JOHN DAVID BILSLAND

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JOHN DAVID BILSLAND Peacefully in Gimli with his family by his side, Dave passed away March 15, 2008 at the age of 70. Dave was predeceased by his mother Sigurbjorg (Becky) Bilsland (nee Thordarson), father John David Bilsland, sisters Iris Hobbs and Theatis Bilsland, and his special Aunt Joey. Dave is survived by his loving family: spouse Linda, sons Robert and Darren (Dianne); stepchildren Caralynn (Mark) and Joseph (Julia); grandchildren Samson, Paige, and Jade; mother-in-law Olga, cousin and best friend Ken Clark, loving extended family and friends. Dave was born in Winnipeg on May 22, 1937. He graduated from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate and was admitted to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Manitoba in 1962. Dave's career began in public practice before entering into a lengthy career at the provincial government Department of Finance and the Manitoba Agricultural Credit Corporation. Dave retired to Gimli in 1992, where he enjoyed walks with his dog Skippy, sailing, traveling, playing darts, completing home renovations (quite the handyman). Dave kept his passion for accounting alive by completing income taxes and working with many organizations in the Gimli area. Dave was active in the Gimli community, receiving the Volunteers Plant the Seeds of Kindness certificate for his service with the Betel Home. Some of Dave's greatest pleasures included attending his monthly coots lunches, finding the best deal, and spending time with his family. He especially looked forward to visits from his grandkids and watching them enjoy new experiences. Everyone who met Dave would soon experience his unique sense of humour and his unlimited knowledge of trivia. Dave loved a challenge, whether it be working on a crossword or building something. Dave was a caring, hardworking man that you could always rely on in a time of need, whether by doing someone a favour, offering advice or just listening. Dave never missed an opportunity to fire up the barbeque to show off his culinary skills. His call of soup's on! would always draw everyone together to the table. His witty signature goodbye phrase would always be have a mediocre . Dave will be remembered by all whoever had the pleasure of knowing him for his generosity and for always making you feel welcome when you dropped in to see him. The family would like to thank Dr. L. Benshaban, the staff at Gimli Community Health Centre, and the entire home care staff that made Dave comfortable at home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1932, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3R2, the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0R3, CancerCare Manitoba, P.O. Box 2248, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4A6 or the charity of one's choice. In accordance with Dave's wishes, a celebration of Dave's life will be held on Dave's birthday, May 22, 2008, at his home near Gimli Manitoba. There will be a notice of details in this paper mid-May. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200 nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 22, 2008