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CHRISTOPHER JOHN SMITH
1967 - 2005
After enduring a difficult struggle with cancer, our dear brother, Christopher was relieved of his burden and slipped away peacefully on Sunday February 27, at St. Boniface Hospital in the Palliative Care Ward.
Christopher grew up in River Heights, attending Robert H. Smith School and River Heights Jr. High. After completing his high school diploma at the University of Winnipeg Collegiate, he went on to complete a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Manitoba in 1992 followed by a Diploma with Honours from Red River College in 1998 as a Computer Programmer/Analyst. He was employed variously by SHL Systemhouse, Kelley Temporary Services, and Revenue and Taxation Canada.
Christopher was a lifelong sports enthusiast, and spent many hours engaged in following his favorite teams. He enjoyed CIAU basketball and followed the Wesmen and the Bisons. He enjoyed watching the Blue Bombers and especially enjoyed the walk or rollerblade from his downtown apartment to Canwest Global Park to watch the Goldeyes. The cancellation of the NHL season was as bad an insult to this true fan of the game as the disease that corrupted his body. He satisfied his deep passion for hockey through playing, watching and reading about the game throughout his life, which culminated in a pilgrimage to Toronto to visit the Hockey Hall of Fame and to see a World Cup of Hockey game last September. Chris also enjoyed bowling and was part of many teams where he formed some of his happiest memories.
Chris was predeceased by his Mother, Marion Smith in 1999 and his Father, Lawrie Smith in 1987. He is survived and sadly missed by his brother Kevin of Roblin, Manitoba and his wife, Kim Hope and their children Caleb, Cady, Madeline, and Maeve. His sister, Jennifer of Winnipeg, her husband Christopher Pate and their children Dylan and Nicole also survive Christopher, who cared for him and shared their home with him in his final months. He will also be lovingly remembered by many aunts, uncles and cousins from the Smith, Ormrod, Simms, and Thompson families.
A memorial service to celebrate Chris's time with us was held at 11:00 a.m.on Saturday, March 5, 2005 at 984 Portage Avenue (entry off Aubrey Street).
Thanks to all who extended kindness, care and support to our family over the final months of Christopher's life, and especially to the staff at St. Boniface General Hospital Palliative Care Ward. Your compassionate care eased so much suffering. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a favorite charity in Christopher's name.
CHESTER FLOYD MATLOCK SR.
AUGUST 11, 1918 - FEBRUARY 26, 2005
It is with great sorrow that the family announces the passing of our father and granddad, Chester Matlock Sr. Peacefully in his sleep he left our world to join his beloved wife Catherine.
Dad was predeceased by Catherine, his wife of 49 years and his son William.
He proudly served his country as a member of the Canadian Air Force until his retirement as a chief warrant officer. It was during his time in England during World War II that he met and married the love of his life, Catherine McInnich. They returned to Canada and while Chester continued his service with the Air Force they started raising their family. Chester retired from the forces and went on to work for Motorcoach Industries until his retirement.
Left to mourn his passing are sons Chester Jr., wife Carolyn and granddaughter Catherine of Calgary, Robert, wife Catherine, grandchildren Frances-Catherine and Chester III, daughter, Juanita Palecek and her son Robert.
Dad's quiet strength, guidance, precious love and compassion will be with us always. May he find the peace and love in his return to Mom's side that he missed in his final years.
A memorial service was held on Thursday, March 3, at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue (entrance on Aubrey Street), at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 200 - 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6.
ERIKA JOHNSON
Peacefully on Sunday, February 20, 2005 at the age of 77 years, Erika passed away at the Grace General Hospital.
She was born in Tiefenbach Germany on January 13, 1928, came to Canada in 1954 and was married in 1955 to John Johnson in Copper Cliff, Ontario. In 1964 she attended Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School in Sudbury to upgrade her English, science and mathematics successfully. They moved to Winnipeg after her husband retired in 1971,living on Furby Street until 1983 when her husband passed away.
She leaves to mourn her two sisters, Elisabeth and husband Hans Pfaff, and Kunigunde and husband Armin Walters in Tiefenbach Germany, sister-in-law Vielena Pollon in Winnipeg, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Erika enjoyed all her friends, the outdoors, knitting, crocheting and traveling. She was president of the Tenant Association in Hamilton House for over 2 years. She belonged to her church sewing group for many years. She came from a very musical family and loved music of all kinds.
Many thanks to the doctors and nurses at the Grace Hospital and to Pastor Rod Buck for all his support.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 5, at Saint James Lutheran Church, 871 Cavalier Drive, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 102 - 310 Broadway Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0S6 or to a charity of one's choice.
WILHELMINE (HELEN) HEFTRICH
May 29, 1927 - February 24, 2005
With great sadness, the family of Helen Heftrich announces her death on Thursday, February 24. Helen peacefully passed away surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Sorrowed by her passing are her husband of 53 years, Werner, their daughters Carol (Ian) and Diana (Fraser), and grandchildren Lauren, Colin, Laina and Toby. Helen's brother Erich and sister Christel, both in Germany and their families also mourn her passing. Helen was predeceased by her father Heinrich and mother Amanda.
Helen was born in Dausenau, Germany in 1927. She met her future husband Werner in Germany and they married after immigrating to Canada in 1952. Together they built a life in Winnipeg, living in the same house in the west end for 48 years and owning the Buy Well Meat Market on Ellice. After selling the store, Helen was employed as a bakery clerk at Canada Safeway.
For the past two years Helen deeply appreciated the loving care and support of the staff at the Lions Personal Care Centre. The respect and deep affection shown to her there allowed her peace and happiness during her stay and greatly comforted her husband and daughters.
A funeral service took place Tuesday, March 1 at 10:30 a.m. at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Avenue, at Aubrey Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0K6.
PAULINE KALKENIEKS (NEE ZILBERTS)
Pauline was born on October 8, 1906 in Latvia, survived World War I as a refugee in Russia and World War II in Germany. She immigrated to the USA in 1950. Pauline was predeceased by her husband Fricis Kalkenieks in 1978 and came to Winnipeg.
Pauline was cherished for her love and cheerful kindness. Strangers quickly became her friends. She will be remembered by her step-son Egil Grislis (Indra) and his children Karen (Gilles) with grandchildren Theodore and Caroline, Kristin Taylor (Ken) and grandchildren Allyson and Laura, Erik (Jennifer) and grandchildren Alexandra and Claire, and their extended families.
We thank the Pembina Place Mennonite Personal Care Home for the compassionate care as well as the members of the Holy Cross Latvian Ev. Lutheran Church for their friendship.
Viewing took place on Thursday, February 24 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Ave. (Aubrey Street entrance), from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The funeral service took place on Friday, February 25 at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Ave., at 2:00 p.m., with the Rev. Donald Sjoberg, National Bishop emeritus, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada and Rev. Egil Grislis officiating. Interment will take place at the Brookside Cemetery.
DOROTHY VIOLA SAYER
Dorothy Viola passed away peacefully on February 20, 2005 at the Concordia Hospital after a short illness at the age of 96. Dorothy was predeceased by her beloved husband Albert, her parents William and Becca Trimble, her sisters Ethel and Bertha and her brother William. She is survived by her children Ted (Pat) of Regina, Berta (Tom Danielson) of Grand Marais, MN and Tom (Shirley) of Hudson, Que.; also eleven grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as special friends Ada Swann and Gorma McDonald. Dorothy was born in Morden, MB on October 21, 1908. She graduated from St. Boniface School of Nursing in 1930. She enjoyed travelling, watching curling and her special interest Quilting.
It has been said that "Those who sleep under a quilt, sleep under a blanket of love." Thanks to Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma, our family will always sleep under a blanket of love. While she enjoyed many varied interests in her 96 years, the one that gave Dorothy the greatest joy and sense of fulfillment was her quilting. Each of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many of her friends, will always have a tangible memory of this wonderful lady in the pieces she so carefully composed into the beautiful quilts she created.
At Dorothy's request, there will be no funeral service. Interment of ashes will take place at Morden, MB at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends so wishing may make donations, in memoriam to the charity of their choice.
ERIKA (KATY) SIMONS
Erika was born in Amsterdam, Holland on February 13, 1911 and died in Winnipeg, MB on February 16, 2005. She is survived by a sister Euphemia, in Holland; a brother Siebert, in Montreal; and two nieces, Ruth and Renee.
Katy was the daughter of a Jewish father and a Mennonite mother, and her long and productive life reflected this heritage. During the Second World War, Katy and other family members risked their lives to save Jewish people from the Holocaust. The Germans imprisoned Katy and after six weeks her mother managed to barter her release by giving a Nazi officer a handcrafted doll.
In 2002, Katy was awarded the Righteous Amongst the Nations Award from the Israeli government for her war efforts on behalf of Jewish people. Katy trained in England to be a nurse and came to Manitoba in 1961 to work in the T.B. sanitarium in Ninette. Many of her patients were children from the far north and Katy has been described as their guardian angel. She introduced unconventional treatments such as bringing a cat into the wards. When she was in her 60s, Katy enrolled at University of Winnipeg to pursue her lifelong dream of a university education. She was a vigorous member of many groups, including the Unitarian Church, Veterans Against Nuclear Arms, and the Humanist Association of Manitoba. She advocated strongly for peace and social justice. On her two crutches, Katy participated in the March for Peace every year.
A celebration of Katy's life will be held at the Unitarian Church, 603 Wellington Cres. at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 12.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Katy's memory may be made to Amnesty International, the Unitarian Church, Project Peacemakers, Veterans Against Nuclear Arms, Winnipeg Harvest, or another charity of choice.
GORDON HELGI THORVALDSON
October 31, 1936 - February 19, 2005
Sadly on Friday, February 19th, 2005, Gordon Helgi Thorvaldson died. My 'Viking' put up another good fight, but this time, was not to win. He took his last breath surrounded by his family with loving hands and hearts.
Gordon was granted a second chance for life in 1998 surviving major heart surgery and not one minute was wasted until he was diagnosed with a brain tumour with multi complications only eleven days before he died. God was kind - and relieved Gordon from suffering any further insults to his body. He was a brave and uncomplaining man all through both ordeals.
Husabrekka, the summer cottage at Lundar Beach on Lake Manitoba was the best part of Gordon and Evelyn's retirement years with family, friends and precious garden time. Old friends, his fishing buddies, berry- picking partners and caring neighbours- were all a part of those years. In the winter months, Gordon enjoyed and looked forward to his monthly card games with his brother Augie, Cousins Helgi Storseth and Sid Folster, friends Ed and Walter. Gordon joined the Kinsmen Reh-Fit Centre in 1998 where he learned the proper method of rehabilitation accomplishing all the goals and rarely missing a day of his 3 mile walk around the track. He made that walk just two days before he was hospitalized.
Gordon was proud of his accomplishments and colleagues throughout his near 37 years with Air Canada both in Winnipeg and Montreal. He was a proud Canadian who was actively involved in all things Icelandic -and one of the most appreciated Treasurers for Logberg Heimskringla Inc. and the Icelandic National League. Gordon was extremely proud of his Icelandic heritage and has left many precious moments of that relationship for memories.
Gordon is survived by his wife and best friend Evelyn (Ganton) of nearly 45 years. He leaves his daughter Signy, grandsons Matthew, Kevin, Blake and their father Alan Poitras. Son Paul and wife Brenda (Selk) and granddaughter Alexis. He is survived by his brothers Gunnar (Edmonton) and Shirley Edgar; Augie and wife Carolyn (Sova); his sister Joyce Tonn (Vancouver); his sisters Gladys and husband Doug Wirth (Winnipeg) and Gloria and Mike Tilleman (Montana); his sister- in -law Lauraine Ganton. Surviving are many nieces and nephews and volumes of friends all over the world.
Predeceased by his parents Helgi and Margret Thorvaldson (formerly of Oak Point), his sister Bernice and Bill Mitchell (Saskatoon); Rose Thorvaldson (Edmonton); brother-in-law Bill Tonn (Vancouver); and brother- in- law Paul Ganton.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial Service was held at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Winnipeg at 200 Dalhousie Drive (off Pembina Hwy) at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 24th, 2005 with our Pastor Ed Mitchler presiding. Honourary Pallbearers are his three grandsons Matthew, Kevin and Blake Poitras and his only granddaughter Alexis Thorvaldson as well as his brother Augie Thorvaldson and a special friend and uncle - Steini Palsson of Lundar. Internment of cremains will be held at a later date with immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider the St. Boniface Palliative Care Ward, 8th Floor, 409 Tache, Winnipeg, Canada R2H 2A6; Logberg Heimskringla Inc., Future Funds Program, 100-283 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Canada R3B 2B5; Epiphany Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 200 Dalhousie Drive, Winnipeg, Canada - or to a charity of one's choice.
HELEN FAGG
Suddenly on February 17, 2005, Helen Fagg, age 78, passed away.
Helen will be dearly missed and forever remembered by her devoted husband Dennis; daughter Darlene and husband Cyrus; grandson Andrew; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
At Helen's request no service will be held. Donations in her memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
ALICE D. LOVERICK
On Thursday, February 17, 2005, Alice passed away at Heritage Lodge Personal Care Home.
No formal service will be held.
CATHERINE ELIZABETH POWELL
Peacefully, on Sunday February 13, 2005, Catherine Powell passed away at the Health Sciences Centre following a brief illness.
She was predeceased by her parents, Hazel and Howard Powell, brother Robert Powell and sister Helen Hindson. She is survived by her longtime friend and companion Dorothy Soutter, her sister-in-law Kathleen Powell, her nephew Bill Powell (Shelagh) and their son Jeff (Rebecca), and her niece Ruth Young and children Ainsley and Spencer.
Catherine was a strong person who overcame many obstacles in her life. While she lived with a disability she never considered herself handicapped. Her thoughtfulness towards her nephew and niece and their families will never be forgotten.
Catherine worked at the CNIB for many years until her retirement. She and Dorothy spent countless hours knitting beautiful sweaters for the Christmas Cheer Board. Her passion was listening to the Blue Jays games and she could hardly wait for the season to begin.
At Catherine's request there will be no funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CNIB Library Fund, 1080 Portage Avenue, R3G 3M3.
MARGARET ELIZABETH SIMMONS (nee MacKenzie)
Peacefully, on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 Margaret passed away at Fred Douglas Lodge, at the age of 100 years.
Mom was born in 1904 in Kinmount, Ontario. Following her mother's death in 1908, she lived with her Aunt Mary and Uncle Alex in Port Elgin, ON with her cousins Edna and John MacKenzie. She came to Manitoba to finish school, and then attended Teachers College in 1925. She taught in Basswood, at Euclid School near Portage la Prairie and at Lindal School near Morden. She and Dad were married in 1928 in Thornhill, MB. They lived near Morden until 1951 when they moved to High Bluff, MB. Following Dad's death in 1965 she moved to Portage la Prairie and then to Winnipeg.
Remaining to cherish her memory are son Ron Simmons at Gunton, MB, daughter-in-law Kay Simmons in Calgary, AB, daughter Carol Hines (Al) in Colorado, daughter Rosanne Thomson (Evelyn) in Burnaby, BC and daughter Moira Solmundson (Herb) in Winnipeg, MB. 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson also survive her. Besides her husband, Mom was predeceased by son Angus in 1966, daughter-in-law Margaret in 1996, son Ian in 2002 and great-grandson Jody in June 2004.
A funeral service was held on Monday, February 21, at Neil Bardal Inc., 984 Portage Ave. (Aubrey Street entrance) at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be that afternoon in MacKenzie Cemetery at High Bluff, MB at approximately 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Fred Douglas Foundation, 1275 Burrows Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2X 0B8 or a charity of your choice.
REVEREND ALFRED B. SANDER
Peacefully, on Wednesday, February 16, 2005, Alfred B. Sander died at the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care Unit, with his family at his side.
He will be greatly missed by his wife Ruth, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren: Vernon (Joanne) Heather, Kristoffer (Candace); Lee
(Lois) Krista (Dave) and children Ellis, Anna, Naomi and Joel; Jean, Leah; Neil (Valerie) Lani (David), Andrew; Lois (Brian) Alanna, Kent and Rachel; Eleanor (Ingemar); Lisa (Roland) Kevin, Melanie and Sarah; Susan (Alan) Julianna, Daniel, Katrina, Jonathan and Nicholas; sister Ruth, brother Carl (Elsie); in-laws: Arlene, Muriel, Ray, and many nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by: First wife Marie, sisters Carrie, Esther, brother Alvin, in-laws Fred, Oscar, Edna and Mac.
Alf was born April 4, 1925 and grew up on a Swedish immigrant farm in Shenston, ON. After service in WWII, he married Marie in 1946, finished his education and in 1953 began his ordained ministry in Stockholm, SK. His faithful and joyful service to God continued in Atikokan, ON, Gimli,MB, LCA Central Canada Synod and Luther Village. Alf married Ruth in 1978 and retired from Luther Village in 1985, whereupon he entered into many interim ministries, the longest being nine years in Teulon/Inwood.
Alf was an ordinary man who had an extraordinary effect on the lives of all whom he touched. His diverse interests made him an exciting, unique and well integrated man with a big heart for all. He was truly devoted to ministry and the people he served. Alf was a gift of God to us on earth.
The family extends a grateful thank you to all those who served as caregivers.
A memorial service to be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 21 at Faith Lutheran Church, 1311 Dakota Street.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given in Alf's memory to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9, Messiah Lutheran Church Restoration Fund, 400 Rouge Road, Winnipeg, MB R3K 1K3, or a charity of your choice.
DONALD BERNARD STEVENS
It is with much sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our husband, father and grandfather on February 10, 2005 at the age of 67 years.
Don will be greatly missed by his wife, Marlene; his parents, Brownie and Bunty; his sons, Jon (Roanna), Mike (Delina); grandchildren Ben, Zeph, Sophie, Emma, Manita; his brother Gerry (Judy); his sister Lynne (Jack) Hildebrand; his brother and sister-in-laws, aunt and uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Don was predeceased by his son Todd in 1989.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Don later settled in Charleswood where he resided until the time of his passing. He worked for 40 years as a Steamfitter with UA Local 254. Don's grandkids held a very special place in his heart. He also had a passion for golf and his annual winter golfing trips to Texas were a real "bonus". He was a tireless Minnesota Vikings fan for the last 40 years. We will miss his big heart, sense of humour, and generosity.
As a family, we wish to thank the staff of the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their compassion and superb care. One of Don's last wishes was to urge those with known asbestos exposure to seek immediate medical counsel (see www.mesorfa.org).
A celebration of Don's life was held on Sunday, February 20th at 3 p.m. at the Southwood Golf and Country Club, 101 Markham Rd.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don's memory to St. Boniface Hospital & Research Foundation Palliative Care Fund, Room D1003, 409 Taché Avenue, R2H 2A6.
J.E. (BETTY) WORTHINGTON
It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of Joyce Elizabeth (Betty) Worthington on February 12, 2005.
Betty was born March 29, 1931 in Brandon, MB. Eldest daughter of Frank E. Jacques and Eva Jacques she is survived by her husband of 36 years, Percy Worthington, daughter Teri Anastasia Worthington, sister Frances (Fran) Toms, Fran's husband Stan Toms as well as a small extended family on both the Toms and Worthington sides. Betty spent her early childhood in Forrest, MB where she attended Turrif School. She graduated from St. Michael's Academy (Brandon) in 1950. Upon moving to Brandon she attended the Wheat City Business School and began work at Scott National. On October 5, 1968 she married Percy Worthington and had one daughter, Teri, in 1974. Betty spent 28 years as the owner of Betty's House of Fabric in Brandon. In 1996, Betty and Percy retired and moved to Winnipeg, MB where she became an active volunteer at Sturgeon Creek United Church leading their U.C.W. unit.
Our family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Unit GD3 at the Health Sciences Centre. Our apologies for not remembering everyone's name but we are deeply appreciative of your kindness.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honour to Sturgeon Creek United Church or to a charity of your choice.
A service of celebration for Betty's life was held Tuesday, February 15 at Sturgeon Creek United Church, 207 Thompson Dr. at 2:00 p.m.
BLANCHE MARGARET SUTTON (nee KYLE)
Born April 28, 1915, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2005. Her four children, Charlotte, Audrey, Lorraine, and Denis, and her daughter-in-law Gwen were all with her for her final days at the Charleswood Care Centre. Earl Graham Sutton, her husband of 40 years predeceased her in June of 1984. She was also predeceased by her two older brothers, Hartley and Talbot Kyle and is survived by her younger sister Phyllis Fields of Newmarket, ON.
Blanche was born and raised in Winnipeg and graduated from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate. She worked in the T Eaton Company, Women's Sportswear Department for 11 years, a job she loved and one that truly complimented her personal style. Blanche attended Knox United Church in her early years and was married there on August 19, 1944. She and Earl raised their four children in the home they build at 889 Home Street. She attended St. Paul's United Church with her children. Blanche was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother to Wade and Shane Miller. She deeply valued her close friends, always keeping in touch. She was a generous and sincere neighbour and opened her heart and home to many over the years. As her children grew older, Blanche worked part-time at Sairs Pharmacy.
Mom's community involvement included Guardian of Bethel No. 5 and later the Associate Grand Guardian of Manitoba in the International Order of Job's Daughters. Mom moved from the family home to Fred Douglas Place in June 1989 where she happily resided for the next 14 years. She travelled to England, Scotland, and Canada's West Coast. Loving thanks to Gwen, Blanche's daughter-in-law for all her love and care over the years.
Special thanks, also, to her loving companions of the past year, Margaret O'Brien, Terry Kuschak, and Rose Kotak. Also special thanks to Ruth Allen and Sharon Wisemyn. We are grateful for your love and devotion to Mom. Blanche's son-in-laws, Gordon Cornelius, (Florida), Doug Fairweather, (Vernon, BC), and Robert Burcher, (Clarksberg, ON) remember their mother-in-law with great fondness and appreciation. Thank you as well to the staff at Charleswood Care Centre for their compassionate care to Blanche and her family during her final days.
A memorial service celebrating her life took place on Tuesday, February 15 at 2:00 p.m. in Knox United Church, 400 Edmonton St.
In Blanche's memory donations may be made to the Winnipeg Foundation Endowment Fund, 1350-1 Lombard Pl., Winnipeg, MB R3B 0X3, in care of Arcane Horizon Inc. in support of individualized community living supports for the people with developmental disabilities or another charity of your choice.
PETER ELLIOTT
On Wednesday, March 30, 2005, in the Pallative Care ward, at the St. Boniface Hospital, after a short but bravely born and dignified bout with cancer, the end came peacefully.
Cremation has taken place and at Peter's request there will be no funeral or service. A full obituary will follow at a later date.
MYRTLE IRENE MARTIN (nee RANKIN)
With deep sadness we announce the passing of Myrtle Martin on March 29, 2005 at the age of 81.
She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She will be missed by her husband Arthur; daughter Denise (John); son Chuck (Patricia) and son Fraser; grandchildren, John, Jim, Jason; nieces Naomi, Leanne, Arliss, June, Viola, Gloria and Gail.
The family wishes to express sincere thanks to Oakview Place for their kindness and caring throughout her illness, second floor north staff. Cremation has taken place. We all love you Mom, God Bless You.
Private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Salvation Army.
ALBERT JAMES EDWARD THORKELSON
Peacefully on Tuesday, March 29, 2005 with his family at his side, Bert Thorkelson, 76 of Saint James passed away.
He is survived by his wife and loving travel companion Eunice (nee Horner) and his four sons, Chris (Debra) of Concord, California, Ben (Margaret) of Calgary, Dan (Donna) and Trevor of Winnipeg. Bert is also remembered by 3 grandchildren, as well as an extended family of cousins, friends and neighbours.
Bert's life long career in the printing trade began as a helper with the St. James Leader, leading to an apprenticeship as a typographer, fostering his appreciation for the printed page. His enthusiasm, creativity and attention to detail earned him respect in the print community. His favourite quotation was Ben Franklin's - "Printing is the art preservative of all the other arts." It was with honour that Bert served as President of the Winnipeg Club of Printing House Craftsmen and was a long time member.
Bert enjoyed a rich retirement. He and Eunice made many world trips, cruises and excursions. Among his favourite destinations were Spain and the Panama Canal. Whether it was Cuba or just the Shooting Star, Bert loved to travel and meet new people.
At home Bert enjoyed helping friends, catching up with family, socializing, and volunteering his time with community groups such as the 55 plus club at the Anavets in St. James.
Bert's last year was helped immensely by the great staff of the Grace General Hospital, Cancer Clinic and the St. Boniface General Hospital.
In accordance with Bert's request a Memorial Service will be held at the Anavets Assiniboia Unit # 283 at 3584 Portage Ave. at 1:00 p.m. on Monday April 4, 2005. An Interment will follow at the Brookside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grace General Hospital Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society of Manitoba.
GESTUR EINAR ODDLEIFSON
Peacefully, on Saturday, March 26, 2005 Gestur Einar Oddleifson passed away at the Arborg and District Health Centre at the age of 82 years.
He was predeceased by his parents Sigurdur Oskar Oddleifson (1978) and Olof Anna Jonasson (1970); his step-mother Jonina R. Oddleifson; his siblings Thorey and Sigurdur Oskar Jr. "Sammy"; brother-in-law Asgeir Fjeldsted; son-in-law Grant Finnson.
Einar is lovingly remembered by his wife Vordis of 55 years; daughters Karen (Bryan) Foster , Enid Oddleifson (Guy Lafond), Kathy Finnson; son Kevin; grandchildren Kelly (Dan) Bedard, Kendra Foster , Alanna Finnson (Adam Mandel), Eric Lafond, Cple Finnson, and Gaetane Lafond; great-grandchildren Kira Bedard and Zen Finnson; sister-in-law Norma Oddleifson; Fridfinnson brothers-in-law Leifur (Grace), Numi (Dora), Kjartan (Lillian), Skapti (Norma) and Junius; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Einar was born October 23, 1922 on his parents' farm (Grashagi) near Arborg. He attended Ardal School and graduated from Grade 11 in 1940. After working on the family farm he enlisted in the RCAF in 1942, taking his pilot's training in western Canada, and graduating in 1944 with the rank of Pilot Officer. Einar fondly remembered his time in the RCAF, the camaraderie of his airforce buddies, and the joy of flying. After serving in the RCAF he worked as a traveling mechanic for Co-op Implements for a short time before returning to the family farm, where she spent the remainder of his life doing the work he loved best.
On October 22, 1949 Einar married Vordis, daughter of Kristmundur and Jakobina Fridfinnsson of Geysir. He was a warm and loving husband and a gentle, caring father to his four children, an ever present source of help and support to his family. Einar took great pride and delight in his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His kindness, sense of humour, charm, and genuine interest in people endeared him to his large extended family and many friends.
Einar devoted his time and effort to bettering his community through serving on various boards. His honesty, hard work ethic, and willingness to lend a hand were reflected in his community efforts. His strong belief in the co-operative movement led him to serve as director of the Arborg Co-op for 6 years. He was founding president of the Arborg Credit Union and held a director's position on that board for 16 years. Another organization that benefited from his efforts was the Haga Cemetery committee. Einar's most faithful service was to the Arborg Unitarian Church. Over his lifetime he has served the church in various capacities. He was a church board and choir member and took an active role in maintenance, caretaking, and camp projects.
As a young man, Einar was enthusiastic about his involvement in both the Grain and Crop Improvement Clubs. He had a true love of the land, a great appreciation for nature, and an affinity for animals. He enjoyed reading and had a keen interest in history which was attested to by the well-worn condition of his local history books. Einar was a loyal supporter of the New Democratic Party and enjoyed many lively conversations on political topics. He traveled with family often over the years, with the most notable journey being his trip to Iceland with Vordis in 1994. This was a very enjoyable trip for him because of his pride in his Icelandic heritage.
Einar was a warm and wonderful man who touched the lives of many. He will always be remembered with love and deep respect by his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 5 at 2:00pm at the Arborg Community Hall, Rev. Stefan Jonasson officiating.
The considerate and tender care Einar received at the Arborg and District Health Centre is deeply appreciated by the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arborg Unitarian Church or a charity of one's choice.
