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LEARMONTH: With deep feelings of sorrow, we said goodbye to our dearly loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Ellen Marie Learmonth on Thursday, June 8, 2006, at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. Ellen will be missed by her husband, George, her son, Anthony and his wife, Christine, grandchildren, Carolyn and Ross, brother, Robert and his wife Cory and nieces, Sheila and Joan. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews and cousins in her immediate and extended family. She was predeceased by her father (1955), her mother (2006) and her daughter and best friend, Linda (1995). Ellen was born to Mary and Parker Jackson on December 5, 1928, in the Brandon General Hospital. She and her mother travelled by train to return to their farm home north of Boissevain ~ a very cold trip in those days. She received her early years education, Grades I to IX at Brownlea, a rural school, and then went to Boissevain Collegiate for Grades X and XI. Grade XII was taken at Brandon University. Throughout her educational years, only one thought was uppermost in her mind ~ how to prepare for becoming a teacher. She never felt isolated on the farm as long as she had an interesting supply of books around her. In 1945, the family moved to Brandon. After completing Grade XII, Ellen took a six week permit teaching course and taught at Powerville School, north of Brandon. The friendship and respect shown by the parents and students alike made it clear to her that this was her vocation. She knew that she needed more training, so she took her Teacher Training in Winnipeg. In 1948, upon graduation, Ellen returned to Powerville School where she taught for another year. In 1949, Ellen married George Learmonth and they moved to the Hunter School District. She continued with university classes until she graduated with a B.A. and B.Ed. When some of the small rural schools consolidated, Ellen began teaching at Forrest Elementary School, where she later became Principal, until she retired in 1984. Ellen was keenly interested in 4-H activities and took an active part as leader of various projects. After she retired, she travelled to many horse shows with George, while he showed their Clydesdale horses. She worked for the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba for four years and took courses in Income Tax Preparation, working during the busy season. Ellen also found time to enjoy crafts, sewing, knitting and crocheting and took part in a great number of shows and displays, proudly taking home many ribbons and trophies. She had a quiet sense of humour but you knew it was always there. Whenever anyone called in at the farm home, there would always be a cup of tea or coffee and a freshly baked treat. Ellen was a member of Central United Church where she taught Sunday School and took part in many church activities when her children were small. She also belonged to the Kirkham Bridge Women’s Institute and the Hunter Ladies Club where she was still a member at the time of her passing. Ellen considered it a great privilege and pleasure to have had the opportunity to contribute to the lives of so many young people who showed such respect and eagerness to play a very important role in our society. Her family considered it a great privilege and pleasure to have had Ellen as a wife, mother and grandmother. She will be forever in our hearts. During a private family service, Ellen’s cremated remains will be placed in the family plot at the Brandon Cemetery.
LOWE, Dwayne Gordon: With great sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband and father on September 27, 2007 at Swan River, MB. Dwayne was born to Gordon and Deanna Lowe at Minnedosa on August 19, 1961. He spent his early years in Basswood and Souris where he received his education. After working at the family Tire shop with his father for several years Dwayne moved to Winnipeg to further his education. Dwayne married Julie Jackson of Souris in 1986 and Julie and Dwayne lived and worked in Winnipeg for several years. After their sons Riley and Jackson were both born in Winnipeg, they made the decision to move to Brandon to raise their family. Dwayne worked at several jobs until 1998 when they purchased Westman Tree Service. He enjoyed being his own boss and working outdoors despite the Manitoba weather. Dwayne leaves to mourn his beloved wife Julie, sons Riley and Jackson, father Gordon Lowe of Souris, brother Rodney Lowe of Gillam (Gladys), sisters Debbie Shields (Mike) of Winnipeg and Donna Scott of Souris, Julie’s parents Don and Donna Jackson and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Deanna in 1991. Dwayne loved the outdoors and spent most of his life either working or playing there. He had fond memories of camping trips near and far with his parents and siblings and then later enjoyed taking his own sons camping. He loved spending time at his cabin at Sandy Lake and could often be seen casting a line on his dock. His passions were music and cars and he liked them both loud. He was finally able to obtain his dream car in 2006, a 1966 Pontiac GTO. He had a soft spot for animals and his dog Eddie was the apple of his eye. His easy ways helped to form many friendships over the years and his friends will greatly miss him. In recent years Dwayne enjoyed several trips to warm destinations to spend quality time with friends. A Service of Remembrance was held at Central United Church on October 2, 2007. Interment was at Rosewood Memorial Gardens Columbarium. If friends so desire donations can be made to Brandon Riverbank Commemorative Arbor Trail, #1-545 Conservation Drive, Brandon, MB, R7A 7L8 or the Brandon Humane Society, 2200-17th Street East, Brandon, MB, R7A 7M6.
"Seek peace, and pursue it." (Proverbs 34:14)
LONG: Benjamin "Benny" Percy Long of Brandon passed away peacefully at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Saturday, September 29, 2007 at the age of 71 years. Benny was born on September 10, 1936 in Brandon and resided there his entire life. He worked for the Brandon Cemetery for many years and preferred to live a simple life. Benny is survived by two sons, Charles Long and Donald Long; sisters Pearl McLean and Rose Hewko; brother Bob Long; grandson Zachary Long and nephew, Rob Long. A time of visitation will be held at Brockie Donovan Funeral Home, 332-8th Street, on Wednesday, October 3, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. A Graveside Service will be held at the Brandon Cemetery (Section 45), on Friday, October 5, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. with Mr. Lawrence McInnes, Brockie Donovan Funeral Celebrant, officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Benny may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 727B-10th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 4G7.
LESHCHYSHYN: Jessie Rose Leshchyshyn (nee Komaransky) of Shoal Lake, Manitoba passed away peacefully at the Morley House Personal Care Home at the age of 101 years. Jessie was born at Olha, Manitoba on February 11, 1906, the fourth child of 16, to Ukrainian pioneers, William and Magda Komaransky. Jessie’s childhood was spent on the farm near Olha, Manitoba in a two room house happily filled with siblings and many relatives. Jessie spent her early years as a domestic aide for several families in the Olha area. She married Nichola Leshchyshyn on August 9, 1925. They made their home in Shoal Lake, Manitoba. She was blessed with four children, Mike, Steve, Harry, and Margaret. While living in Shoal Lake, Jessie worked as a housekeeper at the Lakeview Hotel and was well known throughout the community as a gifted seamstress. In 1946, she left Shoal Lake and moved to Kelloe to start a new life with Mike Kowalinski. Together they farmed in Kelloe until Mike’s passing in September 1963. She remained on her farm with her son, Harry, daughter-in-law, Christine, and their family until her 100th year. In July 2006, she moved to the Morley House Personal Care Home in Shoal Lake where she resided until her passing. Jessie was a hard worker who enjoyed her life at Shoal Lake and Kelloe. Jessie was well known for her excellent cooking, sewing and knitting skills. Her woollen socks were lovingly called "Baba socks." Baba took pleasure in her flower gardens and providing for her family from the large garden she planted every spring. She had the ability to bring houseplants back to life from a single stem and leaf to a thriving houseplant. She welcomed everyone and anyone into her home with a hearty meal and a warm, friendly smile. Baba was a sounding board and confidant for her family and she taught us all to treat everyone with respect, integrity, compassion and understanding. Early in her life, Baba became and stayed a devout Ukrainian Catholic instilling these beliefs in her family. Baba enjoyed sharing stories of people and events of her past. Baba remembered the first car arriving in Shoal Lake. She often spoke of her life, the hardships and the good times shared with her family and friends. Her son Steve remembers Mom always having hot chocolate for the kids after skating. Baba never thought of herself as old – to her age was just a number. Baba always told Rodney that she was going to live to be a 100 and she surpassed that. She taught us that you don’t have to have money to be rich, family and friends are much more valuable. She was a good listener and put her wisdom and sense of humour in when you least expected it. Before Kent realized that Baba fully understood and spoke the English language and, not thinking she was listening, he mentioned that wedding plans were too much trouble and wanted to elope. She spoke up and in clear English said, "Not with my granddaughter you don’t". She had a sixth sense when it came to her grandchildren, always knowing when they needed something - even before they knew it. Baba’s "prohulianka" (walking cane) was the amusement of the small great grandchildren. They would take the cane to play with. When Baba would ask "Where is my prohulianka?" the children would quickly race to find it and bring it back. The grandchildren remember that Baba was always quick to set up a tea party with fresh peas and carrots from the garden, cookies and lemonade tea and to rescue their often unwilling guests, her baby geese, or chickens and the occasional gopher from their cream can seat of honour. Jessie was predeceased by two siblings at infancy, her parents, William and Magda Komaransky; brothers, Mike, John, Matt and Stanley Komaransky; sisters, Annie Yaskiw, Emily Zamonsky, Mary Mykoliashyn, Jean Haney, and Katie Nowosad; husbands, Nichola Leshchyshyn and Mike Kowalinski; and daughter, Margaret Rose Glabush. Jessie is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Frank and wife Marie Komaransky, Joe and wife Jean Komaransky, sisters, Teenie and husband John Slobogian and Stella Dobransky, sons Mike, Steve, and Harry and his wife Christine, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great, great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on August 21, 2007 at St. Josaphat’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Shoal Lake, Manitoba with Father Edward Evanko officiating. Interment followed in the Birtle Cemetery. Pallbearers were Earl Glabush, Rodney Leshchyshyn, Jason Leshchyshyn, Gary Leshchyshyn, Kent Workman, Jerry Pankratz and Dave Stadnyk. Crossbearer was Robert Workman. Honorary pallbearers were all in attendance. Rae’s Funeral Services of Shoal Lake were in care of the arrangements. VICHNAYA PAMYAT.
LOWE: Erma Noreen Lowe passed away at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 at the age of 84 years. Erma was born in Bradwardine, Manitoba on February 1, 1923. She is survived by her daughter Valine and husband Rick Fehr; grandchildren Donna and Tim Bellow, Kevin and Donna Bartram; great-grandchildren Megan Bellow, Zachary and Madison Bartram, as well as many nieces and nephews. Erma was predeceased by her husband George, her parents Hazel and Harold Johnston, sisters Merne, Everyne, Veryle and brother Ted. At Erma’s request, a private family service was held on Friday, August 17, 2007. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Lung Association, 8-940 Princess Ave., Brandon, MB, R7A 0P6 or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Unit 3, 824 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 5B7.
LEE: Murdock William James Lee, known to friends and family as Jim, passed away at the Brandon Regional Health Center on Friday, August 10th, 2007 at the age of 65. Jim was born August 25th, 1941 in Ochre River, MB, to Bill and Jean Lee. Jim was employed in various jobs throughout his life including driving truck, farming, owning an auto wrecking company in his favorite place, Westlock, Alberta, and even spent a few years traveling with the carnival. Jim enjoyed many leisure activities such as fishing, working on old cars, coffee with friends and family, and had a real like for horses. After failing health, Jim made Rideau Park Personal Care Home his residence in July of 2004. While there, he made many friends and enjoyed many activities including outings, coffee time, and pub nights. Jim is survived by son Barry (Cheryl) Lee; daughters Donna (Jim) Sawatzky, and LeeAnn Lee; daughter-in-law Cindy Lee; 10 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; sister Marion Weisensel; brothers Roland, Earl (Linda), and Stewart; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Jean; brother Brian; son Laverne in 2003. Service was held on Friday, August 17th, 2007 at the Brockie Donovan Chapel. A private family burial will take place in Dauphin, MB on Saturday, August 18th at his parent’s gravesite. All who wish may make a donation to Rideau Park Personal Care Home, 525 Victoria Ave. East, Brandon, MB, R7A 6S9, in Jim's memory.
LEBEL: Inez Angela (Henry) Lebel of Brandon passed away at the Assiniboine Centre on March 20, 2007. Inez was born in Winnipeg, MB on November 10, 1945. She was raised in Shergrove, MB where she attended grade school. She received her high school education in Ste. Rose du Lac, MB. Inez was very athletic. She played fastball for many years, winning the City of Brandon Ladies Fastball Championship. She played darts with various family members - they were known as "All in the Family." Inez also enjoyed playing guitar and singing Country/Gospel music. Inez worked different jobs throughout her life, and retired from the Brandon Club. She was predeceased by her long time companion Sam Nevin and her parents. Left to mourn is Emmanuel; her two children Natalie (Wayne), Jim and her granddaughter Cheyenne; sister June (Rick); brothers John (Nola), Wes (Connie), Ernest (Lyn) and Randy (Bonnie); stepchildren Wayne (Jacqueline) Nevin, Jackie (Barry) Simms and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A celebration of her life was held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel on March 23, 2007 with Pastor Mike Davis of Bethel Christian Assembly officiating. Interment followed at the Brandon Cemetery.
Every morning lean thine arms upon the window sills
of heaven and gaze upon the Lord.
Then with that vision in thine heart,
turn strong to meet the day.
LENNY: Grace Marion Lenny (née Riley) of Brandon, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2007 at Rideau Park Personal Care Home. Grace was born in Brandon on October 21, 1921. She was a life-long member of the United Church. Grace was a generous and kind person to all she met and was loved by many. She was predeceased by her husband Allen, her parents William J. and Annie Riley, her sisters Agnes and Jean, and brother Bill. Grace will be dearly missed by her sister Mildred Riley of Brandon, niece Wendy (Armin) Koenig, great-niece Jennifer, and great-nephew Neil, all of Calgary, AB. She will also be remembered by all friends and extended family that knew her. A Memorial Service will be held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel, 332-8th Street, on Friday, February 2, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Laird Russell-Yearwood of Central United Church officiating. A reception will follow at the Central United Church Auditorium, 327-8th Street, immediately following the memorial service. Grace and her beloved husband, Allen, will be interred together at Rosewood Memorial Gardens. At Grace’s request, flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in memory of Grace may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 415-1st Street, Brandon, MB R7A 2W8 or to a charity of choice.
LITTLE: Harry Allan Little of Fairview Home, passed away at his residence on Wednesday, January 24, 2007. He was born October 23, 1928 at Mossey River Municipal, Manitoba and was raised on a farm just outside Winnipegosis. Harry attended Bicton Heath School until grade five and then went to work on surrounding farms. He moved to Brandon and lived with his sister, Irene and brother-in-law, Jerold Kensey at 128 Rideau Street. In 1949, Harry began working part time with the City of Brandon and, in 1953, he was hired full time, working with the "sewer gang" until the early 1960s. Later, he worked with garbage disposal for several years, cleaning up downtown Brandon and the public washrooms. Harry then worked with the "cement gang" until he retired in 1989. He enjoyed going for coffee, playing bingo and cards, bowling and he liked to watch soaps and wrestling on TV. He is survived by his sisters, Sylvia and Edna; brother, Walter and wife Lee; daughters: Faye Linall and husband Ken; Diane Pypka and husband Tony; Frances Hayes and husband George; sons, Floyd Little, Earl Little, Calvin Little and wife Bev; grandchildren: Paul Cairns (Maryann Slezak), Garry Sinclair, Amanda Linall (Roy Hodges), Tina Linall (Garhardt Juskowiak), Harry Linall, Colin Kaye, Tanya, Carolyn Kaye, Jodi Kaye (Jeff Carey) and Barb Smith. Also surviving are great grandchildren: Ben, Jacob, Megan, Troy, Vicky, Cody, Erin, Kyle, Kobe, Sam, Brooke, Mercedes, Bailey, Mark and Morgan. Harry was predeceased by his brothers, Oscar, Earl and Amos, and his sisters, Fern, Audrey, Ida and Irene. A time of visitation for family and friends will be held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel, 332-8th Street, on Monday, January 29, 2007 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday, January 30, from 12 noon to 12:45 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the Chapel on Tuesday, January 30, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Laird Russell-Yearwood officiating. Interment will follow at the Brandon Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Garhardt Juskowiak, Roy Hodges, Paul Cairns, Cecil Roulette, Lyle Wenger and Gerald Dickout. If friends wish, donations, in memory of Harry, may be made to a charity of choice.
LEWIS: Clifford (Cliff) Wakefield Lewis passed away at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, on Saturday, January 6, 2007 with his loving family at his bedside. Cliff was born at Hayfield, Manitoba, September 18, 1921, son of Alice and Fred Lewis. He was predeceased by his wife, Hilda. Cliff attended Central and Earl Haigh Schools. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1940, serving on the HMCS Mount Royal. After discharge, Cliff was employed with Anglo Canadian Oil, which later became Petro-Can. Cliff delivered to many farmers in the Brandon district, later working in the office until his retirement after 43 years. Cliff was an avid member of the Royal Canadian Legion #3. He enjoyed dancing at the Legion and was an active member of the Brandon Circle Eight Square Dance Club. He loved to fish at Clear Lake and his garden was his pride and joy. He religiously fed and watered the birds. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his family. Cliff leaves to mourn five sisters: Mildred Buchan, White Rock, BC; Kay Sullivan, Brandon; Helen Chaston, Hamilton, Ontario; Madeline Neill, White Rock, BC; Mary Simpson, Carman, Manitoba; stepson, Murray Balmer and many nieces and nephews. Cliff’s presence was always felt by those around him and will be profoundly missed. A celebration of his life took place January 9, 2007 at the Brockie Donovan Chapel with Rev. Paul Sakasov officiating, followed by a reception at the Royal Canadian Legion #3. The family thanks the honour guard: Clem Jarvin, Russ Roney, D’Arcy Plante, Bob Wright, Murray Tallant and Larry Robertson. Interment, at the Veterans’ Section, Brandon Cemetery will be at a later date. Donations in memory of Cliff may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion #3, 560-13th Street East, Brandon, MB R7A 7C1 or to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, 150 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, MB R7A 2B3.
