Peacefully, after living a full and active life Helene passed away on October 4, 2020 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Helene is survived by her children: Les (Lorraine), Lise (Kevin), Kevin (Natasha) Curtis (Lynette) Grandchildren: Jayson (Kate) and their children Eloise, Estelle Jocelyn, Jaymie (Cole), Sean, Kyle, Kasey, Kloey, Addison, Aidan Brothers and Sisters: Carl, Lesley (Brenda), John (Elaine), Diane (Phil), Barbara (Ken) And many nieces and nephews.

Helene was predeceased by her brother George, sister Bonnie, father Cozma Balan, mother Vera Balan, and brother Alec.

Helene Elaine Balan was born on May 22, 1933 in Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan to Vera and Cozma Balan. Vera and Cozma Balan farmed at Elm Spring, SK and when Helene was 5 years old the family moved to Woodlands, Manitoba. Helene and her siblings had a lot of responsibility on the farm but being the oldest Helene was like a mother and a sister to her younger siblings, looking out for them at home and at school.

Helene excelled at school and at sports especially baseball. She played on competitive women’s teams and on a men’s team while she attended university in Winnipeg.

After Helene graduated from Woodlands School she moved to Winnipeg and attended a year of “Normal School” to be trained as a teacher. After one year she earned her Teaching Certificate and began a teaching career that lasted from the age of 19 to 83 years young.

While raising four active kids who played multiple sports and teaching full time in Winnipeg’s inner city schools, Mom continued to take university courses and graduated from the University of Winnipeg in May, 1980 with an Education Degree.

Throughout her teaching career Mom taught in many different communities: the Interlake, Pinawa, Winnipeg One, Thompson, Nelson House and Lake Manitoba. In every community she made a difference. Mom would ensure that her students had clothes, food, equipment and even places to stay if needed.

When Mom retired from teaching (for the 3rd time) she enjoyed spending time at her house in Winnipeg looking after her flowers outside, keeping her yard clean, often could be found sweeping and raking the neighbours yards as well. Mom loved the visits from her Grandchildren and her great-nephews Owen and Evan. Being able to watch her Grandchildren play sports was very special for Mom.

Our Mom, will be remembered for her strength, independence, determination, kindness and generosity and she will be missed greatly by her family: her children, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

“A mom’s hug will last long after she lets go”

A Graveside Service was held. Pallbearers: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Sean Kirkpatrick, Jayson Balan, Jayson Fraser, Kyle Fraser, Kasey Fraser.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10 – 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2.

July 11, 1934 – October 2, 2020                 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Katharina (Kathy) Lotz on October 2, 2020, at the age of 86. Kathy is survived by her son Frank (Darlene), grandchildren Lindsey (Dustin) and Richard (Elizabeth), great-grandchildren, Anna, Gavin, Keira, and Natalie and brother Joseph (Karin) Bachus in Germany. She was predeceased by her husband Frank and parents Mathias and Margaret Bachus. Kathy was born in Grabotz, Hungary. She married Frank in Germany on February 14, 1953. They immigrated to Canada making Winnipeg their home until Frank retired and they moved to Norris Lake to raise many types of animals. Kathy later enjoyed her time at Gateway Manor in Teulon and her final months at Oakview Place PCH. Kathy was active in the WI, Red Hats, Teulon Hospital auxiliary and she loved to go dancing and play cards with her friends. Kathy’s farm animals where her pride and joy. The family would like to thank her many neighbours and friends who were always there to help when needed and her caregivers, nurses and doctors in Teulon and Winnipeg. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. If friends so desire donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of MB or a charity of your choice.

Peacefully at home in Woodlands on September 24, 2020, we sadly grieve the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather Gary John MacFarlane.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years Jackie, his children Chris, Andrew, Maryann (Edgar), Leslie, Marcy (Howard) and Fawn (James), his brothers Wayne (Miriam), Glen (Sophie), Gerald (Patti) and sister Melissa (Trever), sisters-in-law Denyse and Karen (David), many nieces and nephews across Canada, U.S.A. and Mexico, grandchildren Roslynn, Emilia, Logan, Judith, Ruby, Edgar, Lance, Benjamin, Johnathan, Natalie, Jack, JaeLynn, and Abby, great grandchildren Elliott, Jasper, Priscilla, and the many foster children that he considered his own over the years.

He was predeceased by his parents Sonny and Kay, brothers John and Warren Marc, cousins Oscar, Joyce, and Susan, and brother-in-law Bruce and many extended family in Manitoba and Ontario too numerous to mention by name but never the less special to him.

Gary was born in Ottawa on May 23, 1946 and lived the life of an “army brat” until his family settled in Winnipeg. He attended St. James Collegiate. During his teen years he developed his love of music and was band leader for several 60’s bands such as “The New Interns” and then later the most prominent being “The Wild Taste”. A talented musician and song writer, he recorded an album “Lights at Last” with his friend Ken. His musical talents provided him opportunities to collaborate with established names in the music scene and earned him recognition in the Manitoba Music Museum. He pursued many interests in his life his favorite being building projects as well as hunting and fishing at his northern cottage. He loved to entertain and bring a laugh by telling stories of his life’s experiences or sharing a joke. Whether he was the worker or the leader, player or coach, he embraced it with passion. Gary will be remembered for his hands and the accomplishments he made with them: the home and cottage he built, the music he created, the hand he lent to many, the hand of guidance, the hand of generosity, and the hand that gave many comfort when needed. Gary had many wonderful friends and acquaintances that he thought of fondly amid his multitude of interests. He was the defender and protector of his family that he cherished. His priority in life was his faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God will have a purpose for a warrior such as he. No funeral will be held but a family gathering will be held at a later date. Gary wished to be cremated. We love you, we miss you, waiting until we are together again.

Many thanks to family and friends who have been so compassionate and helpful with meals and support in our time of need. You eased our burden. The numerous emails, posts, cards, and letters of remembrance of Gary were wonderful and a thank you cannot express the appreciation.

John Raymond Koley (Ray), 79, of Teulon MB, passed away on Saturday, September 19th, 2020, after a lengthy battle with Cancer and Alzheimer’s.

Born August 24, 1941 in Winnipeg MB, he was the son of the late Andrew Koley and Elizabeth Koley (nee Wasalina). He is survived by his two sons, John Koley and Kevin Koley and wife Lise; his 5 grandchildren, Chantelle, Erik, Daryl, Karlee and Brin; 3 great grandchildren, Deegan, Everett and Quinn. Ray is predeceased by his parents as well as his longtime partner Brenda Meyers.

A memorial service will not be held, instead the family will be holding a private wake to honor Ray’s life. If friends so desire, they can donate to the Humane Society in Ray’s name, in lieu of flowers. The family would like to thank the Hospital staff at both the Johnson Memorial Hospital, Gimli and the Hunter Memorial Hospital, Teulon, for the kind and gracious care Ray received. Everyone who crossed paths with Ray during his walk-through life remembers him for his kindness, sense of humor and willingness to help. He will be missed but always in our hearts.

IRENE ROSE MARGARUITE BYLE (nee Vandal), born September 20, 1924 in Middlechurch, MB, passed away peacefully one hour and fifty minutes before her 96th birthday on September 19th with her family at her side at the Concordia Hospital. The last surviving matriarch of the Vandal family, Irene, the wife of a veteran and farmer Fred who predeceased her in 2006, enjoyed working in her garden and flower beds, canning and baking and sharing with family and friends. She also had a love for their many pets over the years. Mum enjoyed sewing and her knitting, making baby outfits for every grandchild and fisherman knit sweaters for all of us. You always knew where you stood with her “tell it like it is attitude.” Mum always promised us that she would be “sweet” in her old age but remained a feisty opinionated lady making her own decisions until her passing. Mum’s passion in her later years was her casino bus trips (she won her share) with her last trip being in January of 2020. She enjoyed her many trips to Calgary and Toronto to visit her daughters. Mum was recently honored at the West St. Paul Seniors Luncheon as the oldest living born and raised West St. Paul resident.

After raising her five children, Robert (Linda), Judy (Michael), David (Emmy), Brad (Kelly), Leslie (Teri), Mum enjoyed being a gramma most of all to Leanne(Andre), Kenton(Erin), April(Todd), Amanda(Kevin), Joel(Roslynn), Mitchell(Tiffaney) and Mark. Known as “Sugarplum Gramma” to her great grandchildren Sydney, Aurelia, Reid, Summer, Wade, Tatyana, Ben, Nick, Dominik, Scarlett, Ryder, Henry, Hannah, Michael and River, she was the happiest with a baby in her arms. Our family would like to thank a very special woman who has become a part of our family forever, Merle, who was a very special friend to Mum (and her cats).

Thanks to the wonderful staff on N1 at the Concordia Hospital for their compassionate care to Mum and her family. And to Kenny from Ken Loehmer Funeral Services once again for his care and compassion. Due to Covid, Mum’s final wish will be granted when it is safe for all of her family and friends to be together again for her final party. If desired, donations in her memory can be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society or a charity of your choice.

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.

March 12, 1932 to September 9, 2020

Mom peacefully passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at Tudor House in Selkirk, at the age of 88. She was born on March 12, 1932 to Ernie and Elsie Hibbitt in the Ridgeway District, where she lived her entire life. Mom married Tom Watts in 1951, and together, they raised their 5 children while they worked side by side operating their dairy farm shipping milk, and later shipping cream. Church and her faith were an integral part of Mom’s life. She held several positions in the church, including teaching kindergarten Sunday School for several decades. Mom enjoyed the peacefulness of a quiet rural life. She enjoyed baking, bird watching, knitting, and tending her garden. A visit in the summer and fall would find her making jam, jelly and pickles, and canning and freezing fruit and vegetables. Mom loved to knit, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were lucky and proud to tell others that their Grandma/Great-Grandma had made it for them. Mom donated a large quantity of knit articles to local charities and the Health Sciences Center patients. In their retirement, Mom and Dad enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels to seniors in the Teulon area. One of Mom’s greatest joys was seeing all of her family gathered at the Balmoral Hall for special family celebrations.

Mom was predeceased by her husband Tom, in 2011, her parents Ernie and Elsie Hibbitt, her sister Annie, and brother Oliver.

She leaves to mourn, with fond and loving memories, her children: Jim (Colleen), Jean (Glenn Main), Brian (Shelley), Bruce (Shirley), and Margaret. She will be dearly missed by her 10 grandchildren: Andrea (Tom), Johnson (Lesley), Gordon (Darlene), Tammy (Brent), Brenda, Tim (Ashlee), Kyle, Chris (Brenda), Ken (Ange), and Carla (Jason). She is lovingly remembered by her 19 great-grandchildren: Elliot, Emma, Jack, Sybill, Mathew (Mary), Kaitlyn, Emily, Nathan, Nickolas, Ethan, Julia, Russell, Lyla, Levi, Cassidy, Samantha, Damon, Ella, and Alex. She is also survived by two special great-great-grandchildren: Elena and Louie.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a graveside service was held for immediate family. Flowers are gratefully declined. Please send donations to Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, Unit 10-120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2, or a charity of your choice.

July 29, 1999 – September 1, 2020

Suddenly and unexpectedly, Justin was taken on September 1, 2020 at his home in Greenwood Nova Scotia. At the age of 21. Justin was born on July 29, 1999 to Tim and Andrea Barylski; he is older brother to Tyler, Kylie and Emma. Grandson to Randy and Bev Wynne and Barb(Rick) Hunt. Great Grandson to Joyce Mott. Justin was loved greatly by his many Aunts, Uncles and cousins, as well as his close friends Mikal, Toran, Mark, Austin and many others.

As a young boy Justin loved John Deere tractors and airplanes. This was until he received his first Lego set and his love of Lego never ended. He was still planning what set to get next with his cousin Kaylea. As a teenager he started playing the bagpipes. He piped in his graduating class in 2017 and played with the 402 Pipes and Drums band. He loved a cup of hot tea and a bubble bath on any occasion. Over time he started collecting pocket knives, fancy pens, flashlights, and wallets. Justin would post what he carried in his pocket on his Instagram page @everyday_carry_. In his spare time he enjoyed building his Minecraft world with his friends. He enjoyed fine Scotch. Justin was a kind and thoughtful young man who always puts others needs above his own. He was an old soul at such a young age.

At age 12 Justin joined the 301 Air Cadet Squadron in Stonewall and loved the idea of the military at this young age. He signed on with the Royal Canadian Air Force on October 11, 2018 and left to start his military career on October 20, 2018. He was trained as an Aviation Technician; at his graduation in Borden Ontario he received the Royal Canadian Air Force Core Values award. We were so proud of him. In November 2019 Justin was posted to 405 Squadron in Greenwood, Nova Scotia. He moved into his own place in January 2020. Even though he was half way across the country he was never far from our thoughts, always a phone call, text or Facetime away. Justin had plans of eventually moving close to home and helping on the family farm. Often talking about the next time he could make it back home as he missed being away from his family. He had big plans that were cut to short. We love you our boy and will miss you every single day.

A memorial service was held September 9 at the Windsor cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Soldier On Fund at soldieron.ca Thank you to George Madhu, his roommate, our family and friends, New Life Church, Pastor Rusty, Ken Loehmer, and the Royal Canadian Air Force. We are so thankful for the loving support, prayers, and comforting words from our surrounding communities.

There are some who Bring a light so great to the world That even after they have gone The light remains.

(HOUTERMAN)   February 26, 1925 – August 29, 2020        It is with so much LOVE in our hearts, for this tiny little lady, that we share the passing of our Mom on Saturday, August 29, 2020. Wife, Nanny and Friend with so many. Mom was born in Heerlen Laren, Netherlands to Theodorus Houterman and Marie Houterman. Mom met Dad and they married on July 5, 1951 in Holland. Following the Second World War, with limited housing and job opportunities, Mom and Dad left the Netherlands on July 14, 1951 and started their 14 day passage on the MV Georgic, The Cunard Steam-ship Company Ltd. to Canada. They landed at Pier 21 in Halifax on July 21, 1951 and then arrived in Winnipeg, by train, on July 23, 1951 to start their new adventure. They were very proud to be called Canadians and received their Canadian Citizenships on April 15, 1958. They lived and worked on a farm in Waskada, Manitoba where Mom always told us that the two young boys she looked after would help her with learning English. They would remind her when she tried to speak English that she wasn’t saying it right, so Mom would ask them to teach her the right way to say it. Through those young children and by listening to the radio Mom learned English. Then off to Balmoral, Manitoba where they worked at Sid Mains Farm and where Dorothy was born. Stony Mountain was their home from 1959 to 1990 and where Henrietta, Arnie, Yvonne and Gerry completed the Jansen Family. While living in Stony Mountain Mom, along with being an amazing Mom and looking after us all, took on employment at the Stony Mountain Hotel, and later her greatest joy as a childcare assistant at the Stony Mountain Child Care Centre. From 1990 to present Mom and Dad lived in Stonewall. Mom had 12 siblings Mariet (Koos); Lien (Chris); Annie (Theo); Roos (Wim); Thea (Harry); Nel (Koen); Paula (Dick); Jan (Nell); Toos (Theo); Truus (Giel); Theo (Hannie); Helga (Jan) and numerous nieces and nephews, all in Holland. Although Mom and Dad lived through war and many hard times, there was nothing that could compare to the loss of their grandsons, Daniel Kratzer and Doug Gibson. We know Mom was so looking forward to giving those boys a huge Nanny Hug and of course being reunited with Dad who left us on September 1, 2012. Mom has left behind 5 children. She would always tell people how darn lucky and proud she was to have such good kids. When all along we were the lucky ones to have such an amazing Mom. Her proud children and grandchildren who will miss her more than can be imagined are Dorothy (Gord), Adrienne (Katie) and Adam; Henrietta (Richard); Arnie (Kate), Corey (Robyn); Yvonne (Bud), Dawn (Jeff); Gerry (Jody), Kaleb, Brooke & Rachel. Mom and Dad taught us the importance of family and to love unconditionally. We have another angel watching over us. Our family would like to thank first and foremost our sister Yvonne who took Mom into her home to live out Mom’s final year. Mom’s greatest fear was going into the hospital and our sister helped keep that from happening. Of course, it took a village to help look after our Mom and to help make her wish come true. From Homecare to Private Care to the Nurses and Doctors, and Tannis and the Gang at Korner Kuts, who went above and beyond to make sure our Mom always looked and felt fantastic. Each in their own way became part of Willy’s family. Each caregiver had a story to tell us about what they learned from Willy. Mom went on many adventures with the girls, “picking” lilacs, eating huge bowls of ice-cream, going out for lunch, walks at Oak Hammock Marsh, meeting their families, spending time with puppies, kittens, chickens and other farm animals and so many other adventures. The Neighbors would always comment that Willy was never home. Our Mom was definitely loved. A mother’s love is always with her children. Losing a Mother is one of the deepest sorrows a heart can know. But her goodness, her caring and her wisdom live on like a Legacy of Love that will always be with us. That Love surrounds us now and brings us Peace. There will be no formal service at this time. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the South West District Palliative Care, Box 1282, Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0. Donations will help in the purchase of a Palliative Care Bed.