BEN (BERNHARD) KROEKER

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BEN (BERNHARD) KROEKER Passed away peacefully at Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, Orillia, Ontario on Thursday, January 13, 2011 with his wife and son at his side. Beloved husband of Josephine (nee Huculak). Loving father of Ken (Jane) of Mississauga, Betty (Ken) Newnham of Winnipeg and Sylvia (Guy) Gauthier of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. Cherished grandfather of Jeffrey Kroeker and Tom and Ben Newnham. Adored by many nieces and nephews. Born in Lowe Farm, MB in 1919, the youngest son of Cornelius and Maria (nee Dueck) Kroeker. Ben was a proud veteran of the Second World War and took part in the D-Day Invasion of Normandy in 1944. After the war, he trained as a machinist and throughout his life was greatly admired for his skills as a machinist and mechanic. There was nothing he could not create, build or fix. His proudest personal achievement was getting his private pilot's licence in his 50s. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, fishing and hunting, walking in the bush and sharing an apple with Josie. He loved all sports especially curling and golf and excelled at horsehoes. Ben's family are very grateful for the compassionate and professional care that he received over the years at Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, Sunnybrook Hospital and the Leacock Care Centre. Love and special thanks to Ben's niece Annie for her devotion and support. At Ben's request cremation has taken place and a Memorial Celebration will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial donations to the CNIB would be appreciated. Safe and happy landing, Ben!

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 05, 2011