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THOR SIGURDSON  Obituary pic THOR SIGURDSON  Obituary pic

THOR SIGURDSON

Date of Passing: Dec 06, 2013

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THOR SIGURDSON Peacefully with his family by his side, it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thor, our loving Husband, Father and Afi on Friday, December 6, 2013 at St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care Unit. Thor will be forever loved and cherished by Sylvia, his loving wife of 53 years; his daughter Thora (Kim); grandchildren Garrett and Brayden (Emily) Anderson, his daughters Carol and Cindy Sigurdson. Thor was predeceased by his parents August and Valdheither Sigurdson, sister Elizabeth (Norman) Jonasson. He is survived by sister Inga (Ralph) Stucky, sister Marilyn (Emil) Schnedar, brother Stefan (Elin) Sigurdson, sister Rosanne (John) Borgfjord and sister Laurel (Randy) Rodgers and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Thor was born in Gimli on October 8, 1932 and lived in Arnes, MB where he grew up. As the first born child to Icelandic immigrant parents, the Icelandic language was his first tongue. He was strongly proud of his heritage and reflected this onto his children and grandchildren. He and Mom made many trips to Iceland, always remaining so close to our many relatives over there. Thor was only in his early teens when he began helping his father build jiggers for ice fishing and then continued to learn the many facets of carpentry which turned out to be his passion. His very successful 27 year career with PCL Construction is a testament to his talent, as well as the many, many jobs that he did as a hobby or to help others in need! He was there for everyone, whether it be a home renovation, design or solution to a construction dilemma, or to simply just to lend a soft shoulder for anyone in need! He of course also showered his family extensively by building many things for our Winnipeg home as well as a gorgeous cottage on his homestead in Arnes. We will cherish this always! Above all, these talents are minimal compared to his true passion, his incredible love for family! That was his core. He was such a leader and true example to his siblings, children and grandchildren of so many of life's lessons! His gentle and loving nature provided compassion, kindness and unconditional love which will remain with us always! We would like to thank Drs. Coates, Hobson, Chikovsky and most importantly the incredible staff at St. Boniface Palliative Unit. A celebration of life will be held at Sherwood Park Lutheran Church, 7 Tudor Cres. on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, friends so wishing may make a donation in Thor's memory to the Parkinson Society of Manitoba, 7-414 Westmount Dr., Winnipeg, MB, R2J 1P2 or to the Sherwood Park Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 7 Tudor Cres., Winnipeg, MB, R2K 2A5. "He lived his life for those he loved and those he loved will love and cherish him forever!" We little knew that morning God was going to call your name, In Life we loved you dearly In death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you You did not go alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories Your love is still our guide, And although we cannot see you You are always at our side. Our family chain is broken And nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one The chain will link again. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Dec 9, 2013

THOR SIGURDSON Peacefully, with his family by his side, it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thor, our loving husband, father and Afi on Friday, December 6, 2013 at St. Boniface Hospital, Palliative Care Unit. Longer obituary to follow on Monday, December 9.
Publish Date: Dec 7, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 09, 2013

Condolences & Memories (30 entries)

  • Sincere condolences to you and your family on your loss. - Posted by: LISA ROOS (Childhood friend of Thora and member of Sherwood Park congregation) on: Jan 07, 2014

  • So sorry for your loss. Thor was a wonderful person. I will always remember his wonderful smile, personality and kind heart. Arnes will never be the same without him. - Posted by: Sherri Shewchuk (cousin) on: Dec 12, 2013

  • I will always remember Uncle Thor's laughter when he told a joke. It was as infectious as his love for family. Rest in Peace my dear Unc, we shall truly miss you. <3 - Posted by: Karen Einarson (Niece-in-law) on: Dec 11, 2013

  • We were deeply saddened to hear of Uncle Thor's passing. Always a kind and gentle soul - he will be missed. I so wish I could be there. Love to you all. Diane xo - Posted by: Diane, Jim, Lauren and Erik Paterson (Friends) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • I am remembering today, a glimpse of my past happiness, and at the same time sharing sorrow with Thor's family and friends. Ours was a family business mainly subcontracting to general contractors. I consider myself very fortunate to have been involved personally with Thor, who during those times was PCL's job superintendent, and our relationship for the most part was business. He was a pleasure to know and work with. Thor had an infectious smile which was calming and his picture today caused me to smile with reverence. May his memories bring bring comfort and peace to the family and to those who had a special walk in life with Thor. Rod Westmacott Westmacott Glass - Posted by: Rod Westmacott (business friend) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • Dear Auntie, Thora, Carol, Cindy and families; I am so sorry to hear the news of "uncle" Thor, he and all of you have shown so much love to our family for as far back as I can remember. I will never forget the time uncle Thor allowed me to come over to your house to borrow his tools so I could install an new 8-track tape deck and speakers into my 68 Dodge Polara. Amazingly it worked first try and I am sure uncle Thor was key to this event. There are many times I will remember but this will always stay with me. With our deepest sorrow and all our love to you. Dean, Nancy, Dana & Neil Abrassart - Posted by: Dean Abrassart (Adopted Nephew) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • My deepest condolences I have many memories of growing up and looking so forward to visiting with my parents to the Sigurdson home and the trips to their Arnes cottage. I was young but remember strongly how welcomed with open arms and how much fun I had. Then and always, the most warm and caring family. - Posted by: Lisa crozier (Friend from splc) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • We so deeply regret that we can not be with you all as we share our mutual sorrow of no longer being able to experience Thor's graciousness here on earth. We hope that it is in God's will that we will be able to give each of the family a big hug when we see you again. Our prayers are with Thor's immediate family, our extended Sigurdson family and friends, especially those who have gone through their own difficulties this past year. We pray that God will give us all strength, comfort, peace for 2014 and until it is our turn to be called Home to our Eternal Father. M&N - Posted by: Norma & Michael Cone (Sigurdson cousin) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • Uncle Thor, always full of love and smiles for his nieces and nephews! I will always cherish my special memories of sleep overs at my cousins, special Christmas gatherings and all the fun times we had with our families. Uncle Thor was always there with his gentleness and wit. I am so grateful I was able to come in to see you a few short weeks ago. I will miss you, love always. Janis Flood and family - Posted by: Janis Flood (niece) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • So sad to hear a very Special Dad, Husband and Friend has passed away. My deepest sympathy to Mrs. Sigurdson, Andy and Thora, Carol and Cindy. - Posted by: Angela Nelson (Friend and colleague of Carol) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • Hi guys, Thor was always so much fun. I was blessed to have him in our family. My prayers are with all of you now that he will be spending Christmas with Jesus and Ellie amount many loved ones that were waiting to welcome him home. With blessings of love, Jim Christmas in Heaven! I see the countless Christmas trees Around the world below, With tiny lights like heaven's stars Reflecting in the snow. The sight is so spectacular please wipe away that tear for I am spending CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS CHRIST this year. I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear but the sound of music can't compare with the CHRISTMAS CHOIR up here. I have no words to tell you of the JOY their voices bring for it is beyond description to HEAR THE ANGELS SING. I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart for I am spending CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS CHRIST this year. I can't tell you of the SPLENDOR or the PEACE here in this place Can you just imagine CHRISTMAS WITH OUR SAVIOR face to face I'll ask him to lift your spirit as I tell him of your love so then PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER as you lift your eyes above. Please let your hearts be joyful and let your spirit sing for I am spending CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN and I’m walking WITH THE KING. - Posted by: James Best (Kissing Cousin) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • Condolences to Thor's family. Thor was a great gentleman. Tough but fair and always above reproach. He has been missed in retirement and now even more. - Posted by: Fred wright (Business ) on: Dec 10, 2013

  • Uncle Thor was radiant with warmth and love and his gentle kindness will never be forgotten in our household. We will always hold dear the memories of him sitting in the white leather love seat at my mom's by the window quietly playing the puzzle game with the kids and trying to master yet another skill! He was the type of man that any man should hope to be - Our thoughts and memories of him Will always come with a sense of comfort, peace, love and gratitude. Double kisses to you unc. - Posted by: Tasha, Oaklen and Emmitt (Family ) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • What is the measure of a man’s success/life? Uncle Thor was a man of measurement, precision and excellence. When I think of his life, I see these themes woven throughout. Uncle Thor built not only some of the most amazing structures in this city, but he also built the most amazing family. I imagine he has always been drawn to perfection and with the precision of a carpenter’s eye, he chose the best materials for the job, Aunty Sylvia. Imagine a handsome strapping young man just starting out in life. He is drawn towards a beautiful young woman and he must determine how to win her over. He sets out with a vision of what could be and he carefully and strategically woos her. Uncle Thor’s planning, determination and confidence in the belief that all things are possible started long before his carpentry career. Every good carpenter knows the importance of a solid foundation. The planning and calculating needed to ensure the proper supports are in place to successfully complete the task are primary. Uncle built the foundation of his married life on the most solid materials known to man. Love, respect, honesty, humour and a strong belief in a higher power. After all of these components were carefully crafted into place, he then started on the construction. I imagine each of the boards used to construct the walls of my Uncle’s life as the people of his life. Each was hand picked and even the most warped boards were carefully molded or reconstructed and used in the project. The artist never sees the flaws but celebrates uniqueness. That’s how Uncle was, he accepted everyone unconditionally, as they were, flaws and all and he gently and skillfully worked away at perfecting those warped boards into something fully functional and valuable. He overlooked our shortcomings and with great humility he carefully and strategically nailed us into his house of life, we each had a purpose and were an important part of something wonderful. What he created was a fortress strong enough to protect against the rain and wind and inclement weather of life. With determination and a vision of possibility he continued to construct one of the great wonders of our world. Humbly he worked away at his masterpiece every single day of his life. Working through each work site problem with the commitment and determination of a true leader. As every efficient and effective leader does, he shared his invaluable knowledge freely and willingly. Once the structure was complete he had to add ‘life’ to the building. For what is a home without a family? A school without students or a church without followers? Thora, Carol and Cindy were handcrafted like the Sistine chapel, with a dream of possibility and a vision of beauty and perfection not yet realized. As we all know a home is never complete. It is a work in progress from the time we lay the foundation until we hang the last esthetically placed picture or lay the final floor rug. We work away and mold our homes to reflect who we are, what is important to us. If you’ve ever spent time my Uncle, you will know what was important to him. From his warm smile and lively eyes, to his sincere hand shake or loving kiss, Uncle Thor’s house was a highly sought after destination. The splendor of a magnificent building welcomes people in to experience the wonder of the work of a brilliant mind. Leaving us in awe, a magnificent creation inspires us to possibility and intrigues us to what special gifts and talents lie in us that have yet to be constructed and shared with the world. This is how my Uncle’s carefully and immaculately crafted life has influenced me. If a man’s life is measured by the perfection of his creations then I can say that Uncle Thor had a perfect life. - Posted by: Fawn Nielsen (Niece) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • Thinking of you all during this difficult time with the loss of Thor. We have many fond memories of our times together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love Wilfred and Dora - Posted by: Dora and Wilfred Helgason (Friends ) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • I remember well, the thoughtful things he did for my parents (Ken & Stephanie) while we lived across the street. Whenever he was outside he always either waved or came over to chat with my dad. He was there with his snowblower when we had a big storm, clearing our driveway and/or sidewalk (as he did for many). Carol was the closest in age to me and I remember Thora and Cindy. He has a wonderful life and over the years I've thought of him and your family. My thoughts are with Sylvia and the girls at this sad time. My deepest sympathy for your loss. - Posted by: Barbara (Jacobson) Peaker (former neighbour) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • You are in our thoughts and prayers as you grieve your great loss. God bless you all and keep you close in your time of sadness. We will miss Thor and especially his smiling face and willingness to help others. "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." - Isaiah 41:13 - Posted by: Werner & Wendy Jarschke (Friends from SPLC) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • Alan went to school briefly with Thor in South Arnes. Over the years, it was always a pleasure to have a little chat when meeting up with him. We want to send our condolences to the family on their loss. - Posted by: Alan & Shirley MacFarlane () on: Dec 09, 2013

  • I am remembering today, a glimpse of my past happiness, and at the same time sharing sorrow with Thor's family and friends. Ours was a family business mainly subcontracting to general contractors. I consider myself very fortunate to have been involved personally with Thor, who during those times was PCL's job superintendent, and our relationship for the most part was business. He was a pleasure to know and work with. Thor had an infectious smile which was calming and his picture today caused me to smile with reverence. May his memories bring bring comfort and peace to the family and to those who had a special walk in life with Thor. Rod Westmacott Westmacott Glass - Posted by: Rod Westmacott (business friend) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • Thor had a smile that was always there, our deepest sympathy to all your family. - Posted by: George and Doreen Howell (Friend and former neighbour from Arnes.) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • I will always remember Thor, so soft spoken and a gentle personality. My thoughts and prayers are with Sylvia, Cindy and, of course, sympathy to all family members. He loved his daughters and wife dearly. - Posted by: Rose-Marie Delorme (Friend from Hair Salon.) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • Dear Sylvia and family. Inga, Ralph and family I was so saddened to hear of Thor's passing. He was a wonderful man. I know you will miss him dearly, but the memories will last forever. My thoughts and prayers are with you all With much love and sympathy Joyce Peterson - Posted by: Joyce Peterson (Friend) on: Dec 09, 2013

  • As a little girl, growing up on Fontaine from the age of 2, I have always been welcomed into the Sigurdson home and made to feel like one of the family as I'm sure so many others can relate to. Over the past 50 years, Mr S. as I called him, always had a welcoming smile, warm heart and usually a joke to share. He will be missed, but I see the legacy of love he has left in his family and his influence in their lives. He was a very special husband, dad and grandfather. - Posted by: Trish Verwymeren (nee Kathler) (friend) on: Dec 08, 2013

  • sorry for your loss, thinking about you. All hugs and prayers, JOANN - Posted by: joann moshenko (friend) on: Dec 08, 2013

  • Our Dear Uncle Thor. I sit here thinking where do I start talking about a man like Uncle Thor that means so much. Then a saying came to mind "A Jack of all trades but a Master of none". As lifetime employee of PCL Construction he was exposed to many different people and trades and picked up a few along the way. This led me to think in this case the saying should be changed to "Jack of all trades and a Master of All" as I think that there really wasn't anything he couldn't do. Uncle Thor was a brother,son,husband,grandfather,brother in law,nephew,and special Uncle to me. Family was so important to him and always made all occasions special. Not only on family did he have an positive effect, but also on everyone he met. He treated them with respect that they deserved. Thor, I know you were always was there to lend an ear to listen and give kind words of encouragement when needed. Thor you were an amazing Husband. You are an perfect example of what a husband should be. You were the "Rock" and the "Constant" in many people's lives. You passed on amazing qualities to your girls and grandsons that they will in turn pass on to their families. Thor I have so many memories I could fill a book. I will cherish every one of them forever. Until we meet again over some coffee and pie I bid farewell as your work here is done. Love your Nephew Ray. - Posted by: Ray Nielsen (Nephew) on: Dec 08, 2013

  • We are so sorry to hear of Thor's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Thor will be truly missed by all whose lives he touched; he was a wonderful man. - Posted by: Shaun, Doug and family (Cousin) on: Dec 08, 2013

  • I will miss Thor's gentle spirit and kind soul. May God and the loved ones who surround you now bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time. - Posted by: Sandra (friend of the family) on: Dec 07, 2013

  • We will miss Thor very much, one more link in the chain of our church family gone. But we will not forget you and thank God that He ended your suffering. May He give comfort and strength to your Family. Renate Nolius - Posted by: Renate Nolius (friend ) on: Dec 07, 2013

  • Always a smile and kind word. Always willing to help in any way possible. Always a great neighbour at the lake. That is how we will remember him. Our deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Darlene and Glen Hargreaves (friends) on: Dec 07, 2013

  • Sigurdson Family, so very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. He knew how much you all loved him. Treasure those special memories of all the wonderful times you have had as a family. The dinners, parties, all the times at the cottage and especially this past summer. You are all so lucky to have such a special and close family. - Posted by: Cindy and Mike (friends) on: Dec 07, 2013

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