Ernest Kuryluk

It is with sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Ernie Kuryluk of Grande Prairie, AB and formerly of Hines Creek, AB, announces his passing on Aug 9, 2025

Ernie Kuryluk was born at his family’s farm west of Hines Creek, Alberta, to Nick and Sophia Kuryluk on December 8, 1937. He was born in the home his grandparents built on the land that the family homesteaded. He was the second of three children born to Nick and Sophia. His brother, Steve, arrived before him in 1933, and his sister, Katherine, came after him in 1942.

Ernie attended school in Chester, then Royce and eventually ventured into Hines Creek in 1953 to attend high school. Ernie would work for Wilson Coon at the UFA station after school and on the weekends. Ernie found school wasn’t for him, so he started full-time at UFA in 1955 and later would hone his selling skills, selling General Motors vehicles for Wilson.

Ernie met the love of his life in Hines Creek and married Marie Isinger from Bluesky on July 17, 1961. They settled in Hines Creek and became important, dedicated members of the Hines Creek community until they moved to Grande Prairie in 2018.

Ernie, with the encouragement of a local businessman, formed a local fire department in 1959 and became fire chief, a position he held until 1976.

One of Ernie’s greatest accomplishments came on April 1, 1962, when he signed a Case Farm Equipment contract and officially formed Ernie’s Farm Service. He operated Ernie’s Farm service until 1978, at which time he closed the business to tackle new adventures.

Ernie also purchased a log truck in 1972 and formed a partnership in the log hauling business the following year with his good friend Kent Reintjes. They eventually expanded to own 2 trucks, and together they operated Ernie’s Trucking until 1993 when Kent took over the business.

In 1981, Ernie bought his family’s farmland from his brother Steve, along with another quarter section from another family and started farming. He also tried his hand at working for AFSC, North Peace Gas Co-op, and different Oilfield businesses, as well as driving a bus. These various positions concluded his formal working days, and he “retired” after selling the family farm to Kevin & Hilary in 2010. Although retired, he was still found driving a tractor or combine many days, helping Kevin before moving to Grande Prairie.

Ernie took meticulous care with his businesses and friendships and became a reliable and loyal friend to many across the Peace Country. His attention to detail and ability to tell stories were exceptional, and he has left a legacy of his life adventures.

Left to mourn his passing is his wife Marie Kuryluk (nee Isinger) of 64 years; son Matthew(Alison), granddaughters Darci, Talynn and Mckenna; Kevin(Hilary) grandsons Bennett and Karter and granddaughter Halle; Sister In Law Rhonda Heck, Brother In Law John Isinger(Sharon) as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ernie was predeceased by his mother and father, Nick & Sophia; as well as his siblings Steve and Katherine; father and mother-in-law, John and Tillie Isinger.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 18th at 2:00 pm at the Dave Shaw Memorial Complex in Hines Creek, with interment to follow at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the Dave Shaw Memorial Complex.

Care entrusted to Peace Valley Funeral Home, Fairview (Kristi Heck) 780-835-3306.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Ernest Kuryluk, please visit our Tree Store.