July 27, 1929 – November 19, 2020  Don was born the third of six boys on the farm at Argyle to Cerce and Eva Taplin and peacefully passed at Stonewall Hospital at the age of 91. He attended school in Grassmere, Argyle and completed Grade 12 at Stonewall High School in 1947. Don and Muriel (Griffin) were married August 8, 1953 and moved to Stonewall where they built their new home and buildings used for their livelihood.

He is survived by his beloved wife Muriel, daughter Donna (Larry Carlson), sons George (Marie) and Murray (Bev) and grandchildren Hans (Jenelle), Erick (Nicole), Adam (Sara), Matthew (Bryana), Justin (Holly), Evan (Meghan), Tyler, Alex, Robyn, Brett and Kaitlyn as well as 13 greatgrandchildren. Also survived by 2 brothers Fred (Elaine) and Ken (Sharon), sisters-in-law Shirley and Audrey. He was predeceased by son Keith (survived by Kyla) and brothers Orval, Ray (Elza) and Lloyd. The Griffin family was an important part of his life. Surviving are sisters-in-laws Ruth Gee, Gwen Griffin, and Jean Griffin. Predeceased by parents-in-law Reg and May Griffin, and brothers and sisters-in-law Jim Griffin, George Griffin, Elsie (Ross) McDonald and Bill Gee.

As a young man, Don belonged to the Stonewall Grain Club and represented Manitoba at the Toronto Royal Winter Fair in seed judging. He travelled western Canada purchasing grass seed for Federal Grain and later worked on grain elevator construction. He eventually started his own business in Stonewall doing landscaping, snow removal and excavation as well as giving driving lessons and driving school bus. Don was a self-taught craftsman. He was skilled at wiring, plumbing, welding, carpentry, mechanics, and wood working. He enjoyed being a member of the Rocklands Antique Club. He was an avid reader of nonfiction. He loved to learn, had an incredible memory, and enjoyed exploring Manitoba in particular. Trees were a passion. He enjoyed planting them on his properties and transplanting for others. He was also a member of the Manitoba Woodlot Association.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to South West District Palliative Care, Inc., Box 1282, Stonewall, MB R0C2Z0 or a charity of your choice. Heartfelt thanks to South West District Palliative Care and the Stonewall and District Health Centre.

March 19, 1935 – November 18, 2020     On the morning of November 18th at Grace Hospital Mom peacefully, passed away following complications from hip surgery.

Mom was born in Teulon on March 19, 1935 to Irene and Gordon Kennedy. Mom and Dad were married in 1956 and lived in Stonewall having two sons, Ken and Bob. In 1969 we moved to Teulon. Mom was an avid baker and always had something to donate to a shower, funeral or event that was happening in the community. Through the years Mom loved to entertain and was always happiest when family or friends would stop in for coffee and a sampling of her baking or better yet, a Sunday dinner.

Once Dad was retired, Mom looked forward to the winter months as, most years it would involve a trip to Palm Springs, CA where they both enjoyed the warm sun and visiting with family and friends, but we think Mom enjoyed the shopping most of all as sometimes the trunk and the back seat would be loaded down by the time they arrived home, everyone got a gift!!

Mom was predeceased by beloved grandson Jonathan, husband Gordon and brother Jack.

Left to Cherish her memory are her sons, Ken (Brenda), Bob (Kim) and much- loved grandchildren: Kent (Alycia), Brandon and Kaliegh, Mom was especially close to her loving sister Lois Ritchie (Bill). Many nieces and nephews will also cherish the memory of Auntie Ruth.

The family would like to thank Dr. Loudon and the wonderful staff at Goodwin Lodge and Teulon Memorial Hospital for their care and compassion towards Mom. As well we would like to thank Dr. Abbot and the staff on 4N at the Grace Hospital for taking such good care of Mom while she was there.

Cremation has taken place, due to Covid-19 a service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Goodwin Lodge Foundation or a charity of your choice.

August 2, 1937 – November 12, 2020   It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beautiful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother after a brief battle with cancer. She passed peacefully in her home with her family by her side amongst her familiar surroundings.

Marjorie is survived by her husband of 62 years David and her two daughters Brenda (Norman) and Charlene (Joey). She also leaves behind her grandchildren Jordan (Sarah), Anders (Melissa), Geri-Lynn (Trevor) and Jasmine. Step grandchildren Derrek (Laura), Kaitlyn (Ryan) and Keith. Her great grandchildren Abby (Cayden), Emma, Madison, and Kenzie and her step great grandchildren Lucas, Colby, Carson and Zayden. She is also survived by her best friend and only sister Patricia, sister-in-law Betty and brother-in-law Warren. She will also be missed by her special niece Susie, special nephew Brian and Vanessa, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was predeceased by her one and only son Gerald in 2016 as well as her parents Duncan and Edith and all four brothers William, Donald, Leslie and Lionel.

Marjorie was the youngest of 6 children and grew up on the family farm in Hodgson, Manitoba. She remained there until she met and married David in 1958. They moved to Stony Mountain in 1967 where they raised their family. They moved to Stonewall in October of 2000. Mom was a true homemaker. She lived ever day for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and all the friends that came along with them. She was the heart and soul of our home and always made time for everyone. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing meals for family and friends. No holiday or birthday was ever forgotten. She was quiet and kind – the backbone of our family.

We wish to thank the following individuals: Christine and Dr. Graham with Palliative Care for their compassion and guidance in helping us to care for Mom in her home until the end. Michelle Loehmer for unending assistance in whatever we needed. Nurses Megan, Eleanor, Kim and Tanya. A special mention to Dr. Hicks and Patrice Lee who helped make it possible for our Dad to be home with Mom at the end as he struggled with his own health issue. Thanks to Ken Loehmer for his assistance during the worst time of our lives.

A private family service and interment was held at Rockwood Cemetery.

“We hope you’re dancing in the sky and we hope you’re singing in the angels’ choir, and we hope the angels know what they have. We bet it’s so nice up in heaven since you arrived.”

July 31, 1928 – Nov 10, 2020   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mel Sampson at the age of 92 years. Mel passed away peacefully on November 10, 2020 at his home in Rosewood Lodge with his wife of 37 years, Ruth by his side.

Mel was born July 31, 1928 in the town of Greenway, Manitoba. He attended elementary school in Pelican Lake and later high school in Belmont, Manitoba. As a young man, in 1949 Mel moved to Brandon to work driving truck hauling asphalt to build the highways. In 1953 he moved to Winnipeg to start his much loved career with the Winnipeg Tribune newspaper. Mel worked here for 27 years until it’s closure in 1980. He then started working for the Winnipeg Sun until his retirement.

Mel was first married in Brandon in 1951 to Mildred (known as Bonnie) and together they had 2 daughters; Donna (Hector) and Donalda (known as Debbie) who both have made their homes in Ontario. Bonnie passed away from diabetes in 1982. In 1983 Mel met Ruth Lefebvre (nee Appleyard) at a dance at the Odd Fellows Hall in Stonewall. They married Oct 15 of the same year and made their home in Winnipeg for a couple short years until Ruth retired in 1985 and then they made the move to Stonewall to spend their retirement years.

Ruth and Mel continued their lifelong love of dancing and music together for over 30 years attending dances and fiddle festivals taking them on road trips all over southern Manitoba making many wonderful friends along the way. Mel believed strongly in volunteering to better his community and its members. Mel volunteered in many capacities including driving seniors to and from doctors’ appointments in Winnipeg, helping with fundraisers and many more local ventures. A testament to that is when Mel and Ruth spent 22 years in Weslaco Texas as Snowbirds at the Pine to Palm trailer park. He volunteered as the dance and entertainment director, sports director and assistant director. Two of his strongest passions were the South Interlake Seniors Resource Council and of course the Lions Club. Mel drove the handy van for 7 years and this experience allowed him to recognize a need for an organization to advocate on behalf of the seniors in the community. Mel was instrumental in co-founding the South Interlake Seniors Resource Council and acting as a director for over 25 years. Mel was also a passionate member of the Stonewall Lions Club since 1986 earning many awards for his dedicated and loyal 32 years of service such as the Harry A. Newman Diabetes Award in 2007 and an award for distinguished achievements in 2015/2016. He held many positions over the years including chair for Cavalcade in 2003 and President of the local chapter in 1991/1992.

He is now resting peacefully with his beloved ones.

Due to current COVID restrictions, there will be no service at this time. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to South Interlake Seniors Resource Council.

Ruth would like to send a special thank you to the staff at Rosewood Lodge for their loving care of Mel over the last 2 years.

“Life is like dancing, it’s not about getting from one place to another, it’s about enjoying every step.” -Author Unknown

(nee Conquergood) October 27, 1924 – October 27, 2020

In the early morning hours of her 96th birthday, with family at her side, Mom peacefully passed at Red River Place in Selkirk.

Mom was predeceased by her loving husband, Thomas William Patterson, father Murdoch Daniel and mother Frances Catherine Conquergood (nee McKay), infant brother Thomas, brother Stewart Roswell “Ross”, sister Flora Elizabeth Green “Florrie”, her twin sister Frances Murdena Kerr “Deanie”, sister Shirley Jessilind White, sister Margaret Wilhelmina Smee “Willie” and her eldest son, Thomas Ross.

Left to cherish her memory are her sons Reginald Wayne (Marlene), Richard Lorne (Leslie), Rodger Phillip and daughter-in-law Fran, along with her beloved grandchildren – Jason (Keri), Elizabeth (Neil), Natalie, Reggie (Pam), Tommy, Michael, James (Chantel), Bryan (Tori), Joseph and Marshall – and numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jean was born in Winnipeg and raised on the family farm in Lilyfield. She attended Lilyfield school and completed Grade 12 in Transcona. After high school Jean completed her training as a Registered Nurse at the Misericordia School of Nursing. She nursed at Gladstone General Hospital for two years before returning to Winnipeg to continue nursing until she married Tom in November 1948. Together they raised their family of four boys on the Patterson farm in Lilyfield where she continued to live until only three months before her passing. In 1970 Jean recertified as a Nurse and did private duty nursing for about ten years.

Mom’s greatest love was her family and her home, followed closely by her church and community. She was a lifelong member of the Lilyfield United Church and active in the United Church Women’s group and Mount Lildon Women’s Institute. She loved “good” music, reading, crosswords and, most of all, having friends and family visit. She was a gracious hostess who could put together a delicious meal, complete with fine china and teacups, with seemingly no effort on short notice. She could not tolerate an improperly set table! She was close to her brother and sisters and looked forward to Deanie’s visits every summer in the later years. Mom had one speed and that was “go”. She liked to be busy and was independent (she would not want us to say she was stubborn!). In addition to being a wife and mom, she also worked hard to help Tom on the farm. Her beautiful hands were a testament to a life of hard work, love, and service to others.

Unfortunately, during her last three months, Jean was moved five times between various health facilities. This, along with COVID-related restrictions, was difficult for her and her family and was only bearable because of the caring health care staff at each facility. Thanks also to all the homecare workers who tended to Jean at home during her later years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lilyfield United Church, c/o Box 22, RR2, Winnipeg, R3C 2E6. A celebration of life will be held on a later date.

Tragically, in Victoria, BC, on October 26, 2020, at age 44, Jon Novak left this life to join his brother Kyle. Jon is mourned by his children, who were the core of his heart: Emily, Rival, Ryder and Logan. Jon was the beloved second son of Wendy and Lorne Novak. He is survived by brother Bryan, wife Angie and nephew Hunter; and sister Laura. He also leaves his Uncle Larry Good, wife Carole, cousins Jessi and Dominic; Uncle Blair Good, cousins Hollie, Sara and Ethan; Aunt Marilyn DeLeeuw, husband Bert, and cousin Chris; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Jon was predeceased by his younger brother Kyle, grandparents Lionel & Eleanor Good, uncles Gerald Good and Rick Good; grandparents Edward and Evelyn Novak and cousin Rob DeLeeuw.

Born February 23, 1976, Jon was dark-haired and dark-eyed. Jon’s eyes sparkled with mischief above his perpetual smile. He was a happy child, never sitting still for a minute. He loved to find out how things worked; quite often his new toy or game would be in pieces on the floor shortly after receiving it. He would put it back together, good as new, and continue to play. Hockey was Jon’s favourite sport. He played for the Interlake Lightning inaugural team and SJHL Nipawin Hawks until an injury sidelined him forever at just 18. He loved to be at Grandma and Grandpa’s farm, driving the trucks and tractors and helping out. Of course, when he could he would go for a rip on the motorcycle, quad or snowmobile.

Life led him to Alberta and British Columbia where he worked in the oil fields. He got into construction and eventually became an accomplished welder, earning his Red Seal certification in both Carpentry and Welding. Hard work was something Jon was never afraid of. Eventually he owned and operated his own welding company.

Jon had a heart of gold and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Jon was compassionate; he would give you the shirt off his back even if it was the last one he had. He made friends easily with everyone; it didn’t matter where you came from or who you were. Jon loved deeply; his signature was a pink rose that he would deliver to someone he loved or was thinking of or who he thought needed something to make them smile. Jon was a hugger, wrapping those big strong arms gently around those he loved. “Love you” was texted almost daily to his Mom.

Jon never forgot a birthday or a telephone number. He had a terrific sense of humour and he loved practical jokes. He drank too much Timmie’s. Jon shared his love of ice fishing, skating, quadding, bonfires and so on with his boys. Jon was such a strong person and he overcame so many of the challenges that life put in his way. His favourite poem was ‘Footprints’. Jon sported numerous tattoos to honour those he loved or to represent what he believed: his brother Kyle, his children, Emily, Rival, Ryder and Logan, and his most recent one that read, “Only God Can Judge Me”.

Jon, your struggles are finally over. Rest Peacefully. We will see you again one day! “Love you more” – always and forever!

When tomorrow starts without me Please try to understand That an angel came and called my name And took me by the hand The angel said my place was ready In Heaven far above And that I’d have to leave behind All those I dearly love But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me And told me “Welcome Home” So when tomorrow starts without me Don’t think we’re far apart For every time you think of me I’m right there in your heart

A private graveside gathering took place Monday, November 9, 2020, at Stonewall Cemetery. Donations in memory of Jon Novak can be made to the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre in Winnipeg, MB. https://www.bruceoakerecoverycentre.ca/ or a charity of one’s choice. The family is indebted to Jon’s Uncle Blair and Ken Loehmer for making the arrangements to bring Jon ‘home’ to Manitoba.

1933 – 2020

With breaking hearts we announce the passing of our wife, mom, sister and friend on Friday, October 23, 2020. Mom took on a glow and we witnessed serenity. Yvette was beautiful as was her soul. Morality virtue and spirituality were mom’s beliefs and she passed them on to us.

Yvette and Bill were married for 64 years and have 5 children. Carol and John Hoban, Jill (Derek), Bruce; Les Smith, Lindsey, David; Lorna Smith; Shawna Smith, Nick, Dylan (Kiana); Audra and Arrigo D’Angelis. Mom also had 5 great-grandkids, Will, Abby, Carter, Easton, Daisy and 2 fur-kids Chantilly and Petee. Mom, Born in St. Laurent, MB. to Chris and Amanda Lambert, along with 12 siblings and has a multitude of relatives. She also has a sister-in-law, brother-in-law, 2 nephews and a great nephew on Dad’s side. Mom and Dad had a huge circle of close friends.

Mom loved entertaining cooking, dancing, music and playing cards. Everybody always ended up at the Smith’s, an open door policy and you’d never leave hungry! Mom and Dad spoiled us children, grandchildren with so many memories at Twin Beaches, and the homes Dad built; we had the best they provided and the best holidays! Every day Mom made sure she spoke or saw one of us kids or grandchildren. Just to say hi or discuss sports fashion home decor or her favourite TV programs like sports decorating or detective programs. She never missed a birthday and we would get a call with her singing Happy Birthday. Mom, always conscious of her appearance fashion and hair style was often referred to as “GLAMA”. She loved bling sparkles jewellery and faux fur. In 1978 Bill moved the family out to Grosse Isle, MB. and built a big new home for mom to decorate. The beginning of a new lifestyle.

Thanks to the nurses on the 8th floor palliative at St. Boniface Hospital. Mom faithfully believed in giving back and was very generous to family and charities. A donation of Blood as many did for Mom to sustain her life as long as possible, or support a charity in her memory. “Mom whenever we smell Chanel #5 when there’s no one around or we bake your jumbo raisin cookies or make your famous pastry for pies we’ll know you’re there. We shall be listening in our dreams for you and keep you always close to our hearts.

June 17,1924 – October 22, 2020

Peacefully, with family by his side, John Albert Klimpke, in his 96th year, passed away at the Stonewall Hospital on Thursday October 22, 2020. He was born in the RM of Rosser in the Lilyfield District on June 17, 1924. He is survived by his wife of 74 years Sophia.

His children are Kenneth (Audrey), Barbara (George), Leonard (Karen). He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Kimberly, Andrea, Kent, Timothy, Lauren, and Myles. He is also survived by 11 great grand children.

Predeceased by his grandson Douglas Williams, Parents Fritz and Maria, and his 6 brother’s and 4 sisters.

John was a proud farmer his whole life in the Rosser area (dairy and grain). He was a life long member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was an avid sports fan and followed his children and grandchildren all over the province attending hockey games, baseball games and football games. He was also lifetime member of the Stonewall Legion Branch #52.

A graveside funeral service was held at the Lilyfield Cemetery on Monday, October 26, 2020. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2528 King Edward Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2R 2Y8 or to the charity of your choice. A special thank you to the Pine Falls Hospital and the Stonewall Hospital for their excellent care to our husband and father, John. Thank you to Ken Loehmer for guiding us through this process with such care and compassion.

March 21, 1955 – October 22, 2020

Craig Eros passed away suddenly at his home near Gunton, Manitoba on Thursday, October 22, 2020 with his loving wife Shelley by his side. Craig will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Craig leaves to cherish his memory his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sisters, brother, mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-laws, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and cousins. Craig was predeceased by his parents Marge and Willie Eros and his older brother Glenn.

Craig was born in Winnipeg, the second oldest of a very busy family of five children. He grew up in Transcona, graduating in 1973 from Murdoch MacKay Collegiate. Craig was always a creative, generous fun-loving guy who had many friends and enjoyed life. From an early age, he shared his love of music and art with those around him. One of his first jobs during high school was teaching guitar and he performed in many bands over the years, including the rock band Eros, in which he played lead guitar and sang vocals along with brother Glenn. In his twenties, Craig was a sound technician for live bands. He later became accomplished in Spanish and Flamenco guitar, and he and Shelley participated in a Spanish dance troop for many years. He never lost his passion for rock and blues and spent many an hour in his well-equipped home recording studio writing and making music. He played guitar for hours a day and became a mentor to many fellow guitarists. Recently, he had taken up a new interest in keyboards and synthesizers. Craig had just completed the first cut of a new solo album in which he played all the instrument tracks, including vocals.

Craig leaves us with a legacy of breathtaking works of art which began in childhood and the many years he worked at Hawkins Taxidermy. He will be especially remembered for his Manitoba landscapes, sunset, sunrise and wildlife paintings and, more recently, his hauntingly beautiful “space art” of galaxies, planets and nebula. Craig was a dedicated family man, devoted husband, father and grandfather. In 1985, he married Shelley and in 1986, the family relocated to north of Gunton, where Craig and Shelley incorporated and Craig took on the role of President of Rockridge Turkey Breeder Farm Ltd. Craig also worked at Charison’s Turkey Hatchery. Over the decades there were many farm locations, Rockridge Grower, Rockridge Breeder, Blue Springs, Windsor and Northridge. Craig worked diligently in that role until his retirement in 2016. Craig and Shelley shared many happy times on their wooded acreage, creating art and music together, spending time with friends and enjoying the simple things in life.

Craig was inspired every day by the simple beauty he saw around him – a deer in the yard or birds at his feeder. He could often be found in the woods walking and maintaining his trails. He was a devoted gardener, spending much time caring for his plants. He loved to barbecue and cook on a wood fire pit and especially enjoyed making meals at the camper at East Shoal Lake. He always brought along a Flamenco guitar and if he wasn’t cooking, he was playing. Craig was an avid fisherman and caught many trophies. He fished all sorts of fish, including pickerel, lake trout, muskie, salmon and arctic char in many parts of Northern Manitoba, Lake of the Woods and even as far afield as Great Bear Lake and British Columbia. Craig was loved.

Craig had many plans for the future. His life impacted so many people. His family and friends are heartbroken at his early passing and will miss him beyond measure. May your thoughts of Craig remind you to live your passions and enjoy the everyday beauty in life. The family extends its sincere thanks to Emergency Service personnel, the RCMP and Ken Loehmer for their kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Craig’s memory to a group that meant a lot to him, Grateful Friends Animal Rescue at Box 999 Teulon, Mb. R0C 3B0 or the charity of your choice. A private service will be held.

MARCH 9, 1936 – OCTOBER 19, 2020

After a brief illness our beloved mother passed away at Stonewall Hospital October 19, 2020 at the age of 84 years. Survived by her husband Joe; daughter Valerie, grandchildren Craig, Kimberley, Sherri, six great grandchildren; daughter Arlene (Brad) and grandchild Clay. Sisters Natalie (Ed), Myrtle (Paul).

Predeceased by her parents Bill and Anne Hnatchuk and two brothers Stephan and Ernie and sister Stephanie. Jean worked at Winnipeg Beach in her younger years where she met Joe. They were married October 3, 1959 and had two daughters. Joe and Jean moved to Saskatoon in 1969, where they started their lives. Jean was a homemaker, she eventually worked at the cafeteria at Eaton’s. Jean’s hobbies were planting flowers and working in the garden.

A private family graveside has been held. Thank you to the staff at Stonewall Hospital for taking care of Jean (Mom).