Wes Killbery
Obituary
Passed on April 27, 2023
On Thursday, April 27, 2023, the world lost an amazing man… Wes transcended from his 6 month battle with cancer, never once giving up his hope of living.
Remaining to carry on his unwavering beliefs for life’s journey, are his soulmate J’aime, who he loved like no other, and their two beautiful children, Easton and Tamsen. With broken hearts, he leaves his parents, Carol and Tom(Bud) Killbery, and his sister Jill Demianiw,(Kevin), and niece Whitney. He will be missed and lovingly remembered by his Nanny Ann Killbery, and Grandpa Gordon McDonnell. Also deeply saddened are his in-laws, Bev and Cam Ballantyne, more affectionately known as Mom ”B” and Dad “B”, and their children Colin (Deana), Brad (Kerry), Jocelyn (Sean), and Nicole. Mourning also are many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Wes was predeceased by his Grandpa Wayne Killbery, his Grandma Gladys McDonnell, and uncle’s Doug McDonnell, and Russ Killbery.
Wes was larger than life since birth. Born and raised in Teulon, Manitoba. Wes played every sport, and became a vibrant part of his community life in every way, whether it was school events, peers, sports, neighbours, reffing or coaching. Wes’s working career began at Canadian Tire, moving later to Oak Hammock Marsh where he became an expert on all birds, a knowledge which he insisted on sharing! He spent enjoyable time working respite, within the community which he thoroughly enjoyed. These invaluable relationships led him to begin working at Balmoral School and Stonewall Collegiate, where he made many friends and lasting impressions with the students. The past 15 years Wes had settled in to a happy career with Manitoba Hydro where he made many friends.
Wes’s passion was his love of sports. Throughout his school years he won many athletic awards, and carried on his competitive passion for the game of hockey into his adolescence becoming well known for his “golden gloves” as a leading goal scorer. He was branded by a local radio station out of Thompson, Manitoba a “killerbee”, a name which Wes has carried throughout his life, regardless of the sport! This name has now jumped a generation, and his son Easton proudly answers to this nickname in his own sports! He began his coaching career with his Dad, at the young age of 16, and continuing throughout the years, until he had the ultimate pleasure of coaching his own kids.
Wes initially met J’aime at the Stonewall Arena, and was able to coax her into a first date at Boston Pizza. They have spent an amazing 16 years together ever since.
Wes was a man totally devoted to family and community. He volunteered on multiple boards, always giving back to his community. The amount of volunteer hours he dedicated is too many to count.
Wes treated everyone with respect and kindness, always offering a smile at every encounter. He had an infectious laugh, which he shared very willingly, always putting others before himself. He was an honourable man with a loving soul, with so much more to give.
To celebrate Wes’s life, there will be a gathering at the Stonewall Veterans Memorial Sports Complex on Thursday, May 18th at 2:00 pm. Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team jersey, and carry along their favorite Yeti, in honour of Wes’s love of sport.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation.
In closing, the family would like to thank many people. First and foremost, Dr. Banerji and his team from HSC for providing Wes amazing care, as well as the wonderful nursing staff, especially Wes’s favorite, Nurse May. We are beyond grateful for the support over the last 6 months from community, family, and friends. This includes the many meals, rides, visits, phone calls, and donations. A special thanks to the Stonewall and Teulon Minor Hockey Boards and organizers for the fundraisers in Wes’s honour. Thank you to the many people who attended and donated. We are forever grateful.
We would like to share Wes’s favourite quote in life…
“Good things happen to good people”
…something we can all strive for….
Comments
J’aime , this a beautiful tribute to Wes ! May your memories bring peace and comfort to you in the days and months ahead and forever❤️ You, Easton and Tamsen are forever in my thoughts.XO Kelly Reilly
Kelly Reilly
I would like to extend my most heartfelt condolences to wes's family. I grew up with wes and although we weren't the closest, our families were not strangers. I cared about him as he was someone who is in a lot of my childhood memories. He always had the warmest smile and was full of charisma. He was adored and respected by everyone in our class. It doesn't seem fair that he was handed a battle that he really didn't have a chance at winning and I can't imagine what he went through mentally from the time of his diagnosis to his passing. I am just so sorry that he wasn't able to be saved. Rest in peace Wes.
Melissa S
Tom and Carol, our deepest condolences to you and the entire Killbery clan for the loss of your dear Wes. Our hearts are with you in this impossible time.
Caleigh Christie and the FTR Family
It's with deep hearts and very sincere condolences.
Trevor Larkin
I’m so sad to hear about the passing of Wes. He was a grade below me in school in Teulon and we got to know each other when we both got involved in various sports. He was always wearing a smile and made everyone around him feel comfortable and appreciated. It sounds like he made a wonderful life for himself and I hope his legacy will live on through his children and loved ones. Cherish the wonderful memories you have of him. Thinking of all of the Killberry family during this difficult time.
Lisa Pollio (formerly Bodnarus)
Tom, Carol and family, we are so sorry to hear about the loss of Wes. As the years pass may the wonderful memories you hold dear of Wes bring you peace and joy. Memory Eternal.
Donald and Sandra Solar
Tom and Carol, I am So sorry to hear of your son’s passing. I wish I had words to console you but I hope you can draw strength from the love and compassion offered by those who love you. There is no greater loss than to loose a child no matter how old. I am send you my hugs and compasssion.
Jo-Anne McNeil
We are sorry to hear about Wes' passing. A life too short. Our thoughts are with the families and hope that your special memories will bring some comfort to help you through this difficult journey.
Sylvia and Marcel Labelle
To Tom and Carol and all of Wes family, We are so terribly sorry for your loss Wes was such a friendly person and will always be remembered fondly Rosemarie,Roger, Michael and David Maksymchuk
Rosemarie Maksymchuk
Condolences to all of Wes s family. He was certainly a great person from playing sports to a high level to coaching and then to take on refereeing hockey. He will be missed by all his family and friends. Rest in peace Wes. Sandy Prise
Sandy Prise
Our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Wes’s family. What a tremendous loss. Such fond memories we have of him and his family. He was a outstanding athlete and competitor.
Benjamin Szymkow & Family
Please accept my heart felt condolences to all the family. So sad to hear the loss of Wes at such an young age. You are all in my thoughts. Sending hugs you you all!
Phyllis Wolfe
Our condolences to Wes's family, and friends. May you rest in peace. Went too young.
Vic and Maureen Medwid
Our hearts are truly with all of Wes’s loved ones♥️. As you grieve this incredible loss, we hope that your hearts are comforted by the many treasured memories you have shared together. Sending so much love and many warm hugs♥️.
Ty and Kelly
Our deepest condolences to all of the family and friends of Wes. J’aime, cherish your many memories! RIP Wes. ❤️❤️
Miles and Brenda Tarrant
He was one of a kind. Condolences to all the family. 💔
Rosalie Gower Baldwin
There are no words that we could say too express how sad and sorry Vicky and I (Ron)are for the loss of a wonderful young man.Our hearts and thoughts are with Tom and Carol and Wes’s wife and children.Wes was outstanding young man and he will be sorely missed.All our love 💕 Ron and Vicky
Ron Longley
Wes always greeted us with a smile and was always uplifting to be around. It was a pleasure to know him. We’ll Miss him. ❤️
Ryan and Keri & famoly
It’s hard for words to describe the loss of such a genuine person. I knew Wes from childhood and high school, we shared the same birthday September 2, 1982. He made the childhood days fun and memorable. I didn’t know him through to adulthood but I am not surprised by his love to his family and his kids. He was a fun character and always cared for his loved ones first. Last time we ran into each other was 5 years ago on the ice when he was referring! and he still had that ear-to-ear smile with such joy in his face. My sincere condolences n prayers to his wife n kids , and his parents and sister. Life was too short for you , but Heaven has gained an angel 🙏🪽❤️ Fille Buors
Fille Buors
Billy and I would like send our thoughts, prayers and love to all of you during this difficult time. ❤️
Shelley and Billy Cookson
The last time I saw Wes he was still a little fella living at home. I can still picture his wee face that always sported a huge smile. J’aime, sending big healing hugs to you and your children, I have never met you but have so appreciated your strength and your journaling. Thank you. Deepest condolences to all of Wes’s family. ❤️🙏🏼
Lenore Chartrand
We can not even begin to say how heartsick we are for your loss. We are thankful to have been able to know your amazing Son, Husband, Father, Brother, and all family roles as well as Coach to so many and friend and just sincerely kind and warm-hearted young man. There are no words so please accept our love and prayers and support. Joel, Kelly, Erin, Brett, and Penny ( and families)
Joel Campbell
Tom, Carol, j’aime and the children and Jill and the rest of the family, our deepest condolences on the loss of an amazing guy. Wes always had a wonderful smile and always said Hi. He was my sons coach with his Dad and those were such great years. Our heart breaks for this huge loss to our world. Sending love and strength during this difficult time. Rest easy, Wes you are pain free.
Brian and Donna Hornick
We are so saddened to hear of Wes’ passing. To the entire Killbery family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Janis and Bob Davies
We are heart broken for your loss. Wes was an amazing person in all aspects and he will be deeply missed. He always had a smile and hello every time we saw him over the years. Thinking of both families ❤️ RIP Wes
Christy & Ryan Persoage
So incredibly sorry for your loss. Although I didn’t know Wes very well. He was always friendly, kind and was sure to ask me how the family and I were doing whenever we’d pass each other on walks or around town. Peace and love to you all. Rest easy Wes.
Bekki Stemp & Jason Moscall
My condolences to Carol, Tom and all the family. I knew Wes as a young boy when we lived in Teulon. Incredibly devastating for the family.
Rhonda Mc
Our deepest condolences to you, your children, Tom and Carol and to the rest of the families. Rest in peace Wes.
Vivian and Gerry Cook
Our deepest condolences to both Killbery families. Losing a son is unnatural and our deepest condolences are offered to Tom and Carol during this time. Greeting others with a smile is something Wes learned from Mom and offering a helping hand from Dad. ♥️ To J’aime and the children words can not offer enough comfort or support, but we will be here for whatever you may need. Wes will be remembered fondly. 🐝 ❤️ The Ollson Family xoxo
The Ollsons
Words alone can never match the beauty of a soul lost…. He will be remembered as he was, strong and loving. We will all miss his presence! Our condolences to all the family..
Susan and Terry Muth
J’amie, Following Wes’s story the past 6 months shows the world how strong you both are. Even running into you guys one would have never know what he was challenging. Your love story will continue on forever. Don’t forget that. Words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. Sending you hugs and all my love and support. 💔❤️
Tina Mudge
To Tom and Carol and families , our deepest sympathies. We remember Wes as a coach for Ty and Travis and a mentor ref to Eric. He was a great roll model and leader. Our hearts break for your loss.
Valerie and Rem Weiss
Beautiful write up, J’aime. Gonna miss you dearly, Wes. ❤️🐝
Ryan DeLong
I didn’t really know Wes well but through J’aimes journals I have learned what an amazing man he was. He will be truly missed by so so many people. RIP Wes. Love to all the family. ❤️❤️❤️
Lorraine Price
When a thousand people come together to help a family, you know the community will feel the loss of an outstanding person. We were blessed to have been a part of the extended family and will miss your kindness, humour, and friendship. RIP dear Wes. Much love to all the family❤
Jerry and Doreen
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