Robert Brown

With a heart full of grief and gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing him, his family is advising of the passing of Robert W. Brown on Friday, June 14th at St. Boniface Hospital. Bob was a retired Corporal of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and an honorary member of a number of cities in the United States regarding his many years of service on the Drug Section.

Bob was one of the last of the good old boys, a rare breed of a man who, in our watered down world, could seem shockingly blunt upon first meeting him, but you always knew that you got nothing but the honest to God truth as he saw it. He was refreshing and you never questioned where you stood with him – no time was wasted. Loyalty, honor, integrity, kindness and the truth are not always easy but was a solid code by which he lived. He had this way about him. More people should live by this creed.

Bob had a broad spectrum of knowledge and he practically had an answer for almost everything – from his RCMP career, to cooking at the End of Main, to fishing, to making his flies, to trades, to farming and to politics. He always had his opinion and voiced it loudly and often.

He deeply loved the Kootneys and the many friends he made there. As an avid fisherman, Bob would educate anyone who would listen to him about keeping Kootenay Lake safe, healthy and respecting nature. He fought constantly and wrote many letters to the different government agencies to save the lake and to promote tourism.

His words will carry forward in the tourists and their children and all of his family and fiends. He took a great deal of pleasure in the time he spent to educate everyone he came in contact with regarding Kootenay Lake.

Bob could be ‘gruff and humble’ at the same time, but was down to earth and could be very stubborn. He loudly voiced his opinion but his warm heart would shine through when he spoke about his family and friends who meant a lot to him. He was proud and adored all of his four children and deeply loved Brenda. They all took excellent care of him and loved him to bits in his last few years.

He will be dearly missed by all who cared about him. He left a lasting impression on so many and his legacy will live on through them.

Bob is survived by his sisters Joan Schultz (Bruno), Bonnie Purdy (Bob), and all his nieces and nephews that were all very important to him and loved him very much.

REST PEACEFULLY

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

Roger John Goetz

 ”A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered”

Roger John Goetz left this world suddenly but peacefully, surrounded by all the love of his entire family on June 9, 2024.

He was predeceased by his father John George Goetz, his mother Mary Josephine Francis Lilley, his step-mom Mae Goetz and siblings Roy, Robert, Rose and Ruth. Also predeceasing Roger was his father-in-law Ralph Donald and bonus father-in-law & good friend Bill O’Neill.

Roger is survived by many siblings and extended family, but most importantly his wife of 52 years, Gloria, children Dusty, Roddy (Lisa), Misty and Windy. Roger leaves behind his adored grandchildren, Ramey (Dillon), Randey (Adam), Rayley, Hayley, Riley, Harley (Dawson), Theodore, Emmanuel and his precious great-grandchildren Rylar, Tatum, Avery and Zariaah. He will also be dearly missed by his morning coffee partner/mother-in-law Clara Donald.

Roger was born in Gimli but grew up in Selkirk. He was part of a family of 14 children, instantly taking to a leadership role to his younger siblings and a companion to the older ones. 

Coming from humble beginnings he knew the value of a dollar so for over 54 years, Roger was a hardworking man. 

Starting at Selkirk Fisheries at 16 years old, then onto Electro-Knit at 17. The next 19 years were spent working at Red River Brick & Tile before short stints at Pony Express, R&N Maintenance and Wallace & Wallace Fences.

He finally found his niche in steelwork with Rancan. For 26 years he travelled the roads back and forth to Alberta and home making memories and friends along the way. He enjoyed taking family members to work with him over the years, creating stories they still talk of today. Even after a heart attack in 2020, Roger wasn’t ready to give up. He returned to work for the next 3 years before finally deciding to give up one passion for another…time spent at home with family.

In and among those years he met his true love, Gloria, and they were married in 1971. A few short years later they started their family when Dusty came into their lives and very quickly after, Roddy arrived. They thought they had completed their family when Misty came along but were blessed to finalize it when Windy surprised them 8 years later.

Roger was everyone’s father. Always making sure any and all kids were taken care of. It was evident with his friends’ kids, the neighborhood kids and of course with the hockey boys he coached over the years. But his world changed when he became a grandfather; he wore the title “Papa” as a badge of honor, not only to 8 grandchildren, but was completely over the moon to be Papa to 4 great-grandchildren…his Little Buddy Rylar, his Super Hero Tatum, his Boo Boo Avery and his Princess Zariaah. 

Countless years were spent at hockey, soccer and baseball games, dance recitals and various other events. He never missed a championship game, an awards night or even the chance to play on a dart team with his kids and grandkids. Although he didn’t have many years to enjoy his great-grandkids’ activities, he will forever be in the stands at their future activities as their biggest cheerleader and coach. 

Roger was a friend to many. Earlier years were spent with good music, good beer and good friends. He never turned down the opportunity to have a dance at a social, a house party or whenever the mood hit him! Later years he enjoyed the simplicity of having his family return home for holidays or just to spend an evening chatting, laughing, eating and playing cards. A lucky slot machine and a good buffet would make him smile from ear to ear and boy was he lucky every time…at both!

He took pride in keeping his yard looking flawless and after a long day of doing his favorite activity…riding the lawn mower with country music blasting through the neighborhood, he would end the night with a hermit cookie or two, a glass of chocolate milk and if not a Senators or Jets game, some WWE on tv. 

A quiet gentle man by nature, he tried to put on a tough exterior but deep down he had a soft heart. Whether the loss of an old friend, a loved one or even a pet, he couldn’t hide his emotions and carried it with him throughout the years. The lines on his face told a story of a man that lived a full life and every silver hair was rightfully earned. 

When his poor health started getting the better of him very recently, he still did everything he could to enjoy all the work he put into his home and life. Short walks around the yard and cups of coffee in the screen porch became the highlights of his days. He quickly learned to make sure his kids knew to work hard but take the time to sit and enjoy the little things. He made sure to drive home the idea that family is everything, to let bad things go to the past and leave them there, to take care of Ma, to eat the cake and take the picture because tomorrow is not promised…not even to the good ones; and man, was he the greatest!

Roger’s honorary pallbearers are Cory Peebles, Ian Peebles, Rod (Billy) Goetz, Randy Goetz, Barry Boyce and Mike Popovic.

Roger has been cremated and a Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. 

The family would like to thank Val and Dr Badenhorst of SMC. Dr. J. Ducas, Dr. R. Ducas and all the doctors and nurses of St. Boniface ACCU Floors 5&6. Also, to Rick and staff of Interlake Cremation & Memorial Services. 

“Tell the truth. Sing with passion. Work with laughter. Love with heart. ‘Cause that’s all that matters in the end.”- Kris Kristofferson

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

Joyce Lynn Penner

“When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll,
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say; it is well with my soul”

Joyce Lynn Penner, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on June 3rd, 2024. Surrounded by her loving husband Dale, his son Shane and two angel respite workers, Shelly and Amanda that helped him take such good care of her. She was 75 years old.

Born on February 27, 1949, in Lafayette, Tennessee, Joyce, also affectionately known as Shorty, was a beacon of love, kindness and grace. She touched the lives of all that knew her with her unwavering compassion and gentle spirit.

Throughout her life, Joyce dedicated herself to her family and community. Her nurturing presence filled our home with warmth and laughter. She was a source of strength during difficult times and a constant source of joy during moments of celebration.

Joyce had a passion for music, the outdoors, fishing, and flying with her husband Dale, who has been her best friend and husband for 28 years. She was an amazing piano player and was a member of the Gospel Pilgrims along with many close friends and close cousin Jimmy Shaw. Later, whether she was tending to her pets, cooking delicious meals for her home, or for the tenants at the fly-in-fishing lodge at Washahigan Lake, Manitoba, Canada, helping to run the store at the First Nations reserve at Deer Lake Ontario, or just being with Dale, she approached everything with boundless enthusiasm and generosity.

She was preceded in death by her first husband Hal Cliburn, father Albert Shockley, mother Gladys Laurene Hagar, Grandfather William Haskell Brandon, Grandmother Lillie Gladys Shaw Brandon, Cousin James Shaw, also known as “Uncle Jimmy” whom she was very close to.

She will be deeply missed by her husband Dale, daughter Ali and husband Dennis, granddaughter Jessica and grandson Nicholas, stepdaughter Nikki and husband Clay, and their daughter Evelyn, Shauna Penner, and her children Brandy, Jordie, and Christopher, Shane and his wife Tammy, their children Hope and Noah, and Joyce’s sister Carolyn. She has many cousins in Lafayette that she grew up with that loved her very much and niece Tammy, husband Joe, and nephew Alan. All those who were fortunate enough to know her will know that her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her presence.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at the following website: https://alzfdn.org/donate/ in honor of Joyce’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held in Canada at 6 Shaun Dale Drive, Seven Sisters Falls, Manitoba on June 29th, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Her ashes will be spread at one of her and Dale’s favorite spots, Whitemouth River Falls where the river runs into the Winnipeg River. All who know and loved her are invited to attend and share their fondest memories. However, being so far away, if any would like to write a note, Box 39, Seven Sisters Falls, Manitoba, R0E 1Y0 or text 1-204-770-4570. Dale will be more than happy to read that and we can all light a candle and say a special prayer that day. I know that would make her very happy.

Though she may be gone from our sight, Joyce’s love will continue on to guide us, and her memory will forever be cherished in our hearts.

Rest in peace sweet Joyce. You will always be remembered with love and gratitude.

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

Robert Bruce Simmons

January 30, 1954 – May 29, 2024

We are sad to announce the passing of Robert Bruce Simmons at the age of 70 on May 29, 2024.

Robert was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He spent many years as an electrician, owning his own company for over 40 years.

Robert is survived by his wife Sheila of nearly 50 years, sons Ryan (Michelle), Dale (Audrey) and David. Grandchildren Markus, Shayla and Anabelle, his sisters Marion (Charlie), Heather (Peter), Maureen (Bruce) and Brother Charlie (Debbie) and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Ron and Margaret Simmons, nephew Jody and brother-in-law Charlie Single.

A special Thank You to HSC Doctor’s and Pine Falls Hospital who cared for Robert.

In keeping with his wishes, Cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences using the comment field below.

Beverley Joan Mason [nee-Hamilton]-Update

Sept 4, 1938, to Jan 8, 2024

September 4, 1938 – January 8, 2024

A Celebration of Life for Beverley will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the West Hawk United Church, Provincial Trunk 44 Highway, West Hawk Lake, Manitoba.

Beverley is predeceased by her parents [George and Freida], Brother [Ron], and her First Husband [Patrick]. She is survived by her husband Ray Newman, her four sons, Kirk [Cheryl], Dave [Ledise], Grant [Lori], and Gordon [Sandra], along with her blended Newman family, Dwayne [Patsy], Wyatt [Misty], Lorelei [Mark] and Curt [Eunice]. Also survived by her grandchildren, Erin [Dwayne], Sean [Kadee], Caleigh. Ashley [Jordan], Danielle [Mitchell]. Patrick. As well as her Newman grandchildren, Carly, Paige, Dallas, Markie, Tori, Maisy, Frank [Kayla], Sam, and four great grandchildren.

Beverley was born in Radisson, Saskatchewan. Where she lived until starting her nursing training at the Saskatoon Hospital where she worked in the early years of her career, before moving to Winnipeg to work at St. Boniface Hospital. She married her first husband Pat Mason in 1963 and together they embarked upon Pat’s career as a bank manager putting roots down in several communities–Winnipeg, Kenora, Brandon, Virden, and finally Morden.

When Pat retired from banking in Morden, they began their foray into the world of business. They bought Major Service Centre near Penniac Bay, West Hawk Lake, Mb and ran it as a general store, and eventually added the post office. The store became a focal point for the community and many mornings were spent by locals around the coffee table, figuring out ways to save the world and other efforts. Beverley retired from retailing in 2008.

Beverley had a love for community, she would assist her husband Pat with his volunteer job as the Chief of the Southeast Whiteshell Fire Department (SEWFD) by calling members of the SEWFD to fire calls and other emergencies. She would also organize many of the events that the department would put on. She was a proud Fire Department wife and mother, with three of her sons also serving as volunteers with the SEWFD.

Beverley soon gained the trust of the local community and using her nursing training, assisted survivors of auto mishaps, dispensed medical info to those who requested it and even gave out info about the care of pets since the Mason Family always had Labrador dogs as pets. She spoke with fond memories of her trips to dog shows with her Labs accompanied by best friend Judy Partridge. Her volunteer and community services were rewarded by the Government of Canada when she was awarded the House of Commons Service Award.

Beverley met her second husband to be –Ray Newman at the Firefighters Ball fundraiser a few years after her husband Pat passed away. They were married in September of 2007.

Beverley’s passion was music and dancing. After retiring she and Ray traveled to many dances including Polka Fests in Las Vegas and Hafford, Saskatchewan. She and Ray would host jam sessions every Friday at their home in Mesa, with musicians from her hometown of Radisson who also wintered in Mesa. Beverley enjoyed traveling, cruising and particularly loved wintering in Mesa AZ.

Beverley made many friends in Mesa, in particular her friends from Star Lake, Dave and Theresa Pearson who often stepped in to provide respite for Ray as her cognitive skills diminished.

Beverley’s final few years were spent at the Kin Place care home in Oakbank. The family would like to thank the staff of Kin Place for their commitment to her care.

The world has lost a beautiful, fun loving, caring person who touched many lives during her time on earth.

The family asks for donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada in lieu of flowers.

Celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

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