HAROLD OTTO BILLSON

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HAROLD OTTO BILLSON It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Harold Billson at St. Boniface Hospital (Palliative Care Unit) on Saturday, September 17, 2005. Dad slipped away comfortably and quietly in the final stage of leukemia. Harold will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by family: his wife Alice; his three children, Karen (Stephen Kline), Bruce (Erin Billson) and Lori; and his grandchildren, Erin, David, Britt and Olivia. He is survived by his sister Kay; and brother Victor; and was predeceased by sisters, Ruth and Margaret. He will be fondly remembered by many in-laws, nieces, nephews and dear friends. Born on July 8, 1913, in Woodlands, MB, Harold grew up in the community of Inwood where he met and married his wife of 61 years, Alice Moan. In 1946 he returned from service in the Navy, locating in Charleswood and working for Bristol Aerospace for 37 years until retirement in 1980. Dad's inner self came to life with his retirement. He embraced curling, golf, cross-country skiing and his life long passion for cars as a member of the Manitoba Classic and Antique Auto Club. He gave time in many ways to his community, reaching out to those in need and was awarded for his 20 years of service with Meals on Wheels. Harold had an unparalleled zest for life. He took unending pleasure in trips, travel and celebrations. Family, friends and community were close to his heart. Keeping in touch with friends, seeking out family and relations from Scandinavia and in the latter years caring tenderly and lovingly for our Mum were the legacy of our Dad. These qualities will live forever in our memories. Harold appreciated the community of supportive staff and the many friendships made during the last four years while living at the Metropolitan Kiwanis Centre. A special thank-you to Yvonne, a mainstay of his support. The family would also like to thank Dr. Duane Hartley, Dad's family physician of 6 years, and the staff of the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface Hospital for their compassionate care in Dad's final days. Cremation and a private interment attended by immediate family took place. A memorial service will take place at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave., on Friday, September 23 at 3:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the home of Bruce and Erin Billson. Remembrances may be made to Golden West Centennial Lodge, 811 School Rd., Winnipeg, MB R2Y 0S8, or to the Alzheimer's Society, 120 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2, in Harold's memory. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715 Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 21, 2005