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HARVEY SWAIN
Born: Aug 05, 1947
Date of Passing: Nov 27, 2019
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HARVEY SWAIN
August 5, 1947 - November 27, 2019
He leaves to mourn, his loving wife Donna of 51 years; son Barry (Brittany); daughters, Lisa (Sandy) and Sheri (Dylan); his eight grandchildren, Desiree, Danica, Kiahna, Brayden, Annee, Luke, Jordyn and George; and four great-grandchildren. Harvey also leaves to mourn his mother (Bridget); brothers, Don, Jack and Gary; sisters, Paulette, Edna, Wendi, Susan, Nadine and their families. He will be missed by his many friends whose lives he touched over the years. Harvey was predeceased by his father Paul; and sister Tammy.
Harvey spent his early years in Manigotagan, Bissett and Lac du Bonnet. He moved to Winnipeg where he completed high school before moving on to Red River College where he graduated from the civil technology program. Harvey enjoyed a long career with Manitoba Highways where he retired after many years of successful service.
Harvey was a gifted natural athlete and enjoyed hockey and baseball. His main sporting passion was curling, including his involvement at all levels of the sport, and he became a lifetime member of the Thistle Curling Club.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
My life's been full, I savoured much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.
As per Harvey's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at Canad Inns (Polo Park), 1405 St. Matthews Ave., on December 5, 2019, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Salvation Army, Canadian Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 30, 2019
Condolences & Memories (21 entries)
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I’m sad to hear that my uncle Don is gone from this earth. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard from anyone in my family (not for want of trying), it saddens me that I randomly stumbled on this obituary. If any of my extended Swain family is out there, don’t let this happen again! I’ve reached out and it’s like I don’t exist. I guess you have your reasons. Just so you know it breaks my heart. And please I would rather hear from family about death in a timely respectful fashion than years later by accident. Georgina 604 -992-2050 Good bye uncle Harvey. - Posted by: Georgina Revet (Niece ) on: Oct 30, 2021
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Donna and family, I was so sorry to hear the news. I have so many memories of Harv and Bri spending great times together, always a beer involved. I always have a chuckle when I remember “Whistle at the Thistle” when we were storm stayed at the club during a bonspiel in 97. Many, many fond memories of spending time with you both. I know you have lost the love of your life. Thinking of you all - Posted by: Jo-Anne Penston (Friend) on: Nov 29, 2020
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Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I'm here brother, just knock or call. - Posted by: Steve Lipischak (Friend) on: Dec 05, 2019
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I was very sorry to hear of Harvey’s passing. To me, Harvey was the face of the Thistle Curling Club. He was always so interested in all his club mates, and how they were doing in any curling events. He also always asked how our boys were doing. I am very happy to have known Harvey, and I know he will be missed. - Posted by: Ken Lowdon (former Thistle club mate) on: Dec 04, 2019
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Donna, my condolences I can only imagine how you will miss Harvey. I am so sorry for your loss. I became close friends with Harvey when he moved virtually next door from Bisset. Through high school, he then moved to Winnipeg to finish high school. I followed very shortly and continued our friendship. I moved around a lot but whenever we would get together it was always the same old Harvey. I am lucky to call Harvey one my close lifelong friends and so very many others call him the same. Harvey left us with so many good memories just mentioning his name will bring a smile to the many who got to know him. RIP my good friend. Bev - Posted by: Bev Bev (Life long friend ) on: Dec 03, 2019
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We are going Thursday to pay our last respects to Harvey, who I always considered to be a very rich man ... rich in the sense that he had such a supportive and loving family; rich in the sense that he made so many friends throughout his life; and finally, rich in the sense that he created so many wonderful memories for us to reflect back on. Harvey packed a lot of living into 72 years. I feel very fortunate to have had Harvey as a true friend for the past 48 years. Life must go on ... but Harvey you will not be forgotten. - Posted by: Les Whiklo (Friend and Co-Worker) on: Dec 03, 2019
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We are so sorry and saddened to hear of Harvey’s passing. Out thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He is remembered as a kind, quiet man who truly loved his family. - Posted by: Donna Deans & Family (Friend and cousin ) on: Dec 02, 2019
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Many years ago I too curling at Thistle Curling Club, several of those years were with Harvey. His demeanor, his humor, his knowledge and appreciation of the game all left lasting impressions on me that I still value and appreciate in many different ways in my life today. I also served on the executive for several years (at Harvey's urging) learning many invaluable life skills. Thank you Harvey. And to the Swain family.....Harvey touched so many lives is such a positive way. I am glad to have been one of the many. - Posted by: Cal Surgenor (Friend) on: Dec 02, 2019
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So very sorry for your loss Donna and family. - Posted by: Michele (Friend ) on: Dec 01, 2019
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Donna, sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with you and your family at this time. - Posted by: Doug Corder (Friend) on: Dec 01, 2019
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In January 1987, I remember curling at the Granite C.C. against Kerry Burtnyk in the Zone play downs as a first year member of the Thistle Curling Club. I had recently moved to Winnipeg and only my girlfriend Mary was upstairs to watch that I knew of. Much to my surprise I looked upstairs during the game and behind the glass was a throng of the Thistle members out to support the team as well, Harvey and Donna included. That was such a joy for our team to see and feel their support. Harvey and Donna would be behind the glass for many more games when Barry and I hooked up to play in future years. Harv always helped me out with tidbits of strategy as the unofficial coach of the squad. His passion for the game was unmistakable, similar to the love of his family and friends. Cheers Harv. - Posted by: David Hicks (Friend ) on: Nov 30, 2019
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I am deeply sorry to hear of Harvey's passing. I send my heartfelt sympathy to you Donna and all of your family. - Posted by: Krystyna Swain (friend) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My sincerest condolences to Harvey’s family. I was fortunate to work with Harvey on various occasions. Harvey’s contribution to the department will always be remembered and appreciated. - Posted by: Myron l Dodds (Co worker friend) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My condolences to the Swain family. - Posted by: Kevin B Nimchuk (Co worker(ret)) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Kora - Posted by: Kora markusa (Friend) on: Nov 30, 2019
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We are sad to hear about Harvey. Our deepest sympathy and much love, huge hugs for you and the family. Dave & Jeanette Deans - Posted by: Dave and Jeanette Deans (Cousin) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My deepest condolences. Harvey was such a kind, gentle soul. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Linda Young (Cousin) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. I’ve cherished our friendship over the years and I’m sure Ron and Harvey will have many stories to share. Sending hugs to you and your family. - Posted by: Carol Krause (Friend) on: Nov 30, 2019
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So sorry for your loss Donna and family. Harvey was a special person, humble and kind. He will be missed. - Posted by: Donna Wagner (Friend) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My deepest condolences. So many good times throughout the years. Will always remember. - Posted by: Bob stremich (Friend ) on: Nov 30, 2019
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My thoughts and prayers are with you Donna and family during this very difficult time. May all the wonderful memories you have of Harvey comfort you today and always. - Posted by: Venetia Bourrier (Friend) on: Nov 30, 2019