TOR MIKAEL TIMGREN

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TOR MIKAEL TIMGREN Peacefully, on Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at the Gimli Community Health Centre, Tor Timgren, aged 93 years passed away. Tor Mikael Timgren was born on June 20, 1915 in Terjarv, Finland. He was the 12th of 13 children born of Swedish descent to Matts and Hilda Timgren. He served in the Finnish army in the Second World War. After the war, he drove bus and then owned and operated a flooring business. In 1951 Tor immigrated to Canada with his wife, Ruth and 2 small sons, Mike and Eric. They set out to make a life for their family in Willowdale (Toronto), setting the example of hard work and diligence. Tor developed his carpentry skills in the building trade. He even built his own house. His ability in mechanics provided cars, which he kept in good repair, for his sons and others. He showed his love by many acts of kindness, always looking for ways to be of service. His love of saunas found him building them for just about everybody. He loved cheering for his nephew, Ray Timgren and his team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. In later years, Hockey Night In Canada was a must. Tor had a wonderful, teasing sense of humour. Because he had such a gentle spirit, he got away with a lot!! He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored their Farfar (father's father). Retirement gave ample opportunity for travelling. Every second summer was spent in Scandinavia. At other times, they enjoyed mainland Europe and North America. Tor and Ruth moved to Gimli in 2001 where they enjoyed living at the Waterfront Centre. As his health began to fail, his legs would give out resulting in frequent tumbles during his walks around town. Often, friends like Bob Leiter would lovingly set him back up on his feet to continue on his way. His last two years were spent at the Betel Home where he received attentive care from the dedicated staff. His wife, in her nineties, walked every day to administer much T.L.C. We are indeed grateful for such living quarters that connect these two facilities. Additional support from Homecare, especially Steve and Lisa, has been an incredible encouragement to Tor and Ruth. The staff at the Gimli Community Health Centre provided exceptional palliative care with compassion and deep understanding. Tor's strong faith in the Lord sustained him throughout his life and was demonstrated publicly at age 88 at his baptism, conducted by granddaughter Lori's husband, Pastor Rob in a backyard hot tub. We all miss you, Farfar: your loving wife Ruth, son Mike (Eunice) and family, Lori (Rob), Chris (fiancée Carrie) and Carrie (Jac); son Eric and family Marty (Tracy); great-grandchildren Ryan, Jeff, Ben, Graeme and Madison. Many nephews fondly remember you, as well as nieces and in-laws in Canada, U.S.A, Sweden and Finland. Enjoy your family and friends who have gone before you and welcome you home. You're safe in the arms of Jesus . Vi alskar dig. Funeral services will be held in the Bayview Evangelical Free Church, 8 South Colonization Rd. in Gimli on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2008 at 11:00 A.M with Pastor Rob Godard officiating. A viewing will be held prior to the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Parkinson Society of Manitoba, 302 171 Donald St, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 1M4. Gilbart Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 22, 2008