C.E.B. (CHES) SOUTHON

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C.E.B. (CHES) SOUTHON Peacefully, on December 23, Chestly Egbert Benjamin Southon passed away at the age of 100. Ches was predeceased by his parents and sisters Erema and Phyllis, and his beloved wife Anne in 1989. He leaves to cherish his memory daughter Irene; son-in-law Claire Miller; grandchildren Karen, Craig (Debra) Roderick (Mary-Lou), Anne; great grandchildren Cody, Catie and Quinn. Chestly was born September 27, 1899 at the Glen, Deloraine district where he grew up and worked until his marriage to Anne Kinnear in 1927 when they moved to California. Returning to Canada he joined the Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada in 1929 as a full time life insurance agent. He was a passionate believer in the value of life insurance. He loved his work and served his many clients tirelessly often in many capacities, whatever they needed or asked for, from wills to help with harvest when manpower was scarce. He was still serving them well past his 91st birthday. Ches was a long time member of the St. Boniface Kiwanis Club and the Odd Fellows. Working happily in support of their many charitable endeavours. He was a champion salesman of War Bonds and War Savings Certificates, an enthusiastic supporter of the United Way campaigns and of the Christmas Cheer Board. A tireless worker at volunteer headquarters during the 1950 flood. A helping hand wherever it was needed. A long time member of Knox United Church, he served as Sunday School Teacher, member of the Session, Board and leader of young mens groups. His grandchildren called him Ping and they were the light of his life, he delighted in their presence, enthusiastically cheered all their endeavours and was especially happy when they were with him at the summer cottage. He swam with them when he was almost 90, played endless games, helped them build tree forts and taught them much about life and nature. Ches took great pleasure each fall season in a duck hunting expedition with Tom, Claire, Rod and Craig, it was a magical time for him. He will be missed. His family wish to extend special thanks to Dr. T.K. Goodhand, and to thank all those on Second Floor Oakview Place who helped to cheer his past few years. Thanks also to all who visited. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 15, at 2:00 PM in the Kerr Chapel at Knox United Church 400 Edmonton Street, Winnipeg. Flowers gratefully declined, if friends so wish donations may be made to The United Way or a charity of choice. "Always a Gentleman

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 12, 2000