Alex and Helene Dmitruk

Alex Dmitruk (parents Justin & Maria), born March 12, 1923 in Mohilno, Western Ukraine, Displaced Person

Helene Marie Kreutzer, born August 29, 1925 in Spiegelau, West Germany

Alex fled Russian occupation to Germany as a young man where he became part of a conscripted labour force in a factory in Munich. Helene was raised in Bavaria and as a young adult worked in Munich where she met and married Alex. Seeking a better future for themselves and their family they chose to leave everything behind in Europe and start a new life, lured by promises of opportunity for a better life.

They arrived on a converted troop carrier, General Ballou, in January 1950 at Pier 21. They were processed and then travelled by train to Dauphin, Manitoba to reside with Walter Gergiel for a short time as he was related to Alex and was their sponsor. They soon found work and made their own home at Dauphin where they raised a family of three sons and a daughter. Helene returned to Germany on a few occasions to visit her family and relatives but Alex never did, fearing his freedom in Canada may be taken from him.

Helene worked for 25 years at Dauphin Hospital caring for the sick and elderly. She had a close circle of working friends. She enjoyed playing her accordion and organ, entertaining her family and friends with her musical talent and yodelling. Alex excelled in many trades including cement finishing and meat cutting and made sure his family thrived. He especially enjoyed his yard and growing a huge garden which he generously shared with others.

Alex died in 1999 at the age of 76. He has been stricken by a stroke 10 years earlier and for that time was confined to a wheelchair. Helene provided his care cheerfully with little support. Helene died in 2006 at the age of 81 years.

Submitted by eldest son - Alexander Gregory Dmitruk