RIKARD ANKER OLESEN

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RIKARD ANKER OLESEN October 13, 1919 - July 9, 2012 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Rikard Olesen, at the University Hospital in Edmonton AB. Left to cherish Dad's memory are his son Arne (Mary), daughter Vita (Robert) Holmes. Grandchildren: Amy and AJ Olesen, Michelle (Kent) Hembling, Kenny (Tracy) Holmes. Great-grandchildren: Jessika and Emily Holmes and Chase Hembling. His brothers: Harry and Erling and all family back in Denmark. His sister-in-law, Kirsten Pedresen and family in Australia. He was predeceased by his wife Minna in 1999 and his son John in 2010, sister Antoinette, brothers Gunnar and Jens. Dad was born in Denmark where he met and married our mother in 1944. Then in 1957 Dad and Mom packed up and immigrated to Canada for greater opportunities and a new life for his family, arriving in Winnipeg on July 1. Our first years in Winnipeg were very memorable, made so by our many new and good friends. A special thanks to Harold and Lily Pedersen and many other Danish friends who became like family here in Canada. Dad especially enjoyed the weekends spent with family at Willow Island; camping, swimming, boating, playing cards and golfing. Later on, Dad enjoyed the many trips he and Mom took to visit family and friends back in Denmark and Australia. When family came here for visits, Dad was very proud to take them on many cross country tours of Canada. Dad worked hard all his life but also took pleasure in going hunting, golfing, curling and bowling. He retired in 1984 but continued to work at home improvements and his hobbies. In 2007 he moved to Edmonton to live with his daughter and son-in-law where spending time with his great-grandchildren gave him a special joy. A private family service is planned. We love you Dad, in this time of sadness we are comforted to know you are and always will be part of all we do.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 21, 2012