It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, Arlene Joy McCormack, who passed away on August 28, 2026.
Arlene was born on October 28, 1955, at the Women’s Pavilion in Winnipeg to her loving parents, Stan and Yvonne Hogle, who predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her beloved partner, Bruce Knight.
Arlene will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Tracy and Cassandra, and by her grandchildren, Dustin (Stephanie), Ryley, and Jynx. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Dexter Douglas, Alexis Isabelle, and Kimberly-Raigh, who brought great joy to her life.
She leaves behind her siblings, Lorraine (Garry) and Roger (Cindy Rae), as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Arlene’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched and, most of all, through the family she loved so dearly. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers or donations, Arlene would appreciate a tree being planted in her memory. May it grow strong and beautiful as a lasting reminder of her life and the love she shared with those around her.
Rest peacefully, Arlene. You will always be loved and never forgotten.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Arlene’s Memorial page using the comment field below.
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Douglas Alan Waite, age 65 of East Selkirk, Manitoba. In the years following a life altering subarachnoid hemorrhage, he journeyed down a long and gentle path of progressive neurological decline.
He leaves behind to lovingly cherish his memory his beloved wife Stephanie; stepsons Jordan, Nathan; stepdaughter Serina; eldest brother Jim, twin brother Pete; nieces Kelly (Alan), Lisa and Tasha; many cousins, extended family and close friends who will miss him dearly. Doug was predeceased by his parents James and Margaret; his brother Robert (Bob).
Doug grew up in the Pulberry area of St. Vital. He attended Hastings Elementary and Junior High schools and graduated from Dakota Collegiate in 1979. He was enrolled at the University of Manitoba, first in the faculty of Environmental Studies and then transferred to Arts.
Music became an integral part of his life. At the age of 13, Doug began playing the guitar, along with his twin brother Pete. His favorite bands and early influences were Kiss, Rush, BTO, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath. He began playing bass guitar in the early 1980’s, first with his band Pegasus, and in 1985 began working full-time in the band Circuit. Over the years, he played with the bands White Room, Masque, Jane Doe, Mother Groove (Famous Jane, Dreams & Rumours) and Xstatic. His love of music, and the memories made along the way remained a lasting part of his life. Upon retiring as a full-time musician, he began employment with Gardewine where he made many respected, meaningful friendships with co-workers and staff.
In 2004, the stars aligned when Doug met Stephanie, the love of his life. They exchanged vows in 2008, marking the start of a beautiful new chapter filled with shared adventures. Married for 18 wonderful years, their greatest adventures were embraced with those they loved most. They found immense happiness in fun times with the kids and lively celebrations with family and friends, while always making time for date nights enjoying favorite music. Happiest days were rounded out by favorite mall shopping trips, adoring his pets, leisurely scenic drives and escapes to Doug’s treasured Muskoka cottage at Muldrew Lake. There he enjoyed swimming, canoeing, boating or just having a quiet drink on the deck and spending the nights stargazing. As a loving husband and devoted stepfather, he found his greatest joy in the quiet sanctuary of his home life.
Beyond his gifts as a musician, Doug possessed a charming character, a witty mind, and an infectious sense of humor that could light up any room. He was a man of many passions, fascinated by the mysteries of astronomy, an avid movie critic, devoted reader of books and a true lover of all animals, especially his own beloved pets. A good movie and a great song were more than just entertainment; they were sources of inspiration that defined the deeper human experience. Above all, Doug will be remembered for his profoundly positive, reassuring nature – a steady, grounding presence who brought comfort and warmth to everyone he loved.
Although his complex health journey over the last eight years was marked by obstacles and complications, Doug met every daily boundary with humble resilience and grace.
In keeping with Doug’s wishes, cremation has taken place. No formal services will be held at this time. We encourage friends and family to reach out to one another to share their memories and celebrate Doug’s life privately. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a Musicians/Music Education Organization or a Wildlife/Pet Animal Rescue Organization of your choice.
“To live in the hearts we leave behind is to live forever.”
~ Carl Sagan ~
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Doug’s memorial page using the comment field below.
Joann, named Joan Louise Kissuk at birth, beloved mother of Edward (Trisha), Keith (Kathy), and Benjamin, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 13th.
She leaves behind brother Garry Kissuk (Susan) and family in Calgary, Alberta.
Numerous nieces and nephews, grandchildren Alyssa (Ryan), Jolanda and great-grandchildren, Dante, Liam and Luca.
She is predeceased by Stephen and Jeanette Kissuk, niece Kristina, first husband Leslie, and several aunts and uncles, cousins, and numerous friends.
A special mention about her friend Joy Mathewman. Joy and Joann shared the entirety of their adult lives as best friends. Joy was especially significant in convincing mom to have emergency gastric surgery in 2017, which allowed for several more years of good health.
Mom lived a life that was emblematic of the Silent Generation. She worked in several roles that led up to her first marriage and children. Then, at the vanguard of modern society, became a working mom in early 70s. Working Mom was a role she would mostly keep up for almost all of her adult life.
Having learned secretarial skills, her early professional life included acting in a legal secretary capacity which eventually led to her teaching at the Success Angus Business College where she passed on her lived knowledge to young adults at the start of their careers. One of her prized knowledge gifts to be passed along… an encyclopedic knowledge of short hand; teaching all who wished to understand what the squiggles and marks meant. She transitioned to work at Great-West Life and all the opportunities that that company brought her. Over time, she remarried and in 1989 completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at the Winnipeg Bible College in Otterburne, MB.
She found a calling working with developmentally challenged adults, in the ’90s, both at the Salvation Army and Larche Society. At Larche, she was a live-in resident manager; one who took a distinct interest in both residents and colleagues.
Finally, retiring from those activities in the early part of this century. She retired to caring for her heart-dog Matrix, and, of course, keeping up with her busy and growing family.
Mom gathered friends like a snowball rolling down a hill. Not picking up everyone, but those that either were meaningful to her in a social context, or in many cases, people who were in need. There were several friends over the years that shared time, meals, and even living space in their time of need.
She loved social engagement. She loved following current events. She loved being involved. Luckily, as her body became more and more unable to maintain her independence, her cognitive abilities remained intact up until her final days.
The road to the Deer Lodge Centre was not direct. She had several stops along the way to full-time residency there in 2023. Her care on Tower 5 was excellent and very much appreciated by Joann and all who visited were lucky enough to hear mom talking about how fortunate she was to land there.
A life of 87 years has many chapters, twists, and turns. This barely scratches the surface, but allows a glimpse of how Joann impacted her family, friends, acquaintances, and people with whom she interacted.
Rest easy Joann, your work is done. The family will carry on, and remember the love that was imperfectly perfect.
Joann preferred a quiet passing with no formal celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to your charity of choice, the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation, or the Winnipeg Humane Society.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Joann’s memorial page using the comment field below.
On September 14, 2026, Jo passed away at age 83 after a nine-week illness, caused by a glioblastoma which she endured with courage, strength, humility and humour.
She is survived by her sister Donnie and nephew Ken (Louise); her son Richard (Linda); daughter Jenny (Rick) Lloyd; grandchildren Hayley (Justin), Meagan (Stefan), and Nick (Brielle); and great-grandchildren Lexi, Rylee, James, Lorelai, and Jax. She was predeceased by her parents, Ken and Jessie (Vancise) Dale; her brother-in-law Warren; her nephew John; and her best friend Linda.
Mom was born in Saskatoon and grew up in Fort Garry, graduating from Vincent Massey. As a teenager, she competed in equestrian events and earned many ribbons which are now proudly displayed in her granddaughter Hayley’s museum.
Never wanting to fail a test, her determination, competitiveness and stubbornness made sure she had many more wins in life to count than losses.
Some of her early wins include achieving a teacher’s certificate at Teachers College after high school. She began teaching in the mid-sixties in Oakville and Portage la Prairie.
After marrying and starting a family in 1968, she took a break from teaching to support our dad as he continued his academic career, which took the family back and forth between Portage la Prairie and Vancouver in the early 1970’s. After settling in Fort Richmond with two children Mom returned to teaching at Dalhousie School in 1974 until retirement in 2003.
In 1980, she became our family’s sole earner. Drawing on her courage and determination, she enrolled in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba, earned her degree, and received a raise that allowed her to support all our pursuits, including sports and academics.
Establishing herself in the Fort Richmond community, the wins stacked up through the friendships she made. She made friends at work, in the neighbourhood, at university, the RKCC community centre and in her retirement as a volunteer at The Victoria Hospital, and through the various Bridge groups she played and competed in.
Living and teaching in the same community meant her work friends included students, parents, and colleagues that she formed lifelong relationships with. The special ones include Linda’s children Justin and Brandi, book club (made up of retired Dalhousie teachers), and many students who begin a quip with, “without Mrs. Bembridge I wouldn’t know…”
Her colleagues are a special group. They met in the early 70’s and remained deeply connected through her final days. She especially cherished visits with Donna, Allie, Freddie, Sandy and Judy as well as the many others. She was humbled by the many gifts, cards and flowers sent to her, especially the quilt sent on behalf or her former colleagues.
Mom built strong relationships with her neighbours and after work friends, always hosting or attending parties and often being the life of them. There were many enjoyable times with the Andersons, Traftons, Raeburns, Juras’, Mackeys, Hills, and the Maceys. After a move to Country Knoll in the early 90’s she formed deep friendships with neighbours, specifically Doug, Gwen and Pete.
While at University, even though an older student, Mom fit in sharing notes and participating in class. She was very proud to wear the shirt that read “Grad 1981” even though and especially that she was 38!
While attending University and working full time as a teacher she didn’t think her plate was full enough, so she volunteered as an assistant coach, manager and secretary of the RKCC making friends within the parent groups of that era.
In retirement she built friendships with fellow volunteers and administration at The Victoria Hospital, working in the Guild and as a Volunteer in the gift shop. When mom became ill, her friends from the gift shop made a steady trek up to the fifth floor making sure she had everything she needed during her stay. She especially enjoyed visits from Robyn, Debbie, Roine; and close behind the human visitors were the dogs Luca and Chloe. Mom worked her last shift just 10 days before she was admitted to hospital because of her illness. During her stay she was awarded with a distinguished service award for 20 years of volunteer work.
Mom played in several Bridge leagues and games, often invited to play outside her usual group to fill a vacancy, a testament to her spirit and the friendship she offered. She played many games with Pat, Margaret, and Diane, including one just five weeks before her passing-and she won!
Mom was an avid sports fan. In summer, her TV was always tuned to the Blue Jays or the Blue Bombers; in winter it was tuned to The Jets. Mom had the opportunity to travel, on more than one occasion, to attend most major league sports events, including NHL, NFL, NBA and MLB. She was the most informed armchair coach, referee and GM that any team she cheered for could want!
Grandkids started showing up in 1993, again 1994 and 1997. She loved being Grandma and made sure she had an individual bond with each of them. She was proud to be a Great Grandma too and cherished the pictures that kept her in step with their lives.
Above all our mom was funny! There wasn’t much she wouldn’t say, and her timing was impeccable. Shortly after learning of her illness, she even made the doctor who delivered the news laugh. She could stand confidently in any group and deliver a one-liner that drew laughter and attention. She knew her audience, and depending on who’s company she was in, there were quips that were better kept than repeated.
As funny as she was, she was also sincere. You could count on our mom whether you were a colleague, friend, fellow volunteer or one of us kids, or one of our friends. What she said was what she meant, and it was always in support of what you were facing.
Early in her illness, she stated that she had more check marks in the win column than the loss column. This was never more evident than in the dedication shown by Mom’s friends. She counted those friendships among her wins, and they were many, long-lasting, deep and cherished. In her last days, when communication was still possible though brief, she was able to express gratitude.
The family wishes to thank the many Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Aides at the Victoria Hospital; the Home Care Nurses including Jennifer and her Team; and special gratitude to the Home Care Aides who enabled her to live at home for three weeks between hospital stays, especially Aman, BK, Henry, and Franklin; and the entire Team at Riverview Health Centre especially Colleen, Sabrina and Dr. Josh.
In keeping with her wishes, a party will be held to celebrate Cynthia on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Sheraton Four Points South, 2935 Pembina Highway, Winnipeg, MB., from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Volunteer Guild of the Victoria Hospital or Riverview Health Centre Foundation.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Jo’s memorial page using the comment field below.
In the early hours of Thursday, September 10, 2026, Darlene passed away peacefully with her sister Dolores by her side at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Darlene was the fifth child in a family of seven, born on May 27, 1947 in Ste. Rose, Manitoba. She was always so thin. Getting taller but never gaining weight. She attached to me (Dolores, oldest child). I became her second mother. She would cry when I left for any reason and would get me in trouble with our mother, if I left her behind. This carried on into my early teens.
When she was sixteen, Darlene was in Stoney Mountain, Manitoba where our parents had moved because our dad had a job. She attended one day of school and told my mom she didn’t like it and was not going back. Our dad told her that if she did not want to go to school, she had to go to work. She went to Winnipeg and got a job at a dry cleaner. She stayed with our sister Margie until she found her own apartment. She worked at that cleaner for 20 years, until it closed.
Darlene had a variety of jobs that were in different parts of the city. She always rode the bus and on one of her trips she was on a bus when it was in an accident. She was injured on her back. She went on disability and was unable to continue working. She moved into a 55 plus building where she remained until her passing.
Darlene was generous and over the years she shared her home with many family members who came to the city for doctor’s appointments, work or to visit. She had the “home away from home”, for family who were down and out or looking for temporary help.
She was very close to our baby brother Wayne. He spent many visits with her and would practically force her to get in the car and come home to Crane River. Darlene was very nervous as a passenger and would have to be really ill or absolutely need to shop to go out in traffic. Prior to her accident she traveled to places that were on gravel roads. She came to visit me in Cranberry Portage and Hollow Water to see the twins.”
Darlene loved her visits to McDonalds and looked forward to her niece Wenona taking her for hamburger, fries and gravy and coffee with a dash of cold water.
Darlene loved jewelry, nail polish and shopping when she could move without pain. Her greatest love was enjoying her cigarettes and coffee.
She was my bridesmaid and our connection remained over all these years. It was my privilege to have been with her when she left this world and began her journey. I love you sis; I will miss our daily phone calls.
Please remember what the priest asked you when he gave you your last sacrament, “remember me to our father when you reach your final destination”. So, my dearest sister, please visit me when you get your angel wings and keep me close to you.
Darlene was predeceased by her parents Maggie and Roy Dumas, her brothers Clifford, Irvin and Wayne and her sisters Jane and Margie.
Darlene is survived by her sisters Dolores (Don) and Rosie and her brother Dennis (Pearl) and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and aids that helped make her as comfortable as possible to the end.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Darlene’s memorial page using the comment field below.
