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Percy Paul Roberts

Close in our hearts you will always stay Loved and remembered every day.

Percy Paul Roberts passed on July 11, 2024 at the Stonewall Hospital. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Irene, of 72 years, dear daughter Bonnie Ellen, son-in-law John Warszycki and granddaughter Laura Anne…“Grampa’s Pet” the love of Grampa’s life!, their extra daughter, Sharon Scott and friend Audrey Rak, brother, Robert (Pat), and sisters-in-law Karen and Margret, as well as his nieces, nephews and their families, the extra children who lived with them over the years, especially, Darlene (Koralewicz) Irwin, Heather (Roberts) Hamaberg, Michael Walsh, and Roy (Darlene and their children Brandon and Austin) Longley.

Percy was predeceased by his son, Tom, daughter, Joan, parents, Tom and Ada Roberts, sisters Ruth Nelson and Alma Lobban, brothers, Owen, Arthur, Edward and David, brothers-in-law Albert Nelson and Les Lobban and sister-in-law Joan Roberts. The extra children who lived with them, Bill Hyde and Victor Colonville.

Born in Lundar in 1932, the third child of Tom and Ada Roberts of Markland district, Percy attended school at Markland, McMillan and Inwood moving back to the farm at Markland in 1945.

Percy tackled every type of job at home, as well as for neighbours, to add to the family income, as his Dad died in 1947. He became a hunter, shooting his first deer at 13 years…as well as partridges and geese. He enjoyed hunting and fishing all his life, but his real love was dancing with Irene, to that good Old Time Fiddle, since they were teenagers.

In 1951 Percy started working, in Winnipeg, for the C. P. Rail in the Car dept, Traffic Yard West End as an Airman, working nights from 11 to 7, and approximately 15 years later moved to the Piggyback Terminal, working evenings from 3 to 11. At work Percy was nicknamed “Mother”. A severe heart attack ended his work career of 35 years.

In 1952 he married the love of his life, Irene Irwin. Although they spent a wonderful life together, they also faced many hard times and illnesses along the way, but those were nothing compared to losing their children Tom and Joan.

After retiring, they moved to an acreage near Balmoral, where they enjoyed wonderful neighbours, bowling friends and, of course, their Pattern Dancing friends. Percy learned to play the fiddle after retiring. Percy was a fixer! He could repair most anything and was often heard to say, “Why buy, when it can be fixed!”

In 2015, after a serious illness, they moved to the town of Stonewall. Where, year after year, he took pride in growing his tomatoes. Percy had a warm smile, a ready handshake or a big hug for everyone. He will be missed.

At a later date, a private interment will take place in the St James Cemetery, Winnipeg.

Percy liked poetry and this was one of his favorites!

When I Cash In

When I cash in I would like to go, Where the geese fly low and the bucks run slow, Where the fishing is good, Anytime of the year, And you don’t need all, That expensive gear! Where the weather is nice, The whole year round, With about two months, Where there is snow on the ground, No vicious storms, no droughts, no tornadoes, A good summer for growing tomatoes –Author unknown

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George Garnet Laing

It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our Dad, George “Garnet” Laing on July 9, 2024 at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, MB at the age of 77 years.

He will be deeply missed by his son Ryan (Kara) Whyat, Isabel, his daughter Sherri (Murray) Sonny, Ty, Cheyenne, his sister Norma (Bill) and family, his brother- in-law Geoff (Audrey) and family, and sister-in-law Sandy and family.

Garnet was predeceased by his parents George and Mary Laing, his loving wife of 49 years Lindsae Laing, his father-in-law John McIvor, mother-in-law Irene McIvor, and brother-in-law Leon McIvor.

Garnet loved his “green machines” and when Paul Harvey wrote the poem “So God made a Farmer” we truly believe he wrote it for our Dad. Dad survived polio as a child and never let polio defeat him in any way shape or form. From working with his Dad on the family farm, to custom combining, working construction with Nelson River, Mulders Construction and Lesters.

To driving school bus for the Interlake School Division and part time with the Stonewall and District Handivan. He met numerous people, family and friends over his lifetime with always a good story to tell, he never forgot a child’s face that rode his school bus run, or anyone that rode the Handivan, especially “Rick Puddifant”. Dad always had time to stop and chat and always seemed to know someone wherever he went, or when we drove his truck, he was always aware where he went…

Dad’s grandchildren were the light of his life and would always have a story to tell everyone he met about all of them and their accomplishments or save all the newspaper clippings of them. From riding the golf cart checking for ducks, watching them in hockey, soccer, or baseball, from rodeo to horse shows or hitching up teams. He especially loved talking farming with all of them, or back in the day we used to walk 7 miles to school up hill both ways, or ya know your animals should always eat before you.

Dad taught us a lot of good life lessons over the years. He enjoyed going for his drives checking the crops but between you and us it was really the pizza dates with Mom that they enjoyed. There was always the story of Clear Lake and the fish that he caught that remained in the freezer for 10 years because it was not big enough to feed a cat. Dad had a love for Charolais cattle with his prize bull “Bobby Acorn Acres”. To be honest he loves all animals and would bring Mom home surprises as he would say from Inwood Auction.

After retirement from school bus and construction Dad got tired of not farming, so he went to work with Elskamp Farms where he got to drive all the green machines he wanted and go on parts runs.

We would like to extend our extreme gratitude to the Doctors, Nurses and support staff at the Health Sciences Centre and Selkirk General Hospital where they went above and beyond to make sure Dad was as comfortable as possible during his passing and treated us with the most respect and kindness.

As per Dad’s wishes cremation has taken place with no service held.

In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire donations may be made in Dad’s name to a charity of one’s choice.

“May you be farming in Heaven Dad”

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Peggy Alda Munroe

April 23, 1964 – July 8, 2024      With sadness we announce the passing of Peggy Munroe, who passed away peacefully at the Grace Hospital, Monday, July 8, 2024.

She was predeceased by her father Robert Munroe, brother Ian Munroe, grandparents Rob and Alda Munroe and Dave and Setta Eggertson.

She is survived by her mother Margaret Munroe, and brother Jamie Munroe. She will also be missed by her special friend Randy Melnychuk, as well as numerous cousins, family and friends.

Peggy grew up on the family farm at Warren and attended Warren Elementary School, as well as attending special programs at Stonewall Collegiate and R.B. Russell School in Winnipeg.

She was born with numerous health issues which affected her entire life. She never considered herself to be different and always held onto her dreams.

Peggy had a big heart and loved everyone. When Peggy was happy, everyone around her was happy too. She would want to be remembered for those moments too.

We extend a special thank you to all the dedicated social workers, the ACL, Doctors and Nurses who helped her in her journey through life.

May She rest in peace.

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Daniel Joseph Chaput

June 29, 1948 – July 6, 2024      As per Danny’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service was held in Ste. Rose on July 21, 2024.

Danny leaves to mourn his passing and cherish many wonderful memories. His wife of 51 years Betty, his 3 sons Dean, Jason (Rachelle), Chris (Crystal); his beloved grandchildren; his 3 princesses Janelle, Kailey and Ashlynn and his 1 prince Carson, his brothers Robert (Val), Donat (Bella), Leo (Elaine), Agenor (Aline) and his sister Lucia, his sisters-in-law Linda, Murielle and Terri, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Danny was predeceased by his parents Jos and Monique Chaput, his brother Jules, his father and mother-in-law Herb and Anne Weisensel, his sister-in-law Sharon Weisensel, and his brother-in-law Jim Weisensel.

Danny was a builder – He built homes and a family. He was the glue that held his extended family together.

Danny worked for Federal Fisheries and Oceans, where he built and managed research facilities at Methley Beach and Gunton, MB. His dedication and hard work earned him the Order of Canada Distinguished Civil Service Award. His work experience led him in different directions. He was part of DRD Contracting, DC Contracting and also worked for DGH Engineering.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr’s and staff at Selkirk Hospital, as well as ambulance personnel, STARS, and H.S.C. for the excellent care he received, also Ryan Raffray for the excellent graveside service, and Ken Loehmer for his guidance through these hard times.

Danny loved wildlife: In lieu of flowers, if you choose to donate to a wildlife organization of your choice in his name.

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Lawrence Stanley Downey

Peacefully, after a long battle with Melanoma, Lorne passed away at the age of 88 years on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Lorne will be dearly missed by his loving wife Lois and much loved sons; Mickey (Paula) and Darren (Teena) and will be lovingly remembered by grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Lorne was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, on December 6, 1935 to Peter and Hilda Downey. As a young man he secured a job with Weston Bakery, starting out at an entry level position and worked his way up to Vice President of Product Development. He was proud of his accomplishments.

On July 30, 1959, he married his sweetheart Lois Rhodes. Together they spent almost 65 wonderful years together.

Lorne’s career brought the family to Manitoba in 1976. Shortly thereafter, they purchased Frosty’s and eventually Miller’s Restaurant in Stonewall, where they became well known, active members of the community.

After retiring from Weston in 1994, Lois and Lorne sold the business and settled on an acreage in Teulon, MB. He raised chickens for a number of years and worked on many carpentry projects. He was a very talented carpenter.

Lorne loved hunting and fishing and could talk for hours preparing and planning for the next hunting trip. As the leaves started to turn in the fall, Lorne would get excited. It saddened him when old age creeped in and he was unable to draw the bow. He was very young at heart.

Lorne LOVED the Toronto Blue Jays! He was a huge baseball fan and would plan his day around the ball game on TV.

Not long after moving to Teulon, Lorne made dear friends at the Teulon Cafe. He took great pride in his daily trips to town to turn the coffee pot on for his “coffee group”. Many discussions were had in that cafe.

Lorne was a kind, thoughtful, gentle man who loved his family dearly. He will be greatly missed.

As per Dad’s wishes no funeral will be held. A private interment will occur.

Many thanks to Dr Loudon and staff at the Teulon Hunter Memorial Hospital. Your kindness and care to both Lorne and Lois is greatly appreciated.

“A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, it broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the Best”

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Barry Alexander Ritchie

Peacefully in his sleep on July 2, 2024, Barry passed away at the Tudor House Personal Care Home in Selkirk, MB.

He was born February 13, 1942 in Stonewall, Manitoba eldest son of Alex and Grace (nee Will) Ritchie. He was raised on the family farm at Argyle and attended school in Argyle and Stonewall. He then went on to receive his welding certificate from the Manitoba Technical Institute.

He and Ann Mollison were married in 1965 and lived in Winnipeg until 1974 when the Manitoba Highways Department offered him a transfer to their new shop in Beausejour. The transfer was gladly accepted, a farm was purchased at Ladywood and it was back to the country life, making hay, caring for animals and simply enjoying the peace and quiet.

Give Barry a piece of metal and he would find a use for it. He enjoyed repairing, redesigning, repurposing or sometimes inventing useful items for the farm. In 2023 it was decided it was time to give up farm life and the move was made to Selkirk.

Barry was predeceased by his parents Alex and Grace, his brother Douglas, his step-mother Sylvia Procure. His aunt Margaret Germa (Bud) and his uncles John Ritchie (Jean), Bert Ritchie (Ivy) and Jim Ritchie (Helen).

He is survived by his wife Ann, nieces Kathy Piper (Wayne) Deanne Dooher (Scott) and Candace Ritchie (Jeff). Also great nieces Jennifer (Greg) and Hailee, Great nephews Matthew (Jessica) and Kyle (Beth), his great niece Gwendolyn and great-great nephew Gerald, his honourary niece Jayna, cousins and friends.

Cremation has taken place. Future arrangements pending.

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Dennis Wayne Makowski

May 10, 1957 – July 1, 2024

Dennis Makowski, age 67, of Stonewall Manitoba passed away on July 1, 2024.

His is survived by his brothers Bob (Terry), Randy, and his sister Judy (Glen). Nieces and nephews Robyn (Greg), Alisyn (Stephane), Kristy (Wade), Travis (Vicki), Colby (Michaela), and great nephew Leo.

Dennis was pre-deceased by his parents Peter and Marion Makowski and his brother Ken.

He lived his whole life in Stonewall marching to the beat of his own drum. The last number of years he resided at Crocus Manor where fellow residents became his family.

Many thanks to his family at Crocus for their kindness and friendship towards Dennis and to Kelly for being there when needed.

Thank you to Stonewall Hospital Nursing staff and to Ken Loehmer.

A private internment will be held at a later date.

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Ellen Maria Steinthorson

July 28, 1931 – June 21, 2024      Peacefully with family by her side Mom passed away (left us) to reunite with her husband Ragnar, sons Earl and Dale, grandson Tyler and son-in-law Jim.

Left to cherish her memory are daughter Dawn (Al), daughter-in-law Kathy; grandchildren Sheryl (Myles), Daryl, Brandee (Braeden); great grandchildren Colby, Natalie, Aidan, Natasha, Linnea, Waylon, and Tazmyn.

Mom enjoyed a busy and full life. She was born and raised in the Eriksdale area. After her and Dad were married they moved to Vogar where they farmed together and Mom taught at Vogar School. They later moved to Stonewall and Gunton where she worked at the Arris Centre, Jackson Insurance and Sigvaldason Agency.

She spent many hours sewing, knitting, and crocheting items for her family through out the years and all were made with love.

Upon retirement Mom moved to Lundar where she was very involved in the community. She enjoyed getting together with friends and going to the old Time dances. She enjoyed travelling to many different places after retirement. We were all a little concerned when Mom and her galavanting Grannies decided to drive to the Yukon. Mom, Nina, Edith and Thelma had many wonderful adventures on this trip and made it there and back safe and sound.

We would like to thank the Homecare staff and staff at Stonewall Hospital for all the care they provided to Mom.

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held at a later date.

Donations in Mom’s memory may be made to Lundar New Horizons Club.

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Michael Matskiw

(June 17, 1935 – June 17, 2024)     It is with profound sadness that we announce that after a lengthy illness, Michael eased into his final rest in Gimli Hospital on his birthday, June 17th with his devoted wife at his side.

Michael is predeceased by his parents (Doris and Alex) his sister Nellie, brother Alvin and nephew Anthony.

He is survived by his wife Susana, his step-children Edward, Viola and Teresa, his brother Harry (Camille) and sisters Eleanor and Louise, his nieces and nephews, Melanie, Karen, and his grandson Jonah.

Michael started life working on the farm in Boulton municipality, and continued in that occupation for decades. He took care of the farm and the family until the nest was empty and the labour involved far outweighed the benefit. He moved to Dauphin as an inveterate bachelor and met what would become the love of his life. Susana. Working to benefit the family had been one thing, but having someone to devote his life to and get reciprocation in return was now his focus. They met, they courted, they married, and he gained another family when he said ‘I do’. Living with his new wife wasn’t always easy. She was a woman with plans and now she had someone to carry them out with.

They moved from Dauphin to Woodridge, and again to Labroquerie where they spent many happy years. Mike’s health suddenly declined and help was needed to get him to and from appointments, so they moved to Inwood where he weathered out Covid by cutting down trees. Lots of trees. The hum of the chainsaw broke through the morning air and he always came home with a grin on his face. He lived the best life he could in the last few years and when he passed, his wife was at his side, holding his hand one last time.

The funeral will be held at Inwood Memorial Community Center, Friday, June 21, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses who treated him during his battle at Cancer Care, Selkirk Outpatient, and Gimli Hospital.

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Ronald Bruce Irwin

July 3, 1943 – June 10, 2024    With broken hearts we announce the passing of Ron Irwin on June 10, 2024 at the age of 80 years.

Left to cherish his memory are partner Anne. Children Terry, Valerie (Russell) and Brent. Grandchildren Kristin (Taylor), Kayla (Chris), Amanda and Bryce. Great grandchildren Olivia, Cohen, Aliya, Georgeah, Emerson, Brock, Burke, Mya and Kayne. As well as many other family and friends who will him dearly.

To honour his wishes cremation has taken place. A small family gathering will be held at a later date.

A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.