DAVID WILLIAM IFTODY

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DAVID WILLIAM IFTODY June 15, 1956 - February 5, 2001 It is with deep sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of our brother, uncle and friend on Monday, February 5, 2001, at the age of 44 years. David is survived by his sisters, Elaine Schwartz and husband Richard, Donna Janssen, Janet Paquin and brother Raymond Paquin and wife Jami, as well as special friend Jere. David also leaves to mourn his nephews, Chris, Kenneth, Vern and nieces, Julie and Daisanne; numerous aunts and cousins. David was predeceased by his stepfather Roland Paquin in 1974 and his mother Mary Paquin in 1996. David was raised and educated in Lac du Bonnet, Man. He began employment as a heavy equipment operator at Dumbarton Mine. David went on to complete a Bachelor of Social Work and Masters of Public Affairs degrees at the University of Manitoba. During this time, David was employed with the Manitoba Youth Center and the River East School Division. In 1988, David moved to Ottawa and began Animus Research Consultants. He acted as a consultant to several First Nations across the country. David moved back to Lac du Bonnet and was elected as the Liberal MP in 1993 at age 37. He served as the Chair of Rural Caucus and sat on the Standing Committee on Industry and Trade and on the National Resources Committee. He was re-elected in 1997 and went on to serve as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs under both the Hon. Jane Stewart and the Hon. Bob Nault. Grandson of a Romanian immigrant, David was a man of strong moral fibre. Next to God and his family, Davids great love was politics which was inextricably intertwined with his personal life. He was honored to serve the people of Provencher who had put their faith in him as a representative. He fought fiercely to ensure that their voice would be heard in the halls of Parliament. Where Provencher was concerned, there was no such thing as going too far to represent the little corner of Manitoba that he loved so much. More than once, he put his own career on the line in order to better represent them, and he had no regrets. His devout Catholic faith and the faith of the people of Provencher guided him through occasionally controversial legislation. The loss of the last election was devastating to him because he lost a calling which he felt came from God. We are all saddened that he never had the opportunity to continue on the next curve in the path of his life. He touched our hearts with his great sense of humour and his enthusiasm for life. He made people laugh with his animated story telling. He enjoyed spending time at the house on the Winnipeg River near Lac du Bonnet and his "home" was open to everyone. He was greatly grieved by the recent loss of Ron Sydorko, a lifelong pal. Davids family expresses great appreciation to friends and staff who have selflessly helped us during this devastating time of loss. David would want you to know that he loved you all and to carry on for him We have peace because we know he is safe and at peace in the loving arms of our Saviour Jesus Christ. There will be visitation on Friday, February 9 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Notre Dame du Lac Roman Catholic Church, Lac du Bonnet, Man. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday February 10 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Boniface Cathedrale Basillica, 190 Cathedral, Winnipeg, Man. Flowers are gratefully declined. If friends so desire, donations in Davids memory may be made to a charity of your choice. SOBERING FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM in care of arrangements. Phone 268-3510 or Man. Toll Free 1-877-776-2220.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 08, 2001