JAMES WILMONT PORTREE

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JAMES WILMONT PORTREE Peacefully, in his sleep, on September 19, 1999, our beloved father, gigi, grandfather, great-grandfather, passed away at the age of 85 at Red River Manor in Selkirk, Manitoba. His loving wife of 20 years, Anne, and her children, Bill and Louise Hominick of England, Carol and Peter Marusiak of Calgary and Jan and Ted Hasiuk of Winnipeg survive Jim. Surviving also is his former wife, Kay, and their children, James and Carol Portree of British Columbia, Kathy and Bob Barber of Selkirk, Manitoba, and Brenda and Greg Shettler, also of Selkirk. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Tamara, Teresa, Jodie, Jared, Jennifer and Kyle from his former marriage, and Suzanne, Michael, Jonathan, Christopher, Laura, and Lisa from his marriage to Anne. Great-grandchildren included Jessica, Madison and Ethan. He will be remembered as well by his special niece, Donna Portree. Jims career included time with Dominion Fur, where he developed a love for the Great North. His main career was with the CNR as a trainman and conductor until he retired in 1974. After his retirement, he travelled extensively throughout the would and later became a part of the University of Manitoba greenhouse program in Thompson. Jim and Anne married in 1979 and moved to Lac du Bonnet. Summers were spent hosting the family clan and winters enjoying the southern climate. Jims children and grandchildren inherited his love of gardening and the outdoors. At the age of 83, he was still backpacking into remote fishing lakes with family and friends and enjoying the cry of the loon. Jim was always there to support and encourage his children in their education and endeavours. His last year was spent in the caring environment of Betel Home in Selkirk. Special thanks go to Erica and all of his caregivers. Jims philosophy of life was simple. Jim requested that his life be celebrated with a gathering of the clan in a toast and song. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be made in his memory to the Salvation Army.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 25, 1999