JOHN DONALD CARPENTER

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JOHN DONALD CARPENTER John Donald Carpenter passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at Riverview Hospital, just three days before his 92 birthday. He was born in Nelson, B.C. and moved with his parents Arthur and Hazel and his brother Gerald to Winnipeg when he was five years old. As a youth John was active at the YMCA and enjoyed his summer time at Camp Stephens. He excelled in water sports and gymnastics, badminton and tennis. He coached baseball, led a Cubs group and sang in the choir at St. Andrews River Heights United Church. He bowled 350 point 5 pin games at Academy Lanes, and after 65 years as a member at Sandy Hook golf course, his score matched his age at 88! John described a jack-knife dive into the River from the Jubilee bridge to win a bet. He sketched, did woodworking and daily crosswords. After graduating from Kelvin High School, John served first as a Sergeant in the Royal Canadian Signal Corps reserve and later as an RCAF Pilot Officer. Most of his working career was with Saskatchewan Wheat Pool in Winnipeg. John and Dora enjoyed trips including Florida, France, Venezuela. They square danced, played bridge with close friends, and spent summers at the family cottage at Winnipeg Beach. John will be greatly missed by his wife Dora (nee Marchant), son Ken; daughters Louise, and Sue (Tamblyn). Playing cards with Grandpa was a favourite pastime and he will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren: Noel and Kim (and Todd), Enio and Asuseli, Jean-Loup and Chloe, and great-grandchildren: Tasia and Charlie, as well as nieces and nephews. We'll miss his harmonica tunes, jokes and Vanilla ice cream. Cremation has taken place and respecting his wishes there is no formal service. There will be an intimate family gathering to commemorate John's life. Thank you to all the health care staff who provided outstanding care and comfort and family friends for their support. Rest in Peace Dad

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 28, 2008