In Memory of Brendan Berg and Olivia Michalczuk
- Folk Canada
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Folk Canada would like to express our deepest condolences to the many who are mourning the sudden and tragic passing of Brendan Berg and Olivia Michalczuk.
Brendan, a beloved bassist and multi-instrumentalist with Royal Canoe, and Olivia, a passionate advocate, writer, and artist in Winnipeg’s cultural scene, shared a deep love for music, community, and creativity. Together, they built meaningful connections that extended far beyond the stage and left a lasting imprint on countless lives.
Brendan was known for his steady, joyful presence on stage and behind the scenes. As a member of Royal Canoe since 2010, his musicianship helped shape the band’s distinctive sound through nearly 15 years of touring across Canada and beyond. But his contributions reached far beyond performance: Brendan was the steady hand—booking shows, driving the van, setting up gear, and warmly connecting with friends and fans at every performance. Offstage, he brought the same generosity of spirit to his love of food, photography, literature, and hockey, enriching the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Olivia was equally vital to the fabric of her community. She was an active and dedicated member of the Ukrainian folk arts scene, participating in Folk Camp in 2024 and contributing her time and talents to Steppe Kolektyv—managing social media, assisting with admin, posters, practice, and event logistics. Her creative energy shone in her folk singing and dancing, and in her folk arts such as block printing and embroidery work.
Olivia founded the podcast Paper Cut, contributed to The Manitoban, and served as a Polaris Music Prize juror. She championed local artists and used her voice to elevate others, always with warmth, integrity, and conviction. Friends and collaborators knew her as a spark—fiercely creative, deeply caring, and dedicated to creating spaces where others could shine.
Together, Brendan and Olivia were partners in life and in community. Their shared enthusiasm, curiosity, and kindness strengthened each other and inspired those around them. Their loss leaves an aching absence in Winnipeg’s creative landscape, but their spirit endures in the music, art, and relationships they nurtured. We send our heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, the Winnipeg music community, the Canadian Ukrainian folk community, and all who were touched by their vibrant lives.
Polaris Music Prize, Royal Canoe, Folk Camp, Steppe Kolektyv, Elise Roller, JP Hoe, and many other community members have posted moving tributes to both Olivia and Brendan online.
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