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PHIL NOVOKSHONOFF

June 2, 2014

It is with profound sadness that we must announce the death of Phil Novokshonoff, the founder and lifeblood of Mainstream Mechanical. Phil passed away in Trail Hospital on Monday, June 2nd from heart failure. He was 55 years old. Phil’s life can best be described as a mixture of laughter, family, business and community. He had a larger than life personality and a wicked sense of humour. His greatest pride in life was his four sons, Peter, Andrew (Biatta Musaev), Spencer and Tristan, and Kathy, his wife of 25 years. He will be missed. Phil started Mainstream Mechanical over 30 years ago and it had been a driving force in his life. When Peter finished his apprenticeship in 2009, he decided to join his father in running the company. Phil took great pride in the passion and devotion his sons showed in anything they did, and passing the business to Peter was a dream of both father and son. Last year Phil, Kathy, Peter and Andrew joined together in a new business venture, Magnum Auto Inc. The opening of this full-service auto facility in Grand Forks allowed Andrew, an automotive technician, to realize one of his dreams. Spencer is entering his third year of undergraduate study (Physics major). It was such a joy to Phil to be able to discuss physics principles and theories at this level with his son. Tristan is a devoted self-learner and entertained and amazed his father on a daily basis with his keen intelligence and knowledge base. Phil’s wife, Kathy, is a local dog trainer and an active community member of her adopted hometown. Phil, who was born and raised in Grand Forks, was both proud and amused to be called “Kathy’s husband”. Phil acquired his strong family values as the son of Joe and Tillie Novokshonoff. Phil’s two beautiful sisters, Beth and Linda Novokshonoff, were an integral part of the lives of Phil and his family. “The girls” shared many laughs, tears and experiences over the years and remain close to this day. Phil did not wish to have a funeral. The family has decided to hold a celebration of life for Phil on June 29th, 2014 beginning at 2:30 pm. The plan is to share some laughter and reminisce, surrounded by people whose life Phil has touched. A potluck dinner and a large kettle of vareniki will be served at 5 pm. For those people who have never visited, the family lives on riverfront acreage in Grand Forks. Though it will be a bit chilly at this time of the year, you are welcome to take a dip in the river, visit animals (horses, mini cow, mini horses) or simply enjoy the peace of what our family considers paradise. You are encouraged to share a story, memory or just have a good time in Phil’s honour. Please join us. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Phil Novokshonoff Memorial at Grand Forks and District Savings Credit Union. Donations can also be dropped off at Magnum Auto on Central Avenue. The family plans to purchase a piece of bariatric equipment and donate it locally in Phil’s name. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Baker Family of Grand Forks Funeral Home, gffh@shaw.ca.



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