HENRY THOMAS VOISEY

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HENRY THOMAS VOISEY September 29, 1908 - August 3, 2003 Henry Voisey passed away peacefully at Selkirk General Hospital at the age of 94. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Charlotte in 1998 and an infant son George in 1944. He is survived by son Sam and daughter Mary. Also surviving is his sister Winnifred and many nieces and nephews. Henry was born in Port Burwell, NWT, the great-great-grandson of Amos Voisey of Voiseys Bay, Labrador. Amos emigrated from England in the 1830s. Henry worked for the Hudsons Bay Company Northern Stores for many enjoyable years. He served at Tavani, Eskimo Point, Chesterfield, Repulse Bay, Sugluk, Port Harrison, Padley and then back to Repulse Bay to end his career. He also trapped and hunted with his dog team. The longest dog trip was a return trip from Cartwright to Port Harrison that took four months. Henry was the last of the "Arctic Men", a team coined by the photo journalist Richard Harrington. He was a quiet man but he taught a lot of people about the north while relating his experiences. He will be remembered as a kind, hard working and gentle person who was always willing to help neighbours and friends. His years in the Arctic with the Inuit he was known as "Tooshayee" one who listens. Henry and Charlotte both helped the Inuit of Keewatin and were awarded The Commissioners Award for Public Service. Henry also received The Centennial Medal in recognition for valuable service to the nation. He had been retired in Sandy Hook for 28 years. The family wishes to thank the staff of Selkirk General Hospital Emergency and Medical Ward, including lab and x-ray for their kindness. Also, our friends at the lake, Louise and Ed, Isabel and Ed and Pat and Jim. Thanks also to the Home Care personnel of Gimli who took such good care of Henry. Burial will take place on Wednesday, August 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Brookside Cemetery, Winnipeg. A celebration of life service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Selkirk with Rev. Bryan Bjerring officiating. Flowers are greatly declined. Donations may be made in memory of Henry to a charity of your choice. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 05, 2003