HENRY (ELIE JOSEPH) DECORBY

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

HENRY (ELIE JOSEPH) DECORBY With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Henry Decorby on Sunday, September 23, 2007 in the Palliative Care Unit at the St. Boniface Hospital. Henry was born December 22, 1925 in St. Lazare, MB, to parents, Jules and Anna (nee Robert) Decorby. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Evelyne (nee Trudel), his son Raymond (Gabrielle) of Yellowknife (their children Spencer and Brieanna) and daughters, Dr. Monique Wright (David) of Calgary and Michelle of Winnipeg. Henry also leaves his brothers, Robert and Maurice (Ora), and sister Mary Anne / Milly. Henry enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1943, and the family was posted to a number of locations across Canada. He was trained as a bombardier, and a member of Para Rescue (now S.A.R. Tech) from 1950 to 1960 (Course 4, Number 49). Henry retired with the rank of Sergeant in 1971. His post-military career included customs officer and Excise Tax auditor for Revenue Canada. Following his retirement from civil service in 1981, Henry continued to work at the University of Winnipeg in the Athletics Department until 1986. He remained active in his later years, enjoying long walks, reading, golfing, baking bread, visiting with numerous friends and mastering the computer. He loved a good joke, and maintained his sense of humour throughout his later years and despite his illness. Most frustrating to Henry was that his body could not keep up with his active mind. Henry reluctantly let go of his many past times, but enjoyed a good hockey or baseball game right to the end. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, September 29 at 11:00 a.m. in the Blessed John XXIII Roman Catholic Church, 3390 Portage Avenue at Rouge Road, with Rev. Msgr. Maurice Comeault, P. H., presiding. According to Henry's wishes, there will be no formal interment. Dad remained at home until two days before his passing, and we are all most appreciative to those who made that possible. The family would like to note special thanks to Dr. W.C. Schellenberg, the dedicated persons who provided home care and other supportive services, and countless others for their compassion and kindness toward both Mom and Dad. Donations in lieu of flowers could be made to the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation, 200 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0K6 or Hospice and Palliative Care Manitoba, 2109 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3J 0L3. ...Whether or not it is clear to you, have no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at Peace with God, whatever you conceive him to be, and whatever your labour and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham and drudgery broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world...(Desiderata)

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 29, 2007