Cecile Cormier of La Salle, Manitoba.

Nov. 19, 1931 – June 8, 2026

Longer obituary to follow.

September 9, 1942 – June 8, 2026

With sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of John Traa on June 8, 2026, at the age of 83 years with his wife, Anne Marie, by his side. He is now at peace in the arms of his Savior. 

John was pre-deceased by his parents, Regina and Hendrikus; sisters, Hendrika, Wilhelmina; brothers, Ted, Gerry, and Martin.

He will be fondly remembered and loved by his wife of 29 years, Anne-Marie; children, Veronica, John (Arlene), Carol (Guy); stepchildren, Jennifer (Brad), Viola (Logan), Sophia (Nolan); 15 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Also remembering John are his siblings and in-laws, Greta, (Noelline), Hank, (Cecile), Tina, Helen, (Baiba), along with many nieces and nephews.

John was born on September 9, 1942, in the Netherlands, eighth of 10 children. The Traa family lived in Achterveld and went through many hardships and tragedies of living nearby a World War II battlefront and post war conditions in the Netherlands. John was remembering their family taking in two Jewish boys, Nico and Rolf Kamp during the war, as well as a gentleman named Oppenheimer. John’s parents were honored as Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem “for help rendered to Jewish persons during the period of the Holocaust at the risk of their lives”. It was only years later when he matured that he realized the extreme risk his parents had taken. And how God had protected them through this and then again later on in his life.

John’s family immigrated to Canada in 1954. John stayed home to help his Mom and Dad while his older siblings left home. He then worked as an orderly at the Thompson Hospital, a laborer at Thompson mine, a millwright at Canada Packers, Rayovac and Man on Poultry. He got many awards for his good work ethics and dedication to his job.  

John spent the next twenty years raising his children and working long hours. His brother, Gerry, and sister-in-law, Noelline, helped him when Veronica, John, and Carol were young. He was very grateful they helped him get a new start.

In 1996 John met Anne-Marie in church and they got married in 1997. He then moved to Fisher Branch and was stepfather to Jennifer, Viola and Sophia.

John was a jack of all trades. He could fix just about anything if he put his mind to it; from vehicles, tractors, machinery, appliances. He was a major trouble shooter and if he could get the part, it was as good as done.

John was known for his great sense of humor and when he got that twinkle in his eye you knew something funny was going to come out of his mouth. He had a way of bringing the calm to the storm. Everyone loved him. 

He battled multiple illnesses in the last couple years that literally took his breath away. He kept his faith and positive outlook throughout all of it. A real testimony for the family and friends who observed him. 

He will be missed greatly. That hole in our hearts will always be there. We cherish the beautiful memories we’ve made and know we will join him someday in paradise with our Jesus. 

We would like to thank: Dr. Ada Man, Dr. Ansarian, and Dr. Adey Adegbesan for all their support over the years. Also, our friends, family and church family that prayed for us during these difficult times. Thank you.

In accordance with John’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of John’s life will be held at 1 p.m. at Lakeside (lighthouse) Church of God at Solvin Road and #9 highway in Gimli on September 12. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Siloam Mission.

June 14, 1942 – June 3, 2026

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Isla Hagborg, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and friend, at the age of 83.

Mum was born June 14, 1942 and passed away the morning of June 3, 2026 at the Stonewall Hospital. Left to cherish her memory are son Robert (Renée), daughter Bonnie (Wayne), her three grandchildren Alex Hagborg (Claire), Marshall Hagborg (Tia), and Jasper Bain. She will be greatly missed by them as well as sisters Lorna McDonell (Doug) and Jean Campbell, sisters-in-law Elaine Gusta (Larry) and Edie Simonson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mum was predeceased by Dad (Walter), parents  Conrad and Betty Dack, in-laws Harry and May Hagborg, and brothers-in-law Carl Simonson and Clive Campbell.

Mum grew up on the farm in Warren, Manitoba. Mum eventually met Dad and proceeded to build our family farm (Mallard Acres Ltd.) near Meadows. Throughout her life, Mum thoroughly enjoyed playing and watching baseball (she was a BlueJays superfan), golfing, and curling as well as picking berries. Mum liked to host family events and participating in the community. Mum’s most treasured achievement was her role as President of the Manitoba Ladies Curling Association, and she co-chaired the 1991 World Curling Championship in Winnipeg. She was inducted into the Manitoba Curling Hall of Fame for her contributions to the sport. Mum loved gardening and always encouraged us to be all we could be growing up. Mum really loved her 3 grandchildren and she was so proud of them.

Mum and Dad were able to retire from farming in 1991 and eventually moved to Warren and then to Stonewall. Mum and Dad spent 25 wonderful years travelling and spending winters down south.

We are grateful that Mum is no longer in pain and was able to leave this world on her terms. She has been cremated and her ashes will be placed by Dad so that they will be together again.

At Mum’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

Peacefully Thomas (Gerry) Palmer, with family by his side, passed away on Friday, May 22nd, 2026 at Dr. Evelyn Memorial Hospital in Stonewall Manitoba.

Gerry is predeceased by his parents, William (Bill) and Winnifred (Winnie) Palmer, and brother Bryan.  Surviving family members include his wife Dorothy; children Sherrie Lynn (Irvine), Kendall (Rosemary), Leanne (Lee), Grant (Carolyn) and son-in-law Blair (Laurie); grandchildren Quinn, Nick, Jamie, Derek, Hollie, Kyle, Sara, Ethan, Mark, and Jack; and great grandson Blake.  Gerry is also survived by his brothers-in-law Bill and George and sisters-in-law Bernice and Sheila, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and good friends.

Gerry attended Grosse Isle School while helping on his father’s dairy, pig and mixed grain farm.  After meeting the love of his life, Dorothy Jean Ritchie, they married on April 16th, 1960 and lived a short time in Winnipeg before moving to a house in Grosse Isle.  With the help of his father’s sister, Margaret Madill, Gerry and Dorothy were able to purchase land and build a new home in 1961 on E. 1/2 4-13-1 E.  Gerry worked for Agro Equipment until the purchase of the farm.  While working on the farm, he returned to work at Agro and International Harvester from 1967 to 1973.  In 1989, he again returned to International Harvester working for Leo’s Sales and Service and the Grandmont family until 2001.

For many farms like theirs, there were struggles and lean years. The farm was built by Dad’s labour and Mom’s care of the farm books, the house, garden and kids. The daily routine of feeding and caring for pigs lasted for decades. The barn was the engine and anchor of the farm. The land grew grain for sale and enough barley to feed the pigs and straw for bedding. Seeding and harvest were very active times with work and equipment shared with Gerry’s dad and brother Bryan at the home place south of Grosse Isle. Growing up on the farm leaves memories of dinners in the field, barn cats, riding horses, the best dogs, ski doos and snow drifts, picking rocks and grandparents over for Sunday supper. 

When time permitted, Gerry and Dorothy were involved in the Grosse Isle United Church and Recreation Club.  They particularly enjoyed spending time and travelling with the Stonewall Oldtimers Hockey Team and cheering on the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose.  Gerry also developed an impressive collection of International Harvester toys and many weekends were spent going to toy shows to exhibit his large assortment of tractors, combines, attachments, etc. 

In 1997, Gerry and Dorothy left the farm, moving to a house in Stonewall.  In 2015, they moved to Lions Manor.  More friendships developed and they quickly became part of the Lions community.

Retirement brought the opportunity to relax.  They enjoyed fishing trips to Lake of the Prairies, travelling to places such as Arizona, Missouri, California, the Canadian East Coast, and Alaska via cruise ship.  No matter where he went, Gerry could easily start a conversation and in Stonewall, it was rare that he didn’t meet someone he knew in the coffee shop.  He enjoyed family gatherings and keeping up on what each of his children and grandchildren were doing. 

In later years Gerry’s life was deeply affected by Dorothy’s transition to Rosewood.  He tried to visit her almost every day whether with one of his children or by using his scooter, weather permitting.  He will certainly be missed by all.

On behalf of Dorothy, and Gerry’s children and grandchildren, we want to express our gratitude. 

• To the staff of the Stonewall Hospital, Dr. Wachukwu, the Home Care team and all of the people who looked after Gerry so well.  Your steady presence, help, and kind words offered so much comfort when it was most needed. We truly appreciate you.
• To the Rosewood team who welcomed Gerry each time he rolled through the doors, thank you for making him feel so appreciated and confident in your care.
• To Gerry’s many friends, past to present, thank you for being there for him, particularly in the the tough times.  He enjoyed his daily visits to the “Learning Circle” and “Chat Group”, the lunch time conversation, and when you popped in to say ‘hi’.  We are so thankful that he had the Lions community supporting him!

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Stonewall Quarry Park Heritage Arts Centre, 166 Main Street, Stonewall, Manitoba.  (Accessible building access is available on the lower level.)

In lieu of flowers, should friends so desire, donations can be directed to the Interlake Eastern Health Foundation (IEHF), 233A Main St., Selkirk, MB R1A 1S1 (indicate ‘In memory of Gerry Palmer’ on memo line) or online at www.iehf (see ‘In memory of Gerry Palmer’ on fund drop-down menu).

December 10, 1943 – May 18, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dad, Don Kowalchuk, on May 18, 2026 at age 82. Left to cherish his memory are daughters Pam Woods (Jon) and Erin (Kenton) Byle and his grandchildren, Cale and Jace Woods, and Sydney, Reid, and Wade Byle. Survived by his brothers Mike and Harry and sisters Mary and Adeline. Predeceased by his wife Heather of 54 years; parents Nicholas and Anna; brothers Joe, John and Bill; and his sisters Ann, Pauline, Jean, Rose and Pearl.

Dad was born in 1943 into a large family. He grew up in Komarno, MB and met mom at high school in Teulon. They married in 1968 and began building a life together in Winnipeg. In 1979, dad and mom bought land near Balmoral, built a house and barn, planted countless trees, and worked hard to fulfill their dream of raising their family in the country. Growing up, we were always excited to tag along with dad, whether it was going to the auction mart, picking mushrooms, or riding on the hay rack while dad baled. Dad taught the gradkids about farm life, took them for numerous tractor rides, and later taught them all to drive on the back roads. Many great memories were made on the farm and we all treasured our time there. While dad worked most of his life at Livingston’s distribution warehouse in Winnipeg, farming was always his true passion. He was happiest when he was with his cows, working away on his tractor, and puttering in his shop. Dad and mom retired to Stonewall in 2018, and in 2024, dad moved to Lion’s Manor where he was grateful for the new friendships he made there.

Dad was always content with his life and never placed much importance on material things. He was generous and always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He never judged others and accepted people as they were. He had a happy disposition and a way of making people feel special. He loved when friends and family stopped by for a visit, and enjoyed shop parties with the guys, playing cards, and a good prank. Although dad preferred to stay close to home, he did look forward to hot holidays with the family. Later in life, his happy place was his comfy recliner, where he watched sports and his favourite shows, and never grew tired of playing crib. Although Dad faced his share of health challenges, he kept chugging along, no matter what life put in his path.

Thank you Dad for making us feel so loved. We miss you. 

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Dad’s life on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Red Barn, located at the South Interlake Rockwood Agricultural Society grounds, just south of Stonewall on Highway 236.

It is with profound sadness that we announce Alex Krawec passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a brief illness.

 Alex is survived by his wife of 69 years, Shirley, children Alan (Mary Ellen) and Allyson, grandson Kieran Wallace, and brother Sam, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by parents Michael and Michalina, brothers John, Harry, Marvin, Martin, Steve, Nick, Peter, Terry, Stanley; and sisters Sylvia, Helen, Mary, Anne, Olga, Jean, Vicky.

 Alex was born the 12th of 18 children on May 10, 1934, on the family homestead in Weiden, Manitoba. He spent hours tending to the farm and livestock, fondly saying that some of his happiest times were spent milking the cows.

 Music was essential in Alex’s life, starting with playing fiddle and guitar in the community hall in Weiden. He often entertained friends and family with his trusted guitar for hours on end, whether we wanted it or not. That love of music lives on through his children and grandson.

 Alex was one of the first of his family to receive a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Manitoba. He went on to teach in several different communities in southern Manitoba, finally settling in Stonewall in November 1965. Alex advanced through the education sector: the Executive Director of Teacher’s Certification, Principal of the Correspondence Branch, and Assistant to the Deputy Minister of Education.

 Service to church and community was of utmost importance in Alex’s life. Along with Allyson, he led singing the mass in Church for many years, was an ecumenical minister and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

 In the community, Alex was a member of the Kinsmen Club. He also served as a town councillor in Stonewall for four years, followed by another four years as mayor. During his time in office, Alex was responsible for the beautification of the streets in Stonewall and the development of the Interpretive Centre in Quarry Park. In fact, as you enter the park, that street is named in his honour.

 He was a founding member of the Interlake Community Foundation and the Stonewall Senior’s Centre.

 His retirement years were spent doing consulting work, enjoying time with family and friends, and tending to the house he and Shirley built so many years ago. And although that big lottery win never happened, he did receive some tickets for his 92nd birthday. He never got a chance to check them, so we did. He won $102. Nice to go out on a winning note.

 Funeral services will take place on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 1 pm at Christ the King Catholic Church, 315 2nd Street East in Stonewall.

 In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, please make a donation to Christ the King Catholic Church or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

 The family cannot express sufficient gratitude to the staff of Rosewood Lodge over the last few months, and the aides, nurses and doctors at The Stonewall and District Health Centre for their care and compassion.

 When I am gone, release me, let me go, I have so many things to see and do

 You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears, be happy we had so many years

 I have you my love, you can only guess how much you gave me happiness

 I thank you for the love you each have shown but now it’s time I travel alone

 So grieve a while for me if you must, then let your grief be comforted by trust

 It’s only for a while that we must part so bless the memories within your heart

 I won’t be far away for life goes on, so if you need me call and I will come

 Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near, and if you with your heart, you’ll hear

 All of my love around you soft and clear, and then, when you must come this way alone I’ll greet you with a smile and say “Welcome Home”

 Or as Alex would say, “See all you again, God willing and the creek don’t rise.”

Ken passed away peacefully in his home on May 12, 2026.  Ken was born in Winnipeg on December 10, 1964. He is predeceased by his parents, Tony and Florence Penner.  Left to cherish his memory are his brothers, Andrew (Elaine), Allen (Darlene) and his sisters Caroline (Stuart), Judy (Chris), his nephews and nieces Johann(Megan), Cody (Corissa),Jarret, AJ (Jessica),Sara (Kyle).

Over the years Ken was employed by Just Light, Auto Trader and Winnipeg School Division. Ken enjoyed working with people wherever he was. His positive approach and smile made his working environment enjoyable.

Ken had a strong relationship with Jehovah.  As his health deteriorated and he was unable to attend meetings he joined by zoom. Ken believed in the beautiful promise of Paradise.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Brian, on April 24, and our beloved mother, Myrna, on May 4. They left us just ten days apart, after both facing sudden illnesses with courage and strength.

 Left to miss them every single day are their children, Sherry (Dale), Tammy (Mike), Kristen (Betsy), Michelle (Trevor), and Tyler (Mandy); their grandchildren, Mark (Kaleigh), Cody, Easton (Renee), Jessica (Mark), Keauna (John), Dawson (Will), Lucas (Olivia), Camryn, Julia, and Elliet; and their great-grandchildren, Nataleigh, Carver, and Indy; Mom’s sister Sharon(Ray), Dad’s sister Colleen and their many treasured nieces and nephews.

 Mom and Dad were the pillars of our family. They held us together, loved us fiercely, and built a life rooted in commitment, hard work, and family. They worked tirelessly to provide for their five children, and their greatest joy was always found in their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was not just important to them; it was their passion, their purpose, and the centre of everything they did. They were truly the best parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.  From family vacations in Hawaii and Great Britain, to camping across the country, weekend getaways, and summers at the cottage, there was always something they were planning.  We were quite the convoy when we loaded up to head out on one of the many adventures, they took us on.  Gpa and Gma spent years making memories with their ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. They were always there for their grandchildren, sleepovers, special outings, and attending sporting events and cheering loudly from the stands with pride, joy, and unmistakable love.  They truly created a legacy of love, laughter, togetherness, and belonging.

Although they were both born and raised in the North End of Winnipeg, if you asked them where home was, they would have said Marquette, Manitoba, and Twin Lakes Beach, Manitoba. They spent years building a beautiful life, making friendships and raising their family in Marquette, and the last 30 years at their beloved cottage at Twin Lakes Beach, where their love of the lake and their love of family and friends came together so beautifully.

 Dad had a passion for cars, racing and fixing things. There was very little he could not build or repair. He built our childhood home in Marquette and our cottage at Twin Lakes Beach, creating the backdrop for so many of our favourite memories.  Mom was a lover of reading and puzzles. In her spare time, she could often be found snuggled up with a book and a blanket, or sitting at the table working on some kind of puzzle. Mom was the magic behind every holiday, creating traditions we will continue to cherish. Together, Mom and Dad were adventurers, and when retirement came, they welcomed the opportunity to head south to warmer weather, as long as we came to visit them.

 Their love story spanned many, many decades. While our hearts are deeply broken to lose them so close together, it brings us comfort to believe they are together again. They loved each other deeply in life, and that love remains part of the legacy they leave behind. 

A private family celebration of Brian and Myrna’s lives will be held later this summer.

 In their memory, and in honour of our love for our parents and the battles they faced, we ask those who are able to consider making a blood or platelet donation with Canadian Blood Services. Donations may also be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society.

July 6th,1946 – May 3rd, 2026

A Beloved Life Remembered

May loving memories bring comfort and peace.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Darlene Wittenberg nee Suderman.

Darlene was born in Steinbach, Manitoba on July 6th,1946 to Irma and Jacob Suderman. Darlene married Ted Wittenberg on May 5th,1967, and together they raised three children. Darlene will be greatly missed by Ted, loving partner of what would have been the celebration of their 59th wedding Anniversary.

Family was the heart of Darlene’s life. Darlene was a devoted mother and mother- in- law to Lisa Riley (Wittenberg) husband Kevin, Janis Raeburn (Wittenberg) husband Drew, Tanis Suthern (Wittenberg) and four grandchildren; Brooke-Lyn Steeves (Riley), husband Griffin, heavenly granddaughter McKenna Riley, Kaase Raeburn and Nolan Suthern.

Darlene blessed everyone around her with her giving spirit, generosity and deep unwavering faith and love as a wife, mother, aunt, sister and grandmother. Darlene adored her grandchildren unconditionally. Darlene was a familiar face in countless hockey arenas watching her grandchildren play. Darlene could always be found at all other sporting events; basketball, soccer, track meets, football, dance and Christmas recitals, graduations and birthdays. Darlene unselfishly helped care for, pampered and cherished them.

Darlene made her house a home with her love of decorating, gardening and hosting gatherings especially, Sunday dinners, holidays, birthdays and celebratory events. Darlene opened and welcomed many people and friends into her home with her special gift of making them feel like they were a part of the family.

Darlene was a devoted member of Gloria Dei Lutheran church and found thoughtful joy and peace with what could be considered her second home. Darlene built many loving, caring relationships and found her calling in helping others. Darlene also had a passion for all her pets and furry friends, especially her dog Benji, who was faithfully by her side while she fished. Darlene will be remembered for warmth, generosity, and deep love by everyone who had the pleasure to be part of her life and her yours.

The family takes comfort in knowing Grandma Dar and angel grandchild McKenna will be eternally embraced. Darlene is also reunited with loved ones who passed before.

Survived by children, siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A funeral service will be celebrated on Wednesday May 20th, 2026 at 11:00 am at Gloria Dei Lutheran church, 637 Buckingham Rd, Winnipeg, Manitoba. There will be a luncheon to follow immediately after service. A private burial will follow at a later date with family.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Winnipeg Humane Society or an act of kindness in Darlene’s memory.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Boniface hospital for their compassionate care. The family also thanks Ken Loehmer Funeral Services in the planning. Online condolences will be shared on memorial page at klfuneralservices.ca. We also want to graciously thank Rev. Tyler Gingrich and members of Gloria Dei for support, assistance and service planning and Amber Skrabek who has graciously agreed to play and sing some special music.

Until we meet again.