WILLIAM HAROLD WAKEMAN

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WILLIAM HAROLD WAKEMAN June 15, 1942 - April 10, 2009 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Bill Wakeman. Bill will be missed by his three children, Chris, Wendy (Geoff Baggley), Curtis; their mother Peggy; brothers, Robert (Sharon) and Fred (Brenda), and numerous nieces and nephews; his grandchildren, Teighan and Cameron. Bill was born and lived his entire life in Transcona. He was a highly skilled specialist who welded Bomarc missiles, Bell helicopter and VooDoo fighter plane parts at C.A.E., Bristol Aerospace and Standard Aero. It was in the early 80's that Bill took a career direction that combined both his mechanical talents and love of children. Bill spent over 25 years teaching in River East Transcona School Division at Murdoch Mackay, John W. Gunn, and Arthur Day schools. Bill's students will remember his patience, generosity, and wealth of knowledge. Bill retired from teaching in 2007 and was enjoying the new adventures that life had to offer. Known by many as Bomba, Bill was an avid hobbyist and his many interests included drag racing, model airplanes, billiards, golf, bowling, car restoration and a recently a return to motorcycling. He was a fantastic storyteller, showman, and took pleasure entertaining crowds with pool tricks and his always present yo-yo. Bill truly enjoyed sharing these passions with his children and grandchildren. Bill made countless friends through his many activities and was a member of several organizations such as MSRA, WRCC, Camwinders Car Club, and many others. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service and reception at Transcona Memorial United Church, 209 Yale Avenue West, on Thursday, May 7, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Children's Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 25, 2009