WILLIAM DIGBY ALLBUTT

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

WILLIAM DIGBY ALLBUTT February 5, 1927 - May 9, 2003 Peacefully on May 9, at the Johnson Memorial Hospital, Bill Allbutt of Gimli, passed away at 76 years of age. Lovingly remembered by his wife Ruth (nee McIsaac), his children, Clifford (Barb), Bill Jr. (Joette), Debra (Lee), Jo-Anne (David) and Colleen (Mark). Papa will be sadly missed by his grandchildren, Billy, Jenny, Tanya (Todd), Trista, Cliffy (Lynne), Chantel, Natasha and Amy; great-grandson Cameron; and special friends, Dave and Joan Webster, Helen and Ev Smallwood, and June McDonald. Also left to mourn are Bills siblings, Mona Clarke and Fred Allbutt as well as numerous brothers and sisters-in-law. Born February 5, 1927 to Charles and Vera (nee McKay) in Winnipeg, Bill began work at Allbutt Electric in Charleswood with his father. He moved to Flin Flon to work as an electrician for HBM&S. In 1953 Bill married Ruth and they would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this June. In 1957, Bill started a 25 year career with Midwest Diamond Drilling that resulted in a move to Winnipeg in 1959. In 1966, Bill and Ruth purchased a cottage in Whytewold, which became a place of cherished memories and many humourous stories for the family. With his best friend Webster at his side, Bill involved all of the children, grandchildren, and his nephew Bryan McIsaac (deceased) in building an addition and taught them the value of taking pride in their work. After many happy summers spent at their cottage, he and Ruth retired there in 1979. In 2001 Bill and Ruth opted for the condominium life and moved to Gimli. Bill was an avid curler and assisted his father with the construction of Charleswood Curling Club. With golf being his other passion, Bill was member of the Assiniboine, Teulon, and Sandy Hook Golf Clubs. After serving a brief time in the Second World War, Bill became a Royal Canadian Legion member in Flin Flon, Winnipeg Beach, and Gimli branches. Bill was a very happy man who always had a smile and sense of humour to share with everyone. His life centered on Ruth, the kids and grandkids, all of who brought him many years of happiness. The memory of Bills love for his family, friendship, sense of humour, generous spirit and wisdom for life will remain forever in the hearts of all who loved him. A memorial service will be on Tuesday, May 13 at 2:00 p.m. in St. Michaels Church, 113th 7th Ave., Gimli, with Deacon Ray Sutton officiating. A special thank you goes out to Dr. Zeph Wiesenthal, nursing and support staff of Johnson Memorial Hospital for the wonderful care and compassion that you gave to the greatest man we ever knew. We love you Papa! In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Variety Childrens Heart Centre. Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli, in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 12, 2003