friend. He loved nothing more than to share his stories and knowledge with others.
Eddie was active, energetic and full of life right up until he passed away on July 19, 2017. He was a quiet and humble man and we know he would be proud to have his legacy live on through an award at Lakeland.