Dear Dad, It is time for us to say goodbye. Suddenly on April 18th, 2026. He is survived by his 2 daughters, Deborah (William) and Donna, his 2 grandsons, Aaron and Ryan and great grandson Wryn, sister Evelyn and nephews Brian (Chris), Michael (Margaret) niece Karen (Hilary, Simon, Rose - Tyler, Jessica, Zoe, Carter) He was predeceased by his mother Jean and father Henry.

Dad was born and raised on the family farm near Beausejour, Manitoba. He helped work the farm for many years, worked many manual labour jobs until he was hired at CNR at the age of 18. He worked there for 35 years and retired with a golden handshake. He was very proud of being a machinist and will be remembered for his hard work and dedication to CNR. His work ethic was impeccable. He would always say, “take care of your job, and it will take care of you.”

Dad loved spending time in Lockport at his hobby farm. He enjoyed gardening, mechanics, carpentry, welding and autobody. He was a man who accepted a challenge and it gave him great pride to repair or fix something that appeared unfixable. He was very proud of a 1950’s Ford truck he restored to the factory original. After a full day at his hobby farm there was always a last stop before heading home, A&W. He enjoyed having a buddy burger and a cup of coffee.

Dad had a love of wild animals. He instilled something deeply meaningful in our hearts that will stay with us forever. He used to say, “I feed the sparrows because they are the only ones that stay with us over the winter.”

Dad had compassion for those less fortunate - world-wide and here at home. He had great sympathy for the wars in the world and the lives that were lost. Here at home, he felt a deep sorrow for those experiencing homelessness.

Dad as a father. Our rock. A man with common sense. A listening ear. A man of great compassion. He instilled in us his morals and values - be kind, never judge another or laugh at someone else’s misfortune - as we never know what’s waiting for us, work hard and most of all act with integrity. He wanted us to be strong-willed and independent and we hope we made him proud.

As his health declined due to heart issues, it became harder for him to accept help. When he finally allowed us to take his arm for support, we knew it was time.

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ishak, Dr. Singh, the compassionate staff at The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, St. Boniface hospital, WRHA home care, Winnipeg Police Service and finally Amber Meadows. All the staff here were exceptional including all the wait staff, barber services, health care aides and a special thank you to Sharon, Paulo and Jeff who made our dad’s final days “golden.” As dad said, “Everyone is so nice to me.” Well dad, that is because they saw your heart of gold and the kindest blue eyes. We miss you dad. We will miss our daily phone calls, updates on the weather and asking if we are doing ok. However, we will always have your strong voice echoing in our minds, your encouragement, telling us never to lose hope and most of all, knowing we were raised and loved by the kindest man ever. Dad, there will always be a cup of coffee for you, in your honour.

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street