ERNEST (ERNIE) W. STECH

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ERNEST (ERNIE) W. STECH Ernie, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away suddenly on Friday, December 19, 2008 at 83 years of age. Ernie will be forever missed and his memory lovingly cherished by his wife of 27 years, Charlotte; daughters, Janis (John Boux) and Laurel (Louis Lachuta); and grandchildren, Amanda and Adam Lachuta, all of Winnipeg. He is also survived by nieces, Karen Diaczun, Pamela Diaczun (Kevin Garski), Beverly Guindon (Stephan) and Lorraine Finch; nephews, Dennis Field (Landa) and Marvin Field (Mary); their respective families and brother-in-law Walter Diaczun. He is fondly remembered by sisters-in-law, Helene Lawton (Jim), Ruth Busch and Eleanor Yeske, as well as their families and many, many friends. Ernie was predeceased by his parents, Katherine and Harry; sisters, Stella Richardson, Anne Stech, Olga Field and Dorothy Diaczun; brothers, William and Stanley; and nephew Glen Richardson. His first wife, Marjorie (Thompson) died in 1977. Ernie was born September 28, 1925 in Winnipeg and grew up in East Kildonan. He started his career at Wilson Auto Electric, and later worked at Sharpe's Ltd. from where he retired as service manager in 1987 after 37 years with the company. An avid curler for 43 years, Ernie was President of the Grain Exchange Curling Club in 1972 to 1973 and President of the Charleswood Seniors Curling Club in 1994 to 1995. He loved golf and played regularly. A long-time member of Charleswood Golf Club until it closed in 2001, Ernie played the last few seasons at Tuxedo. He also enjoyed watching football and spent countless happy hours solving crossword puzzles. Known for his love of music, Ernie sang tenor in the Charleswood Curling Club Seniors Choir, under the musical direction and accompaniment of his wife, Charlotte. He also loved to dance and rarely did he miss an opportunity to kick up his heels to a favourite Big Band Era tune or lead the family in singing carols over the Holiday Season. Ernie was committed to good health and physical fitness. Many neighbours in Charleswood can attest to this after having seen him often on his daily three-km walks. And anyone who knew Ernie will remember how much he enjoyed sharing a good joke! The memories of his warm laugh and great sense of humour will always endure. A memorial service will be held Monday, December 29, 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends, if they so desire, make a donation in Ernie's memory to a charity of their choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 27, 2008