LIONEL DONNELLY

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LIONEL DONNELLY On Thursday, May 17, 2012 Lionel Barclay Donnelly passed away peacefully with his family at his side. Left to remember him always with love are his wife Rita (nee Grimes), son Lindsay, daughter-in-law Dawn, and his grandchildren Kyle and Lauren (Gustavo) whom he adored. Lin also leaves behind his sister Corinne (John) and his numerous nieces and nephews. Lin was born July 8, 1921 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Jean and Charles Donnelly. He met Rita, the love of his life, at a young age. They met through the church and family friendships forged on the shared experience of immigration from England. During the Second World War, Lin and Rita were married in Winnipeg on his embarkation leave on March 15 of 1944. They celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this past year. Lin was a dedicated and loyal employee for CP Rail for many years. He began his career in the News Department, and worked his way up to a managerial position. With the demise of The Canadian, Lin transferred to the Weston Shops to finish his career. He retired from the railway in August of 1986. Music played an important part in Lin's life. He was a great musician and he played his coronet faithfully in the Salvation Army Band. During the Second World War he served with the RCAF, playing solo coronet in the # 1 Royal Command Band, as well as the Streamliners RCAF Band. The band often opened for Glen Miller's Expeditionary Force Band for the BBC and was a constant at the Queensbury Club in London. Later in life, Lin thoroughly enjoyed playing with the Rupertsland Brass Band in Winnipeg. He found great pleasure in his music that transcended illness. Lin loved life, people, and had a great sense of humour. He was always joking and telling stories and was fondly regarded by people in return. He loved children and exhibited admirable kindness, patience and a youthful spirit. He was quite simply, a good man. Rita and Lin had a very active and busy life golfing, curling, playing bridge and going to their cottage at West Hawk Lake in the summer. They also made happy memories square dancing and traveling the world. Special thanks to Dr. P. Mehta and all the Staff on 6 South at St. Boniface Hospital, as well as the caring staff at Seine River Retirement Centre and WRHA Home Care. The way Lin lived inspired us all to be our best selves. We love you and will miss you always. Your stories and your light will continue to remind us of the great life you lived. A private graveside service will be held at a later date for family only. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Lin's name to The Glaucoma Research Society of Canada or the Winnipeg Salvation Army.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 26, 2012