JOHN ANDREW

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JOHN ANDREW McLENNAN Peacefully, with his family by his side, John passed away on Friday May 19, 2000, at St. Boniface Hospital, at the age of 88. Dad was predeceased by our mom, Marjorie, on May 9, 1992; one brother Archie and his wife Milda; two sisters and their husbands, Isobel and Bryce, Edna and Doss; as well as several brothers and sisters-in-law. Dads (Grampys) memory will be forever cherished by his children, Donna (Barry Land), Lynn (Karel VanHelden) grandchildren, Cheryl (Tomi Roinila), Michael and Karolyn VanHelden; two great-grandchildren, Matti and Jari Roinila. Surviving brothers and sisters-in-law are Cliff (Betty), Art (Olive) and Gladys Russell; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Dad was born on the family farm in Helston, MB, on January 8, 1912. He lived and worked on the farm until he bought the Helston General Store in 1933. Dad met the love of his life in Helston, Marjorie (Midge) Russell, and they were married on September 27, 1936. After 55 years of a very happy marriage, Dad had deeply missed his life partner and soul mate since her passing in 1992. Their Christian beliefs enabled them to live an exemplary life and allowed them to pass these values on to their family. As the general merchant and postmaster he was an active participant in all community activities including being a member of the Gladstone Masonic Lodge. Due to the changing times he had to make a courageous move to Winnipeg in 1967 and start over. John worked at Ashdowns, Transcona Motors, and Holiday Chev. until ill health forced his retirement in 1977. Dads love of music was enjoyed by playing the banjo, piano, singing in the Gladstone Male Voice Choir, family sing-songs, and many years as a member of a dance orchestra. Dad had many other interests and talents which included carpentry, "Mr. Fix It", reading, puzzle books, gardening, and he was an avid baseball fan. Dads life was devoted to his family, which we will always be thankful for and cherish. The family would like to thank Dr. Hugh Smith for his friendship and compassionate care of Dad for 33 years. A special thank you to the staff at St. Boniface Hospital during several admissions and especially to Charlotte, Beth, Phyllis and Dennis for their support and care. As well, thanks to the V.O.N., Homecare staff and special friends who cared for Dad. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of ones choice. He knew you were in pain, He knew you might never Get well upon this earth again. He saw the road was getting rough And the hills were hard to climb, So He closed your weary eyelids And whispered "Peace be thine." It broke our hearts to lose you But you never went alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you home. We send you on wings of love to Mum above. Prayers will be held on Tuesday, May 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Harrow United Church. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 24 at 2:00 p.m., also at Harrow United Church, 955 Mulvey Ave. Interment will follow the service in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, 4000 Portage Ave. A reception will follow in the Chapel Lawn Reception Centre at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 24, 2000