ROBERT R. LONGSTAFFE

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ROBERT R. LONGSTAFFE With sadness, the family announces the death of Robert on February 18, 2006. He is lovingly mourned by his daughter Eunice, and son Douglas; as well as grandchildren, Lesley, Jennifer, Adam, Heather and Angel. Born in Winnipeg on July 26, 1917, Robert was pre-deceased in recent years by his brother Horace; sister Ethel; and his second spouse Elizabeth. His first wife Helen predeceased him in 1979. Their daughters, Eleanor and Janice (siblings of Eunice and Douglas) predeceased them both in infancy and childhood respectively. Robert was a good loving father who led by example. His values of honesty, kindness, and above all integrity, were a model for his children to emulate. The male virtue of being a stand up guy who lived with honour was unmistakably evident in his character. A self- educated man, his family can attest to his life long learning and passionate commitment to the pursuit of truth. Robert's lack of interest in materialism stood in stark contrast to much of society. In the 1930s, Robert was an active member and later vice-president of the Winnipeg chapter of Technocracy, a volunteer non-partisan organization, that had a vision for a more equitable distribution of wealth and power, through technological development and a planned economy. Having a passionate love for his country, Robert enlisted in the army at the start of the Second World War but received a medical discharge . For most of his working years, Robert was a dedicated civil servant for the city of Winnipeg. His many appointments included that of Chief utilities accountant and Chief of Taxation, the latter of which he held for many years. He was recognized by successive Mayors, colleagues, staff and taxpayers alike, for his fairness, integrity and compassion. Robert always said what he meant and meant what he said. He had a particularly soft spot for the underdog or the disadvantaged and quietly extended much kindness and generosity to others. In his retirement years, Robert became the treasurer for the Manitoba Ostomy society. His interest in current events and good government remained and he read the daily paper even when hospitalized at age 88. Robert was a soulful man who believed in the Creator. He was passionate about nature and human freedom. With no pretense as to his perfection, to those who knew him well, the world seems a little poorer after his demise, yet a little richer in the legacy he left behind. We wish to thank those staff at Middle Church Home and Seven Oaks General Hospital who went the second mile and cared so affectionately for Robert. The funeral service will be on Thursday, February 23 at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main near Inkster. Viewing is at 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2006