JOHN ACTHIM

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JOHN ACTHIM Passed away peacefully in Vancouver, BC on Sunday, September 18, 2005 in his 81st year. He was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Nicholas; and sisters, Helen and Bernice. He is survived by and will be forever in the hearts of his son Bruce of Vancouver (Joanne Acthim of Winnipeg) and daughter Patricia of Vancouver (Poul Sylvest). His memory also cherished by his grandchildren, Nicholas Sylvest of New York, Carling Acthim of Vancouver and Kiersten Acthim of Winnipeg. Lovingly remembered by former wife Betty Acthim. John was born in Kenora, ON on February 21, 1925 and at the age of 18 joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where he served as a Gunner and Pilot Officer on the Lancaster during the Second World War. He was shot down and wounded on a mission over France, and hidden by the French underground. He became a POW in Stalagluft III outside Berlin where he remained for the duration of his service. After the war he joined the ranks of Civil Service where he rose to the position of Chairman of the Municipal Board for the Province of Manitoba. He retired in 1983 after 35 years of loyal and devoted service. Dad was a man who was generous in kind and spirit and was recognized as such by the City of Winnipeg for outstanding leadership in the field of community service . He was a Life Member and past President of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 84 Manitoba and N/W Ontario and received a Meritorious Service Medal in 1995. At the time of his passing he had transferred his membership to Billy Bishop 176 in Vancouver. John was also a Life Member of the Wartime Pilots' and Observers' Association. John is survived by brother-in-law Bill Matthew of Rainy River; his nieces and nephews, Barbara and Peter Street of North Bay, Elizabeth and Joe Nucci and family of Thunder Bay, Judy and Don Rusnak and family of St. Albert, Robert and Cheryl Matthew and family of Rainy River and Dwayne Hunter of Thunder Bay. Close family and lifelong friends around the world will remember his charming ways and sense of humour. Special thanks to Dr. Vajcner, Dr. Andrew and the staff of St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg and to the staff of Brock Fahrni Pavilion in Vancouver for their care, support and friendship. A memorial service to celebrate the life of John Acthim will be held at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. in Winnipeg on Saturday, September 24 at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow in Rainy River, ON. Donations to the Terry Fox Foundation or the charity of your choice greatly appreciated. Devoted son, Father, Grandfather and Friend.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 22, 2005