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Lawrence Stanley Downey

Peacefully, after a long battle with Melanoma, Lorne passed away at the age of 88 years on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Lorne will be dearly missed by his loving wife Lois and much loved sons; Mickey (Paula) and Darren (Teena) and will be lovingly remembered by grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Lorne was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, on December 6, 1935 to Peter and Hilda Downey. As a young man he secured a job with Weston Bakery, starting out at an entry level position and worked his way up to Vice President of Product Development. He was proud of his accomplishments.

On July 30, 1959, he married his sweetheart Lois Rhodes. Together they spent almost 65 wonderful years together.

Lorne’s career brought the family to Manitoba in 1976. Shortly thereafter, they purchased Frosty’s and eventually Miller’s Restaurant in Stonewall, where they became well known, active members of the community.

After retiring from Weston in 1994, Lois and Lorne sold the business and settled on an acreage in Teulon, MB. He raised chickens for a number of years and worked on many carpentry projects. He was a very talented carpenter.

Lorne loved hunting and fishing and could talk for hours preparing and planning for the next hunting trip. As the leaves started to turn in the fall, Lorne would get excited. It saddened him when old age creeped in and he was unable to draw the bow. He was very young at heart.

Lorne LOVED the Toronto Blue Jays! He was a huge baseball fan and would plan his day around the ball game on TV.

Not long after moving to Teulon, Lorne made dear friends at the Teulon Cafe. He took great pride in his daily trips to town to turn the coffee pot on for his “coffee group”. Many discussions were had in that cafe.

Lorne was a kind, thoughtful, gentle man who loved his family dearly. He will be greatly missed.

As per Dad’s wishes no funeral will be held. A private interment will occur.

Many thanks to Dr Loudon and staff at the Teulon Hunter Memorial Hospital. Your kindness and care to both Lorne and Lois is greatly appreciated.

“A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest, it broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the Best”

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Barry Alexander Ritchie

Peacefully in his sleep on July 2, 2024, Barry passed away at the Tudor House Personal Care Home in Selkirk, MB.

He was born February 13, 1942 in Stonewall, Manitoba eldest son of Alex and Grace (nee Will) Ritchie. He was raised on the family farm at Argyle and attended school in Argyle and Stonewall. He then went on to receive his welding certificate from the Manitoba Technical Institute.

He and Ann Mollison were married in 1965 and lived in Winnipeg until 1974 when the Manitoba Highways Department offered him a transfer to their new shop in Beausejour. The transfer was gladly accepted, a farm was purchased at Ladywood and it was back to the country life, making hay, caring for animals and simply enjoying the peace and quiet.

Give Barry a piece of metal and he would find a use for it. He enjoyed repairing, redesigning, repurposing or sometimes inventing useful items for the farm. In 2023 it was decided it was time to give up farm life and the move was made to Selkirk.

Barry was predeceased by his parents Alex and Grace, his brother Douglas, his step-mother Sylvia Procure. His aunt Margaret Germa (Bud) and his uncles John Ritchie (Jean), Bert Ritchie (Ivy) and Jim Ritchie (Helen).

He is survived by his wife Ann, nieces Kathy Piper (Wayne) Deanne Dooher (Scott) and Candace Ritchie (Jeff). Also great nieces Jennifer (Greg) and Hailee, Great nephews Matthew (Jessica) and Kyle (Beth), his great niece Gwendolyn and great-great nephew Gerald, his honourary niece Jayna, cousins and friends.

Cremation has taken place. Future arrangements pending.

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Dennis Wayne Makowski

May 10, 1957 – July 1, 2024

Dennis Makowski, age 67, of Stonewall Manitoba passed away on July 1, 2024.

His is survived by his brothers Bob (Terry), Randy, and his sister Judy (Glen). Nieces and nephews Robyn (Greg), Alisyn (Stephane), Kristy (Wade), Travis (Vicki), Colby (Michaela), and great nephew Leo.

Dennis was pre-deceased by his parents Peter and Marion Makowski and his brother Ken.

He lived his whole life in Stonewall marching to the beat of his own drum. The last number of years he resided at Crocus Manor where fellow residents became his family.

Many thanks to his family at Crocus for their kindness and friendship towards Dennis and to Kelly for being there when needed.

Thank you to Stonewall Hospital Nursing staff and to Ken Loehmer.

A private internment will be held at a later date.

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Ellen Maria Steinthorson

July 28, 1931 – June 21, 2024      Peacefully with family by her side Mom passed away (left us) to reunite with her husband Ragnar, sons Earl and Dale, grandson Tyler and son-in-law Jim.

Left to cherish her memory are daughter Dawn (Al), daughter-in-law Kathy; grandchildren Sheryl (Myles), Daryl, Brandee (Braeden); great grandchildren Colby, Natalie, Aidan, Natasha, Linnea, Waylon, and Tazmyn.

Mom enjoyed a busy and full life. She was born and raised in the Eriksdale area. After her and Dad were married they moved to Vogar where they farmed together and Mom taught at Vogar School. They later moved to Stonewall and Gunton where she worked at the Arris Centre, Jackson Insurance and Sigvaldason Agency.

She spent many hours sewing, knitting, and crocheting items for her family through out the years and all were made with love.

Upon retirement Mom moved to Lundar where she was very involved in the community. She enjoyed getting together with friends and going to the old Time dances. She enjoyed travelling to many different places after retirement. We were all a little concerned when Mom and her galavanting Grannies decided to drive to the Yukon. Mom, Nina, Edith and Thelma had many wonderful adventures on this trip and made it there and back safe and sound.

We would like to thank the Homecare staff and staff at Stonewall Hospital for all the care they provided to Mom.

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held at a later date.

Donations in Mom’s memory may be made to Lundar New Horizons Club.

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Michael Matskiw

(June 17, 1935 – June 17, 2024)     It is with profound sadness that we announce that after a lengthy illness, Michael eased into his final rest in Gimli Hospital on his birthday, June 17th with his devoted wife at his side.

Michael is predeceased by his parents (Doris and Alex) his sister Nellie, brother Alvin and nephew Anthony.

He is survived by his wife Susana, his step-children Edward, Viola and Teresa, his brother Harry (Camille) and sisters Eleanor and Louise, his nieces and nephews, Melanie, Karen, and his grandson Jonah.

Michael started life working on the farm in Boulton municipality, and continued in that occupation for decades. He took care of the farm and the family until the nest was empty and the labour involved far outweighed the benefit. He moved to Dauphin as an inveterate bachelor and met what would become the love of his life. Susana. Working to benefit the family had been one thing, but having someone to devote his life to and get reciprocation in return was now his focus. They met, they courted, they married, and he gained another family when he said ‘I do’. Living with his new wife wasn’t always easy. She was a woman with plans and now she had someone to carry them out with.

They moved from Dauphin to Woodridge, and again to Labroquerie where they spent many happy years. Mike’s health suddenly declined and help was needed to get him to and from appointments, so they moved to Inwood where he weathered out Covid by cutting down trees. Lots of trees. The hum of the chainsaw broke through the morning air and he always came home with a grin on his face. He lived the best life he could in the last few years and when he passed, his wife was at his side, holding his hand one last time.

The funeral will be held at Inwood Memorial Community Center, Friday, June 21, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses who treated him during his battle at Cancer Care, Selkirk Outpatient, and Gimli Hospital.

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Ronald Bruce Irwin

July 3, 1943 – June 10, 2024    With broken hearts we announce the passing of Ron Irwin on June 10, 2024 at the age of 80 years.

Left to cherish his memory are partner Anne. Children Terry, Valerie (Russell) and Brent. Grandchildren Kristin (Taylor), Kayla (Chris), Amanda and Bryce. Great grandchildren Olivia, Cohen, Aliya, Georgeah, Emerson, Brock, Burke, Mya and Kayne. As well as many other family and friends who will him dearly.

To honour his wishes cremation has taken place. A small family gathering will be held at a later date.

A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

 

 

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Randy Zamonsky

March 10, 1961 – June 10, 2024       It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Randy Zamonsky aged 63 years of Teulon, MB. on June 10, 2024.

Randy was predeceased by his Mom Lois whom he loved very much.

He is survived by his brothers; Doug (Nola), Morris (Sandy), Terrance (Christine), and Lorne, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at 4:00 pm. at Rockwood Anavets, 341 Wilton Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.

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Rose Marie Georgette Sarraillon

MARCH 29, 1960 – JUNE 9, 2024      It is with profound sadness the family announces the passing of Rosie.

Her memory will always be cherished by her siblings, Lorne, Angele (Mel), Michelle, Andre (Heather), Evelyn (Steve), all of her nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Rosie had a love for life. She loved spending time with her nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and being part of everything they did. We will miss her fun personality and big beautiful smile.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 27th at 2:00 pm at the Stonewall Royal Canadian Legion Branch #52 Club Room.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who are able, to make a donation in Rose’s honor to the Never Alone Foundation.

The family would like to thank Dr. Guytan, the nurses and all the staff at the St. Boniface Hospital, as well as the Home Care staff that cared for Rosie over the years.

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Edith Ruth Irene Docking

With broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Grandma, Nana, Sister, Aunt and friend Edith Ruth Irene Docking.

She was born July 27,1929 in the RM of Elton to Elizabeth (Bessie) and Harry Hickson who came to Canada from England. She was 7th of 10 children and is survived by her loving sister Betty Witter (Bill) and sisters-in-law Gwen and Gail Hickson and cousin Helen James.

She is predeceased by her husband Bill, parents and siblings: Mabel & George, Evelyn & Alf, Ivy & Joe, Ernie, Don & Elaine, Connie & Jock, Ken, and in-laws Lily and Melvin Docking who she has really missed, especially lately.

In grade 8 she met the love of her life, Edward William Docking (Bill). While in grade 10, she taught many grades in a one room school! Next she held a job at Patmores in Brandon, launching her career in secretarial work, which allowed her to save up for a beautiful traditional wedding dress – the first one of its kind worn at Forrest United Church. Forbidden from marrying by her dad until her 20th birthday, she waited three days to wear it, marrying Bill on July 30, kicking off 73 wonderful years together. The Docking clan welcomed her with open arms.

Brother-in-law Wayne and Michelle Docking and sisters-in-law Joyce Holman, Hazel Dal Bello, and Doreen Docking mourn her passing the same as they did Clair, Arlene and Barry. After their wedding, railway life began in Fort William where Ede worked as a Church secretary. The CN moved them many times around Ontario but enduring friends were made. Their 3 daughters Pat, Karen and Elaine arrived, starting a lifelong journey of being an amazing, supportive and incredible mother. Ede’s many nieces and nephews were all extremely special to her – she was always interested in their lives and when their parents passed, she was like second Grandma to them. Bill and Ede then moved to Winnipeg and built their first home on Vimy Road. While Bill continued with the railway, Ede worked at the Kirkfield Municipal Office and the Bank of Nova Scotia.

They were very community minded, volunteering and joining groups like the Optimists and Kirkfield United Church. Dreaming of a bigger home, they built it on Belcourt Bay, befriending the neighbors. During this time she enjoyed joining Crane Supply. Ede supported Bill in his next dream of owning a cattle ranch and farming until their pensions were used up!!! Building their beautiful home on the April Acres in Gunton offered more chances to be great volunteers: Ag Society where Ede spearheaded the first Pumpkinfest, Teulon United Church Women, the Food Bank and the Hospital Auxiliary to name a few, all on top of working in administration at the Hunter Memorial Hospital. They tried their hand at being restaurateurs, owning The Kin, showcasing her great baking and cooking and forging more valuable friendships.

Even with these many interests, her main focus was on supporting her daughters, giving them more wonderful lives than anyone could wish for. As the girls married, their husbands (Tom Hammell, Bill Hutchinson, Hervig Ronovsky, Ralph Martin and Kevin Kendall) became true sons. The arrival of grandchildren signaled the most enjoyable phase of life – Ede attended every game, school play, concert and recital, making sure to teach all grandchildren to make cookies and the famous “Grandma buns”, which everyone looked forward to a giant birthday one each year.

Motor home, houseboat and other holiday trips were once in a lifetime experiences for both the happy Grandparents and the Grandkids. Friday Night party night with talent shows on the fireplace hearth and Sunday night roast beef dinners created special bonds for all the grandkids – Steven & Sean Hammell, Jeff, Danny & Scott Hutchinson, Brennen and Chantel Ronovsky (Dodgson), who will all deeply miss her. Just like the generation before them, their spouses (Melody Hammell, Sabina Hutchinson, Beth Hutchinson, Meredith Hutchinson, Kyle Dodgson, and Chelsy Hammell) became cherished grandchildren too.

As they aged and slowed down, Bill and Ede gave up the farm and enjoyed town life in Teulon, enjoying growing a big garden, canning and freezing. Downsizing again to the suite at #8 brought a new set of friends as the fun of GREAT grandchildren!! She was a loving Nana to Sofia and Amelia Hutchinson, Nhien and Ainsleigh Hutchinson, Benjamin, Beatrice and Blythe Hammell, Aubrey Hutchinson, MacElroy & Everley Dodgson, Delaney & Myles Hammell. She cherished every visit, video call, and receiving items in the mail.

Thank you to Dr Loudon and homecare for the great care in Teulon. With deteriorating health it was necessary to take advantage of the resources available at The Shaftesbury, and then RestHaven in Steinbach. Thanks to the caring and dedicated staff at both locations. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Rest in peace–you are home

A gathering to honour her life will be held in August.

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Dennis James Schaeffer

April 16, 1939 – May 28, 2024      Peacefully with his family by his side, Dennis Schaeffer, passed away at the Red River Care Home.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 57 years, Joan and his sons Brad (Paula), Carleen and Nick Wilson; Stuart (Shelley), Sidney, Spencer and Seth; and Daryl (Catherine) Gabrielle, Gordon and Edward. Dennis will be lovingly remembered by his brothers Ron (Joyce) and Larry (Pat), sister-in-law, Carol, and their families.

Dennis was predeceased by parents Hubert and Mary, brother Jere and sister-in-law Bev Schaeffer.

He enjoyed his career in construction and cabinet making. Dennis started working with his dad at 18 and stayed busy in carpentry for his lifetime. Everyone knew that he could be found in his shop working on his projects or teaching his sons, and then grandchildren the trade. Dennis especially enjoyed watching his family grow and his grandchildren as they played all their sports.

Thank you to the staff at Stonewall Hospital, Red River Care Home, Michelle Loehmer and home care staff for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dennis’s memory can be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held at a later date.