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HALFDAN (HALLI) UNNSTEIN RAGNAR EASTMAN
Born: Apr 09, 1937
Date of Passing: Feb 26, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryHALFDAN (HALLI) UNNSTEIN RAGNAR EASTMAN
On February 26, 2025, our Dad, Afí, Brother and Uncle, Hálfdán (Halli) Eastman, passed away peacefully in Arborg at the age of 87. As Dad has always done, he decided when it was time to go and once he made up his mind about something, he was anxious to get it done. We miss Dad deeply, but knowing he is laughing with Mom again brings us peace.
Halli is lovingly remembered by his daughter Audra (Andy Szczepanik), son Jason, grandsons, Alerik and Aulden Szczepanik, and brother Robert Eastman. Halli was predeceased by his beloved wife Judy, parents, Hálfdán and Una Eastman, and siblings, Gudlaug (Kris Johnson), Dori (Doreen), Anna (Victor Eastman), Gisli (Deanna), Carol (Billy Bell), Herb, and Olive (Roy Code). Halli is survived and remembered fondly by much extended family.
Halli was born on the family farm near Hecla and spoke only Icelandic until he went to school. In later years, he would speak Icelandic to us out of the blue and it always led to a lesson in translation. Dad was fascinated with machinery from the time he was a toddler. Before the Hecla Causeway was built, the farm served as a stopping place for travellers crossing the lake. Dad was a curious child and as a young boy, got into trouble for taking apart the motor of a visitor’s small airplane while they’d stopped to rest. Dad always loved to tinker. Dad completed Grade 7 at the one room Woodglen School and in his teens, hauled winter freight on Lake Winnipeg. Dad’s was a musical family, and while he was often quiet, a highlight for us was hearing him sing harmony with his siblings for their Mom. Dad would often break into song when he thought no one was listening. It always made us smile.
Dad met Mom at a hockey game in Riverton. It was a life changing event. They married in 1966 and spent 48 years together until Mom passed in 2014. Our favourite memories are of them laughing to the point of tears while Dad shared some story. Dad’s love of big machines led him to work in heavy construction in Manitoba and Saskatchewan; for Erickson, Panteluk, Brodsky, and Munro. Dad was 70 when we learned he was also a pretty good carpenter and we remember Mom and Dad with love whenever we are at the cottage. Dad was happiest when driving and spent time on the lawn tractor whenever he could.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all the Health Care workers at the Gimli and Arborg District Hospitals, Arborg Homecare, and the Arborg Personal Care Home for their gentle care of Dad. Also, a special thank you to Dad’s many good neighbours. Your friendship and kindness to Dad will always be remembered.
Per Dad’s wishes, there will be no funeral. We love you Dad, thank you for everything. Rest easy Elskan.
Goda Nott Pabbi minn
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 01, 2025
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
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I worked with Halli over 60 years ago in God’s River. I never seen or spoke with him again ,I guess the opportunity never came up But he had a lasting impression on me I was a 17 year old kid first time away from home working on the cat train for Ruminski hauling fish to railhead in Ilford and supplies back to the lodge Halli could fix anything and I would kinda follow him around just to learn what I could from him Yes he would get in trouble sometimes modifying machines to improve their efficiency,I say no more about that Halli kinda took me under his watch made me feel special as he was well respected Maybe it was because I was the only other Icelander there Hoping my good words bring you some comfort All the best Ken - Posted by: Ken Erickson (Former co-worker) on: Mar 07, 2025
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My deepest condolences Audra & Jason and family on the passing of your Dad.. - Posted by: Karen Leochko (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2025
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Rest in peace Hálfdán I enjoyed my few visits with Halli after learning that not only were we 4th or 5th cousins, but related through marriage. Your granddaughter is my daughter-in Law, and the best step Mother to my son’s daughter. Conversing in Icelandic on our visits was delightful - Posted by: Faye Sigurdson (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2025
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Halli was such a nice neighbour. He loved to chat and even liked my dog, Freya. He will certainly be missed. - Posted by: Judy (Neighbour) on: Mar 01, 2025
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We were often at Uncle Dori and Auntie Disas when a member of your family dropped in so knew your whole family very well. Many an evening singing in the living room and listening to all the music. My Sympathy to your whole family. I will let some of your Cousins know that I have on face book. - Posted by: Laura McLeod (Dahlman) (Friend of the Family) on: Mar 01, 2025
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Just reaching out to you Audra and Andy. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I never got to meet your dad but I do remember Andy always saying how many hours you spent with him. You were an amazing daughter. - Posted by: Miriam Blahey (Friend of his daughter, Audra) on: Mar 01, 2025
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Audra, I am so saddened to read of your dad’s passing. My love and condolences to you, Andy, Alerik, Aulden and Jason. Hugs… - Posted by: Loretta Hibbert (Longtime friend of Audra❤️) on: Mar 01, 2025