ROBERT (BERT) MCPHAIL DUNCAN

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ROBERT (BERT) MCPHAIL DUNCAN March 10, 1930 - December 24, 2011 Bert was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on March 10, 1930. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Isabella Duncan, brother John, and brother-in-law Bernard Burton. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Margaret (Betty), sons Bob (Carolyn), David (Elizabeth), Paul (Margaret), sister Margaret Horton (Edward), grandsons Cameron and Burton, granddaughter Megan, sisters-in-law Louise Burton and Debbie Duncan, niece Barbara Ward (Neville) and family, niece Lahra (George) and family, and nephew Edward. Bert came to Canada in 1945 and immediately started work at his future father-in-law's, The Sheffield Silver Plating Company , where he met Betty. In 1950 Bert and Betty were married and built their home in East Kildonan where they raised their three sons, and were active with St. Cuthbert's Anglican, then St. Stephen's Anglican Church. In 1965 he and Betty founded The House of Silver Ltd . Through his knowledge of silver, Bert was well known and respected in the silver repair, plating and appraisal industry. Bert was past president of the Bronx Park Community Club, an active member of the Jack and Jills of St. Stephen's Church, plus a member of the band known as The Prairie Gophers . Having spent many years cottaging at West Hawk Lake, Bert and Betty realized their dream, and made the lake their home upon retirement. Bert was instrumental in founding the Winfal Seniors at the lake and was committed to the development and building of the South East Whiteshell Fire Department. While living at the lake, he made many friendships, and enjoyed his days working for Manitoba Conservation, Falcon Golf Course, and assisting Paul at the Shell Station. Hunting and fishing were very important to Bert who spent hours in his canoe on Lyons and Hunt Lake. His love of music and his ability to play any song you could request on his accordion was his special talent. When he moved back to Winnipeg in 2000, he spent many days going into senior homes and playing for the old folks , as he put it. Bert served as lay reader at St. Stephens for many years. In his final days Bert reminisced of the good times with all his musical buddies, whom he played with over the years, especially his best friend, Bob Tait, his church brother, Sam Robbins, his McDonalds coffee group, his pool playing partners at West Hawk Lake, and the Good Neighbours in East Kildonan. Thanks to all who visited Bert and sent cards, it meant the world to him. We would like to extend special thanks to the 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for their care and compassion, and all the doctors, especially Dr. Henry. Thanks to all the churches that included Bert in their prayers. A memorial service was held at St. Stephen's Anglican Church, 220 Helmsdale Ave., Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. If friends so desire, a memorial donation may be made to St. Stephen's Anglican Church or CancerCare.
Run Date: Dec 31, 2011

ROBERT (BERT) MCPHAIL DUNCAN Robert (Bert) McPhail Duncan passed away on December 24, 2011. Memorial Service: Thursday, December 29, 11:00 a.m. at Saint Stephen's Anglican Church, 220 Helmsdale Ave., Winnipeg. Longer obituary to follow in Saturday's edition.
Run Date: Dec 28, 2011

ROBERT (BERT) MCPHAIL DUNCAN Robert (Bert) McPhail Duncan passed away on December 24, 2011. Memorial Service: Thursday, December 29, 11:00 a.m. at Saint Stephen's Anglican Church, 220 Helmsdale Ave., Winnipeg. A longer notice to follow.
Run Date: Dec 27, 2011
Run Date: Dec 28, 2011

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2011