May 2, 1946 – June 26, 2020 It is with deep sadness we announce that James Brian McCurdy passed away June 26, 2020. Jim was predeceased by the love of his life Frances (Baraschuk) in 2016 and leaves to mourn his daughter Darci (Rick), son Garth (Kristin) along with his grandchildren, Rachael, Kaitlyn, Austin, Melody and Alaynna. Jim was born in Winnipeg to a large family which included 4 brothers (Rudi, Ed, Alan, Bruce) and 3 sisters (Dolly, Heidi, Diane). Jim grew up in south Winnipeg until his early teens when he decided it was time to try to make it on his own. He held down numerous jobs before settling into working in the printing industry. Jim married Fran in 1968 in Winnipeg and started their life together in St. Vital before moving to Stonewall around 1975 where they spent 33 years raising their family. Jim and Fran spent time camping, bike riding, hanging out at Kinsmen Lake and spending time with his close friends on Shady Lane. They met some of their lifelong friends there and continued to stay in touch over the years. Jim and Fran decided to downsize once the kids had moved out and moved to Winnipeg to the Courts of St James in 2008. Even though they moved to Winnipeg, Jim remained employed at the local lumber yard helping people with their projects. It also allowed him to stay in touch with his friends from Stonewall. They continued to stay in touch with their Stonewall friends and were able to make new ones in the community in Winnipeg. After Jim retired, they would make daily visits to the Salisbury House or Perkins restaurants every day having breakfast and coffee with neighbors talking about all the important things retired people do. Jim followed his brothers lead and spent most of his work life in the printing industry. He spent the bulk of his years at Public Press on Ellice and King Edward producing such things as the Cattleman and other UGG publications. When it was sold in the late 1990’s Jim took some odd jobs before finding a new career at Jostens Canada where Fran had been working for many years. Jim and Fran got to spend all their time together commuting, having lunch and working side by side until they retired. Jim was an avid reader and loved mystery, spy novels and most anything he could get his hands on. He was also a very big movie and TV fan and was always the first to try new technology, like the 10-foot satellite dish in his back yard that brought hundreds of options for them to watch. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic team along with the Winnipeg Police Service. Your compassion and actions were truly appreciated. Due to current Covid-19 regulations a private service will take place in the coming days. Should you wish to view the service virtually, please contact 204-771-0524. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Manitoba Lung Association.
Author: Ken Loehmer
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Brett Matthias Young
September 9, 1957 – June 19, 2020 I am devastated to announce that suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, June 19th, 2020 at his home in Teulon, Brett Matthias Young died at the much too young age of 62. He is survived by the love of his life and soul mate Jill, his children Katherine, William, Nathan, step children Luke (Erin) and Leah (David), his grandsons and buddies Elliot (4) and Emmett (3), fur kids Max and Lily, sister in law Pam and brother in law Mark (Joann). Brett was one of 7 siblings and will be missed by his brother Jim (Dawn) of Pictou, NS and sister Faye of Regina, SK. Brett was predeceased by his parents Matt and Florence Young and his in laws Les and Connie Fawley. He was born in Winnipeg on September 9, 1957 and grew up at CFB Shilo. At the age of 8 the family relocated to Cornwall, PEI where he remained until he enlisted in the military in 1975 first in the army with the 8th Canadian Hussars and then the Royal Canadian Dragoons in Gagetown, NB and Lahr West Germany where he was a tank commander. It was in 1983 that he realized that if he ever wanted to convert to civilian life “tank commander” wasn’t going to do much on a job resume so he chose to move to the air force and became a certified Aircraft Maintenance Technician. He served with 443 Sea King Helicopter Sqn at CFB Shearwater and was attached to the HMCS Huron and Iroquois for 2 years. It took forever to convince him to go on a cruise later in life. He then went on to serve the balance of his career with 435 Herc Sqn at CFB Edmonton and then moved with the squadron to CFB Winnipeg. He also did trips to Tulle, Greenland and spent time with Nato in Bosnia. His first love was always his years in the army. He retired from the regular Canadian Armed Forces with the rank of Master Corporal and started at Standard Aero in 1998 finally retiring in 2017. He was a proud Canadian Veteran. Brett and Jill met on Friday, January 13th, 2006 and were married on Friday, January 13th, 2012 at their home in Teulon. We were together 14 years, 5 months and 6 days. We were 2 people but 1 person. We laughed every day. We only needed each other. Our life was perfect. In 2016 we moved to our current home which Brett so loved and the property showed it. He enjoyed gardening and could grow anything be it vegetables and fruit for us to eat or flowers and plants to attract the birds and butterflies which he also enjoyed photographing. He was always working in his shop (man cave) be it woodworking, starting his plants in the spring or improving his RC airplanes. Otherwise he was doing home and yard improvements. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or figure out. When something needed doing he did it immediately. He could also cook and bake. His deep dish strawberry rhubarb pie complete with his own pastry was the best. He drove for the Teulon Handivan, was a spare bus driver for the Interlake School Division, a member of the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada and the Canadian Aviation Maintenance Council. He loved reading Steven King, spoiling the dogs, was a computer genius and had a wicked sense of humour. To honour Brett there will be no service. There will be a gathering of family and friends later this fall. If friends so desire adopt or donate to a dog rescue, plant or share from your garden with others, visit a veteran. To the Paramedics, RCMP, friends (especially Judy, Marie and Rachelle that day), family, neighbours, Ken for his guidance and compassion, my children, Dr Mike Loudon and his incredible staff for keeping us healthy, those who have come by, sent food, phoned, sent comforting messages, continue to take care of me, hug me, allow me to tell Brett’s story and cry, and anyone else I may of inadvertently forgotten, I say thank you. I will never be able to repay your kindness. It is what keeps me going day to day as I struggle. The world has lost a loving, compassionate and unique man who was mine. Until we meet again Babe.
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Jona Schott (nee Erickson)
October 6, 1931 – June 18, 2020 On June 18th, Jona passed away peacefully at the age of 88 at the Teulon Hospital. She gracefully endured the slow progression of dementia with a smile on her face and an acceptance of her fate. Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband Jack of 65 years, her children Allan (Valerie), Dwayne (Dale), Ryan (Jacquie), Lynda (Brent), daughter-in-law Marlys, fourteen grandchildren (Daniel, Monica, Bonnie, Stacey, Robert, Jeffrey, Kristina, Craig, Kristen, Rob, Ashley, Brayden, Stephanie and Nicole) and one great grand-daughter, Emmalyn. She was predeceased by her son Eric (Marlys), her sister Rosa and her brother Bergsveinn. Jona was born in 1931 in the Mary Hill district, southwest of Lundar, to Alla & Bergsveinn Erickson. She grew up enjoying the farm life and was proud of her Icelandic heritage. She spoke Icelandic before learning English and was known for her delicious vinarterta. Like her mother, she was an avid student and became a teacher for a few years before marrying Jack in 1954. They raised five children on their farm near Warren. Jack cherished the 65 years they shared together. She will be remembered for her amazing kindness, her selfless interest in others, and her beautiful smile. She was a strong encouragement to her children and grandchildren. She instilled in all of us her love of family and learning, as well as a strong work ethic. Some of her pastimes included gardening, needlepoint, Sudoku, crossword puzzles and knitting for her grandchildren. She will be sadly missed, but at the same time we feel incredibly blessed with the years we had with her. A private internment was held at the Warren Cemetery with U.S. family viewing online in Wisconsin, Iowa and Idaho due to travel restrictions. Her grandchildren carried her to her final resting place. The family wishes to thank homecare and the medical staff of Stonewall and Teulon Hospitals for taking such good care of her. In my heart your memory lingers, Always tender, fond and true; There’s not a day, my dear, I do not think of you. Loving and kind in all your ways, Upright and just, to the end of your days; Sincere and true, in your heart and mind, Beautiful memories you left behind.
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Paul Matthew John Meindl
1948-2020 On Wednesday, June 10th 2020, Paul aged 72 years, passed away peacefully at Concordia hospital after a lengthy illness. He was predeceased by his parents Bert and Nora, his brother Jamie and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his brothers Terry (Clare), Mike (Paula), Fred (Gena), Bert (Linda) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Paul spent his entire career with Manitoba Hydro as a senior field supervisor, retiring in 1996. His last 8 months were spent in five Winnipeg hospitals. A special thank you to all the Doctors, Nurses and health care aides who cared for him. In his memory donations may be made to The Health Science Centre Renal and Kidney program or Diabetes Canada. As per his wishes there will be no service. ONLINE CONDOLENCES
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Clifford Capuska
February 24, 1938 – June 8, 2020 After a lengthy illness, Cliff passed away peacefully at Teulon Hospital. Left to mourn are his wife, Theresa, brothers Laddie (Toni), and Nelson (Maureen), sister Thelma Bucyk of Sherwood Park , AB, daughter Carol, son-in-law Russell Ducharme, son Jim (Aurora), step children Barb (Peter), Brad (Sylvie), Doug (Teresa) and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Helen, brothers Rudy and Mike, and daughter Dorothy. Cliff grew up in Gunton. He started out working for farmers in the area. When he got his car and driver’s license, he worked construction in Winnipeg on the sewer system and the airport tarmac. In 1960, he began his long career at Winnipeg Hydro, retiring in 1992 after 32 years. He was an outdoorsman – enjoying hunting, fishing, and gardening. He especially enjoyed his Kubota tractor with the bucket. Old time music was a favourite and he had a huge collection of records, cassettes, and CDs. A private interment was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery c/o Florence Chitz, Box 62, Inwood, MB., R0C 1P0 or a charity of your choice.
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Donna Riding
After a very courageous battle Mom passed away peacefully on June 6, 2020. She will be missed by her family: Dianne & Gary, Greg & Viviane, Rhonda & Wim and Gary. Grandma will also be missed by her grandchildren; Matthew (Dominique) Larissa (John) Michelle (Stephan) Rebecca, Wyatt and Cole. Mom also leaves her sisters Brenda (Leslie) and Peggy (Jim) as well as many nieces and nephews. Mom enjoyed baking and cooking large meals for her family – you never left her home hungry. Music has always been a big part of Mom’s life and we know you are having a sing along with family and friends. We will miss you Mom and know you are watching over all of us. Our family would like to thank everyone for the tremendous support over the past few weeks – the food, visits and kind words shared. Also thanks to the Palliative and Homecare teams for all their help and support. Abiding by Mom’s wishes a service will not be held. Please share your next meal with family and friends in Mom’s memory.
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Dr. J. A. Grogan (Tony)
November 24, 1935 – June 5, 2020 In a peaceful and serene moment, while holding Renate’s hand, Tony smiled at a joke only he could hear, and took a last calming breath. Tony was born in 1935. He went to school at St. Aloysius College in Glasgow, before attending Medical School at Glasgow University. While working at Glasgow Infirmary, a young Nurse caught his eye, and he was on a mission! He finally wore her down, and Tony and Renate were married in 1962. Over the next 5 years they had 3 children, Alastair, Peter and Marion. In 1969, the Family moved to Bothwell, Scotland, where they lived until immigrating to Teulon, Mb, Canada in 1980. Tony’s deep love of sailing, flying and of all things Scotland, never left him. He was an active and proud member of the Robert Burns Society of Winnipeg; the Robert Burns Society of North America; and was especially proud when, in 2018, was honoured as a Life Member in the St. Andrews Society of Winnipeg. Tony’s achievements were many, but he was probably best known for his sense of humour and practical jokes – to which NO ONE was immune. He felt it was especially important to make his Patients feel comfortable, and took immense enjoyment from finding new and creative ways to put them at ease. Tony and Renate made many good friends after moving to Canada. He held you all in the highest regard. And although thousands of miles apart, Tony and Renate maintained a close relationship with their lifelong best friends, Vincent and Margaret Madill, and visited and travelled with them at every opportunity. Tony was fiercely proud of his Kids, Alastair, Peter and Marion; Grandkids, Morgan, Adrian, Kate, Alexander, Tessa and Colin; and Great Grandson Théo. He took great pleasure in their every achievement, and was most happy and content when surrounded by his family. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, a private service will be held. We know Tony has touched the lives of many. The family invites Friends, Neighbours and former Patients who wish to offer condolences, or share a “Tony story” with us, to drop by at an outdoor, Socially distancing compliant come-and-go between 4-6 on Wednesday June 10th at 137 – 5th Avenue SE, Teulon.
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Dwayne Raymond Swanson
November 25, 1960 – June 2, 2020 I was born to Harry Floyd Swanson and Viola Eleanor Swanson in Winnipeg. Two brothers soon followed with Blair and Randy. Younger life was spent on the road most of the time. Whether it was basic hockey or baseball events or our yearly summer vacation to Banff, Jasper or whatever else. Weekends were also spent travelling to my Mom’s family farm at Geysir, near Arborg. In 1972 we moved to Stonewall and that’s where I fell in love with athletics. From hardball to fastball to soccer to cross country racing to track and field to broomball, but, my first love was always hockey. We had a lot of success in those days and that kind of helped. In 1976, I left for the west to pursue my hockey dreams. After stops in Brandon, B.C., Alberta, I returned home after accumulating a number of great friends and contacts that were invaluable to me throughout my life. In 1988, I met the love of my life, Penny. She was and is a dream. She gives of herself so tirelessly, I sometimes wonder if she’s going to pass out. Penny has completed my life and given me two perfect kids as well. Eric Raymond and Neely Brit are getting ready to graduate in their respective areas and I could not be prouder. Like I said you are both perfect. My years of work at MTS were very gratifying. They allowed me to progress in my job while still playing hockey. I finally retired after 34 years of service. No regrets, no grudges and no ill will to anyone. Hey Penny, WE DID GREAT!! Thanks everyone for the ride! There will be a private family function.
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Albert William (Bill) Blair
Peacefully, after a lengthy battle with dementia, Bill passed away with his family at his side at Rosewood Lodge in Stonewall. Bill is survived by his wife of 62 years, Pat (nee Mulligan), son Perry (Cindy) Blair and daughter Debbie (Brian) Howelko, Grandchildren Melissa (Travis) Shostak, Tyler (Carly) Howelko, Brittany Howelko, Chris Howelko (Kara Lewis), and Great grandchildren Tyson Shostak and Bennett Howelko.
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Donna Catherine Ward
nee (APPLEYARD) Suddenly, on May 27th, 2020, at her home on the farm near Stonewall, Donna peacefully passed away. She leaves to mourn her children, Greg (Rhonda), Dean (Marg), Tim, and Kim (Scott) Hughes. Her brother Gord, (Alvina) Appleyard and sister-in-law Helen Croy. Grandchildren Jonathan (Lynzy), Jeff, Brend (J.P.), Andrew (Lisa Marie), Brittany (Darryl), Tyler (Sarah), Hailey (Eric), Ryan (Nicole) and 12 great-grandchildren. As well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins that she loved and did her best to keep in touch with. Third daughter of Herb and Reva Appleyard she enjoyed her life on the farm. Growing up in the Tecumseh/Grassmere district was difficult during the thirties and war years, but she still had fond memories of her early days. She moved to Stonewall and was employed by Hoovers Pharmacy and then Stonewall Pharmacy. She met Ted and they married in 1954, even though she had laughed at him when he first asked her out. They moved to take over the Ward farm and started their family in 1955. She took a leave from pharmacy duties but did return in the late 70’s. She was happy as a stay at home Mum, helping with all the facets of making a living on a mixed dairy farm. She contributed and supported many organizations, 4-H, ACW, Agriculture Society and more but rarely joined as a “member” as she hated meetings! She was also a great support to Dad who did join many organizations throughout their lives. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were her pride and joy. There was always a coffee pot ready and cookies to spare whenever someone came for a visit. She earned the title Grandma Cookie by the younger ones. Services to be determined at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to the Church of Ascension (Anglican), Stonewall. Miss Me But Let Me Go When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me, I want no rites, in a gloom filled room, Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not too long, And not with your head bowed low, Remember the love that we once shared, Miss me, but let me go. For this is a journey we all must take And each must go alone, It’s part of the Master’s plan, A step on the road to Home. So when you are lonely and sick at heart Go to the friends we know And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds, Miss me – but let me go.