ALEX DEMSKI
1924 - 2002
A distinguished musician and comedian, better known in the music field as Al Davis. His death has left an emptiness for all of us who had the joy of knowing him. It was an honor to be part of his life.
Al always put Canada first and served his country in World War II. While he was in the war, he was wounded and was admitted to hospital in England. Later, when Al recovered from his wounds, he returned to Winnipeg. Al had played sax before he went to war and when he came back home, he was unable to play the sax due to his injuries so he went after his second dream and played the drums.
Al move to Montreal for about 7 years and played big band jobs at the nightclubs -- his love of music shone through while he was on stage -- whether playing the drums or entertaining the crowd as a comedian. He had an enormous love for people.
Al was the backbone of many bands as well as a member of the Winnipeg Jazz Society. After the nightclubs he played with Andy Desjarlais, Tommy Buick and the “Red River Valley Boys”, and Glenn Frain and “The Buckaroos”. In 1967 he was asked to join Stan Kaskiw and “The Poker Drifters”, playing until the mid 70s. During this time you could hear his drums on many records they recorded. He then joined Al Millar’s band and after some time he left that band and formed his own band known as the “Black Diamonds”. After many years, he went back to the “Polka Drifters” and played with them until his illness. He had to quit music when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. What a tremendous loss to the music community. It was with great sadness that he put his sticks to rest. We are comforted now that his drums are playing nonstop in heaven, along with many other talented musicians. Thank you for the honour of letting us share this tribute to Al’s long life of music. We're sure he is smiling down at all of his buddies.
ALEX DEMSKI
On June 8, following a courageous battle with lung cancer, the world lost a kind, honest man and heaven gained a talented musician and comedian. Alex Demski (our "Papa") was taken by the angels peacefully from his bed at home, while his loving wife Selma kept watch. Thank you Lord, this was his greatest desire to stay at home. "Papa, were sure you have the drums playing once again, now that you are free."
Alex was born June 10, 1924 in Poland. In September, 1943 he joined the Canadian Army as a private and served in the PPCLI Regiment during the Second World War. After a serious injury he was discharged August 10, 1945 and received the 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, The Defence Medal, The CVSM Medal and Clasp and The War Medal 1939-1945. Once home he took up his love of music forming numerous bands, spreading the gift of music to all who crossed his path. Many music tips were passed on and those who received them were the "lucky" ones. He also became a member of the 141 Royal Canadian Legion serving 47 years. Through the ups and downs of his life he finally met his soulmate, Selma and they married November 10, 1979. Alex was predeceased by his father Anton; brothers, Steve and Walter. Left to celebrate his life and mourn his passing are his loving wife of 23 years, Selma; his mother Pauline; brothers and sisters, Jean Sawchuk, John (Rose), Ed, Victoria Stillman (Peter) Frank (Janet). Along with Selma came his second family whom he loved deeply; Frances Kullman (Garry), Bev Ganchar (Gerald), Richard Nawolski (Terry) his grandchildren, Holly, Steven, Doug, Lisa, Kori, Krista, Jenna, Crystal (Vern), Shannon, Barry, Dana and little Amber; his sons, he so missed and loved, Gerry (Linda), Glen (Audrey), Darryl (Darlene), and Rodney; grandchildren, Shannon (John) Allyson (Al), Lisa, Laura, Keri (Sergio), little Ashton, Erica and many nieces and nephews too numerous to mention. Thank you to Dr. Burke, Dr. Heybek and Dr. Kurk from CancerCare Manitoba, along with nurse Kathy, Dr. Fiona Crow and the DVA and their "special" caregivers, Anne, Marilyn and Rose-Mary. A special thanks to Stan and Mary Kaskiew, Ed Sersen and Al Miller, for your many supportive visits and true friendship which gave him peace and comfort. Dear sister-in-law Violet Sikora, thank you for always being there for Alex and Selma. Thank you to all who called and our special neighbours, your thoughts and prayers were always appreciated. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 12, at Klassen Funeral Chapel, 1897 Henderson Hwy. Honorary pallbearers are Stan Kaskiw, Ed Sersen, Al Miller, Gary Kullman, Richard Nawolski, Gerald Ganchar, Steven Lloyd and Barry Nawolski.