Henry Igras
Obituary
IGRAS, Henry…
It is with heavy hearts the family of Henry (Hank) Igras announces his peaceful passing on Saturday August 19, 2023 in the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital. Beloved husband and best friend for 66 years to Julie (Julia), who left us too soon in March of this year.
Cherished father to Diane (Kevin) Gowanlock and David (Magdalena) Igras. Beloved grandfather of Andrew (Michelle) Carrothers, Matthew (Rachael) Carrothers, Jennifer (Spencer) Weber and Melissa (Josh) Snider and Jason (Sara) Igras.
Proud great grandfather to Harrison, Sullivan and Maeve Carrothers and Alannah, Katelyn and Hailey Snider. Predeceased by his beloved sister Florence Igras from Brechin Ontario. Hank will be dearly missed by his longtime friend Vera Lasek and her family.
Hank and Julie met as young adults, dancing at the Polish Hall in Toronto. After working as a mechanic for Trans Canada Airlines and as a flying instructor for the Toronto Flying Club, Hank and Julie moved to London Ontario to start a business and raise a family. Hank, along with Julie, ran a successful wholesale distribution company for 34 years. Hank semi-retired and performed odd jobs for a few years until his health no longer permitted him to work. He continued to provide chauffeur services for Julie who continued to work selling RESPs.
Hank was larger than life. He was aptly nicknamed Hurricane Hank for his seemingly endless energy and enthusiasm for life. He loved to golf, ski, cook and fish. He loved to sail, particularly in the warm waters of the Caribbean. Hank loved his sports and was a diehard Leaf’s and London Knights fan. His greatest love was watching all of his grandchildren play sports, particularly hockey. He could be heard in arenas around the province yelling “One more time!!”.
Hank struggled for many years with several medical conditions and his family would like to recognize and thank all of the physicians, nurses and staff who tended to him over the years through the Kidney and Transplant Clinic as well as the Neurology and Cardiology departments at University Hospital. The family would also like to thank and physicians and staff at the Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital for their wonderful care of Hank throughout his last days.
At Hank’s request, cremation has taken place. Interment will take place at a later date. For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Hank are asked to consider the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com
Dear Diane and Kevin, Dave and Maggie and your families.
We are very sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. We know he enjoyed life and had suffered for a few years but always had a smile on his face. Our deepest condolences to the Igras family.
Love Aunt Wanda, Cindy and Anthony
My heartfelt sympathy to the family. Hank and Julie are together again. We have fond memories of many years of friendship and love.
Linda and Dan
So sorry for your loss – Gerry and Laurie Henderson
Hank and Julie became good friends when we worked together at CST.
They were both very gracious and caring people. We will miss them.
There is never enough time to spend with those we love. I’m very sorry for the loss of your parents in very short order. Wishing you strength as you move forward. Hugs to all who are hurting.