ED ROURKE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ED ROURKE February 12, 2014 Suddenly, peacefully and at home with Isabel and Mike at his side, Ed passed away on February 12, 2014, at the age of 82. Born in St. Vital, Ed spent a full and happy lifetime in Winnipeg, Flin Flon, Stonewall, and retired to Bethany, MB. Ed's life work was as a mechanic and in the trucking industry as driver, owner operator, dispatcher and safety supervisor. Ed loved to tinker with engines and motors of all sizes whether an aircraft or tractor trailer, rotor-tiller or mower. He was often heard whistling while he worked. Ed loved to be outdoors - camping, fishing, sitting around a fire, or gardening - providing friends, family and the Food Bank with potatoes, veggies and preserves he and Isabel had canned together. Just like his Dad and brother Don, he loved carpentry and woodworking. He was a caring man, always wanting to help someone in need, whether driving patients from Minnedosa into CancerCare or hauling trailer homes to flood victims down south after Hurricane Katrina. Ed was predeceased by his parents Jack and Minnie Rourke, in-laws Walter and May Vann, grandson Christopher Wahoski, brother Don, brothers-in-law Don Lawrence and Jim Vann. Left with many memories and much pride are wife Isabel, daughter Lori Wahoski and Ron, sons Mike and Karen, Jim and Marilyn; grandchildren and great-grandchildren Tricia and Ryan Fines, Brooke-lyn, Christopher and Grace; Matthew and Larisa Wahoski, Ella and Zavery; Jennifer Ball, Preston and Peyton; and Shaun Rourke; sister Shirley and Brian Littlewood, brother Lloyd and Lil, sisters-in-law Myrna Rourke and Phyllis Vann; and many nieces and nephews who he loved deeply. Ed made friends easily; he had many. Ed married the love of his life, Isabel Vann (Belle); they celebrated their 60th anniversary last June. Their marriage was built on love, respect and friendship; they did everything together. He will be missed. A Celebration of Life took place in Bethany on February 17. Cremation has taken place. His ashes will rest in the wooden urn he lovingly crafted to share with Isabel when the time comes. They will be together again one day. Thank you to Minnedosa Funeral Service and Rev. Chad McCharles for the support and guidance you showed the family. You taught us well, Dad. Thank you. Minnedosa Funeral Service in care of arrangements.
Publish Date: Feb 22, 2014

ED ROURKE Of Bethany, MB, passed away on February 12, 2014, at the age of 82 years. A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Monday, February 17, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. in the Bethany Hall, Bethany, MB, with viewing taking place prior to the service. Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Breast Cancer Society. Minnedosa Funeral Service, Minnedosa, MB, in care of arrangements, (204) 867-3868.
Publish Date: Feb 15, 2014

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2014