With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Daniel Andrew Chrusz, 86, on July 26, 2025. Dan was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Nicholas Chruszcz and Rose “Rozalja” Kachocha. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and accomplishment.
Dan is survived by his loving wife, Isabel; his daughters, Leslie (Gary) Savitsky and Lianne (Gary Mitchell) Chrusz; his step-children, Donna, David (Stephanie), and Lori Wiitala; his grandchildren, Karli Chrusz, Kaitlyn (Mohit), Drew, Katherine, and Kenzie Mitchell, Jolie (Keegan) Lawton, Darien and Erik Savitsky, Liam and Kiira Wiitala; his great-grandchildren, Zachary, Avery, Rylan, Jared, Elise, Korbin, Amora, and Lonny; brother, Michael Chrusz; as well as many nieces and nephews across Canada and Ukraine.
He is predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Rose; his brothers, Vasyl and Edward; his sisters, Anastasia and Maria; and his sons, Andrew and Daniel.
After graduating from Selkirk High School, Dan attended Lakehead College and Queen’s University, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering, followed by his Professional Engineering designation. He started his career at Abitibi Paper Mill before branching into fiberglass with I.P.S. Engineering. Driven by a desire to be his own boss, he founded Poli Fiberglass Industries, specializing in fiberglass piping and tanks for paper mills. Dan's dedication to his business saw him traveling throughout Ontario, from Marathon to Kenora. A notable achievement in his career was lining the red-and-white stack at Great Lakes Paper in Thunder Bay. Dan also contributed to projects in the Northwest Territories and Russia.
Dan’s commitment to community was exemplified through his involvement with Rotary, where he cherished the fellowship and service activities. He was a regular bell-ringer for the Salvation Army at Christmas and traveled to Peru to help build a hospital. He played an instrumental role in sending containers of clothes to Ukraine.
In addition to his professional life, Dan was an avid learner, attending courses like How to Win Friends and Influence People, and participating in the Barbershop and Toastmasters. He was a passionate card player and enjoyed games like poker, bridge, crib, and pay-me. His love of sports included a lifelong interest in racket sports, including racquetball, squash, tennis, and later pickleball. A dedicated golfer, Dan often spent time on golf courses in Arizona.
Dan encouraged and valued the pursuit of knowledge and education and could often be found tutoring not only his own family and friends, but volunteering in Arizona.
When not travelling, Dan enjoyed visits with his family and especially enjoyed Lianne’s memorable cooking.
During their 40 years together, Dan and Isabel shared passion for travel, visiting countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Egypt, and embarking on many cruises. They also traveled extensively across the USA and Canada in their motorhome, building lasting friendships along the way. In their later years, they settled in Mesa, AZ during the winters and spent their summers at Loon Lake, surrounded by their “Loon Lake Family.”
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Southbridge Pinewood Court (Kingfisher) for their exceptional care and compassion. We are forever grateful for the love and support shown to Dan and our family during his final days.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00pm on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in St. Agnes Church – 1019 Brown Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Diabetes Canada or the Alzheimer’s Society of Thunder Bay.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
