It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, brother, grandfather and friend. Emil was predeceased by Mollie, his wife of 48 years, and his two brothers, Vincent and George.
Emil was born to John and Emilie Liska in Natal, B.C. During WW2, he served overseas with the Algonquin Regiment. He spent his 19th, 20th and 21st birthdays fighting in France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Shortly before Remembrance Day 2017, Emil was awarded Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour. This distinction is the highest national order of France.
When the war ended, Emil returned to Victoria, B.C. and to his work as a shipwright at Yarrows Shipyard. Emil’s career there would span over forty years. His co-workers and family will recall his eye for detailed precision and the aptly earned nick name, “Mr. 1/64th of an inch.”
Emil was an avid golfer and a member of Glen Meadows Golf Club for many years. He loved five pin bowling and to take a turn on the dance floor at the Esquimalt Legion. Emil was always interested in music. Particularly, violins and mandolins. He knew how to play them and he had a diverse collection. He became very adept at restoring these old instruments. Emil also admired good watch pieces. He collected and repaired all kinds of them and this was a hobby he enjoyed. Another lifelong interest was reading the daily Victoria Times Colonist newspaper. Six days a week, from front to back. Almost everything took a backseat until he finished reading his paper.
Emil is survived by his children, Alan (Barb), Cathy (Lloyd), and his sister Rosalie, grandchildren, Jason (Krista), Emily (Stephen) and Nicole, his great grandson, Kruz as well as his best friend, Brenda, his nieces, nephews and friends.
Emil was loved, respected and appreciated. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Emil’s Life will be held in the New Year. Please join the family on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, B.C.
Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made in memory of Emil to a charity of choice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Dianne Woodman
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Shelley Jordan Condolences to the Liska Family. Mr. Liska was a patient of mine for over 39 years in our Dental Office. And I worked together long ago with his daughter Cathy in the same practice.
Mr. Liska was a very quiet fellow who greeted us with a smile and all of us girls with ONE LINDT CHOCOLATE each after his appointments. So sweet! Him and I had a good rapport and had some nice talks of his Family. Especially you Cathy!
I will miss him. Take care Cathy. hugs
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Ed & Cathy Kozicki Our condolences to both Alan and Cathy. Myself and Cathy will always remember the good times had in your home with your parents and yourselves. The basement was always a welcoming place.
Ed & Cathy Kozicki
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Pam and Wayne Jones Hello Liska family Please except our deepest condolences Emil will always be part of my formative years So good at so many things Our families enjoyed many island camping trips Our parents such good friends I last talked with Emil in lumber world 2 years ago buying parts for his kitchen sink He was about to fix it himself thankyou Regards all the Jones family
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FangFang, Fred Hi, Al and Barb,death is new chapter of the next life beginning,let’s celebrate his long life and wish he has new life ticket back.all good memories are with you forever.
Take care!!
FangFang and FRed
Emil was a dancing partner of mine for over twenty five years. He loved to polka. We are fortunate to have had him here with us for so many years. My condolences to all the family.
Dianne Woodman