DAVID OWEN NICOLAJSEN

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DAVID OWEN NICOLAJSEN 1957 - 2009 It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of David, peacefully and comfortably with family by his side, on April 11, 2009, at Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, MB. Leaving behind to love and miss him are his wife, Debbie, and two daughters, Kylie and Kim, the three greatest joys in David's life. Also leaving to mourn his loss are his parents-in-law, John and Margaret Jordens, and sister-in-law, Phyllis, affectionately referred to as Auntie, five siblings, Russell (Linda) Nicolajsen, Clinton (Michelle) Nicolajsen, Debbie (Greg) Haegeman, Laurie (Terry) Barlow, and Jeff (Joyce) Nicolajsen. A very special uncle to nieces and nephews, Jaime (Warren), Kara (Shane), Clayton (Kirsten), Jennifer (Jeff), Christy (Rick), Teresa, Philip (Ghanya), Stacy, Tricia, Stephen, Shalyn, Erin, Adam, Colin, Dane, and all their young children. Many uncles, aunts, cousins, and finally, a multitude of friends have all held a special place in David's life and heart. Predeceased by Mom, Thelma Shields (Nicolajsen Rance), and grandparents, Peter and Alice Nicolajsen and LeRoy and Mabelle Rance, we trust that Dave was welcomed with open, loving arms to his new home. Raised in the farming community of Sperling, MB, David enjoyed, with his mom and siblings, an adventurous youth; filled with hard work, loads of fun, too many pets to mention, and a welcoming home to all family and friends. David's busy working life continued in Sperling where he grew, along with his brothers, to become co-owner and operator of a successful family inspired business Sperling Industries, Ltd. . Steel construction demand led him to Rivers, MB, where he met and married Debbie Jordens in 1996. Together they created a beautiful home and immaculate yard which they share with their daughters, Kylie and Kim. David was interested in everyone and everything that the world had to offer, including camping, fishing, golf, and more recently, time spent at his cabin with his family. He enjoyed many unique collectibles and his fascination with the latest in audio-video materialized in every corner of his home. Dave's often crusty exterior and blunt words of wisdom could never conceal the love, gentle heart, and unparalleled generous spirit he offered to family and friends. But perhaps his greatest gift to the world was his uncanny ability to make others laugh. David's insightful stories, facial expressions, and actions could reduce anyone to tears; laughing at ourselves and the insane world around us. We will miss that, Dave! David and our family will be ever grateful for the healthcare provided at Boundary Trails and Carman hospitals, but especially for the compassionate, on-going care and support from the team at Health Sciences Centre. Our appreciation goes far beyond words. David, may you now rest peacefully knowing that you have worked faithfully, lived your life as you saw it, and shared all that you had to offer with those walking alongside you. Farewell for now, David, and love forever from your family, til we can all laugh together again. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Carman Community Hall. Memorial donations may be made to the Carman Area Foundation (Sperling Fund): Box 1601, Carman, MB, R0G 0J0. Doyle's Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements. (www.doyleschapels.com)

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 15, 2009