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FRANK ARNOLD MCKINNON
Born: Jul 12, 1938
Date of Passing: Apr 20, 2016
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryFRANK ARNOLD MCKINNON Surrounded by family and close friends, Frank passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer (mesothelioma). Frank was born in Winnipeg on July 12, 1938, graduated from Glenlawn Collegiate and enjoyed a full career at MTS, starting out as a telephone installer and retiring as Manager of Security. As a youth he was a Sea Cadet. At age 17 he was among few chosen for a trip to Panama on an aircraft ship. Being caught in Hurricane Hazel was his highlight. In high school Frank was on the social committee and played accordion in a band called the Red River Ramblers. As an adult he became a Lieutenant in the Navy Reserve. He spent several summers in Comox, BC teaching sailing to cadets. Frank enjoyed a full happy life with his late wife Mardi. In 1972 Frank hand built his cottage in Ponemah. They enjoyed camping in a house trailer that Frank built, travelling and summers at the lake. Frank enjoyed sailing his boat on lake and river and winters of snowmobiling. Frank was involved in the lake community. He volunteered and helped re-store the Ponemah Beach Old Grocery Store. At one point he became vice-president of the Rate Payers Association. Becoming a Mason and Shriner was an essential part of his life and he often expressed his gratitude for making these life choices. Through these he developed lifelong friendships. Frank was a member of the vintage car unit and enjoyed driving his 1949 Ford Prefect car in parades. The pride of his life was his niece Diane whom he regarded as his daughter. His love of life included his dogs Pepper and Bailey, Tim Horton's coffee, Clive Cussler novels, music (especially Steve Bell) - an endless list. The last decade of his life he spent with Sonya. Together they travelled extensively through Europe, the east coast and Vancouver Island. Frank enjoyed life at the cottage, music at the Hammers and weekly visits for coffee, treats and good company at the Teulon Blue Skies Bakery. He especially enjoyed coffee with Ken and working on the Prefect with Rob. They reveled in close family ties and friendships. Frank was a rare individual of quiet strength and generous spirit and will be deeply missed. Left to cherish his memory are his partner Sonya, brother Bill, niece Diane and husband Dean, grandnieces Michelle and Holly, Sonya's daughter Simone, husband Paul and son Cody, and many friends. Special thanks to Dr. Dawe and Debra Scot and staff at Gimli Hospital. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 30, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the East Kildonan Masonic Temple, 205 Kimberly Avenue, Winnipeg. There will also be a Masonic Service. Regalia may be worn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to S.C.A.P.E. (Stronger Communities through Arts Participation Inc.), Box 804, Winnipeg Beach, MB, R0C 3G0. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 27, 2016
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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Frank was a true gentleman I met through my association with Acacia Lodge. The story that will stick in my mind was his grief over the loss of Mardi, and asking her for a sign whether he should pursue a friendship with Sonya shortly after her death. He told me he got that sign. The rest is history. - Posted by: Roberta Beach (friend) on: May 01, 2016
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They say that people come into our lives to teach us things we would not otherwise learn. This is clearly the case with Frank coming into my life. The longer Frank was in my life, the more respect and admiration I had for him. Frank was not a man of many words, but through him I learned that actions and attitude speak volumes. When I once asked Frank about his diagnosis and how he felt, I was moved by his attitude and words. He said, you know I am 78 years old and if it was not this then it would have been something else. I have lived a wonderful life and have no regrets and hold no grudges. Then we talked about how he almost became a Minister. Frank had great faith and truly was a man to be admired, that is how I will remember him. He was and will in my mind remain a true gentleman. It was a privilege to have known him. - Posted by: Paul (son-in-law) on: Apr 29, 2016
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Frank was the salt of the earth. We were blessed to have known him. He completed our little family. We have many good memories, especially our family trip to Disney World. Frank is surely with God now, a beautiful place to be. Until we meet again, he will be very much missed. - Posted by: Simone () on: Apr 28, 2016
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Frank and I were school friends and he saw me off when I enlisted in the Air Force. We were good friends and we saw each other when I visited Winnipeg. Have a happy second life old pal. - Posted by: Ken Charman (friend) on: Apr 28, 2016
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Frank was one of the most interesting, kind and loving people that we ,along with our Irish friends had the pleasure of meeting six years ago. We all looked forward to our monthly get together gatherings where we indulged in all topics and shared our funny experiences. Frank and Sonya had a longing to visit Ireland and some years ago set off on their long awaited holiday and stayed longer than planned and hoped some day they would return but fate intervened and when he openly discussed his sad news, we all felt devastated. Frank never looked for sympathy during his battle but showed us his inner strength and courage and made it easier for us to deal with the situation. We will all dearly miss him but never forget him and we will always be grateful to Sonya, his loving partner, for bringing him into our group. May you rest in peace Frank. - Posted by: Gemma and Alan McCullough (Irish Friends) on: Apr 27, 2016
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Frank was a good man and his goodness extended inwards to a heart of gold; it extended outwards with his happy smile and obvious caring for others. In particular I thank him for keeping a 'weather eye' on my sister Anne across the street. I last met him a year ago in Gimli and his smile and kindness continued to shine through. I pray he enjoys 'sailing the winds of Heaven'. David - Posted by: Dr David Carter (Friend) on: Apr 27, 2016
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Frank was one of the Pillars of Acacia Lodge. His love of the Lodge and East Kildonan Masonic Temple, was something we should all strive for as Masons. He will be missed by Lady Yvonne and myself. Doug & Yvonne Virtue Oliver, British Columbia - Posted by: Doug & Yvonne Virtue (Lodge Brother and friend.) on: Apr 26, 2016
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I am saddened by the passing of Frank. Memories of him date back several years to MTS Corporate Security. In fact, it was Frank whom I would thank for hiring me on with the company. Through our work relationship, I would come to develop a great deal of respect and admiration for him. I remember conversations about common interests - the lake, boating, and snowmobiling. Fond memories of a kind and noble man. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Shelley Ryland (former MTS employee) on: Apr 26, 2016
