WILLIAM S. (MANNY) WIGHTMAN

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WILLIAM S. (MANNY) WIGHTMAN Manny Wightman, a loving husband and wonderful father, passed away peacefully at the Deer Lodge Centre on Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at the age of 90 years. He is survived by his son Jim and grandson Alex; sister-in-law Elsie Wightman and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Ida; parents Kate and Sidney Wightman; sister Constance; brothers, John and Ted. Manny was born in Emerson, MB on July 28, 1912 and, except for the time he spent overseas during the Second World War, lived his entire life there. He enlisted with the R.C.A.F. in 1939 and served his country for four years as an electrician in Canada and England. After his discharge he returned to Emerson, went back to DeLuxe shows in which he bought a half interest. He later bought out his partner and operated it until, in his own words, "television forced him to close." In 1948 Manny built Bills Electric on Dominion Street. It was while he was owner of Bills Electric that he became involved in the farm wiring program and had three trucks on the road, wiring farms East and West of Emerson. It was also the year he again became involved in Federal, Provincial, Municipal and town affairs. In 1948 the Emerson Volunteer Fire Department was organized and he served as Fire Chief for seven years. As well, in 1948 he was elected the first Second World War veteran to fill the position as President of Emerson Branch #77, Royal Canadian Legion, serving a two year term. The Emerson Chamber of Commerce was organized by the businessmen of Emerson and he was elected President for two years. In 1962 Manny once again allowed his name to stand for Councillor for the Town of Emerson, he was elected, named chairman of Public Works, a position he retained for 12 years. He resigned to seek the Mayors position for the Town of Emerson. He was elected and served a two year term, and a few years later served a second term. During the year 1975 Manny had the pleasure of promoting the Emerson Centennial 100th Birthday. As town councillor and Mayor he found that it was an exciting life, as he always worked for progress and betterment of our town of Emerson. In 1955 he joined Canada Customs, a position he held until 1976 when he retired due to health reasons. While serving with Canada Customs, he had the pleasure of being President of the Customs and Excise Officers Association. In his younger life he enjoyed playing more than 20 years of Junior and Senior hockey for the Town of Emerson. In later years, he spent many years promoting minor hockey for the younger people of Emerson. Manny was an avid historian and was very proud of the detailed history he published about the town of Emerson, the Emerson newsletters, books on the history of Emerson, the history of Emerson Fire Department and of the Emerson Legion, Branch #77. Manny spent his entire life promoting the town of Emerson and working for the betterment of his community. He truly has left this world a better place. In accordance with Mannys wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. A graveside service will be held at a later date. Jim wishes to extend his sincerest thanks to the staff of the Emerson Personal Care Home. Heartfelt thanks as well to the staff of T-7 at Deer Lodge Centre, with special thanks to Jan, Kim, Colleen, Judy, Judith and Sherry for all they did to make my fathers last year enjoyable. WOJCIKS ALL BELIEFS & FAITHS FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM 897 - 4665

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 28, 2002