RODERICK JAMES

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RODERICK JAMES McASKILL Passed away accidentally on Thursday, September 25, 2003 at Beiseker, AB. Rod was born September 9, 1936 in Gladstone, MB. He was the eldest of nine children of Rod and Vera McAskill. During his years at home he was an ambitious and hard working boy. He was a wonderful and kind big brother always looking out for his younger siblings, and everyone knew not to mess with his sisters or else they would have to deal with Rod. He had always held a special place in his mothers heart because, even as a teenager, on many occasions he would cancel plans he had made if he thought she needed help at home. He was a very good athlete and played for several hockey teams over the years. Rod enjoyed visiting with people, he was kind and generous and would help anyone at any time. After leaving home at the age of 18, he moved to Regina where he trained and became a member of the RCMP. He was transferred to Simcoe, ON where he met Janice Ware and they were married in 1961. They were blessed with two children, Scott and Kelli. Even though they were separated from him, these three remained the highlight of his life. After leaving the RCMP Rod worked for several construction companies. Most recently, over the past 20 years, Rod had the good fortune to work for the McNair family of Beiseker, AB. This had given him the opportunity to work in the construction business and also to help on their ranch. These years have been amongst his happiest and the ranch was an experience he truly loved. His family are very grateful to the McNair family and their employees who had become Rods extended family. Rod was predeceased by his parents Roderick (2003) and Vera (1983) his sister Lois Bellyou (1981) and his brother-in-law Ken Ferguson (2003). Left to mourn his passing are Jan; their children, Scott (Mary Lou) and grandchildren, Madison and MacKenzie and his daughter Kelli. His sisters, Cheryl (Ian) Revie, Heather (Bob) Burchett, Roberta Ferguson, Valerie (Lionel) Ballendine, Verna (Bob) McClintock, Betty (Gordon) Cogar and brother Alan (Sharon), 20 nieces and nephews, six great nieces and nephews.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 02, 2003