Peter Cebrij

Peacefully Peter Cebrij passed away on September 4, 2025, with family by his side at the St. Boniface Hospital at the age of 78 years.

Left to mourn his passing are his children Nadia (Ryan), Holly (Rod), Gina (Karl) and Jay; grandchildren Mila, Anna, Alyssa, Robyn and Santee; brother Mike; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Peter was predeceased by his parents Pearl and Wasyl Cebry and sister Anna.

Peter was born on May 10, 1947, at a displaced persons camp in Cornberg, Germany. While his early life was lived in trying times, he would sometimes reflect on stories with a smile, such as the captain of his ship to Canada sneaking him candies frequently.

The family settled in Portage la Prairie where dad grew up. He was well known for his mischievous ways, racing down the main drag in his Camaro, and all the troubles he and his friends would get into. In an attempt to become a more responsible adult, he joined the Canadian Air Force where he worked the radar. After leaving the military, he went to Churchill to work with scientists, tracking weather rockets. Around that time he had his first daughter. He then moved on to become an auto mechanic, moving his family to Winnipeg, where he had two more daughters.

Peter remained in his home until the end. He would often be found working on his cars in the garage, fixing things around his house and making lump soup or pancakes for his girls. Evenings with dad often included his famous hot lemon tea and friday chip nights. He was always available if a problem arose with a friend or family member’s car or home.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the doctors and staff at St. Boniface 5B Unit.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025 at 11:00 am in the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Assumption in Portage la Prairie, MB. Viewing will be held prior to the service with burial to take place at Hillside Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed, to register and view the service visit Peter’s obituary page at www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com.

As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made in Peter’s memory to the Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), 121 12th St. NE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 4A2.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com