EDWARD JAMES (JIMMY) HOUSTON

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EDWARD JAMES (JIMMY) HOUSTON Suddenly and instantly as a result of a motor vehicle accident in the RM of St. Andrews on July 17, 2011, Edward James Houston was taken from his family and many friends. Jimmy, 71, a long-standing resident of MacGregor MB, was born February 14, 1940 in Winnipeg, MB, along with his twin sister June. He was raised in St. Francois Xavier, MB, where he completed his high school education in 1957. After high school and a short period attending classes at the University of Manitoba, Jim embarked on his career with Manitoba Hydro in 1959 and married Judith Franklin in 1963. He worked with the corporation serving as a lineman throughout southern Manitoba until he obtained a supervisory position in Gillam, MB where he made many long lasting friendships. After he and Judy parted ways, he desired to be closer to his family and home, so Jim made a move from Gillam to MacGregor in 1979. Establishing himself in the community, Jimmy quickly made many friends that he kept dear to his heart until the end. It was at this time he met Sheila Ferris, and they were a couple until her passing in 2007. He enjoyed curling, baseball, hockey, golfing and was an avid fisherman. His hunting had tapered off and so he relied on friends to share a little of their game with him. Jim gave back to the community that gave so much to him by being on the village council, volunteering for the fire department and assisting with numerous community projects. Jim retired in 1995 from Manitoba Hydro after 35 years of service, but continued his dedication to family, friends and community by always helping out where ever he was needed. Even in retirement, he found that there was plenty of work to be done for his children and his friends. His skills in various trades were much sought after and kept him comfortably occupied. Jim is predeceased by Sheila Ferris and parents, James and Leah Houston. Jimmy leaves to mourn his passing his three children, Kelly (Alberta), Lorie (Ken) and Brett (Linsay). Siblings, June Miller (Tom), Robert (Leona) and Patrick. Also grandchildren, Amanda Buchko and Jacquo (Kelly), Briar and Brooke (Lorie), and Alexandria and Abigail (Brett). He is also survived by great-grand-children, Taggart and Ty (Amanda and Trevor); and nephews, Derrick (Robert), Richard and Scott (June); and niece Carrie (Robert). As well the Ferris family, Judy Smyth (Rod), Gail Jones and her children, Rosalyn, Jackie and Jason, along with all of their families and countless friends. Friends may call for visitation on Sunday, July 24, 2011 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Clarke's Funeral Chapel, MacGregor. Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 25, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the MacGregor EMC Church with Rev. Quentin Robinson officiating. Interment will follow in the MacGregor Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to Central Plains CancerCare, to any Palliative Care Unit or to Ducks Unlimited Canada. WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU Clarke's Funeral Home, MacGregor in care of arrangements. www.clarkesfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 23, 2011