WALTER RALPH WASNEY

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WALTER RALPH WASNEY June 27, 1923 - March 19, 2001 Very peacefully, Walter Ralph Wasney of Belair, Manitoba, passed away at Pine Falls Hospital, Pine Falls, Manitoba, on March 19, 2001. Walters family loves him deeply and his passing brings with it a time of great sorrow and longing. Walter was a devoted and loving husband to Stephie Burek Wasney, his wife of 51 years, and a dedicated and kind father to Gail, Kathy, Jacquie, and Cindy. He also loved and respected his sons-in-law, Ewen Carruthers, Jeff Allston, and Dick Jackson and was very fond of, and will be deeply missed by, Tim Rhodes, a dear friend of the Wasney family. Walter is predeceased by his daughter Kathy (March 24, 1999) his sister Melba Wood; and his brothers, Pete, Frank, John, Joe and Stan. Walters passing will be deeply mourned by his sisters, Gloria Bernet, Julie Krowiak, Anne Rostecki and Carrie Wilson; sisters-in-law, Margaret and Eileen, and his in-laws, Sophie and Joe Smith and Amy and Lorne Hallett. Much sadness is felt by his nieces and nephews as they say goodbye to their beloved Uncle Walter. Walter also leaves to mourn many, many friends whom he adored and whose friendship he cherished. Born at Garson, Manitoba to John and Mary (Hower) Wasney, Walter spent his youth on the family farm until he enlisted in the Canadian Army. He was sent to Europe where he joined the Fort Garry Horse Regiment and carried out his service in England and Holland. Walter worked for many years at the Manitoba Telephone System as a diesel mechanic. Much of his career was spent working in Canadas far north on the D.E.W. Line where he not only made many friends but also developed an understanding of, and appreciation for, Arctic life. Upon retirement, he and Stephie made their home in Belair, Manitoba. Venturing into the bush to cut wood, enjoying the activities at the Senior Scene in Victoria Beach, joining in on the weiner roasts and picnics on Johnnys Drive, and taking walks with Walters dog Star, all became part of a very enjoyable way of life for both of them. Walter was also a member of Royal Canadian Legion No. 64 in Pine Falls. Walter and Stephie loved to travel and made several trips across Canada and the United States. Their most memorable trip was to Holland and England to celebrate the 50th anniversary of V.E. Day in 1995. In addition to traveling, Walter enjoyed wood working, reading, watching westerns, gardening and playing his accordion and his harmonica. Walter loved music and some of his favourite performers included Vera Lynn, Don Messer, and Ray Charles. Walters joy for life touched the hearts of many people, even those who knew him for a short time. His wit and wisdom helped to make his passion for story telling a precious gift which he generously shared and which brought bright smiles to many faces. Walters gentle nature and kind manner were also displayed through his love for animals. Feeding stranded wildlife, tending to his bird feeders, or enjoying special moments with his animal companions were some of the ways that he shared his love and taught others the importance of respecting and caring for animals. The lives of many animals especially Star, Skippy and Daisy were enriched because of him. Walter had a deep and abiding respect for life which helped him to celebrate the milestones as well as face the challenges that his life held. An important piece of advice to his family was "Dont worry. It will all work out for the better." And it usually did. The hearts of many are filled to overflowing because they knew and will always love Walter Ralph Wasney. In respect of Walterss wishes, cremation has taken place. A Mass to celebrate Walters life will be held at Notre Dame Du Laus Catholic Church in Powerview, Manitoba on Saturday, March 24 at 10:30 a.m. with Father Rene Chartier presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3A 1P6, and the Winnipeg Humane Society, 5 Kent Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2L 1X3. The family wishes to extend their most heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nursing staff of the Pine Falls Hospital for their utmost kindness and compassion. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 22, 2001