ARCHIE WILLIAM MCGILLIVRAY

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ARCHIE WILLIAM MCGILLIVRAY September 19, 1916 - April 21, 2008 After a brief illness, Archie McGillivray peacefully passed away at the age of 91 years, at St. Boniface Hospital, on Monday, April 21, 2008. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 48 years, Marion (nee Fraser) in 1989, and all of his siblings: brothers, Jack, Jim and Tony, and sisters, Flora and Nessy. He is survived by his sons, Donald (Joan) of Mexico and Douglas (Lynne) of Saskatoon; granddaughters, Dana (Bruce) of Vancouver and Jennifer (Rick) of London, grandson Kevin of Calgary, and great-granddaughter Brooklynn. Archie is also survived by his close friend Evelyn McLeod (River Park Gardens), who shared his love for life. As friends since high school, they provided mutual support to each other in their later years. Archie McGillivray was born in Transcona in 1916. He joined the R.C.A.F. in 1940 and graduated first in his class and was the first to solo. He was recognized as a superior pilot and was promoted to flight instructor and spent two and one half years in England from 1943 to 1945 where he achieved the designation of Flight Lieutenant. He flew Tiger Moth's and Hurricanes, and was responsible for the training of over 150 pilots for Canada's war effort. After the war, he worked for Manitoba Hydro, initially Manitoba Power Commission, for 38 years and retired as their Purchasing Manager in 1976. He enjoyed the fact that many junior employees he trained are now themselves retired, and is fondly remembered by many of his fellow employees. Archie was recognized by everyone who knew him as a true gentleman, a person who was loved and respected by family and friends. He was always ready to help a friend in home renovations as he loved to work with his tools. After retirement, Archie and Marion spent their winters in Phoenix, Arizona, until Marion's illness obliged them to sell their retirement home. He maintained the family home until his mid 80s and enjoyed his neighbours friendship until he moved to his apartment. He lived on his own and took pride in driving his new car on a daily basis. He was an excellent driver who used this mobility to maintain an active social life. His family was important to him and he loved to travel often to visit them. Up to his last days, he maintained his famous sense of humour, and was always in a positive mood. His memory was amazing and he could recall events and people as far back as his childhood. In compliance with Archie's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date for family and friends so as to allow for travel arrangements. Bardal Funeral Home 843 Sherbrook Street, 774-7474 condolences: www.bardal.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 24, 2008