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ALEXANDER SINCLAIR (AL)
Born: Mar 06, 1924
Date of Passing: Feb 05, 2020
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ALEXANDER SINCLAIR
March 6, 1924 - February 5, 2020
Al was, at 5'6", larger than life. He loved bellowing wartime ditties (Tramp Tramp Tramp Along The Highway was a favourite) no matter where he was. His sneeze was legendary, startling animals and people alike. He didn't suffer fools gladly and had choice nicknames for those who crossed him.
He was an avid sportsman, a skater, a ski-jumper, and awesome bowler. Playing catch with him meant the sting of the hardball as it smacked your glove. He was a so-so golfer but loved the walk.
Al's life spanned almost a century - as a little boy he tagged along as his dad delivered milk from a horse-drawn wagon. At 18, the Second World War called. He joined the R.C.A.F. and shipped off to the U.K. where he flew Spitfires in defence of England. Returning home, he met his sweetheart Shirley at a skating rink. His opening line: "Hey Red, can I buy you a coffee". They married in 1954. When he was an old man, he learned how to navigate a computer with the help of tech support (me).
After flying fighter planes, he chose a more sedate career in accounting. He toiled 35 years at Coldstream Products as comptroller. He was never one for half measures - putting in 60 hour weeks hunkered down in his office working long into the night.
Then, miraculously, he retired early. He bought a cottage, started wearing jeans, and indulged his love of puttering. He painted, built stuff, climbed on roofs, solved problems. He did crossword puzzles. He savoured a glass of wine on the cottage porch. Al and Shirley were blessed with the gift of time, loving their 35 years of retirement.
And he was a dog person.
First Duke, then Misty, then Ashleigh. He was still walking his beloved Toora in his late 80s, leash in one hand, cane in the other.
In later years dementia meant a move to Deer Lodge Centre. But instead of turning inward, he created a new life. He made friends, loved and teased the staff, and patrolled the halls making sure everyone was safe and sound. He learned to high-five. He believed he knew everyone there, and imagined a backstory for each one of them.
His was a life well lived. He joked with strangers, waved at toddlers, and thought everyone was in on the joke. He worried about rabbits freezing in the winter and sparrows going hungry. He gave generously of his time and money. He loved and was loved.
And in his final days at Deer Lodge, he believed everyone he ever cared about was living just down the hall.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife Shirley, son Scott, daughter-in-law Connie Boutet, and his older (!) sister Grace.
Special thanks to the staff at Deer Lodge Centre Tower 6 for their care and affection, and to Dr. Ian Ledger who provided Al with bonus years of mobility.
A remembrance of Al's life will be held Thursday, February 20 at 2:00 p.m. in the Worship Centre at Deer Lodge Centre, 2109 Portage Avenue.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 15, 2020
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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I have so many fond memories of Alex and the many winter getaways Shirley and Alex spent at the Best Western Inner Harbour over the years. Their arrival was always highly anticipated, and special preparations had to be undertaken. The staff took great pride in making a custom stool to reach the (high) cupboards, and it was heightened as time went on. Alex celebrated many birthdays at the hotel, as much as he didn’t want the fuss I think he loved all those ladies (and gents) fawning over him. His 90th was the most memorable, complete with a huge bunch of balloons and production that brought lots of guests out into the hall. I’ll hold these memories and many more fondly. Sending our most heartfelt condolences to Shirley and family. - Posted by: Joanne Mills (Hotel Manager in Victoria BC) on: Apr 30, 2020
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I remember Mr. Sinclair vividly during my time as Branch Manager at Comcheq Services where we processed the payroll for Coldstream Products. He was truly a colourful character and I actually enjoyed his jovial, warm-hearted intimidations when we discussed payroll issues. He was sharp as a tack and just a great guy. My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Len Paquin (Busines Associate) on: Apr 11, 2020
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This touching, beautiful tribute to Mr. Sinclair seems perfect in its light-heartedness. I think of Mr. Sinclair with a twinkle in his eye and a sarcastically humourous comment on his lips. He seemed to be always teasing, flirting, admiring or pretending he was irked about something. I knew him as kind, caring and friendly, and interested in others. I knew as him as perfectly matched with Shirley, especially in lightheartedness. I knew him as open for adventure and travel, at least to Victoria February. Heartfelt condolences to Shirley, Scott, Connie and Grace. - Posted by: Wendy Smith (family friend) on: Mar 04, 2020
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Mr. Sinclair was my first boss. I can still remember walking into his corner office at Coldstream as a young 18 year old and asking him if he thought I could do the Accounts Payable job that was about to be available. He said he didn't see why not and went about teaching me the 'right way to do accounting' which I appreciate to this day. And I did follow in his footsteps and become an Accountant and eventually the Controller at Coldstream. We had lots of fun working under his strict watch, and learned that his bark was worse than his bite! He was a great mentor and always willing to take the extra time to teach you how to do the job properly. My sincerest condolences to his family. I've learned more about him reading the obituary and am glad he had the rich life he so deserved. - Posted by: Shannon West (former employee) on: Feb 21, 2020
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On behalf of the Bracken family our sincere condolences to Shirley, Scott & Connie. My first job after school was working in the Accounting department at Coldstream for Mr. Sinclair. He was a great boss and I always enjoyed the opportunities to catch up with him over the years. I am sorry that I am away and unable to attend the service. Treasure your memories of a life well lived. - Posted by: Brenda Bracken-Warwick (Former employee) on: Feb 18, 2020
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What a beautiful obituary. I know his family will miss him dearly and so will the dogs. He had a wonderful life and I truly hope he’s living in Paradise now. Take care of yourselves. Sending love and energy to you all. Sincerely and with much affection Marilyn MacKenzie - Posted by: Marilyn MacKenzie (Marilyn MacKenzieFriend) on: Feb 15, 2020