(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).

Wayne Edward HARRISON, after holding strong as he faced the outcome of terminal cancer, Wayne succumbed to the illness on October 15th, 2020.

He was born March 1st, 1949 in Neepawa, Manitoba to Elymer and Charlotte Harrison. Wayne grew up on the family farm, and attended school at Laurier, MB. He was a free spirit in the summer, imagining himself as Tarzan, swinging from hanging branches over the Angle Ditch. He loved to play pranks, but also showed a giving heart. His first two marriages brought him 4 daughters, Tammy, Jackie, Tanya, and Lori, that he loved deeply and often spoke of with pride. In 1985, he married his third wife, Maureen. They lived in The Pas for many years before moving to Swan River and finally settling in Bowsman.

Over the years, Wayne had many work experiences, which included carpentry, construction, hauling logs over rough terrain and ice-covered lakes/swamps. He would tell the story of driving a fully loaded truck over the frozen lake and swamps in the Spring, with the door open, and his foot out the door, so he’d be ready to jump if the truck fell through the ice. For the last several years, Wayne had been hauling hog fuel to the mill in The Pas. He retired in 2019. Wayne was the guy who would help a friend or family member in need whenever possible. He was also the Dad and Uncle who instigated many adventures and a few mishaps with a smile on his face and mischievous glint in his eyes. Often, he told stories of great friends, adventures, and times with family. He loved deeply, laughed hard, sang often, and understood the importance of family and friends.

Wayne is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, his brothers and sisters, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A big party will be held, the way he would have wanted it, at a later time.

On October 10, 2020, a beautiful autumn day with the sun shining and the birds visiting her bird feeder, Mom peacefully left this life to join her many family and friends who had left before her.

Left to feed the birds are her children Marie (Ed) Pull, Harold, David, Donald (Debi) and Nancy (Lyle) Lawrence; grandchildren Michele, Michael, Mark, Dawn, Sarah, John, Jason, Molly, Bryan, Jon, Christopher, Tara, Regan, Monica and Brett; 11 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Alice was predeceased by her husband, Mike; daughter, Diane and son-in-law, Floyd Rayner; sisters Mary and Bernice; and brother, Walter.

Alice was born in her grandmother’s home in the Oak Hammock area to William and Anne Black and spent her early years in Crandall. The family moved to Stonewall and lived in the upstairs of her dad’s barber shop with her 6 brothers and sisters. She met Mike Karasewich, the rival barber in town, when he asked her to knit him a sweater and she kept asking him to come over for fittings. They married on February 20, 1939, and Alice moved down Main Street into a different barber shop. They welcomed 5 children there, then moved the family to a house off Main Street. In 1964, they bought a house out of town and moved there with the 3 boys and new baby, Nancy.

Mom continued to knit for her family and friends, and for pocket money. No pattern was too complicated. Many hands, big and small, stayed cozy all winter with mitts from Mrs. K. Everyone was welcome at our house, where there were always homemade cookies to go with your coffee or tea and lots of laughs and stories. Few visitors left without a pair of mittens or cookies. When Xmas season arrived, the bank and grocery store staff were always treated to Alice’s cookies and treats.

Mom was a proud lifelong member of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Stonewall United Church. She loved her time spent knitting with the ladies for Project Linus. After Mike’s passing in 2008, Mom moved into Stonewood Place where she took part in movie and bingo nights, morning coffee and the Adult Day Program. With failing health mom moved into Rosewood Lodge in 2019. She continued to participate in activities, especially when promised that there would be snacks.

Our family wholeheartedly thanks all the Stonewood and Rosewood Staff for the care you gave Mom in each area of her life. She loved all the visits from each of you. Thank you for sharing your sweet stories with us—we know how much mom was loved by all of you “you girls are so good to me”. Thank you to Ken Loehmer for guiding us through this process with such care and compassion. A graveside service and gathering will be planned when travel restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Rosewood Lodge Recreation Department (for snacks) 513, 1st Ave. N, Stonewall, MB, R0C 2Z0.

Peacefully surrounded by her family, Dorothy Chrismas passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2020.

Remaining to forever cherish Dorothy’s memory are her daughters Judy (Joe), Diane (Herb), Gail (Alan), Carol (Bo), Bonnie (Mark) and Sandy (Rick). Also left to cherish her memory are her 13 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, sister Shirley, sisters-in-law Muriel and Violet; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

She is predeceased by her brothers Alec, Gordon, Billie, Wesley, David and sisters Joyce, Bessie and Vicky.

On January 14, 1931, Mom was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the oldest daughter of Beatrice and Harry Laing. She lived and worked in Winnipeg as well as on her aunt’s mink farm in Vivian. In 1950, Mom married Dad and they settled in Winnipeg, where they had three daughters Judy, Diane and Gail.

In 1958, the family moved to Balmoral where Carol, Bonnie and Sandy were born and this completed her family. They started out with a mixed farm but soon found poultry was their passion. Mom worked as hard as any man on the farm and was proud of all they accomplished. She also owned and ran the Balmoral Snack Bar. Being a great cook, she was famous for her pies.

Mom and Dad also built a hog barn and she was right there helping with everything. Sundays were especially important to her when all her children and grandchildren came for dinner. Mom showed her love with food so no one ever left her house hungry. She spoiled her grandchildren making sure there was always Pick-A-Pop in her house. During her life in Balmoral, and then later moving to Stonewall, she met many lifelong friends who she cherished.

In Stonewall, Mom became a proud Legion member and helped in the kitchen as long as she was able.

Mom was known for her generosity including sending cookies to the church, taking a turkey to the Bomber games and helping any person in need. She was an avid fan of the Blue Bombers and Winnipeg Jets. The family knew not to visit when a game was on.

Mom lived in her own house right until the end which made her very happy.

On Saturday, October 10, 2020, as per Mom’s request a private family service was held at the Victoria Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Joe Stefanuk, Alan Schick, Mark Yeomans, Rick Whittom. Honorary Pallbearers were grandsons Richard Thomson, Bo Yeomans and sons-in-law Herb Menzel and Bo Sweeney.

In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Mom may be made to the Balmoral United Church, Box 115, Balmoral, Manitoba, R0C 0H0.

Eva Janke peacefully, at the Selkirk Hospital on October 4, 2020 after a long battle with dementia passed away.

She is survived by her son Calvin (Andrea) grandchildren; Cole, Tristen, Payton, Riley; sister Sarah (George) Wiebe and brother Pete (Angie) Loewen.

Predeceased by her husband Alphonse and son Lawrence.

Eva was born in Hague, SK. and moved to Clarkleigh, MB. with her family in the early 1950’s. She was the baby of her family having 3 sisters and 13 brothers. She married Alphonse Nov. 27, 1955 in the midst of a blizzard and moved to Marquette where they farmed together for over 45 years. She loved her 4 grandchildren and was proud of their accomplishments. She talked about them all the time and to ever who would listen. She enjoyed family playing Bingo, driving, and being outside on the farm. She had the roughest of edges but the softest of hearts. She was very competitive, hardworking and extremely compassionate, a simple woman that was more complex than you would ever know. She was my mom the best mom in the world.

Private service Oct.10, 2020 at the Meadow Lea Cemetery.

Family would like to thank the several members of the community that supported and helped mom in her last years of living at home. Special thanks to all the Health Care Professionals who gave her the best care possible in the last years of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Meadow Lea United Church or Shoenfelder Mennonite Church.

Grandma

The relationship between a boy and his Grandma is one like no other. Me and grandma shared a very sentimental one. My grandma taught me many simple things in life, but the one that I’ll always remember is never to stop in the middle of the highway to empty your ash tray while cops are around. Grandma had a very gruff way about herself. Whether it was getting into arguments at the café or cursing because the bingo caller wasn’t calling out the numbers loud enough, she always knew how to be a loving grandma. It didn’t matter the situation I always knew that gram would be there to have a conversation with, usually while she was sitting on her rocker enjoying a smoke. For the 17 years I knew grandma I always have and always will cherish the visits at her house. A visit usually consisted of eating her famous bologna sandwiches, eating popcorn, and watching family feud. Towards the end of my Grandmas life it seemed the engine was running but there was no one behind the wheel. It was often comical being asked the same question more than once over a visit, but it’s something I will look back on and miss. One of the last times I spoke Grandson to Grandmother was a special one. I knew it may be the last time she’d recognize me, so I stayed for as long as the nurses let me. I ditched class one day to go see her, we played cards and she continued asking me to take her home because she “was feeling better.” After numerous rounds of go fish I decided to leave. Before I left, we hugged and she asked me once more if she could go for a ride, and then go home! Of course, I couldn’t take her as much as I wanted to. But on October 4th at 10:25 pm she heard grandpa calling her home. Being as tough as nails as she was it took more than one call. Finally, at 10:30 pm grandpa reached out his hand and grandma took it. They walked hand in hand, as grandpa finally brought grandma home.

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