HOWARD BRADLEY STONE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

HOWARD BRADLEY STONE 1918 - 2007 It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Howard Bradley Stone, beloved husband, father, and grandfather on August 12, 2007. Remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife Doris; daughters, Barbara (David) and Elizabeth (Jim); and granddaughters, Victoria, Brooke, and Camille. Howard was predeceased by his mother and father Clara and Cooper Stone; his brother Oswald, and his twin sons, Gerald and George. Howard was born in Rapid City, Manitoba on January 31, l918. His parents, Clara Bradley Stone and Cooper Stone were pioneers who helped build this small town after moving from England to Manitoba in the province's early days. Howard and his older brother, Os (Oswald) Stone grew up in Rapid City where their father was the owner, editor, and publisher of the local newspaper and the town mayor for several years. As a boy, Howard enjoyed swimming in the river, playing baseball, and having the run of the countryside. He also took violin lessons, perhaps not enjoying that activity quite so much. Howard attended church with his family, and learned the newspaper trade working with his dad at the Rapid City Reporter. He graduated from high school in Rapid City and moved on to attend Brandon College from 1936 to 1939 where he enjoyed studying science. Following his college years Howard worked as a projectionist at the Lyric Theatre in Minnedosa from 1941 to 1945. Howard met the love of his life, Doris Holden, in her hometown of Minnedosa and they were married on Christmas Day, 1943 between showings of He Do'ed It and Holy Matrimony at the Lyric Theatre. Their identical twin sons, Gerald Joseph and George Bradley were born on September 14, 1944, and sadly passed away in infancy. Their daughter Barbara was born in 1947 and their daughter Elizabeth in 1950. Howard and Doris settled in Winnipeg in 1947 where they raised their children in the suburb of St. James. Howard was a loyal employee of the Winnipeg Tribune newspaper, where he worked as a linotype operator from 1946 until his retirement in 1980 when the newspaper ceased publication. Howard's avid interest in the news and his skills with language, particularly his appreciation of the proper use of the Queen's English, served him well during his long career as a newspaperman. Howard had many friends at the Trib and was known as someone who stood up for what he believed in. Howard valued people who were true to their word and measured others through the lens of his own strong character. A loving and hard-working husband and father, Howard devoted his life to his family. He was known for his ironic and quick wit. He enjoyed getting together with good friends and was active in the community. He iced many a rink at Deer Lodge Community Club, enjoyed curling with his Tribune team and taught Sunday School at Deer Lodge United Church. Howard, who contracted polio as a child, refused to let any resulting mobility problems prevent him from pursuing his goals whether that meant participating in lacrosse as a goalie, winning curling bonspiels, or maneuvering the icy streets of a Winnipeg winter. Howard emphatically eschewed the help others tried to offer him and continued his battle for independence throughout his life. With his determination and willpower, Howard was a pillar of strength to his wife, an inspiration to his children, and a force to be reckoned with by any who put his ethics or morals to the test. Howard was a skilled craftsman whose meticulous work is reflected in the improvements and construction of the family's home. The smell of sawdust permeated the air on many evenings following his long days at the newspaper. Howard and Doris enjoyed taking family vacations and memorable summer days were spent relaxing by the lake, visiting his home town in the country, and driving to the World's Fair. Clear Lake, Manitoba was a special favourite, where Howard could be relied upon to feed the squirrels from his patio at Lee's Holiday Bungalows. Family games of Squabble and Pit lasted long into the evenings with lots of laughter and lively conversation. He loved cats and dogs and gave the family pets lots of attention and affection over the years. Howard's greatest joy was his family; his forever lovely wife Doris; his daughters, Barbara and Betty (Elizabeth); his sons-in-law, David Trinka and Jim Ballance, and his three granddaughters, Victoria, Brooke and Camille. He took pride in them as individuals and quiet satisfaction in their achievements. He placed a high value on education, ensuring that both of his children were able to attend university and find fulfillment in their work. We will all miss his sense of humour, his laughter, and his generous nature. He was always there to support us, willing to share his wit and wisdom, and provide the voice of reason. He will be missed more than words can say. The family would like to thank the staff on the third floor of the Golden West Centennial Lodge as well as Jo-ann Cumming for their care and support over the last two years. In accordance with Howard's wishes cremation has already taken place and a private service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Golden West Centennial Lodge at 811 School Road. Arrangements entrusted to: Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 15, 2007