1943 - 2007.  R. J. Tompkins hosted the Ukrainian Zabava Hour in Manitoba & Alberta.  He also emceed many Zabava events over the years.

ROBERT J. TOMKINS (PESTAWKA) April 15, 1943 December 07, 2007 Born in Winnipeg, MB The family of Robert J. Tomkins wish to express their heartfelt appreciation for the kind support on the loss of their Brother and Father. Robert is survived by his wife Maryke, of Edmonton, sister Joan Rankin and brother James Pestawka, both of Killarny, MB. He is also survived by two daughters and their families, Debbie (Gord) Amanda and Scott Kuz, and Kathy (Dennis) Dawn and Matthew Hagen, all of Winnipeg, MB and two sons, Robbie and Derek Tomkins of Dauphin, MB. Robert's career began in radio in 1970 with the Ukrainian Program on CKDM in Dauphin, MB, then on to Vernon, BC at 1050 CKAL. He finally made his home in Edmonton, AB in 1981 at 790 CFCW with the Zabava Program. He also had the Zabava Program on 810 CKJS in Winnipeg beginning in 1999. Robert's life was his Zabava Program and to bring music, laughter and joy into our homes. In 1995 Robert and Patricia started R.J.'s Tours Ltd in partnership and some of Robert's favorite tours were to the Ukraine. Robert's Edmonton Journal guest book will be online until January 8, 2009.