Tag: Cremation

Joan Elizabeth Kolbauer (nee Giles)

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1943 – 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Kolbauer at St. Boniface Hospital on Tuesday, July 14 at the age of 83, surrounded by family.

She is survived by her children Laura Lynn (Peter), Jason (Tracey), Kristi, and her precious grandchildren Zoe, Pierce, Ryann, Emma, and Logan. She is also survived by her brothers Lyn and Jack Giles and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Ronald and her parents, John and Elizabeth Giles.  Joan will be missed by her many friends whom she loved liked sisters. 

Born during World War II, Joan did not meet her father until his return from the war in 1945. After residing in west end Winnipeg, her family moved to Elmwood where two years later, Joan began school at King George V.  She was just three years of age when she first met her life-long friend Dorothy. They always joked that they knew each other longer than anybody!

When her family moved to St. Boniface in 1949 Joan attended Marion School until the fall of 1952, when they moved again, this time to Stonewall. The small-town community introduced her to Brownies, Girl Guides and CGIT. She attended Sunday School on a regular basis at the Church of Ascension.  In 1960 she graduated from Stonewall Collegiate. 

She worked for almost a year at Eaton’s before pursuing a business education at MTI. Her next job was as a stenographer at Hughes Owens from 1962-1964. In August 1964 she began working at Goodyear Tire before and after Laura Lynn was born. She met Ron in 1971 and married in 1973.  After welcoming Jason and Kristi, she worked part-time at The Bay, Kildonan Place before returning to work full time at Goodyear once again in 1985. Retirement came in 2002 and she was to learn that she had never been busier.

One of the greatest joys of her life was being a grandmother. She treasured every opportunity to babysit her grandchildren, creating a lifetime of meaningful memories through everyday moments and special outings like going to the park or the children’s museum.  They loved when she made their favourite chicken and fries.  She took immense pride in watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and being a constant source of encouragement and affection. The time they shared together was precious to her, and the love she gave so freely will remain a lasting part of their lives and her legacy.

During her retirement, Joan devoted countless hours to volunteering. She gave her time to River East Personal Care Home, KidsFest, Sherwood School, and International Hope. She also served as a board member and treasurer of the Manitoba Down Syndrome Society, where she was actively involved in the See Me Beautiful and Baby Love programs. Known affectionately as “Gramma Joan,” she formed many lasting friendships with the children and their families.

As well as volunteering she also loved to spend time playing cards with friends, travelling, baking, gardening and spending quiet evenings watching her favorite true crime shows and British television series.

We wish to express our thanks to the staff in Harmony Court at Riverwood Square and at St. Boniface Hospital who looked after our Mom with great care.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be announced at a later date.  Donations in Joan’s memory can be made to the Manitoba Down Syndrome Society.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Joan’s memorial page using the comment field below.

Isadore “Nestor” Krawec

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May 5, 1938 to June 24, 2026

With deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of Isadore “Nestor” Krawec on June 24, 2026, at the age of 88.

Nestor leaves behind a grieving family and a multitude of friends.  He is survived by his children Michael and Nancy (Randy) and his grandson Jeff (Jasmine).  Nestor was predeceased by his parents Michael and Annie, his wife of 61 years, Cynthia and his grandson Mitchell.

Nestor was born in the little town of Foley, Manitoba in the rural municipality of Gimli.  After leaving school in grade 10, Nestor soon realized that selling was his passion and embarked on a 40+ year career as a salesman during which he amassed a collection of awards and trophies.  He was such a good salesman he often said he could sell ice to the Arctic.  Nestor travelled extensively as a salesman and one fine evening while travelling through Barrington Passage, Nova Scotia, he met the love of his life Cynthia when he picked her up hitchhiking.  After a short courtship they made their way back to Winnipeg where they were married on New Year’s Eve of 1963.

Nestor was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage.  He loved the music (especially live bands), the language, the food and even travelled to Ukraine several times.  He was a member of the Ukrainian Professional and Businessmen’s club.  In his spare time Nestor loved to read, to go fishing, to play scrabble, to play the stock market, and to go to the casino.  One of Nestor’s greatest passions was that he loved making speeches.  He wanted to talk to everyone, everywhere and all the time.  He was a member of several Toastmaster’s groups in Winnipeg.

Nestor was the epitome of a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and uncle.  He was a strong and proud man and we are immensely grateful for the time we had with him.  He will be deeply missed and forever held in our hearts.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Fred Douglas Lodge for the excellent care they provided to Dad as well as Rick from Interlake Cremation and Memorial Services for guiding us through this difficult time.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, July 20th at 7pm at E.J. Coutu Funeral Home, 680 Archibald Street in Winnipeg.

Nestor, we love you and are eternally grateful for the moments we shared.  Until we meet again Dad.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xhWVI2tavCzQMhg9UjGLhzxLhMA-FU0z/view?usp=drive_link

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Nestor’s memorial page using the comment field below.

Timothy (Tim) Rudy Wishnicki

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November 11, 1960 – July 1, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Tim at his home on July 1, 2026.

Tim leaves behind his mother Linda and stepfather Gary Young; his former wife Deborah Dunmall; stepsons Sean and Kevin (Kristen) Dunmall; and his beloved grandson, Maddox Dunmall. He is also survived by his stepsister Jennifer Young (Stephen), step nephews Gabriel and Levi Young, stepbrother Derick Young (Denise), and his close cousin, and lifelong friend Harold Gregorashuk, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Prior to his retirement, Tim gave 36 years of dedicated service as a Head Custodian for the St. Vital/Louis Riel School Division. Throughout his career at the Board Office and numerous schools—most notably Windsor and St. George—he built lasting connections and made many friends.

An avid sports enthusiast, Tim loved baseball, football, curling, and hockey. His favourite role in recent years was cheering on his grandson Maddox at his baseball and football games.

Among his travels, Tim’s favourite vacation spot was Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where he formed many friendships. He also had a love of music, namely our iconic Canadian bands such as The Tragically Hip and Rush.

As an avid cat lover, Tim always shared his life and home with a beloved feline companion. If desired, donations may be made in Tim’s memory to the Winnipeg Humane Society, or any cat rescue shelter of your choice.

Following Tim’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal funeral will be held. The family will gather privately to celebrate his life.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Tim’s memorial page using the comment field below.

Audrey Mae Laye

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March 6, 1948 – June 25, 2026

It is with deepest sadness the family of Audrey Mae Laye (Nee) Frost, announce her sudden passing on June 25, 2026 at the age of 78 years.

Beloved mother of Cherri (Lennie) Little, Garrett (Kim) Laye, Kevin Katzeley and fur baby Hello Kitty. She will also be missed greatly by her grandchildren Lyric Laye, Erin (Liam), Brittanie Mae Kaylon, Gordman (Kim), Jewell (Taylon) Ryann (mother of Bentlee). Also missed greatly by her precious great grandchildren Kingsley, Bentlee, McKenzlei, her beautiful baby Autumn and a new baby girl on the way.

She was previously deceased by 2 grandsons Clifford Adam Fontaine (2002), Lennie Little Jr. (1990) and her great grandson baby Blue (2024).

She will be greatly missed by her sister Dairdrie (Beadie) Ludwick, her two brothers Gary Frost and Geoffrey Frost.

She had many friends but these one’s were extra special to her, Connie Frost, Terri Poitras, Jorunn McEvoy, Lenore Simard, Nina Williams and mom greeted Debbie Henry when she passed, together forever.

Mom was predeceased by her loving parents Charlie & Dairdrie Frost, her grandparents whom she was very close to Russell & Edna Cromarty. She was greatly saddened with the loss of her beloved brothers Harold (infant), Gerald, George, and her baby brother Glen.

Audrey was born March 6, 1948 to nana and grandpa and they lived on 625 Superior where they still call home. She was the eldest of 8 children and growing up she helped nana with the kids as grandpa was away working and if she wasn’t watching her siblings, she would be babysitting for her aunties and family friends. As mom grew up, she started her first job at Skinners in Lockport and had many friends, but the one that caught her eye was my dad, she was older by 7 months but they were 15 and in love. The love blossomed for many years then they decided they were going to get married, as he had many jobs, and mom now worked at the mental as a nurse’s aide, so they got married May 5th, 1967 and magically I was born November 10, 1967 lol do the math.

She was a loving and caring mother. At the time they were living at 625 Superior, I stayed in nana & grandpa’s room. Mom always told me that grandpa would rock me with is foot while he read the paper. As I got bigger, mom would be singing and talking to me, she always called me her beautiful baby girl, but I guess she said it too many times and my auntie yelled “shut up about your beautiful baby”, but she continued anyways. So eventually we moved to the top of Jeff’s store on Main Street and then it happened, Garrett was born 11 months later on November 4th, 1968. Mom called us her twins cause for 6 days Garrett and I were the same age. As we grew up my dad got sick, they didn’t know what was wrong and it was hard for them and they parted. It was very hard for mom to bring up two babies on her own, but she did it. When I was 6 and Garrett 5, my dad passed away and mom was heartbroken, but she had family and friends to help, but mom was with a new boyfriend and with that musical love blooming our baby brother Kevin was born in 1973, and our family was complete. We adored him, but mom worked hard and to have three kids, we had a roof over our heads, food, but we always had a house full of family around, then in 1976 she became a single mom of three but she strived to give us a home. In the meantime, our family has grown, auntie Beadie had Vicki, Christine and Robert Ludwick, uncle Gary had Micheal, David, and Lauren Frost. Then it was quiet for a while cause Kevin kept us on our toes.

Mom had worked many places, Skinners, Selkirk Mental, Bartender at Driftwood with Wesley Bell, Army Navy with Jack Taylor, then we lived in Winnipeg. She decided she was going to take her barbering, she graduated top of her class because she had been cutting hair since she was 15. She worked at a barber shop called Neno’s as she loved it, it still wasn’t enough to provide for us so she worked at the German Club also. Then in our many moves, we moved back to Selkirk. We looked at our mom for many losses in her life, she was our hero, our friend but most of all she was the best mom we could have. So as time moved on, our dear mother decided she was going to become a nurse and she did, graduating in 1987 as an LPN. In the meantime, our family added one more. Her beloved grandson Adam was born in April 1984. He was the love of her life. They did everything together. As he grew up, I would take him to see mom as she worked at the Tudor. As he got older, he would ride his bike every evening or most times he skateboarded. She loved that all the residences were knowing him by name.

As he got older, he would stay with her on weekends. As our family started growing again, Uncle Gerald had Gerry, with time Uncle George had Kelsey and then Chesley, so it was a busy time for us. We loved our time with the families, then Uncle Geoffrey and Auntie Jade had Lane, Tristen, Charles, Liberty and little George, but now I started a family too, Brittanie and Gordie and Garrett had Lyric, Erin and Blake, so wow, we were getting bigger. Then Vicki had Eric, Uncle Glen had Shailee, then Kevin Little, June-bug came, mom was so proud of her grandkids. Every Saturday night mom watched the grandchildren, Brittanie Mae Gordman & Jewel-E-Bug. She loved her time spent with them and mom always watched the kids on New Years eve so I could work and Kevin can make it for a midnight kiss, but what Kevin would do is they would watch the States that was an hour ahead and he would shoot fireworks and have blowers for the three kids then put them to bed and go out. He is a smart cookie to think that up and as we know, time flies by quick. In 2002 we lost Clifford Adam Fontaine at the age of 18. Mom was devasted on the loss of her baby. Mom was never the same after that, she was also with me when Lennie Jr. was born and passed in 1990. She was there at every baby I had. I think that’s why she held all her grandkids so close to her.

Mom then left Tudor House and was home on stress leave, but she enjoyed being with us and seeing grandkids. Then she was bored doing nothing so with her mental health worker, she became a Proctor. She had about 5 clients, she loved it but she said it’s time to retire at the age of 74. She now was able to enjoy more of life with kids, grandkids, again time flies by so quickly. Now our children were having babies and mom was so excited on having great grandchildren. First came Kingsley and she loved him so much. She would come over and play with him, they made forts, had balloon parties and do skits on Brittanie Mae’s phone, and even out on the trampoline bouncing with him on it. She was doing this at the age of 72, but she was happy to be spending time with. Then came another great grandchild to enter this world to Gord & Ryann. It was during Covid so mom and I, Len and Britt & King stood outside the hospital, facetiming to see our new addition, mom was excited to see him and of course she would come visit the kids when Bentlee came over, but she would love King up more. Then Brittanie Mae was having her baby, mom again was over the moon but at 5 months our baby boy Blue (2024) was born. Mom was so sad and wished she could have changed it for Brittanie Mae. We grieved. Brittanie Mae was a strong person and life flies by and then to our surprise, she was having another one, mom was excited again and it was a girl, Autumn Delanie Addison McPherson in memory of Brittanie Mae’s brother Adam. Mom was more over the moon with her, that was her beautiful baby girl. She was so in love with her kids, grandkids and now great grandkids, she was the happiest Nan.

Mom made it to every first in our lives, our children’s first day of school, graduation and the birthday parties, she never missed one of them. She loved the success of all her kids, Cherri, crafty and a great mom and daughter, Garrett, she loved all the bands he plays with and would go to as many as she could, Van Halen was the last one and Garrett is a supportive dad to his kids, Kevin, well he was the artist, she loved his drawing of Jewel and Adam, they were beautiful. Kevin is now a carpenter but mom would have been proud of us on anything we did.

Near the end she wasn’t feeling well, I was with her every day. When we would go visit with Nana Frost and even after she passed, mom didn’t know what to do, she was lost without her mom. Then she was diagnosed with dementia. We noticed all of her forgetting things and she was devasted by it and I said “mom, we will take it day by day” and we did. I was happy to be with her the day before she passed, she got up when I was leaving and hugged me and kissed me a couple times as she was holding on to me, she said that she was so blessed to have me as her daughter and she told me she loved me and I left and the next day our mom left our lives peacefully in her sleep.

We love you so much Mom and hold you close to our hearts forever.

Till we meet again. Chow

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Audrey’s memorial page using the comment field below.

DEANNA “DEE” ROSEMARIE CATCHPOLE (née Tomasson)

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August 17, 1945 – June 19, 2026

It is with deep sadness we share that Deanna “Dee” Rosemarie Catchpole (née Tomasson) passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, with her beloved husband Ted and dear friends by her side.

Deanna was born on August 17, 1945, to Dorothy (née Clifford) and Helgi K. Tomasson. She was proud of her Icelandic roots and held dear the strong community ties that shaped her early years living on Hecla Island, Manitoba. In 1957, her family moved to Winnipeg, where she spent the rest of her childhood. In 1963, she graduated from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute. That is where she and Ted first met. Their love story would come much later, when Ted was visiting a friend in hospital. He heard Deanna’s familiar voice and instantly recognized his old high school friend. That chance meeting brought them back into each other’s lives. They were married on May 9, 1993, and shared more than 33 years together.

Deanna’s other love was nursing. She trained at the Salvation Army Grace Hospital School of Nursing from 1963 to 1966 and was recognized as class valedictorian in her graduating year. Nursing was never simply a career for Dee; it was a calling, and one she answered with skill, strength, and deep compassion. Her first nursing position took her to Kapuskasing, Ontario. She later worked in Vernon, British Columbia, before returning to Kapuskasing. Eventually, she returned to Winnipeg, where she served as Head Nurse at Misericordia Hospital, and then worked at St. Boniface Hospital until her retirement in 2003.

Even after retirement, Dee continued to care for others in places where experienced nurses were greatly needed. She worked winters at Valley Baptist Hospital in Texas and summers in Nunavut, bringing her steady hands, calm judgment, and generous spirit to communities far from home. She also worked as a community nurse in Selkirk.

Across every hospital and community, Dee left a lasting impression. She was respected for her knowledge, admired for her strength and leadership, and remembered by many nurses as a mentor who took them under her wing. Following her long career in health care, she stayed closely connected to her profession and her dearest friends through “The Beavers,” a retired nurses’ social circle.

When not nursing, Dee and Ted enjoyed a full and active life. They golfed, travelled, spent winters in Harlingen, Texas, and made treasured trips to North Dakota for pheasant hunting. Dee loved to see the world, with travels that included Greece, the Caribbean, and Hong Kong. She loved good meals, good stories, and time spent with friends and family.

Deanna had a remarkable gift for making people feel remembered. She never forgot birthdays or anniversaries, always remembering the important moments in the lives of the people she loved. She was kind, courageous, funny, generous, and strong. She had wit and warmth, and she cared for people in ways both practical and deeply personal.

In recent years, Deanna lived with courage through the loss of her health. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Selkirk Regional Health Centre, particularly those in the dialysis unit, for their compassion and support. We also thank Dee’s many friends and extended family for their concern and kindness during her illness.

Deanna was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy and Helgi; her stepfather, Joe; and her brothers, Christian “Chris” (Ardith) and Clifford (Marleen). She is survived by her sister, Darlene (Ron).  She also leaves behind her beloved husband, Ted; stepson Trevor Catchpole (Erika); stepdaughter Laurie Lyle (Frank); and Laurie’s sons, William and Henry, her two grandchildren who knew and loved her by the Icelandic term Amma. She was also a much-loved aunt to many nieces and nephews, and part of a large extended family that includes numerous cousins, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Family and friends are invited to attend a come-and-go Celebration of Life in honour of Deanna on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Coutu Funeral Home, 680 Archibald Street in Winnipeg. This reception will be an opportunity to offer condolences, visit with family, share memories, and remember a life marked by compassion, friendship, service, and love.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada in Deanna’s name.