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ARNOLD SMITH MAKINSON

Born: Apr 29, 1927

Date of Passing: Mar 26, 2015

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ARNOLD SMITH MAKINSON April 29, 1927 - March 26, 2015 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Arnold Makinson. Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 67 years, Effy, his son Gerry and Pat; son Clary and daughter Patricia and John. Grandchildren, Shawn, Alanna, Samantha, Madelyn, Hannah, David and many relatives and friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Arnold and Jean Makinson; brothers, James and Stewart; and grandson Seth. Arnold came to Canada from the Orkney Islands in Scotland at the tender age of 18 months. He worked for the Greater Winnipeg Gas Co. for 33 years until his retirement. Arnold was past president of the Winnipeg Labour Council in the 1980s and served on the Manitoba Federation of Labour Executive Council. He served as president of the Energy & Chemical Workers local (now Unifor 681) and was a proud supporter of the NDP. As you can see, Arnie was a people person. He had no problem with starting the conversation and making fast friends with the people he met. He was active in his community by helping out wherever it was needed. Arnie and Effy built their lives in Wolseley and cherished the cabin at Clytie Bay where the "big one" still awaits. In their retirement years, they enjoyed the winter snowbird lifestyle in Donna, Texas. He lived a good life. He was a great father, role model and trade unionist. The family would like to thank the staff at Calvary Place for their compassionate care given to Arnie. If desired, donations can be made to the charity of choice. A celebration of Arnie's life will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at R. A. Steen Community Centre in Wolseley at 2:00 p.m.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 11, 2015

Condolences & Memories (5 entries)

  • So sad to hear of Arnie's passing, I have fond memories of working on many NDP election campaigns in Wolesley with Arnie. I am eternally grateful to him for seconding my nomination to stand as the NPD candidate in 1981. He was a dedicated supporter, trade unionist and community volunteer. He was a part of a breed of party and union people we don't see often enough these days. We will hold the torch high that you have passed and will carry on the work you have left to us. In Solidarity, Myrna Phillips - Posted by: Myrna Phillips (Former MLA for Wolseley) on: May 02, 2015

  • Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs. Makinson and the family at this difficult time. Brother Arnie was a true trade unionist and worked hard as a labour leader. On behalf of myself and local 500's 5000 members we offer our sincere condolences. - Posted by: Mike Davidson (President CUPE Local 500) on: Apr 14, 2015

  • Just learned of Brother Makinson's passing, and I wanted to offer my sincere condolences to Mrs. Makinson and the family. As a delegate and later vice-president of labour council, I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Arnie. I admired his strong advocacy of the workers' cause which he championed. May his memory and his example serve to inspire those who take up that cause. - Abe Rosner - Posted by: Abe Rosner (Union colleague) on: Apr 14, 2015

  • On behalf of the Winnipeg Labour Council, I would like to offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of brother Makinson. In my current role as the president of the Winnipeg Labour Council, I am fully aware of the contributions to the labour movement brother Makinson bestowed upon us. Our organization is stronger because of his efforts. He was an astounding trade unionist and all Winnipeggers benefited from his efforts. He will truly be missed. - Posted by: David Sauer (Successor) on: Apr 14, 2015

  • My condolences to Mrs. Makinson and and the entire family. I grew up in the Wolseley are and knew Arnie as a dedicated father and supporter of the community at large. He drove us to hockey games and was a supporter always ready to lend an encouraging word. In the early 80's I met up again with Arnie through the trade union movement. He was respected leader, serving as President of the Winnipeg Labour Council. I followed him as President of the WLC and benefited greatly from his guidance and support. Arnie believed in fairness for all workers and in all citizens right to essential services such as Medicare. His was indeed a life well lived and he helped build a better community for all. Again, my sincere condolences to the entire Makinson family. Paul Moist - Posted by: Paul Moist (Family friend) on: Apr 11, 2015

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