WILLIAM JAMES MENZIES

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WILLIAM JAMES MENZIES With great sadness we announce the passing of William James Menzies on Sunday, February 15, 2015 at Deer Lodge Centre, at the age of 96. He is survived by his wife Anne, daughter Heather, Anne's daughter Jo-Ann Wall, Anne's son Richard Smith, and sisters-in-law Alice Menzies and Gene Menzies. Also mourning his loss are his special niece Sandra (Bob) Richen, their son Cameron (Nicole and Madison), and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents John and Florence, his wife Yvonne, brother John and his wife Olive, brother Joe and his wife Margaret, brother Robert Lloyd, brother Edward, sister Ethel Brown and her husband Morley, adopted sister Margaret Warren and her husband Con, and his nephew Ian. Bill was born on September 4, 1918, at the family farm near Oakburn, Manitoba. He was proud to serve his country during the Second World War. He and Yvonne were married in England and spent the early years of their marriage in Winnipeg. In 1958 Bill joined Parks Canada and served in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ottawa, and Newfoundland. Every move was an adventure for the whole family - exploring new places and making more friends wherever we went. After the tragic passing of Yvonne, Bill transferred to Winnipeg to be close to family. He met and married Anne Smith in 1975 and continued to enjoy his work, often traveling from Regional Office to parks in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the North. He retired in 1979, and he and Anne made numerous trips to Europe and the U.S. They enjoyed an active social life and were especially close to Bill's brother Lloyd and his wife Alice. Music was a highlight throughout Bill's life. He began learning violin before he went to school and greatly admired his father's musical ability. Bill played by ear and loved all kinds of music - fiddle, old-time, jazz and classical. He played in various groups throughout his life, and he and Lloyd were dedicated members of the Seniors' Melody Band for many years. He also loved collecting, repairing, and making violins. He generously shared his knowledge with all who shared his interest. Bill's cheerful, humourous, kind and loving nature will be missed by his family and friends. The family is thankful for the wonderful care Bill received from the amazing staff of Tower 6, Deer Lodge Centre, and for the support he received on Lodge 3 East when he became ill. We are so grateful to his devoted caregiver, Edith Webb, and to his friend and neighbour Edgar, who also watched over him. A memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m., Sunday, February 22, 2015 at Bardal Funeral Home, 843 Sherbrook Street with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation, 2109 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 9Z9. Bardal Funeral Home 843 Sherbrook Street, 204-774-7474 Parking behind funeral home Condolences: www.bardal.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2015