Dec.22, 1966 – July 29, 2017

Peacefully on July 29 with his family around him, Doug went to a peaceful and pain free place. Doug fought hard for a year and we are very honoured to have had the extra time with him. Doug leaves us to cherish his smile, many stories told and memories, his wife of 28 years Merle, his daughter Jasmine the apple of his eye, his son Jesse a chip of the old block. Doug was so very proud of and loved his children dearly. His sister -in- law Shelley (Kyle) Flitcroft, his brother Jeffery (Crystal), his brother- in- law Gerald Nobiss, his nephew Joshua Nobiss, his nieces Meagan, Chelsea, Cassidy Nobiss and Angel Bickerton. Many aunts, uncles and cousins. Kelvyn and Kevin Knor who he loved to bug and they loved it and gave it right back to uncle Doug.                                                                                       Doug was predeceased by his parents Allan and Barbara, his grandparents Frank and Phyllis, Joseph and Mary Swirsky, his uncle Ken Albert and his cousin Dale Swirsky. Doug was born and raised on the farmstead in Komarno and remained there until his passing. Doug’s life has been full of many adventures and achievements. Through his years of work he has had the privilege to see many places, Ontario, Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, the Artic (Spence Bay, Gjoa Haven) and Northern Manitoba. Through this he has lived a life dream of driving truck and running equipment. Being away from home was normal but always enjoyed coming home and having many get togethers with family and friends. He always had a bonfire going, he loved the wood smoke wafting through the yard. After many years away from home he decided it was time for a retirement job, which was with Fridfinnson Ent. This enabled him to be home with his family. This job abled him to go back to farming and fixing machinery which he loved to do as a young man. Those guys there always had a good time and we spent many evenings over supper laughing about his day. Doug had many passions but the one that filled his heart the most was hunting. Through his years of hunting he was a member of the Manitoba Wildlife Federation and Teulon Game and Fish Association, where he organized the annual Deer Head scoring competition evening and was taught to score horns himself.  Doug’s passion for hunting has yielded him many trophies and awards, for deer, caribou and bear. He was honoured to win a trip to Glovers Lake for a caribou hunt in 2002 at the Wildlife dinner and dance held in Winnipeg. Last year when we found out he was sick, he decided to fulfill a few more dreams. One was to build a tee pee which he got to use on our trip to Paint Lake, and his other dream was a moose hunt with his cousin Kenny Albert. Doug was able to make both those dreams come true. Doug has made many friends through the years but there were a few that meant everything to him. He wanted these friends to be his Honorary Pallbearers.  Bruce (Mona) Simcoe, Glenn (Gaby) Nazimek, Jeff Tomchak, Les (Tina) Becker, Kelly (Lana) Knor, John Stutsky (Sherri Duncan), Darrell (Doreen) Tomchak, Todd (Crystal) Campbell, Phil (Melissa) MacDonald, Joe (Jackie) Nosaty, Eugene (Amy) Klochko, Mike (Kathy) Simcoe, Tim (Sue) Swaikowski, Don (Helen) Slavuta, John (Roberta) Dawson, Tony Kiskan. Doug loved the fall time, that was his favorite time of the year. The smell of grain being harvested, the colors of the trees, hunting season around the corner. So to honor him if you so choose too, camouflage and blue were his favorite colors.  Thank you to Laura and Lindsey from Cancer Navigation for all your knowledge and support. A special thank-you to Dr. Loudon and his staff for your compassion, knowledge and seeing us in a minute’s notice. A very special thank- you to Shelly and Kyle for just being there to help with absolutely everything, no matter what it was. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Green Acres Art Centre Inc, Box 545, Teulon, Manitoba, R0C 3B0 or to Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue, c/o 88 McAdam Street, Winnipeg, MB., R2W 0A4 (www.hullshaven.org). Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at the Komarno Community Hall. Pastor Dan Shmelinski will officiate.

Sandra Dianne Ambrose (nee Lavallee) March 5, 1970 – July 28, 2017

Friday, July 28, 2017 Sandra donned her ruby red slippers and slipped out into the night to be reunited with family and friends over the rainbow.     She will be dearly missed by her loving husband Matthew, mother Carol Lavallee (friend Al), sister Colette and brother Philip, Ivan and Janice Ambrose, sister-in-law Clare (Les), as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Service of Remembrance will be held on Friday, August 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the Eriksdale Recreation Centre. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire memorial donations may be made to one’s choice.

December 27, 1946 –  July 27, 2017

After a courageous and long struggle with multiple cancers and surrounded by her family, Lynn Pozernick (nee Gauvreau) beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away on Thursday, July 27th at Stonewall Hospital at the age of 70 years. Lynn’s life changed forever when while out “cruising” with her girlfriends at the age of 14, she met the love of her life, Ron Pozernick. The two became inseparable and went on to marry and have two children, Marla Pozernick (Tony Dicks) and Grant Pozernick (Laurie). This September would have marked Ron and Lynn’s 50th wedding anniversary. The light of Lynn’s life was her three grandsons, Spencer Dicks, Kolby Pozernick and Rogan Pozernick. She was simply the best wife, mother and grandmother ever. Lynn loved to spoil her grandsons and one of her favorite things was watching them all play together. Lynn was born and raised in St. Boniface in Winnipeg and developed a life-long love of dance. Ron and Lynn resided in Winnipeg for the early years of their marriage and then moved to the Balmoral, MB area in 1979 to begin farming. From raising Hereford cattle to growing a huge garden and shuttling her children to school and sports activities Lynn did it all while working as a secretary at the Balmoral school and later at the Balmoral store. Lynn’s hard working attitude made her a natural farmer and she didn’t shy away from any challenge. Lynn was well known in the community and will be missed by many. As per Lynn’s wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to CancerCare Manitoba.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Stonewall Hospital for their compassion and for making Lynn’s final moments peaceful. “Love you forever…”

Robert Joseph (Joe) Coutts May 7, 1931 -July 24, 2017 It is with great sadness the family of Robert Joseph (Joe) Coutts announces his passing on July 24, 2017 at the age of 86 years at the Stonewall and District Health Centre. Joe leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years Alice, his children, Sherri (Tom) Mollard of Hamiota, MB and Alison Coutts (Brian Posluns) of Toronto, ON and grandchildren, Troy and Shelby Mollard and Madison Posluns, brother Gordon Coutts and sister-in-law Verna Johnstone. He was predeceased by his parents Albert and Hilda Coutts, sisters Elsie and Thelma; brothers Jack, Bill, and Norman. Joe was born and raised in St. Boniface Manitoba, and in 1964 moved his family to Stonewall, MB. One of his proudest achievements was the house he built for his family to live in. His yard and garden were his passion. Some of the stories Joe would entertain us with was of the many different jobs he held in his young adult life. In 1954, Joe became a certified electrician and began working for the Province of Manitoba. His job, for 38 years, took him to many locations throughout Manitoba working on many government facilities but his main responsibility was to the Manitoba Legislative Building on Broadway in Winnipeg. By his retirement in 1992 Joe had been through every nook and cranny in the place and could give you a narrative tour of the building like no one else. Joe’s legacy of commitment to the community he called home was lengthy. A long serving member of the local Kinsman Club, umpiring baseball and at one point the President of Minor baseball kept him busy while the girls were growing up. Joe made time to work in the kitchen at the local Legion, and both he and Alice prepared the soup and sandwiches for the seniors curling for many winters. Joe himself was an avid curler and golfer. He was also a passionate Winnipeg Blue Bomber fan. At one time a season ticket owner, and in the latter years the television and radio both on at the same time beside his favorite chair in the basement. His play by play calling was best described as animated. As per Joe’s wishes, a private family graveside service was held. The family would like to thank the many people who cared for Joe in his final years. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg MB R3T 0R3.

Oct. 26, 1934 – Jul. 19, 2017

The break of day shone with a brilliant sunrise, as Raymond’s bright smile and twinkling blue eyes became a loving memory. Not long after the light morning rain seemed to honor our tears. His wife, soul mate, best friend and lifelong dance partner Gladys misses him terribly. He was her hero who stood up to his promise of “till death do us part” As a Dad and an Afi he will always be lovingly remembered and missed by his daughter Candyce, son-in- law Scott Paterson, daughter Gae Lynn, son-in-law Bob Labossiere, granddaughters Meaghan and her husband Adam McCullough and Emma Labossiere and Brock Zimak. Ray was born to Jon and Kristjana (nee Grimolfson) Kjartanson on October 26, 1934 as a first generation Vestur-Íslendingar on Hecla Island, MB. He was the third of seven children, Joe, Bennetta, Oskar, Ben, Sylvia and Phillip. There he attended school, commercial fished, worked on the tug hauling silica sand from Black Island to Selkirk, worked along side fellow islanders to build foundations across the lake to bring electricity to Hecla. He married Gladys on November 5, 1960 and they raised their 2 daughters there until they moved to Winnipeg in 1966. He worked for Manitoba Hydro operating the Pettibone machine in the pole yard until his retirement in 1991. He and Gladys spent many summers travelling with their 5th wheel around Manitoba attending fiddle fests and old time dances with good friends. But his favorite place to park the trailer was on his beloved Island. He was so happy and proud to be able to restore his family house in the historical village of Hecla as it truly was his home. His granddaughters loved spending time every summer at Hecla with their Afi and Amma. Ray was such a likeable man, always quick with a smile and a laugh. As a self-taught, incredibly talented woodworker he built many beautiful items from the cedar logs that were hewn at his own sawmill. He loved to bake and made a mean vinaterta every Christmas. Everything about him will be missed, but never forgotten. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Cancer Care MB. A celebration of his life will be held on Hecla Island at the Lutheran Church, Friday, July 28 at 11:00 am.

Elvin Bergen passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday , July 18, 2017, at the Beausejour Hospital at the age of 79 years.  Elvin is survived by his loving wife Mary, children Wayne and Darlene (Garth), grandchildren Jennifer (Jeff), Katheryn, Samara and James, and great grandson William.  He was born on March 4th 1938 in Vita Manitoba and was raised in the Pansy area before moving to Winnipeg in 1955. In 1960 he married the love of his life, Mary.   Elvin and Mary raised their family in Winnipeg before retiring to the cottage in St Malo in 1996.  In 1998 they moved to Beausejour and then on to Stonewall in January of 2012.  Dad was dedicated to his family and loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a gentle, patient man with a big heart.  Dad spent most of his working years at Silverwood Daries and Kingsway/Motorways Transport.  A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday July 26th at 2:00 pm at the Stonewall Legion, 459 Main Street in Stonewall Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CancerCare Manitoba.  The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Beausejour Hospital for the excellent care given to dad.

Elaine Rose Harrison  After a brave and courageous battle with cancer, Elaine passed away peacefully early on June 21st, 2017  Elaine is survived by her loving husband of 49 years Mel, her three children Rhonda (Al), Leanne (Sean), and Darryl (Melissa), her grandchildren; Melissa, Mya, Keira, Spencer, Zachary and Lily and her brother Jerry (Elaine) Wilson.  She is predeceased by her father Leslie and mother Marjorie.  Elaine was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and friend.  She always made family and friends her priority and did everything she could to make life better for those around her.  She was an avid curler all her life, with a highlight being competing in the Manitoba Golden Gals Bonspiel.   Elaine developed a passionate love for golf later in life.  Only under the most extreme weather would Elaine miss her weekly golf game at Inwood Golf Course.  Over the forty years Elaine lived in Balmoral, she worked to make Balmoral a vibrant and active community.  She worked in the Interlake School Division in Stoney Mountain and Balmoral schools for 20 years, was a volunteer with the local baseball club, curling club, skating club, the Balmoral Hall and Balmoral United Church.    In lieu of flowers, Elaine has requested donations to the Balmoral United Church or the charity of one’s choice.  The family would personally like to thank the health care professionals at Cancer Care Manitoba, Selkirk Chemotherapy Center and the staff at Selkirk hospital for their professional care and support.  The funeral service will be held at the Balmoral United Church, Tuesday June 27th at 11:00 am.  Reception to follow at the Balmoral Hall  Elaine will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

On Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at the H.S.C., with her loving husband of 59 years at her side, Joyce passed peacefully and will suffer no more. Joyce is survived by her husband Leonard, children; Donna, Wendy (Roman) and Doug (Tammy). There are eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren, which she called her Rose Garden. Two sisters, six brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews too many to name. A memorial service to celebrate her life was held on Saturday, June 24 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church, in Teulon. In lieu of flowers, Joyce’s wish was for donations to be made to the Canadian Diabetes Society. The family would like to extend our deepest thanks to all the medical professionals on 3B, 4H and 7B wards of the H.S.C., who provided Joyce with extraordinaire care in her final days. We would also like to thank all the friends, neighbors and family who have been so supportive through these trying times.

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Frances Blahey on June 14, 2017 at the age of 94 years. Mom was born to Anastasia and Dmetro Yaremus in Skylake, MB. She attended Wheat Hill School during which time she also developed her skills in sports, sewing and cooking. She played baseball with the Chatfield girl’s baseball team and continued her sewing while also enjoying her love of music, singing and dancing. In 1946 she married Harry Blahey, which lead her down the path of becoming a farmer’s wife and a mother to their four children; Bruce, Angie, Wayne and Glen. Her farm life and children did not slow her down from her community activities. She was a devoted member of St. Demetrius Ukrainian Catholic Church, embroidering many of the fine linens that adorned the church as well as acting as caretaker and being the last parish president and member of the church. She also was an active member of the Chatfield Women’s Institute not only serving in various executive capacities but actively participating in catering and fundraising events for the Institute. After dad’s passing, mom chose to remain in their home, filling her days with working in her vegetable garden, and tending to her many beautiful flower beds. She cherished her visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, generosity and compassion. Mom is survived by her four children and their families. She is also survived by her brother Ken (Nicholas) and was predeceased by two brothers and four sisters. Funeral services will be held at the Chatfield Community Hall on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Peter Chorney officiating. Interment to follow at the Chatfield Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in mom’s name. Rest in Peace, Vichnaya Pam’yat.

Florence Monchamp (Henderson) After a lengthy illness, Florence Monchamp of Arborg, MB passed away on June 12, 2017 at the age of 60.

Florence is survived by her husband, Hubert, her children Chris (Jenn) and Cheryl, her grandchild Riley, her parents Vernon and Eva, her brothers Wayne (Annette), Dale and Rod (Lorry), her sisters Diane (Jim) and Irene (Eddie) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Florence was born on September 24, 1956 and raised in Rathwell MB. She moved to Winnipeg after completing high school in Treherne in which time she met the love of her life Hubert and got married. They moved to Arborg in the fall of 1979 where they made their home.  She stayed at home raising her children until she went to work for Hydro in 1986. She worked there for 26 years.  Florence loved the outdoors, camping and her cats.

Celebration of life will be held at the Arborg Community Centre on June 17, 2017 at 11:00 AM. The family would like to thank all of the homecare workers and nurses that were here for her.  Special thank you to Tannis, Krista, Sherry, Sean, Silken and Brenda who went above and beyond.