The University of Alberta banner is flying at half-mast from May 24–26, 2022 in remembrance of Dr. Steve Pawluk, Professor Emeritus, Former Associate Dean Research and Former Chair, Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences.
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Steve Pawluk on April 1, 2022 at the age of 91. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Angela, sons Larry (Nicole), Randy (Beth) and daughter Dianne as well as grandsons Kieran, Connor, Nolan, Spencer and Henry. He is also survived by his sisters Frances, Josie, and Jean. He was predeceased by his parents Samuel and Victoria, brother Paul and sisters Rose and Anne.
Steve was Professor Emeritus of Soil Science and a former Associate Dean of Agriculture at the University of Alberta. He began his education in a one room schoolhouse, often having his favorite horse take him to school. He left his happy and mischievous childhood on the farm to earn a Gold Medal in his studies at university. From his start doing soil survey in the north by helicopter, he ultimately became a leading soil science researcher in Canada breaking ground in many new areas of the field. Steve was a wise, thoughtful, patient and brilliant teacher and mentor to generations of students and colleagues.
Above all, Steve lovingly prioritized his family. There were countless drives to sports facilities, music lessons and computer labs, and kind supportive help with homework whenever asked. He also drove the family station wagon on the many road trips the family took in the summers when school let out, fostering the kids' interest in the world around them. He was a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather. He was fond of teasing but only in a gentle way. He was always generous with his time and his wisdom and was a lifelong pillar of strength to his wife and children.
Steve was intellectually curious about almost everything and enjoyed nothing more than a good book (usually a science topic) and discussing it afterwards. He loved the peacefulness of the outdoors and often could be found in the yard successfully planting novel varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers that supposedly were unable to be grown in Edmonton. He also grew a bounty of fruits and vegetables for his family and delighted in the children and grandchildren eating straight out of the garden. After retirement, Steve and Angela spent many winters in Hawaii, as well as spring and fall in Virginia, where they walked countless beaches and enjoyed beautiful sunrises and sunsets together.
Steve will be very much missed.
To send condolences or to share a memory, tribute or photo, please visit www.SouthSideMemorial.com.
For information about lowering the University of Alberta banner, visit the In Memoriam webpage.