William BRIGDEN

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BRIGDEN: William (Bill) George Brigden passed away at the Melita Health Centre on Sunday, December 21, 2008 in the loving arms of his wife Marion and family at the age of 79. Bill was born November 24, 1929 to Allan & Kathleen Brigden on the family farm 25-4-25W1 in the RM of Brenda. He attended Tremblay and Napinka Schools. In 1958, Bill married Marion Dorothy (Crowhurst) Green. To this union Marion brought two wonderful sons, Peter (Clara Lea) and Patrick (Val). Bill and Marion had 3 daughters Candice (Roy), Cheryl, Christine (Neil). Nine grandchildren; Mardel (John), Myles (Twylla), Angela (Jay), Martin (Angela), Terryl Lynn, Ryan (Carly), Stephanie (Jamie), Alex and Katie, and two great grandchildren Ben and Aislinn. Bill farmed with his father and later with his son Peter on a mixed farm operation. His farm and his cattle were his passion. He was a councilor and also the Reeve of the R.M. of Brenda. He was a strong community man, who believed in a larger community not just within the municipality. He was a delegate to the Hall of Fame and served one year as President. A member of the Turtle Mountain Conservation Board, a 4-H leader for many years; the secretary-treasurer for the Napinka cemetery and was involved in many community and church committee’s. Bill was a member of the Men’s South West Choir and his enjoyment of music was shared with all at many events or as a family singing in the car which has been passed down to all of his children as well as his grandchildren. In 2007, Bill was recognized by the RM of Brenda for his contribution to the community. He enjoyed curling and many other sports, a staunch believer in the conservative party and avid reader. Besides his Family, his love of golf brought him the greatest joy and he could be seen many days heading down the road for a golf game in Melita. This past summer, Bill and Marion, surrounded by their family celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. A celebration of Bill’s Life was held Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at the Melita United Church with a final trip through the farm prior to the service. Jeri Bjornson and Glen Whetter officiated. The pallbearers, representing each of Bill’s children were, Mardel Watson, Angela Worthman, Martin Green, Terryl Lynn Green, Ryan Kontzie, Neil Gush. Internment at the Napinka Cemetery. Arrangements, professionally and with great care by Smith’s Funeral Home, Deloraine, Manitoba. Past members of the South West Choir along with members of the United Church choir celebrated Bill’s life with song. Donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Napinka Cemetery.The family would like to thank ALL who have supported them over the past year, you will never know how grateful we are to each and everyone of you. Bill’s dedication and love of his family is a testament to all of you.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 10, 2009