Edmonton is widely recognized as a leading Canadian city with a significant Ukrainian diaspora. Throughout its history, many individuals of Ukrainian descent have left their mark on the city. Some achieved great renown, while others’ contributions require closer attention. The story of one such figure is explored here on edmonton-yes.
William Hawrelak
William Hawrelak, a Ukrainian by heritage, was born on October 3, 1915, in Shandro, Alberta. His parents, Vasyl and Anastasia, originally hailed from the village of Banyliv in the Vyzhnytsia district of Chernivtsi Oblast, Ukraine. At the age of 30, Hawrelak moved permanently to Edmonton, where he began his career by establishing a soda production factory.
Four years later, he entered the political scene, joining Edmonton City Council. At the young age of 37, Hawrelak took office as the city’s mayor. His first term lasted eight years, during which he became embroiled in an alleged financial land scandal, resulting in a court-imposed fine of over $250,000. This controversy ultimately led to his resignation.
Five years later, in 1964, Hawrelak was re-elected as mayor. However, his second tenure was similarly plagued by a financial scandal, allegedly involving the company Sun Alta Builder’s Ltd. Again, this period ended with Hawrelak facing legal penalties, though this time the fine was smaller. He appealed the decision, which was not resolved until March 1975.
In 1974, Hawrelak began his third term as mayor, which ended tragically. In November 1975, he passed away from a heart attack at the age of 60.
Legacy
Despite the financial scandals, William Hawrelak left a lasting positive impact on Edmonton. Over 10,000 residents lined up to pay their respects at his casket in City Hall, a testament to his esteem among the community.
On the personal front, Hawrelak is survived by his wife Pearl, originally from Shandro, Alberta, and their three daughters: Jeannette, Patty, and Gina.
Some of his key accomplishments include:
- Renaming Mayfair Park to Hawrelak Park
- Introducing free public transportation for seniors
- Establishing Coronation Park in Toronto
- Opening Fort Edmonton Park and Borden Park
- Creating the Queen Elizabeth Planetarium
- Overseeing the construction of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Complex
- Founding Storyland Valley Zoo
- Opening Groat Bridge
- Establishing the Stanley Milner Library (formerly the Centennial Library)
- Building a new City Hall
- Opening Riverside Golf Course
While this list does not capture all of his contributions, it highlights the breadth of reforms and initiatives he spearheaded to improve the lives of Edmontonians.
Commemoration
William Hawrelak passed away on November 7, 1975, in Edmonton and was laid to rest in a local cemetery. His legacy is enshrined in the “Ukrainians in the World” project, underscoring his importance not only to Edmonton’s history but also to Ukraine’s diaspora.
Hawrelak’s life was marked by contrasts, with both triumphs and controversies. Yet, his legacy endures as a testament to his efforts. It is up to future generations to honor his memory and contributions to the city of Edmonton.