DENIS SMITHSON FRANKLIN

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DENIS SMITHSON FRANKLIN December 26, 1931 - July 11, 2010 It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather on July 11, 2010 after a valiant battle with melanoma. He is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Lorraine, daughter Pamela (Brian) and son Duane; grandchildren Dawn, Gene, Bethany and Delaney, great-granddaughter Brynn; and brother Lloyd (Bev) as well as many extended family members. Denis was predeceased by his mother Edith, father Elmer, brother Alec, sister Leona and beloved son Dale. Denis was born on December 26, 1931, the youngest of four children. He grew up in Weston and spent summers at the family cabin in Gimli and working for his Uncle Fred before joining C.P. Rail at the age of 15 where he remained until his retirement after 40 years of service as a Regional Electrical Supervisor. Denis met Lorraine, the love of his life in 1950 and they married on July 14, 1956. During their nearly 54 years of marriage they raised three children. Denis played baseball and basketball in his youth, hunted and sailed with his brothers, and enjoyed golf and curling into his retirement years. He coached his sons' hockey and baseball teams, and was a fan of all sports. Denis learned to play the trumpet in the Cadets as a teen, and was a very accomplished musician. He played in many bands over the years until very recently when illness made it difficult to keep up with weekly band practices. Listening to his trumpet playing was a gift that we will cherish always and miss dearly. It was a treat for Denis' children and grandchildren to attend his concerts; it was one of his greatest joys to attend theirs. Denis loved spending time at the cabin with family and friends where he proudly tended to a massive garden for many years, and where countless hours were enjoyed playing board games into the late hours, or tending to family bonfires. Denis was a man of great character and courage, quiet strength, great thought, gentle spirit, kindness, charm and a love without limits for his family. He also had a sharp wit, a wonderful smile and a sense of humour that would leave you gasping for breath. He was a great storyteller, and we will find comfort in all the wonderful memories he created for family and friends. Prayers will be held on Wednesday, July 14, 2010 in the Wheeler Funeral Chapel, 211 Regent Avenue West at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service will follow on Thursday, July 15, 2010 also at the Wheeler Funeral Chapel at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow at Transcona Cemetery. The family would like to extend thanks to Dr. Leylek and Dr. Smil, and to the compassionate caregivers at Concordia Hospital and Riverview Health Centre. If friends so wish, donations may be made in Denis' memory to CancerCare. Dad, I know you are watching over us and we will see you again. I miss you. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS IN CARE OF WHEELER FUNERAL CHAPEL 211 REGENT AVENUE WEST AT (BOND ST.) 224-1525

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 13, 2010