JOHN DEAN FINLAY

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOHN DEAN FINLAY Peacefully, holding his granddaughters hand, Dean passed away August 1, 2001 at the age of 95. Dean was born April 18, 1906 in Owen Sound, ON and moved to Medora, MB as a youth. He attended Normal School becoming a teacher and taking his first position in Haywood, MB. He was vice principal of Glenwood School subsequently serving as principal of Windsor School for 33 years and briefly, Varennes School, retiring in 1971. During his years as principal, Dad worked unceasingly for his students as well as for the teachers of St. Vital. He achieved life membership in the Manitoba Teachers Society, the Windsor Community Club, the Teachers Curling Club and was the first principal to become a life member of the Principal and Assistant Principals Association of St. Vital. He was treasurer of the Masonic Three Pillars Lodge for at least 20 years, receiving the William Douglas award in 1994 for his achievements as a member. He served on various committees of Regents Park United Church for many years until the age of 90. He was an avid bowler and curler and a loyal baseball fan. After his retirement, Dad travelled extensively with Mom as well as hosting bus tours for Fehr Way Tours. His community involvement was so noteworthy that a park in St. Vital as well as the new Windsor School gym were named in his honour. Dad, predeceased by his wife, Marion, in 1984, will be sadly missed by his three daughters, Marilyn Proulx (Peter), Gladys Ferguson (Ross), and Patricia Foidart (Blair) his grandchildren and their partners, Karen, Daryl, Michele, Cathy, Debbie, Glen, David, Yvonne, Jeanette and Andrea; as well as his great-grandchildren, Garrett, Heather and Cassandra; and also Jessie Shanks, his close companion for the last several years. Dad showed us and others whose lives he has touched the value of family, gift of laughter, care for others, strong moral principles, and a zest for life that touched our hearts and will live on in our memories. Special thanks to the staff at Victoria Hospital, third floor and the staff at Rosewood Village, Alder House for their kindness and compassion. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, August 7 at 1:30 p.m. at Regents Park United Church, 613 St. Marys Rd., St. Vital. Flowers gratefully declined. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the Victoria Hospital Foundation or the C.N.I.B. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 03, 2001