RAYMOND HONKE

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RAYMOND HONKE October 22, 1938- March 15, 2008 Suddenly on March 15, 2008 Raymond Honke passed away at the age of 69 years. He is survived by his wife Frances, his sons Darrin (Donna), Dean (Melissa) and his much loved grandchildren Kelsey, Rachel, Clarissa, Brendan, and his unborn grandchild due in May 2008. He is also survived by mother Pauline (Peter), his brothers Irvin (Alice), and Douglas (Bernice). He will be greatly missed by his in-laws Betty Alstadt, Phyllis (Ralph) Dreger, Al (Connie) Meisner, Lenore (Albert) Clayton, and his many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his father William, brother Brian, in-laws Gus and Erna Meisner, nieces Barb and Kim, brothers-in-law Arnold and George. Ray was born October 22, 1938 in River Hills, Manitoba. He was well known for his expertise in fastball pitching for the Hungry Nine with all his brothers and brought the team to many victories. Ray was also an avid Blue Bomber and Montreal Canadiens fan and looked forward to the Grey Cup and Stanley Cup playoffs every year. He enjoyed camping and fishing with the family and passed on this passion to his sons who continue to fish at their favourite place, Nutimik hoping to catch the big one (Sturgeon). Some fond memories include when Dean and Dad went fishing at Nutimik and Dean had a sturgeon on his line and it jumped in the boat. Off shore fishermen asked what they caught and Dad said it was a big jack because he was unsure of Dean's intentions, knowing that they couldn't keep them at the time. While cooking pickerel, Dad coined the phrase it tastes like candy . Dad was a real MacGyver, he could fix anything. He also loved Johnny Cash and his music. Dad was a great cook and not many fathers would make their 40 something kids sandwiches for work. Dad (Papa) loved his grandchildren and even throughout his illness they brought a sparkle to Papa's eye. He loved nothing more then to spend time with each of them and always told them how special they were to him. It is a huge loss to our family and he will be greatly missed. Thank you to Dr. M.E. Burke, Dr. Hugh Smith, the Fire and Paramedic service, the Winnipeg Police, and the nurses that visited weekly. As per Ray's request there will be no formal service held. It was his wish to be cremated. All donations in Ray's memory may be sent to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba 200-6 Donald St. or the Lung Association, Manitoba 629 McDermot St. Goodbye My Family Goodbye family, my life is past. I loved you all to the very last. Weep not for me but courage take. Love each other for my sake, for Those you love don't go away They walk beside you everyday. Funeral Arrangements In Care Of: WHEELER FUNERAL CHAPEL 211 REGENT AVENUE (AT BOND) 224-1525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 19, 2008