BERNARD (BEN) HORSFALL

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BERNARD (BEN) HORSFALL March 18, 1918 - November 26, 2005 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Ben Horsfall at the St. Boniface General Hospital in the company of his family on November 26, 2005 - the Year of the Veteran. Ben is lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years Eileen (nee McMillan), children Judith Jackson (David Skinner), Robert Horsfall, Jo-Anne Findlay (Keith), treasured grandsons Ryan and Reid Jackson, Matthew Horsfall, Graeme and Colin Findlay. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Ruth MacKenzie, Betty and Harold O'Connor and Helmut Thiessen and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Mary (nee Wagstaff), his sister Gladys, his brothers Cyril and Arthur, his sister-in-law Marilyn Thiessen and his brother-in-law Andrew MacKenzie. Ben lived a good life. Born in Winnipeg, he spent his early years in Doncaster, England returning with his family by boat at the age of eleven. His family resided in East Kildonan where Ben attended school and excelled academically. Ben loved life. He loved to laugh. He loved to talk. He loved to dance and sing but mostly he loved Eileen. She was the love of his life and he cherished his time with her right to the end. They met at Grand Beach and were married October 23, 1943. Ben had to leave Eileen soon afterwards as he volunteered to serve his country in the RCAF. Of this he was most proud. Ben served in the 408 Goose Squadron and the 429 Bison Squadron in Europe. He was part of Bomber Command and flew on both Halifax and Lancaster bombers. Dad rarely spoke of the war years when we were growing up. When he did, however, he only spoke of happy times and how his time in England allowed him to spend precious time with his sister Gladys. In recent years dad shared his memories with his son, Robert, and his war medals with each of his grandsons and for this we are most grateful. Ben was a member of the Wartime Pilots and Observers and enjoyed spending many hours in the Garden of Memories at Wing Command. When Ben returned to Canada he and Eileen were able to start their life together. They were blessed with three wonderful children of whom Ben was most proud. Unique in their own ways, Ben celebrated their accomplishments and shared in their heartaches. He was the best. Ben also started his career in sales; first in the pharmaceutical industry and then in real estate. He viewed every doctor, every pharmacist and every homebuyer as his friend. Many have remained so until today. They have many fond memories of him telling jokes and stories. They'll remember him not only as a dedicated professional but for the twinkle in his eye. Ben was an avid golfer who loved to watch it, play it and talk about it. He especially loved to tell you stories about his hole in one. Ben died a happy man, a true gentleman. He will be missed. The family wishes to thank Dr. A.N. Schroeder for his kind, compassionate care throughout the years. We also wish to express our appreciation to the paramedics who responded to our call, the doctors and nurses at the Grace General Hospital and The St. Boniface General Hospital, Alex in pastoral care for his prayers and guidance and Dr. Hussein, Judy and Tricia for their care, compassion and kindness. A celebration of Ben's life will be held Saturday, December 10, 2005 at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Winnipeg Humane Society, The St. Boniface General Hospital or a charity of one's choice. PER ARDUA AD ASTRA Through Adversity to the Stars The Air Force Motto

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 30, 2005