Wojcik's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium - Obituaries

Donald George Watts

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 09:02:30

DONALD GEORGE WATTS APR 12 1941 - JUNE 26 2026

On a beautiful sunny Friday afternoon at the age of 85, Don took his last breaths in the loving presence of his beloved daughter Dona. Don was predeceased by his mother Jean Davis (née Dope), and siblings Bob and Barbara. Left to cherish his memory, his twin sister Diane and brother Raymond, daughter Dona (Dave), beloved granddaughters Samantha and Hope, many nieces and nephews, including Tony, Karen, Nancy (Mark), and Toni. Born prematurely in 1941 in Etonia, Saskatchewan, the twins were not expected to survive, but they beat all the odds. Don spent his early childhood years in Saskatchewan and Toronto. His family then settled in Winnipeg. Don left school early to go work on the family farm in Saskatchewan. It was there he discovered welding with his mentor and father figure Grandpa Watts. Don became a highly skilled iron worker welder and worked with Dominion Bridge and Local 728. He loved his work and took great pride in the projects he was a part of- most notably the construction of the tallest skyscraper in Winnipeg for many years - The Richardson building, completed in 1969. Don made many friends through work and met his lifelong buddy Danny. They always had each other’s backs professionally and personally. They enjoyed fishing trips and supporting the Wpg Blue Bombers and the Jets together. Danny remained a true friend and constant support to Don to the very end. A true nature, wildlife and animal lover he lived his best life when outdoors. Fishing with friends was his biggest lifelong passion. Fresh cooked Pickerel and potato salad was his perfect meal - Just add a beer and a game of crib! Camping and travelling with the Boler and horseback riding are some of the best childhood memories with Dad. Don would definitely tell you to take all the road trips and “don’t hit the rhubarb!” Lake, river, ocean or pool, Don loved being in or on the water and was an excellent swimmer. Grandpa was always a tree climber and put the backyard swing high up in the old elm tree for his granddaughters when he was well into his sixties. He was so fun and spontaneous with kids. After retirement and a successful open heart surgery, Don always said life began after 60! A fun loving and adventurous spirit, he liked to travel whether near or far and made it to many great destinations in the US, Caribbean, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Egypt. He enjoyed cruises with new friends later in life and was always up for new experiences. Don had a smile that could light up the room and he loved to laugh. He had a natural gift for connecting with people and made friends easily. He touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity and unmistakable sense of humour. He didn’t know he was a teacher and a wise soul in his own right, but he shared many beautiful life lessons by just being his authentic and genuine self. We take comfort in knowing his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he instilled and the countless acts of kindness he offered so freely. Dad taught me to live a life rich in friendships, to go play out in the rain and to catch all the rainbows. He offered the opportunity to take chances, make mistakes and move on. Don was living proof that you can get through anything. You have to keep your head up and just keep going. Over the past several years he faced many health challenges and hospitalizations. He was a true medical miracle proving to be tough and resilient to the very end. He just never gave up. In his declining health he continued to face each day with kindness and optimism. Thank you to the 3rd floor team of doctors and the amazing nurses and health care aides at Oakview Place for Don’s care and residency this past year. Your work is tireless and difficult. Don liked to keep it simple. As per his wishes he will be cremated and we will honour his life with a private family gathering. If it calls to you to spread goodness like Don did, please consider a donation to: Heart and Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada or any animal or wildlife rescues and shelters or a cause close to your own heart.

“Over and out” You are Forever Loved and Remembered Dad, Grandpa, Don xo

Stanley Leonard Ostap

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 14:29:07

STANLEY LEONARD OSTAP

Stan passed away at 10:35pm on Thursday June 25th, 2026 peacefully after last seeing, at his bedside that evening, his brother Bill, nephew Gordon, aunt Mary, first cousin Roz (Nick) and Christine. He passed away at the age of 81 from pancreatic cancer and failing liver after being admitted to Grace Hospital on Friday, June 19th. He is survived by his brother William Alexander Ostap, nephew Gordon William Ostap (Susana), niece Jackie Lynn Ostap (her daughters Emma, Olivia and Lily) all from Montreal, aunt Mary Pearson, first cousins Roz Rigas (Nick) grand nieces Alexa and Madison, Christine Krawetz (Tom) grand nephews Tyler, Daniel and Adam as well as first cousins Karen Lysenko (Fred), Debbie Kammerlock (Rob), Ron Kammerock, Gary Kammerlock, Irwin Kumka (Karen), Norman Kumka, David Kumka, Murial Waterman (Terry), Jimmy Houldsworth and Bill Germak all from Winnipeg. Stan was born on October 5, 1945 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to William and Anne Ostap (nee Kumka). He graduated from the University of Manitoba in the late 1960’s and pursued a career in architecture. He had the musical gene of the family and played the drums and guitar earlier in life and loved to listen to classical music. Stan loved sports and in particular baseball. Throughout his life he lived in Winnipeg, Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver, Minneapolis and Phoenix. He was a simple, spiritual and solemn man who loved God and did not believe in material possessions. He was kind and generous to those around him and always a good listener. Stan’s wishes are to be buried as near as possible to his parents and grandparents at Brookside Cemetery. His burial will take place at Brookside Cemetery after July 10th, a closed private ceremony. Special thanks to the wonderful care received by the Grace Hospital staff. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) are appreciated.

Isabel Mary Betz ((nee Barker))

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:11:50

Isabel Mary Betz (neé Barker)

20 January, 1935 — 22 June, 2026

Isabel Betz passed away at the age of 91 years in hospital surrounded by the love of her family. She is predeceased by her husband Bill and is survived by her daughter Michele (Thomas) Lepp, and her sons Mark (Katy Gardner), Vaughn (Corinne Wolfe-Betz), Patrick (Karen), and Grant (Tracy). She also leaves her beloved grandchildren Erin (Stephen Radford), Heather (Bily Brown), and Christian (Mackenzie Gray) Lepp; Victoria, Katherine, Emily, Tierney, Teighyn, Brodie, Avery, and Tye Betz; and numerous nieces and nephews. Isabel was born in Glenboro, MB, to parents Ernest and Alice Barker (neé Young), the youngest of five children, all by whom she is predeceased: Jack, Gerald, Donald, and Shirl (Neilsen). “Babe,” as she was affectionately known to her family, had a happy childhood and adolescence on the family farm and developed, owing to the one-room school’s piano, a love of music and of that instrument that was an abiding feature of her life. She enjoyed playing in old-time bands from her teenage years through her early 20s, and later in life rejoined some for reunions. After completing her certificate at Manitoba Teachers’ College, Isabel initially taught at schools in rural Manitoba before moving to Winnipeg to join staff at Linwood School in St. James. It was at Linwood that Isabel and Bill, also a teacher, met and courted; they married in 1961 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Winnipeg, where they remained parishioners for the next 60+ years. Upon starting a family in 1964, Isabel took a break from teaching to become a full-time homemaker but remained in education—after many years of night classes she completed and graduated with her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Winnipeg in 1985. She had by that time resumed being an educator, first as a substitute teacher at Strathmillan before moving to part-time and then full-time teaching at a number of elementary schools in St. James Assiniboia School Division No. 2. Her teaching career was celebrated upon her retirement in 1995, the same year she and Bill acquired a modest second residence in Donna, Texas, which they made their own for a decade of wonderful winters there. The purchase of acreage and the building of a beautiful home in Headingley, MB, in 2006 was another dream fulfilled, and they were blessed with 15 happy years living there close to children, in-laws, and grandchildren. The small cottage at Granite Lake, ON, that Isabel and Bill bought in 1974 led to countless family summers (and some Christmases) spent there among close friends and neighbors, joyous times difficult to overstate. Isabel enjoyed several leisure pursuits, including curling and golf, though her passion remained music. Her treasured Heintzman upright piano was the centrepiece of every family living room, and in retirement she volunteered her playing (and singing) talents regularly for many years at Winnipeg care homes, including Golden West, Charleswood, and Oakview. The pillars of Isabel’s musical life were faith, duty, fun, and love of family and friends. She will be remembered and missed by all those she knew and touched during her life. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life and Funeral Mass will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church on Wednesday, 29 July, 2026, at 10:30am. A special thank you to all the staff at Golden West Centennial Lodge and to her cherished Comfort Keepers “companions” for the care, compassion, and kindness they gave to Isabel in her final years. In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring Isabel’s memory with a donation to Siloam Mission, Winnipeg.

Terry Roger Thurston

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:12:49

TERRY ROGER THURSTON

Terry Roger Thurston, age 77, of Winnipeg, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Health Sciences Centre. Born on May 13, 1949 in Picton, Ontario, Terry will be remembered as a good friend and a devoted lover of animals. He spent more than 32 years working as a courier with Purolator before retiring in 2021. Donations in Terry’s memory may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society.

William Fredrick Hanson

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 12:08:05

WILLIAM "BILL" FREDRICK HANSON

William Fredrick Hanson passed away peacefully with family by his side at Health Sciences Centre on June 20, 2026 at the age of 79. He is predeceased by his wife Patricia, parents Mary and William and brother Drew. He is survived by his daughter Kerri-Lyn (Kevin) Szwaluk and two grandchildren Jordyn and Jacob. William also has three surviving sisters, Diane (Zane) Kutny, Donna Hanson (Duncan French), Cheryl (Chris) Meger and one brother, Gary Hanson (Lynn Gillson). He is also remembered by his many nieces and nephews and close friends. William was born in Winnipeg and where he met his future wife Pat. He started his career as a sales representative for Johnson Wax and Union Carbide and eventually decided to start his own company, Hanson Sales Agency Ltd. William continued on as a sales representative for many different outdoor and sporting goods companies until 2020 when he was diagnosed with dementia and spent the last six years of his life at Holy Family Home. When he wasn’t working, William enjoyed many rounds of golf and fishing excursions with his close friends. We would like to thank the staff at Holy Family Home on St. Luke’s Unit who looked after dad and were amazing to him even during difficult times as well as the doctors and nurses at Health Sciences Center who provided care and dignity to dad during his final days. As per dad’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Rest in peace dad - you and mom are together again.

Wojcik’s FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM 2157 PORTAGE AVENUE 204 – 897 - 4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com

Catherine Janet Young ((nee Roberts))

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:11:45

CATHERINE JANET YOUNG (Nee ROBERTS)

It is with great sadness that we announce that Catherine passed away peacefully, with family and her friend Rae by her side, on June 19, 2026, at Extendicare Oakview Place in Winnipeg. Catherine was born on Dec 14, 1939 and will be deeply missed by her son Bill (Linda), daughters Laurie (Steve) and Cathy; grandsons Justin, Bryce (Kayla), Shohn (Kerry), Jeff (Krissy), sister Eleanor, nieces Sue, Heather and Nancy, nephews David, Bruce, John and Andrew as well as her best friend Rae (Ed) as well as great grandchildren and special friends, She was predeceased by her parents Laurance (1953) and Ada (1987), husband Alan (2011) son Gordon (2001), sister Shirley (2018) and oldest niece Judy (2023). Cathy was born in 1939 and other than years spent in Toronto, spent her life in Winnipeg growing up in the Norwood area before settling in the St. James area of the city. She worked for the Manitoba government before meeting her husband Alan, they were married in 1965, and in 1968 she settled down to become a fulltime Mom. She spent the majority of her life giving back by volunteering for the Heart & Lung Association, delivering Meals on Wheels or in the Gift Shop at Deer Lodge Centre where her son Gordon lived and where she met her best friend, Rae Patts. Moms’ greatest enjoyment earlier in her life was singing in the church choir at St James Anglican Church and later with the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir in the 1980’s which was one of her greatest and proudest achievements. She was a Blue Jays fan and loved going to Goldeyes games with Alan. She enjoyed socializing with her “Couples Club” friends as well as Sunday dinners and piano duets with family where they rarely finished a song due to laughing so hard. Mom was famously “bad” at playing checkers with the grandkids and was a proud supplier of 3 Musketeer bars after her Grandsons hockey games. Mom will be known for her deep caring ways, worrying about others, her natural ability to put others needs above her own and her generally positive way of thinking. One of her favourite sayings was, “Things will always work out in the end” and she’s right because now she’s with the true love of her life, Alan, who she so deeply missed these past 15 years. In keeping with Catherine’s wishes, a quiet family and close friends gathering will happen at a later date. There are many to thank but especially the staff of the 2nd floor at Oakview Place who always treated Mom with the respect and dignity she deserved and her best friend Rae who always went out of her way to ensure Mom was able to celebrate every holiday, by decorating her room and visiting regularly. Donations may be made, in Catherine’s memory, to the Animal charity of your choice.

Shelley Adele Spokes ((nee Anderson))

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:37:48

SHELLEY ADELE SPOKES (NEE ANDERSON) June 17, 1951 – June 18, 2026

The most special woman in the world, my wife Shelley Spokes, has passed away. I loved her with all my heart. Shelley was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2020. She moved into the Deer Lodge Centre on June 26, 2024 where she passed away June 18, 2026 following a recent cancer reoccurrence. Left to cherish Shelley’s memory are her husband Ray, daughter Kristy, son Glen, daughter-in-law Whitney, Shelley’s six precious grandchildren ages 7 to 17, sister Pamela (Anderson) Paseska and brother Russel. Dancing played a very important role in Shelley’s life. At age three, she started participating in organized dance at the McConnell’s School of Dance. She continued to be very involved in various styles of dance for about 25 years with her passion being Irish dance. This included performing with her dance group at the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympics, dancing at the Irish Pavilion during Folklorama and traveling with her dance group throughout Canada and the U.S.A. With a Swedish family heritage, Shelley and her family were quite involved with the Swedish Pavillion during Folklorama. She represented the pavilion one year as Miss Sweden. Ten pin bowling was a favorite activity of hers. Shelley bowled for many years at the La Verendrye Lanes and Chateau Lanes until she had to stop due to the dementia. Our family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Deer Lodge Centre – Dementia Unit for their compassionate and attentive care. The staff made Shelley’s life in her new home as comfortable as possible and for that we are profoundly thankful.

Donald William (Dusty) Miller

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:31:11

DONALD WILLIAM (DUSTY) MILLER

1933 - 2026

Dusty passed after a brief stay in the Grace Hospital on Thursday, June 18, 2026. Left to cherish his memory are Linda his wife of 64 years, son Don (Laurene), daughter Karen Craig, grandchildren; Jason, Kurtis, Brad (Hailey), Taylor (Jesse), great grandchildren; Kaden, Khloe, Issac, Olive and Cash. He was predeceased by his parents Wentworth C. Miller and Almina C. Miller (nee Higgs), youngest daughter Heather, sisters Barbara MacKay of Peterborough, ON and Joan Newcomb of Portland, ME. Dusty was born in Windsor, Nova Scotia on October 12, 1933. He was raised there and in Hantsport, NS. He served in the RCAF/CAF from 1956 – 1985. Stationed at RCAF Sea Island (Vancouver), CFB Cold Lake, AB, CFB Uplands, Ottawa, CFB Winnipeg 402 Squadron, Reserves 402 sgr. From 1985 – 1989 and the Commissionaires from 1986 – 2007. He enjoyed life. Family, golf, his coffee crew at Tim’s, the Jets and Bombers. Thanks to the Winnipeg Paramedics and the staff at 3 North Grace Hospital. If so desired donations in his memory can be made to the Grace Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice. No flowers please.

Don’t be dismayed at good byes

A farewell is necessary

Before you can meet again

And meeting again

After moments or life times,

Is certain for those

Who are friends.

From Illusions by Richard Bach

Ronald Henry Morley

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:14:11

Ron Morley Jan 3, 1940 - June 13, 2026

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Ronald Morley after a long full life. He passed away peacefully at the age of 86 in the Selkirk Hospital. He was predeceased by: his wife Lois and his parents; Ronald & Edna Morley. He is survived by his Sons; David (Tania) & Rick, Daughter Wendy (David) and Grandchildren Faith & Sloan. He was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He moved to Lac du Bonnet, Mb. where he enjoyed his retirement. He enjoyed repairing small engines, for all his neighbours and friends at the lake. He will be remembered by family and friends. In keeping with Ron’s wishes a cremation has taken place. We are forever grateful to the exceptional caring professional staff of the Pinawa Hospital & Selkirk Hospital for their care and compassion.

Kenneth Murray Thomson

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:40:49

In Loving Memory of

KENNETH MURRAY THOMSON

Ken Thomson beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away June 11, 2026, at the age of 54 after a courageous battle with Squamish cell carcinoma . Ken was born October 11,1971, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Ken lived a life defined by love, laughter, and dedication, and kindness. For nearly 30 years, Ken worked at Windsor Plywood, earning the respect of colleagues and friends through his strong work ethic and unwavering commitment. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found great joy in fishing, spending time with his beloved dogs, and enjoying the peaceful beauty of Pedder Bay. A devoted fan of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Ken’s passion for the team was evident at every game he attended. Whether cheering from the stands, sharing stories with family, or enjoying time in nature he brought warmth and enthusiasm to those around him. Ken leaves behind his loving wife, Marcie, his children, Nicholas, Piper, Courtney, Kaitlin, and Kenadi, sisters Tracy and Heather, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Though is presence will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Forever loved, Always Missed, Never Forgotten.

Claire Marie Anne Rita Nault ((nee Legal))

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:49:58

CLAIRE MARIE ANNE RITA NAULT (NEE LEGAL)

It is with great sadness that the family of Claire Marie Anne Rita Nault (née Legal), beloved Mother, Mémère, grand-Mémère, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, friend; announce her peaceful passing at Actionmarguerite St. Boniface on June 10, 2026, at the age of 94 years. Mom was born on March 25, 1932, in Ste. Geneviève, Manitoba, the fifth of fifteen children. She grew up on a farm where she had to complete her chores before walking to school. This instilled in her a strong work ethic which she kept for the remainder of her life. Mom met the love of her life, Aurèle, at the young age of 17 during a social where Dad and his brothers were the musicians. They were married shortly after this first encounter and this loving union lasted for 70 years until Dad passed. They built their first home on the Nault farm in Richer, Manitoba. The first six children were born there and the seventh was born in Pine Falls where the family relocated for work. Mom spent countless hours sewing and ironing clothes for her children. When the children were older Mom took the odd job as a cook at several local restaurants, one of where she worked with three of her daughters, and later as a chambermaid. Mom loved shopping, snowmobiling, playing cards, puzzles, knitting, reading, watching her soaps and later in life playing games on her iPad. She enjoyed traveling with her siblings and with her children. She and Dad spent several winters in Port Alberni. Her favourite trip was when she and all her daughters got together in Osoyoos. She also loved her annual weekend getaway with her sisters. Her favourite holiday was Christmas and she’d spend days baking and cooking the feast for the Christmas réveillon. Her greatest love of life was family and she loved to laugh with us. One of her favourite pastimes was spending time at her second home camping with Dad in Stonewall. After Dad passed her daughters would take turns spending weeks with her at the camper. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy and she often shared funny stories and silly things that they had said. Once she entered the nursing home, she enjoyed playing bingo and doing crafts. She loved her visits with her extended family and enjoyed going out for lunch or having lunch brought in as a special treat. Mom is lovingly remembered by her children Denise Catellier, Maurice, Laurette (Orland) Bordal, Jeannine (Bill) Lavallee, Suzanne (Bill) Rodger, Claude (Shelley), Nicole (Geoff) Bell. She will also be fondly remembered by 21 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren; her siblings Marie-Rose, Lucienne (Frank), Jean, and Gilberte (Lee); in-laws Roger, Irma, Gladys, Philip and Louise; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Mom was predeceased by her husband Aurèle in 2020; her parents Henri and Marie-Anne; brothers George, Louis, Francois, Michel, Claude, Paul, and Gerard; sisters Germaine, Yvonne and Celine and numerous in-laws. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 27 at 10:00 a.m., Christ the King Catholic Church, 315 Second Street East, Stonewall, MB. Interment to follow at 1:00 p.m., L’Enfant Jesus Cemetery, Richer MB. A reception will be held after interment at the Richer Community Hall. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the staff at Actionmarguerite, St. Boniface for the care and attention provided to our dear Mother.

Elaine Gwen Philippot

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:34:52

ELAINE PHILIPPOT

Following a brief illness, Elaine Philippot (nee Fridfinnson) went to be with her Lord & Saviour on June 10, 2026, aged 77, at Saint Boniface Hospital. Elaine is survived, and lovingly remembered, by her daughter Andrea (Rob), birth son Brent Duczek; grandchildren Hunter and Kyle; brother Lloyd (Monica); sisters in-law Denise (Abe), Jeanne (Dave); as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Elaine was predeceased by her parents Lilian and Andres Fridfinnson, husband Gerald, sister Sandra McIntyre (Brian), brother-in-law Andre, and sister in-law Margaret. Elaine's first home was "in the north" at Long Lake Manitoba, where her father worked at a gold mine. Concerns about healthcare accessibility in this beautiful forested community caused the family of three to relocate to Winnipeg. Elaine grew-up in the neighbourhood of Elmwood and often fondly recounted memories of time spent with family and friends there and elsewhere. Leaving school early to pursue employment, Elaine ultimately completed her high school equivalency and always sought to better herself. Work life included time as support staff at what is now the Selkirk Mental Health Centre, as well as working as a healthcare companion in later years. In 1974 Elaine met the love of her life Gerald (Gerry) at the Airliner Inn in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They courted for three months and were married in September 1974. Five years later, their daughter Andrea was born. Elaine’s joyful times included spinning records and dancing in the family living room as a teenager. The resident family historian, Elaine was the trusted keeper of the Fridfinnson family history, often filling-in otherwise forgotten blanks. Elaine was an avid animal lover who had many pets of her own, as well as a deep affection for all animals. Overcoming challenges, Elaine was sober for the last 42 years of her life and successfully quit smoking soon after. Although she welcomed the company of others, Elaine enjoyed time alone and was often content with paint-by-number afternoons, word searches, and TV crime shows. The family wishes to extend thanks to Park Manor Care Home who became Elaine’s second family over the eight years spent there. Also to Saint Boniface Hospital emergency, fourth floor and fifth floor for all the care and compassion shown to Elaine in her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Service to be held at Park City Gospel Church, 751 Kildare Ave. E., in Winnipeg. Saturday, June 27 2026 at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at the church.