Obituary of Gregory Kanicki

Gregory "Poppy" Kanicki, 90, of 2112 Swanson Road in Jamestown, died Saturday, October 8, 2011 at UPMC Hamot in Erie after an extended illness. He was born February 21, 1921 in Pohortz, Ukraine, a son of the late Eustachyj and Maria Luczyczny Kanickij, and came to the United Sates in 1958. He had been employed by Chautauqua Hardware for many years. Despite his experience as a slave laborer in Germany and other hardships, including three back surgeries, more than 30 years of chronic pain and becoming deaf, Poppy didn't complain or become bitter. He was a humble man who took care of his family and home. He enjoyed cooking elaborate meals, watching the Buffalo Bills and using his riding lawn mower. Poppy was greatly loved and admired by his family. Surviving are his wife, Ravanina Del Giudice Kanicki; a daughter, Maria (Robert) Johnson of Erie; two sons, Bohdan (Young Suk) Kanicki and Stephen (Pam) Kanicki, both of Jamestown; and a brother, Michael Kanickij of Poland. Also surviving are nine grandchildren: Libbie, Matt, Ben and Dan Johnson, Bohdan and Rachel Kanicki, Courtney Kilmer, and Stephen and Kyra Kanicki; and two great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters, Anna Rutkavick, Julia Rutkavick, Kathleen Stanvito and Veronica Wruwrzacht; and three brothers, Eustachyj, John and Joseph Kanickij. A private family service was held. Entombment was in the Sunset Hill Cemetery Columbarium. Visitation will not be observed. Memorials may be made to a charity of choice.