WILLIAM ATTREE

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WILLIAM ATTREE William (Bill) Attree born April 30, 1921 in Sapton Manitoba; died peacefully, October 11, 2011 in Stonewall Manitoba. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Ellen (Inkster); brothers, Jack, Harry, Edward (Ted) and Geoff, sisters (Nora) Mary and Ruth Turko and his most dear family friend Jennifer. Bill leaves behind his sister-in-law Bea Attree, several cousins, one nephew, several nieces, great nieces, and their respective families. Bill's brothers, Harry and Geoff, started a grain and dairy operation in the early 1940s in the Rosser, MB area, while Bill raised turkeys on the neighbouring farm. Bill became a well-known and respected turkey farmer during this era with over 25 years experience raising turkeys by the time he retired in 1976. After retiring Bill became a volunteer driver for the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) logging over 100,000 miles over an 18 year span. Bill received several commendations from the CCS during this time, acknowledging his generous contributions of self and time to the patients. His most recent volunteer award was given to him in 1994 in Portage la Prairie by his fellow peers at the CCS. Not one to be found idle, Bill took swimming lessons at the age of 50. At 85 he was still able to swim 85 laps in one stretch! Bill enjoyed reading and travelling. His journeys took him to places as far away as New Zealand, Britain and France as well as parts of North America. Bill worked as a volunteer for the Canada Revenue Agency while in his eighties helping others to complete their tax returns and was also a very active volunteer board member with the South Interlake Seniors Resource Council. The family thanks all the caring staff at the Stonewall District Health Centre, Cancercare Manitoba/Grace Hospital, Home Care Coordinator, Cathy; his good neighbours and friends, Shelley, Kelly, Jamie, Brenden, Ron, Jeanette, Dale, Paulette, Ray, Ryan, Art, Mel, Ben, Margaret and all of the many Stonewall area residents for the care and consideration given to him. We would also like to thank the Managers and staff of Nick's Inn in Headingley and the Chicken Chef in Stonewall for the hearty daily meals and friendly banter (over way too many cups of coffee to count!) that Bill thoroughly enjoyed over the years. A kind and caring friend to many, Bill will be greatly missed, but not forgotten by those who knew him. In Bill's own words.... This may not be a good time to say hello but certainly it is a great time to say goodbye . For 90 plus years I have lived in the Rosser and Grosse Isle District. When we moved here naturally we had only one thought of just what was ahead. As it turned out, we surely hit the jackpot. After farming for many years I became involved with the Canadian Cancer Society as a volunteer driver where I met many people who had great health problems. I hope I did as much good for them as they did for me. This clearly was the most meaningful time of my life. And now that life is over I ask forgiveness of anyone I may have harmed as I also forgive those who may have harmed me. At my request there will be a private family graveside service. Until we meet again... Sincerely, Bill Attree For those wishing to make a donation in Bill's memory please contact the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, R3T 0R3 or call (204) 982-2021. MacKenzie Funeral Service in Stonewall in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 15, 2011