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JOSEPH E. SCHNERCH
Peacefully, in his sleep, joined his beloved wife Jean in eternal rest on Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at Johnson Memorial Hospital in Gimli, Manitoba. He was a quiet and gentle man.
Joe was born in Berlo, Manitoba May 28, 1928. In his early years, he was blessed with the companionship of a large family with loving, caring parents. In later years, his fondest memories were of the days he worked in his chosen profession of heavy duty mechanics both with McCall Equipment and later, Erickson Construction.
When his heavy duty mechanic days were over, he took great delight in working in the greenhouses with his wife Jean.
Joe is survived by his loving son Patrick (Kathy) and daughters Roseanne (Harry) and Joan. Also left to mourn are his brothers John (Jean), Arthur (Sabina), Alfred (Laura), Stanley (Rose); sisters Mary (Adam), Florence, Josephine (Jerome), Katie, Annie (Ignace) and Eva; grandchildren Roy, Joseph, Raymond, Susan, Paula, Shelly and Morgan and many extended family members.
Joe was predeceased by his mother and father, Mary and John and brother Adam.
The funeral service was held at 1:00 p.m., with viewing prior to the service Friday, January 24, 2003 at St. Michael's Church in Gimli with Sister Kathy officiating.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Z. Wiesenthal for the kind and gentle care. To Inga and Alfred Haas, we wish to extend a heartfelt thank you for the generous and endless loving support of our father and grandfather.
ENOCH KRISTIAN OVERGAARD
Enoch Kristian Overgaard, aged 103 years, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at Tuxedo Villa.
Dad leaves behind many stories and memories cherished by his daughter Astrid (Wayne) Walker, his son Paul (Gail) Overgaard and grandchildren Karin (Glen Beer) Overgaard and David Overgaard. Enoch was predeceased by his wife Erna in 1989.
Dad was born in Northern Norway on November 17, 1899 and immigrated to Canada with his brothers Haakon and Johan, in search of a better life. Even though he was proud of his Norwegian roots, he always said that Canada was good to him. He worked primarily as a carpenter and was an honourary member of the Carpenter's Union. Most notably he spent many years building grain elevators across the prairies and other projects like The Paddock and the shopping centre at Polo Park and the St. James Bridge. He and his brothers assisted in the construction of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. He was a long time resident of Simcoe Street and also a life member of the Norwegian Canadian Club. He shared many good times with the members of the Club and truly appreciated their care and support.
Enoch's family would like to thank Dad's special caregiver, Jane Parkinson and the staff at Tuxedo Villa.
A service to celebrate our Dad's life was held on Friday, January 24, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 600 Minto Street. Interment at St. Vital Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Enoch's memory may be made to the Scandinavian Centre, 764 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB., R3G 2W4.
MARY DEWEY (NEE SMORHAN, STOCKS)
NOVEMBER 7TH, 1915 - JANUARY 21ST, 2003
On Tuesday, January 21, 2003 Mary passed away peacefully at Central Park Lodge - Poseidon.
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother Peter Smorhan; sister Stella Kupniski, nieces Patricia MacPhail (Ross), Judi Bourgouin; great niece Crystal Bourgouin (Allan) and great great niece Addie Eva.
She was predeceased by her parents Peter and Josephine Smorhan, her first husband Arthur Stocks, second husband Henry Dewey and nephew Johnny Fedoruk.
Mary was a sweet and kind lady. She had a fantastic dry sense of humour. She was very generous to her family and was appreciated by all. She supported many charities in her beautiful, generous spirit. Mary was truly amazing, she never complained no matter what.
The family would like to extend sincere thanks to the 3rd floor staff at Central Park Lodge - Poseidon for the kind and compassionate care extended to Mary.
In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to contribute to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 5 Kent Street Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2L 1X3, or to a charity of their choice in Mary's memory.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance.
You will be remembered and celebrated in our hearts always.
We love you Auntie.
WILLIAM HENRY GEARY (Bill)
Suddenly on January 19, 2003 William Henry (Bill) Geary passed away at the age of 73.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Doreen (nee Turnbull). His daughters Lynda (Rob), and Marcia (Thomas) of Winnipeg and son John (Lena) of Calgary, Alberta. Grandchildren Matthew, Eric and Nicole of Winnipeg and Margaret of Calgary. Sister Verna (Rod) of Morinville, Alberta and brother George (Thelma) of Calgary, Alberta.
Bill was born, raised and lived his life in St. Boniface. He was employed by C.N.R. Express and Symington Yards until retiring in 1989 after 43 of service.
He was a man of little pretense and definite ideas. His devotion to family extended to his passion for genealogy in recent years, where he discovered his extended family and connected with close relatives from many countries. He will be sadly missed by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Cremation has taken place and a time to visit with family and share memories was held 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 23 at 989 Portage Ave., Aubrey Street entrance.
In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 200 - 6 Donald Street, R3L 0K6 would be appreciated.
BALDUR (BUD) LORNE STEFANSON
Baldur (Bud) Stefanson passed away suddenly while a patient at the Grace Hospital on January 14, 2003 at the age of 73. He is sadly missed and his memory will be cherished by his family and all who knew him well. He was single and had no offspring but he was Uncle Buddy to all his nieces and nephews.
Bud was born in Lundar, MB on March 3, 1929. He was predeceased by his parents Palmi and Kristin Stefanson, and brother-in-law Baldur Jonsson. He is survived by his sister Florence (Tom) Barnes of Ashern, MB, sister Clara (Leslie) Will of Toronto, and brother Jon (Diane) Stefanson of Headingley, MB. He will be missed by nieces and nephews Karen (John) Linde, Joanne (Clayton) Dowsett, Ron (Brenda) Jonsson, Darlene Jonsson (Kerry Bjornson), Kirsten Will (fiance Michael Habib), Karin Will, Kyra Stefanson (Marc Girouard), Lara Stefanson (Tom Rees), Svava Stefanson (Eli Chernenki) and Mandy Stefanson, as well as grand and great-grand nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends.
Bud operated the homestead farm growing certain crops but concentrating mainly on raising beef cattle. The farm bordered onto the shores of Lake Manitoba west of Moosehorn, MB. Before taking over operation of the farm Bud completed a two-year Agriculture Diploma course at the University of Manitoba. His management of the farm was a constant process of development and modernization. As part of this operation he raised purebred Charlaois cattle for a time. Bud was a good neighbor in a community where neighbor helping neighbor was the norm. His parents lived on the farm until they passed away. His mother lived under his care, although fully functional and in charge of the house, until she passed away at the age of 95. Due to health problems, Bud had to stop farming and sold the farm to nephew Ron Jonsson and his wife Brenda.
Bud's most recent residence was the 55+ Lions Manor in Stonewall.
The gratitude of the family is extended to the Interlake Regional Health Authority home care workers at the Lions Manor and to all those who helped maintain Bud's quality of life by visits and phone calls.
A memorial was held at 984 Portage Ave., Aubrey Street entrance on Sunday January 19, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. A second memorial will be held at the Faulkner Community Hall on Thursday January 23, 2003 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Heart and Stroke Foundation Suite 200, 6 Donald St. Winnipeg MB R3L 0K6, or a charity of choice.
ERIKA KAWLASAR
On Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at Heritage Lodge, Erika Kawlasar passed away at the age of 69 years.
A memorial service will be held near the end of February. Complete notice to follow at that time.
BEULAH WINNIFRED SIMPSON
On Monday, January 13, 2003 at the Health Science Centre, Beulah Simpson, beloved wife of Robert passed away at the age of 72 years.
Viewing was held from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, January 16 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance.
A funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. Friday at Kildonan Presbyterian Church 2373 Main Street, with Interment at Kildonan Cemetery.
EILEEN JONES (NEE CLIFFE)
A beloved wife and aunt, Eileen Jones passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at the Charleswood Care Centre.
Eileen was born February 20, 1926 in St. James, Manitoba. On September 3, 1948 she married David L. Jones of Norwood, Manitoba. For a number of years prior to retirement, she was employed at Baker Graphics, where she worked in the bindery and most enjoyed proof reading.
She enjoyed the wildlife that visited her home in Charleswood daily, and loved the many summer days spent at her cottage on Brereton Lake. She loved travelling with her husband on trips to B.C. to visit friends and family or to hop across the border on a shopping trip.
Eileen was predeceased by her husband David and sister Joyce Vowell. She is survived by her brother-in-law Edward Jones of Westbank, B.C., sister-in-law Dorrie and Bob McKay (of Gimli) and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 17, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance with viewing prior to the service.
JACK WESLEY ADAMS
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Wesley Adams on January 14, 2003, at the age of 64. Jack passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Grace General Hospital.
Jack will be lovingly remembered by his wife Gail; his son Dale, his daughter Sandra (Shannon) Demkiw, his granddaughters Brittany (Claudette), Kristyn (Debbie); his mother Emma Adam of Saskatoon, brothers Al (June); Gerry (Kay) and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
He was predeceased by his father Jacob Adam and sister-in-law Margaret Adam.
Jack was born and raised in Saskatchewan and moved to Winnipeg with his wife Gail in August of 1961. He was employed in the accounting field. He was self-employed from 1986 to present and valued the many friendships he formed through the business.
Jack had many interests, which included travelling, camping, sports and family barbeques. Jack was a very kind and gentle soul who possessed an incredible sense of humour which he kept until very end. We were blessed to have him as a husband, father and grandfather.
Jack was a charter member of St. James Lutheran Church, and served his church faithfully through out his life.
His family was his world, and he was never happier than when they were around. Jack had a special bond with his two granddaughters who brought him many hours of enjoyment, especially the card games and board games. Jack also loved to watch his girls play soccer and baseball.
We would like to thank the many doctors and nurses who were a part of Jack's care with special thanks Dr. R. Albak, Dr. P. Harris, Dr. L. Stevens, and the staff of Grace Hospital and Grace Cancer Care.
Thanks to Pastor Rod Buck for his understanding and compassion during this difficult time.
Viewing was held from 7 to 9 p.m., Sunday, January 19, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance. A Celebration of Jack's life took place at St. James Lutheran Church 871 Cavalier Drive at Hamilton on Monday, January 20, 2003 at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Canadian Diabetes Association, 102 - 310 Broadway, R3C 0S6 the Canadian Cancer Society Manitoba Division, 193 Sherbrook Street, R3C 2B7 or St. James Lutheran Church building fund.
ADELA ELISABETH KOHANEK (HALL, NEE BUFFIE)
On Friday, January 10, 2003 at the Victoria Hospital Adela Kohanek passed away at the age of 89 years.
Della leaves to cherish her memory her son Ron Hall (Ilse), step-son Peter Kohanek (Cheryl) and their children Garret and Travis, step-daughter Lee Kohanek; sister Dorothy Milford and brothers Edward (Hilda) Mattern and Carl Mattern, and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 17, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance.
Donations may be made to a charity of choice.
HELENE SCHAFRIK
Peacefully on Friday, January 10, 2002, Helene Schafrik passed away at Golden West Centennial Lodge.
A funeral service was held on Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, (entrance on Aubrey Street) at 11:00 a.m.
MICHAEL KLOWAK
On Sunday, January 5, 2003 at the Seven Oaks Hospital, Michael Klowak passed away at the age of 74 years.
Michael is survived by his daughter Patricia and grand daughter Melissa, Pat's mom Connie Klowak, and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
He was predeceased by his father Joseph in 1969, his mother Pauline in 1980 and his brothers Steve in 1953 and Walter in 1969.
Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service was held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 9, 2003 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the 3rd floor, 5th unit of the Seven Oaks Hospital for their kindness and care.
HAROLD (HAL) LAWRENCE PURDY
APRIL 23, 1915 - APRIL 9, 2003
Peacefully on Wednesday, April 9, 2003, at Deer Lodge Centre, with family at his side, Harold Lawrence Purdy, passed away at the age of 87.
Dad was born on April 23, 1915 in Winnipeg where he resided most of his life. He participated in numerous sports beginning with track and field in his high school days at Gordon Bell, leading into a year of professional football with the Calgary Bronks (later to become the Calgary Stampeders) and continuing into his later years with golf and league bowling. While in Calgary, he also worked on the team, which built which built the Alaska Highway and a part of the Trans-Canada Pipeline.
Upon returning to Winnipeg, he enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force. During World War II he flew as both a Navigator and a Bombardier, based out of Dumfries, Scotland.
With his marriage to Helen Margaret Van Every on October 5, 1949, his priorities quickly shifted to center around family. Together they raised Robert, Thomas and Lorelei at 1206 Lorette Avenue, where Dad's ever-changing gardens became a highlight in the neighbourhood.
After retiring from the City of Winnipeg Planning & Zoning Department in 1980, he and Mom sold the cottage they built at Falcon Lake to enjoy several winters in New Port Richey, Florida.
Harold is survived by Robert & Kasia Purdy; Tom & Ivy Purdy; Lorelei & Bryan Fenton; grandchildren Christopher Purdy, Nicholas Purdy, Jerome Chouinard, Celeste Chouinard, Heather Purdy, as well as his sisters Pearl Nancollas and Margaret Purdy. He was predeceased by Helen in 1992, his parents Wilhelmina and James Purdy, two brothers and one sister.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the staff at Deer Lodge Centre, especially the wonderful staff of T6, who helped make his room feel like home for the last 3 years.
A memorial service celebrating Dad's life will be held Monday, April 14, 9:30 a.m. at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance. After a brief reception, Interment will follow at Brookside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in Dad's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice.
SIGURLAUJ HOLMFRIDUR SVEINSSON
APRIL 11, 1911 - APRIL 7, 2003
On Monday, April 7, 2003 Sigurlauj passed away at Maples Personal Care Home.
Sigurlauj is survived by her sons Robert (Sylvia), of Westbank, B.C. and Ron (Sharon) of Montreal; three grandchildren Allan (Dianna), Diane (Michael) and Gary (Laurie); great grand- children Bryan, Zachary, Amanda and Jennifer. She is also survived by her sister Rae Martin and brother David Vidalin (Susanne) of Calgary, AB.
A memorial service was held at First Lutheran Church, 580 Victor Street at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 11, 2003.
Special thanks go to the nursing staff at Maples Personal Care Home.
BRENDA LOUISE HOWAT
JULY 9, 1944 - APRIL 4, 2003
Brenda Howat went to her eternal home with God's spirit within her, the prayers and love of many sustaining her, and good friends at her side throughout her illness.
Brenda was born in Winnipeg on July 9, 1944. She was raised in Winnipeg by her parents, Douglas Carrick Howat and Emily Eileen (Baker) Howat. She graduated from United College in 1964 with a B.A. and from the University of Winnipeg in 1971 with a B.A. Honours in Psychology. She received her M. Ed. in 1990 from the University of Manitoba. From 1965 to 1996, she worked in schools in the Winnipeg , St. James Assiniboia, River East and Fort Garry School Divisions with the Child Guidance Clinic. She retired in June, 1999, from Student Support Services in Fort Garry. In retirement, she was back in classrooms in the Seven Oaks School Division part-time with the Child Guidance Clinic. Brenda spent many years working with children with emotional behaviour disorders. She worked with children, parents, teachers and all school staff to help each child develop to his/her potential. Brenda brought humour, wisdom, competency, skill and compassion to her work. She encouraged, supported and inspired many.
Brenda was a member of Young United Church where she chaired the Board, the Finance Committee and many other committees. She was on the Board of Directors of Crossways in Common. Brenda was a past chair of the West Broadway Community Ministry and was a pastoral care volunteer at the drop-in centre.
Brenda was a member of Winnipeg Presbytery of the United Church of Canada and served as Chair and as a member of many committees. She was a Commissioner to two General Councils in Fergus, Ontario and Camrose, Alberta.
Brenda's life was lived for others. She generously gave of her time, talent and resources for many church and community causes. Brenda worked for a just and caring society and found ways to help many people on their life journeys. Brenda's many interests included choral and Baroque music, live theatre, reading (especially mysteries) and baseball.
Brenda leaves to remember her with love, her mother, Emily; her sister, Cheryl; her brother, Doug; her three nieces, Caralee (Darcy), Christa and Michelle, all of Calgary, Alberta; her uncle, Bob Hiley of Vancouver; and several cousins. She will also be remembered by a wide circle of friends and colleagues, among whom are Gisela-Marķa Lavastida, Wilder Rodriguez and baby Wilder Daniel, Marjorie Dunderdale and Eleanor Geib.
A Service of Thanksgiving for Brenda's life was held at Young United Church, corner of Broadway and Furby, at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 7. Several friends participated in the service: Bill Millar, Bob Gilbert, Glen Horst, Teresa Moysey, and Janet Walker.
Memorial donations may be made to Young United Church and the West Broadway Community Ministry, both located at 222 Furby Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2A7.
Many people have supported Brenda and Eleanor these past months. Our thanks go to all of you. We would like to make special mention of the Staff on 7A and 8 at St. Boniface Hospital, Wecare Companions, and the friends who spent hours at the hospital with Brenda. Rides, meals, flowers, gifts, cards, phone calls, visits, and prayers were all greatly appreciated. Our thanks to friends at Young, Knox and Westworth United Churches; the staff of the Child Guidance Clinic (especially in the Seven Oaks School Division); and to the staff in Student Support Services in Fort Garry. Our grateful appreciation goes to Marion and Allan McKay, whose friendship and kindness journeyed with us every step of the way.
May a portion of Brenda's integrity, humour, wisdom and love live on in all those whose lives she touched.
KENNETH CLOSEN (MASON)
Kenneth Closen (Mason) passed away suddenly on Monday, March 31, 2003 in Gillam at the age of 21 years.
Ken was born and grew up in Thompson. After graduating, he moved to Winnipeg while attending Red River Community College. He moved to Gillam when offered a position he loved with Manitoba Hydro.
Ken will be remembered for his love of snowboarding, snowmobiling, fishing and anything with wheels and / or an engine.
He leaves behind to mourn his father Ken Closen; step mother Heather Will; mother Monique Mason and step father Kevin Mason; brothers Kelly and Kirtus Closen, K.C. Mason; and step brother Shawn Will; grandparents Lorne Closen of Sardis, B.C., Sheila Lloyd of Winnipeg and Dorothy and Roy Middleton of Kevinside, ON.
He also leaves many aunts, uncles, extended step family members, cousins and friends who will miss his smile and quick wit.
A service of remembrance was held in Winnipeg on Monday, April 7, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, Aubrey Street entrance. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
"Catch a big one Kenny, there is no catch and release anymore"
HELEN SPIERS (NEE BRYDGES)
It is with great sorrow that we announce the death of Helen Spiers on Sunday, March 30, 2003.
Helen was born on February 22, 1913 in Saltcoats, Sask., moving to Manitoba and residing in West Kildonan. She was employed for 21 years by the Manitoba Government and worked in the Provincial Veterinary Lab at the U of M.
Helen was predeceased by her one and only love John R.C. Spiers and an infant grand daughter Susan Heimbecker.
Helen leaves to mourn her daughters Irene Heimbecker (Ron) and, Lorene Smith of Winnipeg; son Jonathan Spiers of New York; grandchildren Tim Smith (Kathy) Irene Juvshik (Al), Beth Heimbecker, Jane Panting (Dave) and Tracy Heimbecker (Pierre Vroom). Great grandchildren include Jeffery, Christopher, and Tim Juvshik and Alex, James and Tamara Smith. Helen's greatest joy was her family and she will be greatly missed.
A memorial service was held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, April 3, 2003 at Messiah Lutheran Church, 400 Rouge Road; officiated by Pastor Carol Janke and assisted by Major Daphne Maye of the Salvation Army Golden West Centennial Lodge.
Special thanks to the entire staff at Golden West Centennial Lodge. Their loving compassion is greatly appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Salvation army.
LUCILLE SEMENCHUK (NEE PITTET)
It is with deep sadness, the family announces the passing of Lucille Semenchuk on Wednesday March 26, 2003, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Lucille's memory will be cherished in the hearts of her husband James, children Brian (Jodeen), Jason (Chantale), Connie (Greg), and grandchildren Daniel and Lauren. She was predeceased by her father Joseph and brother Guy. She is also survived by her mother Anna, her brother Maurice, her sisters Suzanne, Lillian and JoAnne and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Lucille was a loving wife, the best mother in the world, wonderful grandmother and a true friend. She was always so kind and generous putting everyone else first. She will be deeply missed; she will never be forgotten.
Prayers took place on Sunday, March 30, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, 505 Brewster Street. Funeral Mass was held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 31 at St. Joseph the Worker Parish.
The family would like to thank Drs. Foerester, Dabrowska and nurse Thanh and the staff at the St. Boniface Hospital for their care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lucille's memory may be made to The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Suite 1000 -790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1N8 or the St. Boniface Hospital and Research Foundation, Cancer Research Fund, Room 1003 - 409 Tache Avenue, Winnipeg, R3H 2A6.
