Herbert STEPHENS

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STEPHENS:Sadly the family announce the passing of Herbert John Stephens, Hamiota formerly Cardale on December 30, 2009 at the Hamiota District Health Centre. Herb was born May 13, 1918. Herb’s Mother passed away when he was two days old, and he was raised by his Dad with the help of Alma Abram. Herb and his Dad were very close, living in the same yard, and working side by side on the farm. Together they built a very successful dairy farming operation. Their registered Ayrshire cattle won many ribbons and trophies at fairs in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. A highlight was to have a bull chosen to attend the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto in the 60’s. Herb was also a well known cattle judge at many fairs. Herb had a quiet, non-assuming, considerate way about him. He was a non-judgemental person who accepted people at face value and always saw the good in everyone and every situation. In Herb’s words, “Things are as good as you make them.” He always had time to stop and talk, and enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Herb’s first love was his family. He spent countless hours with his children teaching them how to handle cattle and horses. He was an excellent cattleman and knew just how to handle all animals. Community was important to Herb. He served on the school board and as a director of the Hamiota Coop for many years. Herb loved to curl and was a member of the Cardale Curling Club for many years. As his family grew up, Herb became involved in their activities. He helped coach and manage several of Bruce’s hockey and ball teams. He helped start the Oak River Dairy 4H club and was a leader for many years. In 1980, Herb and Laura sold their farm to daughter Melva and her husband Wayne Ramsey and they retired to Hamiota. Here Herb enjoyed keeping his yard immaculate, taking up curling again, as well as the sport of golf. He golfed daily with his new circle of friends. In 2004, Herb and Laura moved to Lilac Residence, where he resided till October 2009, when he entered hospital. A family graveside service was held January 14, 2010 with Reverend Tim Crouch officiating. Following the service a gathering of family and friends was held at the Hamiota Community Center. Herb was predeceased by his beloved wife Laura (nee Henry) in 2005, son-in-law Mel Smith, great grandson Brendon Metcalf, his parents Jack and Chrissie Stephens, parents-in-law John and Winnifred Henry, and his brothers in-laws, and his sisters in-laws. Herb is survived by his children, Barb (Wayne) McConnell, Mavis Smith, Bruce (Vicki) Stephens, Melva (Wayne) Ramsey, and Cherri (Ryan) Whelpton. Also left to cherish his memory are 13 grandchildren, Jacquie (Marlin) Metcalf, Tamara (Grady) Woodward, Brad (Stephanie) McConnell, Julie (Brian) Martinussen, Jody (Kevin) Kirk, Curtis (Becky) Smith, Mitchell Stephens (Diane Meskill), Erin Stephens (Clint Waldon), Carrie Ramsey (Darren Rozdeba), Robbin (Corey) Anderson, Matthew (Sarah) Ramsey, Angie and Darren Whelpton. Also cherishing Herb’s memory are 21 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Friends so wishing may make a donation in Herb’s memory to a charity of their choice. Campbell Funeral Home, Hamiota were in care of arrangements.(866) 620-2744

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 16, 2010