March 21, 1955 – October 22, 2020

Craig Eros passed away suddenly at his home near Gunton, Manitoba on Thursday, October 22, 2020 with his loving wife Shelley by his side. Craig will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Craig leaves to cherish his memory his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sisters, brother, mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-laws, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and cousins. Craig was predeceased by his parents Marge and Willie Eros and his older brother Glenn.

Craig was born in Winnipeg, the second oldest of a very busy family of five children. He grew up in Transcona, graduating in 1973 from Murdoch MacKay Collegiate. Craig was always a creative, generous fun-loving guy who had many friends and enjoyed life. From an early age, he shared his love of music and art with those around him. One of his first jobs during high school was teaching guitar and he performed in many bands over the years, including the rock band Eros, in which he played lead guitar and sang vocals along with brother Glenn. In his twenties, Craig was a sound technician for live bands. He later became accomplished in Spanish and Flamenco guitar, and he and Shelley participated in a Spanish dance troop for many years. He never lost his passion for rock and blues and spent many an hour in his well-equipped home recording studio writing and making music. He played guitar for hours a day and became a mentor to many fellow guitarists. Recently, he had taken up a new interest in keyboards and synthesizers. Craig had just completed the first cut of a new solo album in which he played all the instrument tracks, including vocals.

Craig leaves us with a legacy of breathtaking works of art which began in childhood and the many years he worked at Hawkins Taxidermy. He will be especially remembered for his Manitoba landscapes, sunset, sunrise and wildlife paintings and, more recently, his hauntingly beautiful “space art” of galaxies, planets and nebula. Craig was a dedicated family man, devoted husband, father and grandfather. In 1985, he married Shelley and in 1986, the family relocated to north of Gunton, where Craig and Shelley incorporated and Craig took on the role of President of Rockridge Turkey Breeder Farm Ltd. Craig also worked at Charison’s Turkey Hatchery. Over the decades there were many farm locations, Rockridge Grower, Rockridge Breeder, Blue Springs, Windsor and Northridge. Craig worked diligently in that role until his retirement in 2016. Craig and Shelley shared many happy times on their wooded acreage, creating art and music together, spending time with friends and enjoying the simple things in life.

Craig was inspired every day by the simple beauty he saw around him – a deer in the yard or birds at his feeder. He could often be found in the woods walking and maintaining his trails. He was a devoted gardener, spending much time caring for his plants. He loved to barbecue and cook on a wood fire pit and especially enjoyed making meals at the camper at East Shoal Lake. He always brought along a Flamenco guitar and if he wasn’t cooking, he was playing. Craig was an avid fisherman and caught many trophies. He fished all sorts of fish, including pickerel, lake trout, muskie, salmon and arctic char in many parts of Northern Manitoba, Lake of the Woods and even as far afield as Great Bear Lake and British Columbia. Craig was loved.

Craig had many plans for the future. His life impacted so many people. His family and friends are heartbroken at his early passing and will miss him beyond measure. May your thoughts of Craig remind you to live your passions and enjoy the everyday beauty in life. The family extends its sincere thanks to Emergency Service personnel, the RCMP and Ken Loehmer for their kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Craig’s memory to a group that meant a lot to him, Grateful Friends Animal Rescue at Box 999 Teulon, Mb. R0C 3B0 or the charity of your choice. A private service will be held.

MARCH 9, 1936 – OCTOBER 19, 2020

After a brief illness our beloved mother passed away at Stonewall Hospital October 19, 2020 at the age of 84 years. Survived by her husband Joe; daughter Valerie, grandchildren Craig, Kimberley, Sherri, six great grandchildren; daughter Arlene (Brad) and grandchild Clay. Sisters Natalie (Ed), Myrtle (Paul).

Predeceased by her parents Bill and Anne Hnatchuk and two brothers Stephan and Ernie and sister Stephanie. Jean worked at Winnipeg Beach in her younger years where she met Joe. They were married October 3, 1959 and had two daughters. Joe and Jean moved to Saskatoon in 1969, where they started their lives. Jean was a homemaker, she eventually worked at the cafeteria at Eaton’s. Jean’s hobbies were planting flowers and working in the garden.

A private family graveside has been held. Thank you to the staff at Stonewall Hospital for taking care of Jean (Mom).

Wayne Edward HARRISON, after holding strong as he faced the outcome of terminal cancer, Wayne succumbed to the illness on October 15th, 2020.

He was born March 1st, 1949 in Neepawa, Manitoba to Elymer and Charlotte Harrison. Wayne grew up on the family farm, and attended school at Laurier, MB. He was a free spirit in the summer, imagining himself as Tarzan, swinging from hanging branches over the Angle Ditch. He loved to play pranks, but also showed a giving heart. His first two marriages brought him 4 daughters, Tammy, Jackie, Tanya, and Lori, that he loved deeply and often spoke of with pride. In 1985, he married his third wife, Maureen. They lived in The Pas for many years before moving to Swan River and finally settling in Bowsman.

Over the years, Wayne had many work experiences, which included carpentry, construction, hauling logs over rough terrain and ice-covered lakes/swamps. He would tell the story of driving a fully loaded truck over the frozen lake and swamps in the Spring, with the door open, and his foot out the door, so he’d be ready to jump if the truck fell through the ice. For the last several years, Wayne had been hauling hog fuel to the mill in The Pas. He retired in 2019. Wayne was the guy who would help a friend or family member in need whenever possible. He was also the Dad and Uncle who instigated many adventures and a few mishaps with a smile on his face and mischievous glint in his eyes. Often, he told stories of great friends, adventures, and times with family. He loved deeply, laughed hard, sang often, and understood the importance of family and friends.

Wayne is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, his brothers and sisters, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A big party will be held, the way he would have wanted it, at a later time.

On October 10, 2020, a beautiful autumn day with the sun shining and the birds visiting her bird feeder, Mom peacefully left this life to join her many family and friends who had left before her.

Left to feed the birds are her children Marie (Ed) Pull, Harold, David, Donald (Debi) and Nancy (Lyle) Lawrence; grandchildren Michele, Michael, Mark, Dawn, Sarah, John, Jason, Molly, Bryan, Jon, Christopher, Tara, Regan, Monica and Brett; 11 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Alice was predeceased by her husband, Mike; daughter, Diane and son-in-law, Floyd Rayner; sisters Mary and Bernice; and brother, Walter.

Alice was born in her grandmother’s home in the Oak Hammock area to William and Anne Black and spent her early years in Crandall. The family moved to Stonewall and lived in the upstairs of her dad’s barber shop with her 6 brothers and sisters. She met Mike Karasewich, the rival barber in town, when he asked her to knit him a sweater and she kept asking him to come over for fittings. They married on February 20, 1939, and Alice moved down Main Street into a different barber shop. They welcomed 5 children there, then moved the family to a house off Main Street. In 1964, they bought a house out of town and moved there with the 3 boys and new baby, Nancy.

Mom continued to knit for her family and friends, and for pocket money. No pattern was too complicated. Many hands, big and small, stayed cozy all winter with mitts from Mrs. K. Everyone was welcome at our house, where there were always homemade cookies to go with your coffee or tea and lots of laughs and stories. Few visitors left without a pair of mittens or cookies. When Xmas season arrived, the bank and grocery store staff were always treated to Alice’s cookies and treats.

Mom was a proud lifelong member of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Stonewall United Church. She loved her time spent knitting with the ladies for Project Linus. After Mike’s passing in 2008, Mom moved into Stonewood Place where she took part in movie and bingo nights, morning coffee and the Adult Day Program. With failing health mom moved into Rosewood Lodge in 2019. She continued to participate in activities, especially when promised that there would be snacks.

Our family wholeheartedly thanks all the Stonewood and Rosewood Staff for the care you gave Mom in each area of her life. She loved all the visits from each of you. Thank you for sharing your sweet stories with us—we know how much mom was loved by all of you “you girls are so good to me”. Thank you to Ken Loehmer for guiding us through this process with such care and compassion. A graveside service and gathering will be planned when travel restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Rosewood Lodge Recreation Department (for snacks) 513, 1st Ave. N, Stonewall, MB, R0C 2Z0.

Peacefully surrounded by her family, Dorothy Chrismas passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2020.

Remaining to forever cherish Dorothy’s memory are her daughters Judy (Joe), Diane (Herb), Gail (Alan), Carol (Bo), Bonnie (Mark) and Sandy (Rick). Also left to cherish her memory are her 13 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, sister Shirley, sisters-in-law Muriel and Violet; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

She is predeceased by her brothers Alec, Gordon, Billie, Wesley, David and sisters Joyce, Bessie and Vicky.

On January 14, 1931, Mom was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the oldest daughter of Beatrice and Harry Laing. She lived and worked in Winnipeg as well as on her aunt’s mink farm in Vivian. In 1950, Mom married Dad and they settled in Winnipeg, where they had three daughters Judy, Diane and Gail.

In 1958, the family moved to Balmoral where Carol, Bonnie and Sandy were born and this completed her family. They started out with a mixed farm but soon found poultry was their passion. Mom worked as hard as any man on the farm and was proud of all they accomplished. She also owned and ran the Balmoral Snack Bar. Being a great cook, she was famous for her pies.

Mom and Dad also built a hog barn and she was right there helping with everything. Sundays were especially important to her when all her children and grandchildren came for dinner. Mom showed her love with food so no one ever left her house hungry. She spoiled her grandchildren making sure there was always Pick-A-Pop in her house. During her life in Balmoral, and then later moving to Stonewall, she met many lifelong friends who she cherished.

In Stonewall, Mom became a proud Legion member and helped in the kitchen as long as she was able.

Mom was known for her generosity including sending cookies to the church, taking a turkey to the Bomber games and helping any person in need. She was an avid fan of the Blue Bombers and Winnipeg Jets. The family knew not to visit when a game was on.

Mom lived in her own house right until the end which made her very happy.

On Saturday, October 10, 2020, as per Mom’s request a private family service was held at the Victoria Church Cemetery. Pallbearers were Joe Stefanuk, Alan Schick, Mark Yeomans, Rick Whittom. Honorary Pallbearers were grandsons Richard Thomson, Bo Yeomans and sons-in-law Herb Menzel and Bo Sweeney.

In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Mom may be made to the Balmoral United Church, Box 115, Balmoral, Manitoba, R0C 0H0.

Eva Janke peacefully, at the Selkirk Hospital on October 4, 2020 after a long battle with dementia passed away.

She is survived by her son Calvin (Andrea) grandchildren; Cole, Tristen, Payton, Riley; sister Sarah (George) Wiebe and brother Pete (Angie) Loewen.

Predeceased by her husband Alphonse and son Lawrence.

Eva was born in Hague, SK. and moved to Clarkleigh, MB. with her family in the early 1950’s. She was the baby of her family having 3 sisters and 13 brothers. She married Alphonse Nov. 27, 1955 in the midst of a blizzard and moved to Marquette where they farmed together for over 45 years. She loved her 4 grandchildren and was proud of their accomplishments. She talked about them all the time and to ever who would listen. She enjoyed family playing Bingo, driving, and being outside on the farm. She had the roughest of edges but the softest of hearts. She was very competitive, hardworking and extremely compassionate, a simple woman that was more complex than you would ever know. She was my mom the best mom in the world.

Private service Oct.10, 2020 at the Meadow Lea Cemetery.

Family would like to thank the several members of the community that supported and helped mom in her last years of living at home. Special thanks to all the Health Care Professionals who gave her the best care possible in the last years of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Meadow Lea United Church or Shoenfelder Mennonite Church.

Grandma

The relationship between a boy and his Grandma is one like no other. Me and grandma shared a very sentimental one. My grandma taught me many simple things in life, but the one that I’ll always remember is never to stop in the middle of the highway to empty your ash tray while cops are around. Grandma had a very gruff way about herself. Whether it was getting into arguments at the café or cursing because the bingo caller wasn’t calling out the numbers loud enough, she always knew how to be a loving grandma. It didn’t matter the situation I always knew that gram would be there to have a conversation with, usually while she was sitting on her rocker enjoying a smoke. For the 17 years I knew grandma I always have and always will cherish the visits at her house. A visit usually consisted of eating her famous bologna sandwiches, eating popcorn, and watching family feud. Towards the end of my Grandmas life it seemed the engine was running but there was no one behind the wheel. It was often comical being asked the same question more than once over a visit, but it’s something I will look back on and miss. One of the last times I spoke Grandson to Grandmother was a special one. I knew it may be the last time she’d recognize me, so I stayed for as long as the nurses let me. I ditched class one day to go see her, we played cards and she continued asking me to take her home because she “was feeling better.” After numerous rounds of go fish I decided to leave. Before I left, we hugged and she asked me once more if she could go for a ride, and then go home! Of course, I couldn’t take her as much as I wanted to. But on October 4th at 10:25 pm she heard grandpa calling her home. Being as tough as nails as she was it took more than one call. Finally, at 10:30 pm grandpa reached out his hand and grandma took it. They walked hand in hand, as grandpa finally brought grandma home.

.

Peacefully, after living a full and active life Helene passed away on October 4, 2020 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Helene is survived by her children: Les (Lorraine), Lise (Kevin), Kevin (Natasha) Curtis (Lynette) Grandchildren: Jayson (Kate) and their children Eloise, Estelle Jocelyn, Jaymie (Cole), Sean, Kyle, Kasey, Kloey, Addison, Aidan Brothers and Sisters: Carl, Lesley (Brenda), John (Elaine), Diane (Phil), Barbara (Ken) And many nieces and nephews.

Helene was predeceased by her brother George, sister Bonnie, father Cozma Balan, mother Vera Balan, and brother Alec.

Helene Elaine Balan was born on May 22, 1933 in Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan to Vera and Cozma Balan. Vera and Cozma Balan farmed at Elm Spring, SK and when Helene was 5 years old the family moved to Woodlands, Manitoba. Helene and her siblings had a lot of responsibility on the farm but being the oldest Helene was like a mother and a sister to her younger siblings, looking out for them at home and at school.

Helene excelled at school and at sports especially baseball. She played on competitive women’s teams and on a men’s team while she attended university in Winnipeg.

After Helene graduated from Woodlands School she moved to Winnipeg and attended a year of “Normal School” to be trained as a teacher. After one year she earned her Teaching Certificate and began a teaching career that lasted from the age of 19 to 83 years young.

While raising four active kids who played multiple sports and teaching full time in Winnipeg’s inner city schools, Mom continued to take university courses and graduated from the University of Winnipeg in May, 1980 with an Education Degree.

Throughout her teaching career Mom taught in many different communities: the Interlake, Pinawa, Winnipeg One, Thompson, Nelson House and Lake Manitoba. In every community she made a difference. Mom would ensure that her students had clothes, food, equipment and even places to stay if needed.

When Mom retired from teaching (for the 3rd time) she enjoyed spending time at her house in Winnipeg looking after her flowers outside, keeping her yard clean, often could be found sweeping and raking the neighbours yards as well. Mom loved the visits from her Grandchildren and her great-nephews Owen and Evan. Being able to watch her Grandchildren play sports was very special for Mom.

Our Mom, will be remembered for her strength, independence, determination, kindness and generosity and she will be missed greatly by her family: her children, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

“A mom’s hug will last long after she lets go”

A Graveside Service was held. Pallbearers: Kevin Kirkpatrick, Sean Kirkpatrick, Jayson Balan, Jayson Fraser, Kyle Fraser, Kasey Fraser.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10 – 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2.

July 11, 1934 – October 2, 2020                 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Katharina (Kathy) Lotz on October 2, 2020, at the age of 86. Kathy is survived by her son Frank (Darlene), grandchildren Lindsey (Dustin) and Richard (Elizabeth), great-grandchildren, Anna, Gavin, Keira, and Natalie and brother Joseph (Karin) Bachus in Germany. She was predeceased by her husband Frank and parents Mathias and Margaret Bachus. Kathy was born in Grabotz, Hungary. She married Frank in Germany on February 14, 1953. They immigrated to Canada making Winnipeg their home until Frank retired and they moved to Norris Lake to raise many types of animals. Kathy later enjoyed her time at Gateway Manor in Teulon and her final months at Oakview Place PCH. Kathy was active in the WI, Red Hats, Teulon Hospital auxiliary and she loved to go dancing and play cards with her friends. Kathy’s farm animals where her pride and joy. The family would like to thank her many neighbours and friends who were always there to help when needed and her caregivers, nurses and doctors in Teulon and Winnipeg. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. If friends so desire donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of MB or a charity of your choice.

Peacefully at home in Woodlands on September 24, 2020, we sadly grieve the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather Gary John MacFarlane.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years Jackie, his children Chris, Andrew, Maryann (Edgar), Leslie, Marcy (Howard) and Fawn (James), his brothers Wayne (Miriam), Glen (Sophie), Gerald (Patti) and sister Melissa (Trever), sisters-in-law Denyse and Karen (David), many nieces and nephews across Canada, U.S.A. and Mexico, grandchildren Roslynn, Emilia, Logan, Judith, Ruby, Edgar, Lance, Benjamin, Johnathan, Natalie, Jack, JaeLynn, and Abby, great grandchildren Elliott, Jasper, Priscilla, and the many foster children that he considered his own over the years.

He was predeceased by his parents Sonny and Kay, brothers John and Warren Marc, cousins Oscar, Joyce, and Susan, and brother-in-law Bruce and many extended family in Manitoba and Ontario too numerous to mention by name but never the less special to him.

Gary was born in Ottawa on May 23, 1946 and lived the life of an “army brat” until his family settled in Winnipeg. He attended St. James Collegiate. During his teen years he developed his love of music and was band leader for several 60’s bands such as “The New Interns” and then later the most prominent being “The Wild Taste”. A talented musician and song writer, he recorded an album “Lights at Last” with his friend Ken. His musical talents provided him opportunities to collaborate with established names in the music scene and earned him recognition in the Manitoba Music Museum. He pursued many interests in his life his favorite being building projects as well as hunting and fishing at his northern cottage. He loved to entertain and bring a laugh by telling stories of his life’s experiences or sharing a joke. Whether he was the worker or the leader, player or coach, he embraced it with passion. Gary will be remembered for his hands and the accomplishments he made with them: the home and cottage he built, the music he created, the hand he lent to many, the hand of guidance, the hand of generosity, and the hand that gave many comfort when needed. Gary had many wonderful friends and acquaintances that he thought of fondly amid his multitude of interests. He was the defender and protector of his family that he cherished. His priority in life was his faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God will have a purpose for a warrior such as he. No funeral will be held but a family gathering will be held at a later date. Gary wished to be cremated. We love you, we miss you, waiting until we are together again.

Many thanks to family and friends who have been so compassionate and helpful with meals and support in our time of need. You eased our burden. The numerous emails, posts, cards, and letters of remembrance of Gary were wonderful and a thank you cannot express the appreciation.

John Raymond Koley (Ray), 79, of Teulon MB, passed away on Saturday, September 19th, 2020, after a lengthy battle with Cancer and Alzheimer’s.

Born August 24, 1941 in Winnipeg MB, he was the son of the late Andrew Koley and Elizabeth Koley (nee Wasalina). He is survived by his two sons, John Koley and Kevin Koley and wife Lise; his 5 grandchildren, Chantelle, Erik, Daryl, Karlee and Brin; 3 great grandchildren, Deegan, Everett and Quinn. Ray is predeceased by his parents as well as his longtime partner Brenda Meyers.

A memorial service will not be held, instead the family will be holding a private wake to honor Ray’s life. If friends so desire, they can donate to the Humane Society in Ray’s name, in lieu of flowers. The family would like to thank the Hospital staff at both the Johnson Memorial Hospital, Gimli and the Hunter Memorial Hospital, Teulon, for the kind and gracious care Ray received. Everyone who crossed paths with Ray during his walk-through life remembers him for his kindness, sense of humor and willingness to help. He will be missed but always in our hearts.