May 11, 1942 – September 16, 2020
Words cannot fully express the profound sadness that surrounds this announcement of the passing of our husband, father and Papa, Roger Griffin. Roger passed away suddenly but peacefully at his home in Teulon the evening of September 16, 2020.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife and best friend of 52 years, Claudette, daughters Angele (Scott) and Cherise, and grandchildren Olivia and Abby, Desiree and Dominic. Also mourning this loss are Dad’s sisters, Ruth (Stewart McMahon), Evelyn (the late Walter Mohr) , Fern (Richard Nosaty), Joy (Nick Bodnar) and many nieces, nephews and friends he knew both personally and professionally.
Dad was born in Teulon to George and Rhoda (Brigg) Griffin. He grew up on the family farm just outside of town and attended Stacpoole School. By all accounts, he was an intensely shy boy growing up. As a young teen he left school to work on the farm but later in life as an adult, he returned to Teulon Collegiate to obtain his high school diploma. In 1968, Dad married his long-time sweet heart, Claudette Baron. He was adored by Mom’s parents, Leo and Lil, and was welcomed into the family and the family business. Dad eventually bought Leo’s business, creating Baron & Griffin Insurance Agency in Teulon, which he operated for 33 years. Dad also obtained his Real Estate License early on and began assisting Leo with sales at L.J. Baron Realty. Several years later, Mom joined Leo and Dad creating a truly family-operated business. Dad worked diligently ensuring the managerial side of the business was looked after and was instrumental in its ongoing success. He and Mom had an amazing partnership with complementing strengths. Dad thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people and helping them with their insurance and real estate needs. Every time we suggested it may be time to consider retirement he responded, “work keeps me young” and “I don’t feel my age”. The community of Teulon will feel his absence. There was always a wave and a smile when passing by. He loved his community, giving of his time volunteering with the Kinsmen Club, Volunteer Ambulance, the Chamber of Commerce and the Liliane Baron Breast Cancer Support Group. He continued playing hockey with the Old Timers well past his prime. The people and memories from these times enriched his life. Dad was the rock of our family. He was always the calm, reassuring and patient voice of reason throughout the trials and tribulations that our family has faced. He would do anything for us and never ask for anything in return. He adored and supported Mom at work and at home. Having spent so many years surrounded by the many special women in his life, Dad was especially grateful for his strong relationship with his son in law, Scott. His pride and love for his grandchildren was evident. They will cherish Papa Roger’s spontaneous phone calls, drop in visits and the regular teasing and jokes he threw their way. Dad loved trying new recipes, feeding family and friends, entertaining, working and relaxing with a glass of wine at our Norris Lake family cottage. His passion for the Jets and Bombers was evident each time we watched the games with him. Dad looked forward to regularly scheduled travels with Mom, friends and family. From Vegas and Palm Springs to exotic locales such as Vietnam, Morocco and Egypt, he savored these adventures. With travel plans now temporarily on hold, he finally got the convertible he’d been wanting for years and was looking forward to more cruising throughout Manitoba with Mom. Dad still had big plans for life but we are comforted in knowing he lived a fulfilled life of love surrounded by family, friends and the community he loved. Thank you, Dad. You checked all the boxes of what a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend should be. Due to covid-19, In lieu of a public funeral we ask anyone who wishes, to raise a glass of scotch, beer or wine in a toast to a life well lived. A private funeral is planned. If friends so desire, Donations in Dad’s memory can be mailed to the South Interlake Liliane Baron Breast Cancer Support Group, Box 10 Teulon MB R0C 3B0 Our family would like to extend special thank you to Ken Loehmer.