- Winnipeg Free Press Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday

VALERIE ANNE ORCHARD
Date of Passing: Dec 09, 2012
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
VALERIE ANNE ORCHARD With very heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of our sister and auntie, Valerie Anne Orchard, with her special niece Keely by her side on Sunday, December 9, 2012 at the Riverview Health Centre at the age of 62 years. Remaining to forever cherish her memory are her sisters Dana (Bill) Dunn, Barbara (Jack) Kennedy; as well as her adored niece Amy Kennedy; sweet nephew Benjamin Kennedy; and niece Keely (Robert) Starr. She will also be remembered by Phil Geiler; one uncle; several cousins; all her little chickens from MTS and many dear friends. She will be greatly missed by her much-loved Poppy. Valerie was predeceased by her Father Stanley (1993), her Mother Elaine, (seven months) ago, and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Valerie was born, raised and educated in Brandon. At a young age she began a 20 year career as a Hair Stylist in Brandon and later in Calgary. In 1986 she moved to Winnipeg which led her to a long career with MTS, where she worked until retirement. Valerie had a passion for dogs and often opened her home for doggie daycare. She took frequent bike rides to Assiniboine Park with Poppy perched in her wicker basket. Her hobbies included decorating, sewing, reading, exercising and crafts. She volunteered at the Winnipeg Humane Society, The Fringe Festival and with the Big Sisters of Winnipeg. In compliance with Valerie's wishes, a private family interment will take place at a later date. The family wishes to thank Dr. Jan Ritchie as well as the Doctors and Nurses at both Health Sciences Centre and Riverview Health Centre for their care and compassion for Valerie. Our heartfelt thanks to Marci and Sande, there are not enough words to express our gratitude for the extraordinary support, love and care given to Valerie during her time of need. In lieu of flowers, donations in Valerie's memory may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 0R3. Wojcik's Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements.
Make a donation to
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 15, 2012
Condolences & Memories (13 entries)
-
Miss u soooo much, Thanks for all you that you gave. From my heart, love you. - Posted by: Phil Geiler (Best friend I ever had) on: Dec 12, 2013
-
My heartfelt condolences to the family. It is with deep sadness that I have lost touch over the years. May the loving memories of Valerie sustain you all throughout life. My love to Dana...and Keely, for extended memories that will never die. - Posted by: Annette Speirs (family friend) on: May 30, 2013
-
May beautiful Memories give you strength in these difficult hours Veronica Sichewski on behalf of the MTS VOLUNTEERS - Posted by: Veronica Sichewski () on: Dec 31, 2012
-
I was also blessed to have been one of Valerie's friends and co-workers. She was one of the funniest people I know. She was also one of the most unselfish people I know. She was always thinking of others before herself. Whenever Valerie was around there was always fun and laughter. Valerie, your little chickens miss you, love you, and will never forget you. Thank you for the laughs and the wonderful memories. - Posted by: Carmela P (Friend/Co-Worker) on: Dec 29, 2012
-
I feel very blessed to have had Valerie as my very dear friend and MTS co-worker. Some of the best laughs and good times happened at our jobs (when we should have been working .. hehe). I remember her as the fashion diva of our office always dressed up with what we called her shi shi poo poo outfits, bling, shoes and purses. She told the funniest stories and often we could be seen doubled over in laughter with tears running down our faces. Valerie, I miss you dearly and think about you often:( - Love another one of your lil chickens - Posted by: Vicki Mailman (Dear Friend & Co-Worker) on: Dec 22, 2012
-
Such a special, special woman, you were Valerie. I am so honoured to have gotten to know you. How fondly I will always recall our long doggie walks and how hard we would laugh....squatting, holding our stomachs, tears running down our cheeks as cars drove by wondering what the heck we were doing! You were such a kind soul, full of love and laughter and sunshine! We didn't solve the world problems, but we sure tried! You are so missed.....until we meet again. - Posted by: Marilyn Erhart (Neighbour and Friend) on: Dec 19, 2012
-
A warm farewell to a very special friend Valerie..with a love for laughter that's unforgettable, and a heart that's made to share...your personality is one of a kind.. Miss you dearly. Shirley & Benson - (Twirly & Benny Bambam) - Posted by: Shirley Yuen (Very dear friend and co-worker) on: Dec 19, 2012
-
I remember Valerie from grade school in Brandon and then again when she moved to Calgary. I have fond memories of our friendship and although we had not kept in contact I was so sorry to hear of her passing. - Posted by: Wendy Baillargeon ( nee Post) (friend) on: Dec 18, 2012
-
I had the pleasure of working with Valerie at the MTS Education Centre before she moved to Selkirk. Such a wonderful lady. I can still hear her laugh, even though it's been many years. Valerie will always be in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her. - Posted by: Susan Overbeeke (Former coworker) on: Dec 17, 2012
-
My deepest condolences to the Orchard family at Valerie's sudden passing. Working with Valerie at MTS were the most fun-filled days. Valerie was always smiling, telling stories in her own unique way which always ended up in knee-slapping laughter. She would come into work with her handmade, snazzy, posh-posh purses that all the girls envied. You are always in my thoughts. On New Year's Eve I will look up at the stars...Sing Happy Birthday to you... - Posted by: Dianne Sellers (Friend) on: Dec 17, 2012
-
I am so glad to have been given the opportunity to have known you and in the end to say goodbye. You have touched the lives of so many people and dogs. You are forever in my heart and mind, I know you are not alone and reunited with your Mother, Becky and Jordy up in heaven. So..."Lock and Load my dear friend, we have incoming." - Love your lil' chicken - Posted by: Judy B (Friend ) on: Dec 16, 2012
-
I remember Val from years back. I loved her smile and laughs we had. - Posted by: Linda Geiler Church (Friend) on: Dec 15, 2012
-
Our days in Selkirk (MTS) often pops into my mind, we sure had a lot of laughs. You will always be in my memories. - Posted by: Veronica Black (friend from MTS) on: Dec 15, 2012

Wojcik’s All Beliefs & Faiths Funeral Chapel (Portage Avenue)
2157 Portage Avenue at Sharp Boulevard (Map)
Ph: 2048974665 | Visit Website