VICTOR EDWIN

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VICTOR EDWIN KING With deep sadness, the family announces the unexpected, but peaceful passing of Victor, aged 84, of Arborg, MB on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at Grace Hospital. His memory will be forever cherished by his wife of 53 years, Sigrun; his children, Kathy (Danny), David (Bonnie), Linda (Ken), Donna (Terry), Karen (Glenn); grandchildren, Brian (Trina), Devin (Ariel), Paige, Kara and Kristen; great-grandchildren, Joshua and Nicholas. He also leaves his sisters, Elsie and Dorothy; and his brother Bill, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Anne and his brother Walter. Victor was born in Alticane, Saskatchewan on January 12, 1925. His family moved to the Arborg area in 1938. Dad started working at the age of 14 as a farm-hand, and then spent several years working on dairy farms in the Gimli area. He also worked for CP Rail, the grain terminals in Thunder Bay, and commercial fishing on Lake Winnipeg. He settled into farming in 1956 on what is now the family farm. He met Sigrun Paulson and they were married in 1956. They raised five children on the farm and although there were some hard times, there were more good times. Dad sold cream to the local creamery in Arborg and in 1972, he expanded and began selling milk to the New Bothwell cheese plant. Dad strived to improve his dairy herd and won many milk quality awards starting in 1974. In 1978 his son David joined him in running the farm. Dad’s arthritis slowed him down but never prevented him from helping out in any way he could with field work and milking cows. Right up to two months before his knee surgery, Dad came to the barn every single morning to help with chores. Even though he didn’t have to, he said that he just had to do something. This is even more amazing to us now that we know how bad his health really was. He enjoyed using his old International tractor because he said that it was just like him...it just wouldn’t quit. Few people have ever had to work like Dad did. Dad enjoyed going for drives to see how the crops were doing, and on Saturday evenings, the whole family would come along. However, in the winter months, such evenings were spent watching Hockey Night in Canada. Dad was an avid reader and could often be found in his armchair engrossed in one of his many books. In his later years he enjoyed driving his quad around the countryside, checking fields and fences. He also took pleasure in feeding the many birds that found sanctuary in his yard. Mom and Dad made many sacrifices to provide for their children, and always put their own needs last. It wasn’t always easy for Dad to express his emotions with words, but his actions always made it clear the love he felt for his family. Dad had a sense of humour that sparkled through his eyes. His wit was as sharp as he was. Dad was a man of character who was respected by all who knew him. We all love you and will miss you dearly! The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff at the Grace Hospital for their compassionate care, with special thanks to Tara in the ICU. Thanks also to Pastor Terri-Ann for her comforting words and presence. Following Victor’s wishes, no formal memorial service will be held. A private family service will be held at a future date. If so desired, memorial donations in Victor’s memory can be sent to the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 23, 2009