PHILIP WOLTER KOR

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PHILIP WOLTER KOR April 18, 1922 - October 2, 2007 In the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 2nd, 2007, embraced by his dear wife Grady, and surrounded with love, Philip passed away peacefully. Philip was born in Cheribon, Indonesia. He was the middle child of Dutch parents, Bouko and Alida Kor. He spent his childhood in Indonesia and moved to Holland as a teenager. There, during the war, he worked as a radio operator for the Dutch Underground, carefully avoiding detection by the enemy. After the war, he joined the Dutch Merchant Navy as a radio operator on a cargo ship. He loved the sea life and circled the globe, travelling to most continents of the world. While in Scotland, Pop met Margaret (Mac), a young lass who captured his heart, and they were soon married. He accepted a job with the U.N. and again returned to Indonesia, working for KLM troubleshooting aircraft electronics. Eventually Pop returned to Holland where he was employed with Phillips Electronics refurbishing radio equipment, before immigrating to Winnipeg with his family in 1959. In Winnipeg, he began a long career with Transport Canada where he was known as an opinionated electronics technician whose knowledge and expertise garnered respect from his peers. In 1972, Pop suffered the loss of his first love, Margaret. However, he was blessed to find love a second time when he was introduced to Grady by the family doctor (Dirk Blouw). Pop and Grady married in 1974, and Pop welcomed another son (Frank) and extended family (den Ouden and Wilbers). In 1980, after the boys left home, Pop and Grady began building their retirement home in the country. Sons Bouko and Frank, and numerous in-laws, friends, and co-workers were instrumental in seeing that vision realised. Finally Pop had a space larger than an apartment closet to tinker on electronics, do woodworking, and set up an Amateur Radio room. He'd found his Nirvana! Pop retired from Transport Canada, but never retired from activity; continuing to install radio beacons, teaching electronics in Antigua, and collaborating and building electronic devices. Pop's many interests kept him alert and current. He collected a large library of books on all topics and amassed a music collection from all genres. He created many beautiful wooden toys (airplanes, boats, and trains) for his grandsons. Pop also enjoyed collecting and restoring antique radio equipment, some of which were donated to the Museum in Austin, MB. Until recently, he could be found busying himself with numerous projects: repairing radios and clocks, designing speakers, researching the Family Tree (back to Napoleon), calling other Ham Radio buddies, or just generally tinkering around. Pop enjoyed a long and very full life. He retained a passion for learning and for sharing his knowledge. He was continually fascinated with the workings of the Universe. By his example, Pop showed how to appreciate Life. We thank him for being a sweet and loving husband, father, Opa, and friend. He is survived by his wife Grady, sons Philip Jr. (Elizabeth), Bouko (Valerie), Frank (Wendy), and grandsons Nicolaas, Cody, Tyler, and Sam. He is also survived by sister Eppie (Reinus) Zwollo, sisters-in-law Tineke Kor and Toni Vloemans in Holland, brother/sister-in-laws Theo (Thea) Wilbers in Holland, Anne (Sam) Waters in B.C., Ileana (Andrew) Ferguson and Jim (Mary) Frew in Scotland, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Philip was pre-deceased by his first wife, Margaret (Mac) Kor, and his younger brother, Woy. The family wishes to thank friends and neighbours, especially Faye, Don, David, and Albert for supporting Pop during these recent tough times. Thanks to doctors Blouw, Kroeker, Hamilton, and Geddes whose expertise, sound judgement, and compassion enhanced and greatly extended Pop's quality of life, especially over the past eleven years. Thank you also to the many caregivers and staff at Selkirk and Victoria hospitals for their efforts. Pop wished that no formal service would be held. Instead, a gathering of family, friends, and acquaintances will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Selkirk Branch #42, on Thursday October 11 at 1:00 p.m. We invite all who knew Pop to come and share your memories. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favourite charity. We came whirling out of nothingness scattering stars like dust. The stars made a circle and in the middle, we dance. Jalaluddin Rumi Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 06, 2007