Ernie (Ernest) Robert Babuik

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Ernie Robert Babuik on August 9th at Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary, after a long and courageous battle with COPD, fibrosis, and cancer.

Ernie was a devoted partner, a proud and loving father, a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, a beloved brother, uncle, and treasured by extended family and friends.

Born on November 1, 1942, to Nick and Anne Babuik on a farm north of Norquay, Saskatchewan— or ‘in a manger” as he would say —Ernie was the eldest of three children. He carried a deep love for Saskatchewan and farming throughout his life.

Ernie briefly attended the University of Saskatchewan to study pharmacy, but soon realized his path lay elsewhere. He made a bold move to Edmonton, and later settled in Calgary in the mid-1970s, where he built a successful dry-cleaning repair and installation business. His work took him across North America and even to Vietnam.

A proud “girl dad,” Ernie adored his daughters and found immense joy in spending time with his great-grandson. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his second great-grandchild in the coming weeks.

Ernie had a playful spirit and a knack for storytelling—often spinning “alternative facts” just to see if he could get a rise out of people, especially Rita his long-time partner. He was a master of DIY, able to fix anything from cars, computers, appliances to hearts. He had a passion for collecting treasures ranging from arcade games, bar signs and jukeboxes to slot and pachinko machines.  Collecting and keeping anything that would be “worth something someday.”

He loved a good song, especially tapping his toes to Don Williams, and despite the “fisherman’s curse,” he never lost his love for casting a line. Ernie loved to tell people he shared the exact birthdate with Ralph Klein and would exchange birthday messages.  Later he would happily share his birthday with his son-in law. 

Ernie fought bravely to stay with those he loved, and his strength, humor, and kindness will be remembered forever. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

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