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THOMAS RICHARD (CHICK) MELANSON
Born: Sep 06, 1948
Date of Passing: Mar 15, 2014
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryTHOMAS RICHARD (CHICK) MELANSON On Saturday, March 15, 2014, Tom Melanson passed away at Deer Lodge Centre, at the age of 65. He is survived by his children, Dale (Elaine), Sean (JoAnne), Holly (Chris); and his grandchildren, Darren, Veronica, Spencer, Kellan, Carter, Nolan and Nora; his sisters, Doreen (Al) and Joyce; brothers, Don (Cynthia), Joseph, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and good friends. Chick was predeceased by his parents, Henri and Pearl; brothers, Raymond, Ernest, Howard, Roger and Robert; sisters, Tuffy, Anna, Ovidia, Millie and Rita. Chick was born on September 6, 1948 in Portage la Prairie. He married Darlia Conquergood in 1967 and they divorced in 1981. He got his nickname of Chick or Chickie from his father Henri, who gave it to him when Tom was very young and was watching his dad slaughter chickens at the family farm. One of the headless chickens started chasing Tom around the yard. That's when Henri started calling him "Chickensh*t", which was shortened to Chick/Chickie. Chick began driving a truck at the age of 16, working the logging roads in British Columbia. Throughout his career, Chick worked for a number of local firms including Arnold's, South East, Big Freight, Trapper's and Bison. The last six years of his life were faced with health challenges that greatly reduced his mobility and ability to enjoy life. Despite his many challenges, Chick maintained his positive attitude and good natured demeanour. Special thanks and gratitude go out to the staff at Deer Lodge Centre, particularly the staff on 6 West, who provided ongoing care to Tom, including a laugh or a joke, helping to keep his spirits up during his final months. The family would also like to express their thanks to his favourite home care worker, Dawn. Many thanks to Shauna Manulak for her ongoing care, support and visits during Chick's illness. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 5 at 10:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Interment to follow at St. Boniface Cemetery. Reception to be held at the Nor Villa Hotel, 1763 Henderson Highway. Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of, donations can be made to the Deer Lodge Foundation and/or Canadian Diabetes Foundation.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 29, 2014
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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I have looked for Chickie for five years and finally found him. So sorry I couldn't have talked to him before he passed. He is one of the few people I missed from our childhood. - Posted by: Don Bartlett (Friend from a long time ago.) on: Sep 02, 2015
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Though we haven't been in touch for many years, I have many fond memories as a child. You were a tease, and it was fun to be around you. My condolences to your family, and God Bless. - Posted by: Cheryl Smith (Niece) on: Apr 05, 2014
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My deepest sympathy to Thomas's family and friends. Thomas I feel lucky to have met you and enjoyed every visit we had. You kept me smiling with your teasing,your jokes,and that big smile of yours that could light up a room no matter what the situation. You will be sadly missed. Until we meet again...... - Posted by: Dawn Clark (Friend) on: Apr 05, 2014
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I am sorry I can't make the memorial service but I am glad I got there in time to say happy trails. I am truly gonna miss you and all the good and bad times we had together trucking. Don't let the d.o.t. bother you anymore. We did have a lot of fun trying to meet up in different places over the years just to have a meel or a beer together. A lot of the guys you met at Waggoners say keep on trucking. R I P Bro - Posted by: Don Melanson (Brother) on: Apr 04, 2014
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As a teenager Chickie came into my life when he dated my Mom. I just heard about his passing today and was very saddened. I will always remember him making everyone laugh. He had an amazing sense of humor. Chickie was kind and generous and always treated me like his daughter. I will always cherish the great memories he shared with me. Like renting me the first vcr I ever saw...lol...all 50 lbs of it. Chickie was truly one of a kind. Our condolences to his family. RIP With love David and Tina. - Posted by: Tina Scowen (old friend) on: Apr 01, 2014
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Goodbye uncle chick, thank you for all the great memories. I wish I could be there to share a few good stories and good times we all had. Yet another Melanson family reunion, unplanned. - Posted by: Troy Melanson (nephew) on: Mar 30, 2014
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Will truly miss your stupid blond and Ukrainian jokes that you always had for me. You will be missed my brother - Posted by: Cynthia Melanson (Sister in law) on: Mar 30, 2014
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I will miss you so much Uncle "grumpy" you will always be in my heart. It seems unreal that your gone. Rest in peace my favorite Uncle! I will see you again one day :-) - Posted by: Aleshia (Melanson ) on: Mar 30, 2014