RUTH ELEANOR JARMOC (Smith) nee: Mathias August 11, 1928 – May 28, 2024.

At the age of 95, Mom peacefully passed away at the Seven Oaks Hospital.

Mom is survived by her loving children, Bill (Cathy), Gwen (Phil), Sharon, Kim (Harv) Val (Kelly), and special niece Peggy. She is also survived by her 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by our Dad (Harold) 1971, her husband Richard (2004) and grandson Chad in 2015.

We would like to thank the staff of Seven Oaks Hospital for the great care looking after Mom.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the St. James Legion 1755 Portage Ave., Wpg. on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. A private family interment will take place before the service.

May 13, 1958-May 17, 2024     With profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our husband, father, papa and dear friend, Russ. On May 17, 2024 at the age of 66 he passed away, way too soon but with family and friends near his side.

Russ is predeceased by his father Lloyd, mother Marion, sister Linda, father and mother-in-law Lucien and Philomena Menard.

Family members left to mourn his passing are his wife of 35 years, Laura (Menard). His children Dave (Christy), Amanda (Curtis) and Mark. His grandchildren Owen, Charleigh and Bronx. His siblings Bob, Ken (Francine), Tracy (Todd) and Bev (Ken). He is also survived by his in-laws Anne (Armand), Ken (Dianne), Ernie, Claudia and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dad was born and raised in Argyle, Manitoba. His early years consisted of working on Campbell’s farm, then at the Winnipeg Flying Club where he obtained his private pilots license. He went on to be a Red Seal Heavy Duty Mechanic for 36 years at CN Rail with his best mate, Tim Mandzuk.

His passions were being in his garage fixing anything and everything that went through its doors. He loved the outdoors, whether it was speeding down a trail sledding, quading in the backwoods or hunting with his family. But, Dad’s best memories were spending time with his family and friends, a drink in his hand and throwing out witty one liners. He will be missed dearly by his best friends Ken & Janice Nunn and their families, among many other friends.

Thank you to the Stonewall Hospital and emergency services for their compassionate care. Thank you to the Argyle Hall Committee and the Argyle ladies. A big thank you to Ken Loehmer for being a friend to Dad but also guiding us through these tough times.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Argyle Community Hall on Sunday, May 26th at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brant Argyle Cemetery (Box 204 Argyle, MB. R0C 0B0).

Vera “Terys” McCowan (Sotkowy) RN, long time resident of the Grosse Isle area, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 13th, 2024 at Stonewall Hospital with her family by her side, after nearly reaching the age of 91.

She was born in Summerberry, SK in 1933, the 6th of 12 children. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Capt. James W. McCowan. Terys received her RN diploma from the Regina Grey Nuns’ Hospital School of Nursing in 1955 and then went on to become a Flight Attendant for Trans Canada Airlines (Air Canada), travelling around the world from 1955-1960. Terys and Jim met briefly as children in SK, then crossed paths again in the mid 1950s during their flying careers. They wed in 1960 and Terys continued her OR nursing career at the old Grace Hospital on Arlington St. in Winnipeg. Terys and Jim bought a farm near Grosse Isle in 1970 and over the years, lovingly turned the old farm yard into an award winning rural property in 1995.

She gave up these exciting careers to become a full-time partner in farming with our father over the years—putting her heart and soul in to trucking grain, painting our house/barn, gardening, and raising her son James Garth, and her daughter Susan Terys. She participated in the Prairie Dog Central Train market for many years selling her famously delicious honey, pickles, jams/jellies and homemade pies from the back of their restored 1950 Chevy grain truck. In the 1970s, she served on the Interlake School Division Board of Trustees. Terys was selected to the Board of Governors at the University of Manitoba in the 80s. In addition, she spent countless hours working with the local Lions Club.

In their retirement years beginning in 1986, Mom and Dad motor-homed to many places in the US where they would enjoy the warm company of many lifelong friends, spending countless hours on the golf course.

Mom was known for her radiant smile, her never-ending help in all things community, her relentless work ethic, and her unwavering dedication and commitment to our farming family. Mom was meticulous in every job she tackled, and she taught us perseverance, accountability, gratitude, honesty, and compassion for others.

Mom was a proud, loving grandma to four amazing grandchildren and mother- in- law to Jim’s always supportive wife, Karen McCowan.

Mom wanted us to thank the many nurses, home care team, health care aides, EMS personnel, pharmacists and physicians who assisted her through her medical journey over the past year. With their help, she was able to live independently at her Lions Manor apartment in Stonewall until just 10 days before her passing. She and her family will be forever grateful for their kindness and compassion.

At Mom’s request, there will be no funeral service. She asked that her ashes be spread on the field behind the farm where Dad’s ashes lay. In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to the South West District Palliative Care Program, Stonewall, MB or the Harbour Lights Ministries in Arborg, MB.

August 18, 1928 – May 8, 2024     Rev. Robert (Bob) Bruce Werry passed away peacefully at Lions Prairie Manor in Portage La Prairie at the age of 95.

Bob was born in Oshawa, Ont August 18, 1928 to Clarence and Bessie Werry.

Bob is survived by his wife Martha Werry of Portage La Prairie, son Guy (Jo-Ann), daughter Jean (Terry), son Clark, daughters Jane, Peggy (Calvin), sons Brian, Rick (Sandy), Bob and daughter Cathy (Brad) and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bob was predeceased by his father and mother, Clarence and Bessie, his first wife Bernice, second wife June, brother William, sister Muriel and nephew Donald.

Bob was born and raised on the family dairy farm in Oshawa, Ont. His first interest was carpentry but God called him to the ministry, serving the United Church. He accumulated degrees from the University of Toronto and University of Western Ontario.

After summer ministry in northern Ontario that stretched over the winter, his first posting was Cut Knife, Sk, then to Stonewall, Minnedosa and finally Beausejour, from where he retired.

Bob was passionate for sports – hockey, baseball and wrestling. In later years he started a new adventure with Martha, enjoying square dancing which took him from one end of Canada to the other, and into the United States. They also loved ocean cruising to various countries. Bob enjoyed camping as well, with a wide variety of different campers including an old school bus that he camperized.

In lieu of flowers the family wishes that donations be made to Lions Prairie Manor, 24 – 9th St. SE, Portage La Prairie, MB, R1N 3V4.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Lions Prairie Manor for their kind care of Bob through his years there.

A Service of Remembrance will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 2:00 pm. in the Stonewall United Church.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Joseph Darren James, aged 59, of Stonewall. Darren passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Stonewall & District Health Centre. Born on June 1, 1964 to parents of Sarah Monkman (nee Chartrand) and Thomas James.

Darren leaves behind his partner Peggy Vincent with whom he has been together for 41 years. Darren was a father to Shawn Vincent (Robin), Phoenix (Kevin) Lywak, and Joshua James. Darren’s grandchildren Morgan, Chase, Terri, Colt, Annabelle, and Dymetre were the light of his life.

Darren’s siblings and their children (Darren’s nieces and nephews) include Angela James (Scott McQueen), Jordee and Taltson; Martin (Cynthia) James, Ryan, Andrea, Britney, and Jadyn; Rick (Roberta) James, Sabrina, Tiffany, Andrew, and Matthew; and Shannon (Kevin) Laframboise, Raya, Jenna, and Haley.

Darren also had a deep passion for his beloved dogs: Jodie, Demi, Daisy, Peanut, Loki, and Habs.

He took great pride in his appearance, especially his long flowing hair.  We remember the good times with Darren.  He was a man who stood firm in his beliefs, never afraid to voice his opinions or challenge the status quo. His strong-headed nature was balanced by a deep compassion and a genuine care for those around him. Darren’s family and friends often admired his ability to be both a formidable presence and a gentle soul.

He was always ready to challenge anyone to an arm wrestle.  We can still see him showing off his arm muscles, with the echoes of his playful growls still lingering in our minds. We can still see him on the baseball field passionate about his game.  In true Darren spirit, we remember his enthusiastic cheer during hockey games: Go Montreal Canadiens Go!

Darren worked for Uni – Jet Pipe Service in Winnipeg. He enjoyed the many years that he worked there, making good friends and fond memories of camaraderie in the process.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Stonewall Hospital and the Health Sciences Centre for their wonderful care and support. We especially appreciate the nurses who patiently explained Darren’s condition repeatedly to his concerned family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local animal shelter in Darren’s memory.

Darren James, you will be dearly missed by your family and friends.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Rest in Peace Darren.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Inwood R. C. Cemetery.

July 17, 1933 – May 1, 2024      It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Walter Halayko, at the age of 90, on May 1, 2024 with family at his side.

Walter is survived by his children Michael, Paul (Cindy), Peter (Gaylene), Larry (Krista), brother in-law David Borsa, grandchildren Brent, Justin, Samantha (Shawn), Angela (Travis), Nichole, Jonathan, Sophie and great-grandchildren Sadie, Lily, Trevor and Emily as well as many more dear friends and family.

Walter is predeceased by his parents Nicholas, Katherine, and Caroline (nee Starczewski, wife Cecelia (nee Borsa), son Steven, sister Mary, brother Lawrence, and partner Joyce.

Special thanks to the remarkable staff at Teulon Hospital. A Celebration of Life and lunch will be held at Gunton Hall on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 11:00 am with the interment to follow at the Holy Family Cemetery in West Saint Paul.

We are saddened to announce the passing of James Hunter Garwood on May 1,2024. With family at his side, Jim died peacefully at the St Boniface Hospital.

Jim was born in Winnipeg on November 6, 1942 to George and Jessie Garwood (nee Jaworski). He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife Cheryl and her daughters Angela (Dan) and Lisa, former step-daughter-in-law Rachelle Gauthier and her sons Dylan (Ashtyn), Mason and Carson, as well as numerous cousins.

Jim started his career as a high school teacher in Sprague and Winnipeg, then spent the majority of his working life with the Federal Government at CRA and Agriculture. He taught evening Business and HR courses for RRC for 18 years in Winnipeg and Steinbach. As well, he served 18 years on the St Boniface School Board and was a Credit Union Board member for years. He held two Bachelor degrees from Univ. of Manitoba as well as a Masters Degree in Social Science from Syracuse University.

Jim’s talents and passions were many. He was a woodworker and fine furniture maker and enjoyed winemaking, gardening, reading, traveling. As well, attending concerts and theatre productions were lifelong interests. He attended the Shaw Festival and visited countless wineries in Niagara on the Lake for over 15 years. The Minnesota State Fair was also a favourite destination.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or CancerCare Manitoba. A private family gathering was held.

Peacefully after a brief illness on April 25th, 2024 at 9:25 pm, Lance passed away in the arms of his wife and daughter at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre.

He will be forever missed by the love of his life Grace Barham, daughter Jessica Barham, son- in -law Jeff Grondin, Granddaughter Aubrey, Siblings Scott (Celia) Barham, Mary-Lou (Dan) McKinnon, Fred (Katrin) Barham, Sandy Barham, Barbara (Lyle) Boachers, Sister-in-laws Bernice (Richard) Middlestead, Val Oster and numerous Nieces and Nephews.

Predeceased by daughter Whitney Barham, parents Edward and Sheila Barham, Father and Mother-in-law Albert and Ombra Reece, Brother-in-laws Buddy Reece and Jerry Oster and Sister- In- law Jo-anne Reece.

Dad was born June 2nd 1953 and resided in the backwoods of Monominto. Dad excelled in topics of interest in school, he was a gifted writer yet not a gifted speller. Dad had a love for all sports but his favorite was baseball of which he both played and coached. His rural team even won the provincials!

In 1974 Dad took a chance on a blind date and met the love of his life Grace Reece. They bonded quickly over a love of dancing and a similar upbringing and way of life. For Dad it was as close to love at first sight as it gets. Mom a little more cautious would joke that she liked Dad but his Buick Wildcat was the keeper.

2 years later in 1976 Dad and Mom were married. More in line with how things are done now a days they chose to enjoy their 20’s, they spent time camping, fishing and curling with friends. Dad would also begin his career in the Agriculture Industry.

Through his career in 1986 Dad and Mom were given the opportunity to travel to Venezuela. A life changing trip in more ways than one, only 9 months later they would give birth to their first baby girl Whitney followed by Jessica in 1989.

Dad’s career in the Ag industry would span from 1982-2024. He had a true passion for helping farmers and his quick wit and strong work ethic made him well known and successful. He even worked with a couple of farms for over 40 years.

Through the years Dad would dabble in different hobbies and enjoyments. For a little over a year, he wrote an article for the Scratching River Post under the pen name Pete Moss. Dad also was an auctioneer and would host auctions together with my Mom as a side gig. He loved practical jokes, going for drives and finding local rodeos to attend. He was a gifted planner, often making plans for his whole family whether we asked him to or not. Dad also built and owned a beautiful cabin in Lac Du Bonnet with his sister Mary- Lou and husband Dan. Of all hobbies his favorite would be running his team of percherons with his daughter Whitney.

In later years Dad and Mom would retire to Teulon Manitoba where they would build their dream retirement home just down the street from their daughter and son-in-law. They would spend summer days traveling through town on their ATV and evenings sitting on their deck reminiscing. In winters they would enjoy the heat of their wood stove, listening to old time music in the “Shack” they built in their backyard.

In 2018 Dad became a grandpa (Pa) he shared an amazingly close bond with Aubrey they were quite the duo.

Dad was a true family man and was beloved by many.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, May 7th at 11:00 am at the Teulon Rockwood Centennial Centre.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Teulon Food Bank.

Special thank you to Dad’s family doctor and friend Mike Loudon and the staff at the Teulon Medical Clinic for their constant care. Also the remarkable efforts of everyone involved at the Selkirk Hospital.

 

Evelyn Bernice Ross, born on August 4, 1950, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2024. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Lawrence Ross, her parents, Winnifred and Lloyd Campbell, her brothers, Douglas and Warren Campbell, and her sisters, Geraldine Campbell, Joyce Hollier, and Susan Daynard.

Evelyn is survived by her children, Tammy Ross, Douglas Ross (Pamela), and Clinton Campbell (Kristin); and her cherished grandchildren, Taylor Henkelman, Cyara Bird (Gabriel), Colton Ross, Shelby Ross (Nikolas), and Ashton Ross.

Raised in various communities, some of Evelyn’s fondest memories were from Shebandowan, Ontario, where her family managed a resort. Her life was marked by adventure and companionship as she supported her husband Larry throughout his career, making lifelong friends in every place they called home. Phyllis Hokanson, a dear friend of over 45 years, was among the most cherished.

A successful entrepreneur, Evelyn owned popular restaurants that became community staples, thanks to her culinary talents and innate hospitality. Her passion for nurturing extended to her role as a foster parent in Pine Falls, where she and Larry cared for many children who continued to hold a special place in their hearts into adulthood. Her caring nature led her to The Handcrafter in Boissevain as a residential manager for people living with intellectual disabilities. She loved her work and the clients that she supported there, many of whom became like family.

After retiring from various management positions, to fulfill a lifelong dream, Evelyn later worked as a campground attendant at Opapiskaw Campground in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Her warm personality and strong work ethic made her a favorite among campers, many of whom became enduring friends.

In retirement, Evelyn and Larry settled in Gunton, Manitoba, where they lovingly cared for their home. Diagnosed with a lung illness last summer, Evelyn faced her final months with incredible strength and grace. Her family is profoundly grateful for the precious moments they shared during this time.

Evelyn’s life was a beautiful tapestry of family, friendship, and community engagement. She will be lovingly remembered and sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to Prairie Partners Inc. to support Special Olympic athletes with the costs of fees, travel, and staffing support.

e-transfer – cfo@prairiepartners.ca

Cheques – Prairie Partners Inc.

Box 1116 Boissevain, MB