SERGIO ESTELLA

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SERGIO ESTELLA Born in Gibraltar on July 14, 1937 to Thomas and Josefa Estella, the youngest child of five. Due to political turmoil, his family was evacuated from Gibraltar to Ireland where they lived for four years, then returned to Gibraltar. Sergio later met his wife, Lucia, in La Linea, Spain. They were married on August 14, 1961 in Gibraltar, where they lived for eight years. They were blessed with two children, Jackie and Mark. Serge worked in the Gibraltar police force and attended the police academy in London in the mid 1960's. In April of 1969, Sergio and Lucy with their two children immigrated to Winnipeg, MB. Family awaited them and new friends were found including the church family of ACC. In 1979, Sergio and his family were baptised on the profession of their faith in Jesus Christ. Initially employed as a security guard Serge was soon hired onto the St. James Police Department where he continued to work until he retired in 1990. Serge was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 1980, and in July 1996, he became critically ill. After miraculously recuperating, Serge suffered two strokes and was subsequently confined to a wheelchair. Serge continuously found joy and strength in his Saviour. Lucy remained faithful in her love allowing him to enjoy a full life. Family remained a priority and his granddaughters were a special source of joy. He never lost his sense of humour, his love of people, his keen memory, or his fighting spirit. On September 12, 2009, Sergio was set free from the confinements of his ailing body and is now walking and dancing in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Estella; daughter Jackie and Paul McDowell, Danielle; son Mark and Bonnie Estella, Angelina; sister Josie Carter; brother Antonio Estella; numerous nieces and nephews in Canada, Spain and Gibraltar. He is predeceased by his parents and two brothers. The family wishes to extend a deep sense of gratitude to friends and family for all of their support, and to the doctors and nurses at Grace General Hospital for the loving care given to Sergio. In the sweet by and by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation of Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 19, 2009