Charles McKAY

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McKAY: Charles Anthony McKay, October 24, 1924 - January 11, 2009. On January 11, 2009, Charlie passed away suddenly at the age of 84 years. He was born, and lived his entire life in Brandon. At the age of 16, Charlie got on with the CP Railway as a hosler, moving the steam engines around the yard to get them ready for their trips. When he turned 18, he followed his three older brothers in fighting for his country in World War II. Charlie joined the army, trained, and left for Halifax. Just as he waited to be shipped overseas the war ended and he returned safely home. Charlie returned to the railway as a fireman, shovelling coal, and gradually worked his way up to become an engineer. He worked the Brandon-Broadview run until his retirement in 1984. In 1957, Charlie married Eve Lamb. Eve and Charlie balanced each other perfectly for over 51 years. Soon Eve and Charlie had a daughter, Debra and a son, Greg to complete their family. He was a dedicated husband and father and always remained involved in his children's lives. Charlie was very involved with his granddaughters; his love was undying and unconditional and because of this, each of his three grandgirls had a special, loving relationship with their Grandpa. Charlie is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Mary McKay; brothers: John McKay and Bern McKay; sister Catherine Karakuska; brothers-in-law: Walter Karakuska, Harold Farrar, John Lysenko, and Christopher Schroder; sisters- in-law: Jenn McKay, Addie McKay and Mary McKay; niece Lynne Lysenko and nephew Don Farrar. He is survived by his loving wife, Eve; daughter Debbie; son Greg (Karen); granddaughters: Lindsay, Reagan and Haley McKay; sisters: Bernie Schroder, Helen Farrar, Nell Lysenko; brother Michael McKay; sisters and brothers- in-law: Virgie and Stan Kukurudz, Nellie and Joe Kosior, Marlene and Bill Gerelus, Dick and Maureen Lamb; ten nephews and four nieces in theUnited States, and nine nephews and eleven nieces in Canada. Cremation has taken place at Charlie's request. A private family ceremony was held on Friday, January 16, 2009 at Memories Chapel. Mona Franklin officiated. Family reflections were given by Charlie's niece, Margaret Hamilton. Interment will take place at a later date. Donations in memory of Charlie may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, B-727 10th Street, Brandon, Manitoba, R7A 4G7.Expressions of sympathy may be made atwww.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.When I must leave you for a little whilePlease do not grieve and shed wild tearsAnd hug your sorrow to youThrough the years.But start out bravely with a gallant smileAnd for my sake and in my nameLive on and do all things the same,Feed not your loneliness on empty daysBut fill each waking hour in useful ways,Reach out your handIn comfort and in cheerAnd I in turn will comfort you and hold you near.And never, never be afraid to die,For I am waiting for you In the sky.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 24, 2009