DURWOOD "WOODY" ROY ROLLINS

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DURWOOD "WOODY" ROY ROLLINS On November 16, 1942, George and Minnie Rollins were blessed with the birth of a precious son, Durwood Roy Rollins. He was born on the family farm at Bede, MB. In 1961, his love for the outdoors brought him to Lac du Bonnet where he met his bride and best friend Marlene Hirst. Together, they shared 41 wonderful years of happiness that produced three children and seven grandchildren. After working in various jobs, Durwood and Marlene realized their lifelong dream of owning their own business when they purchased a service station in 1971 which came to be known as "Woodys" - home of the Woodyburger. Through his work, Woody touched the lives of everyone who walked through his doors with his infectious smile, tenderness and zest for life. Many came just to be cheered by his wonderful sense of humour, but also found a man who was a kind and friendly gentleman - a man of honour. On November 26, 2003 Durwood passed away peacefully in the arms of his best friend and wife Marlene. He is also survived by their children, Gary Rollins (Arlene - Melanie, Patrick, Timothy, Kathryn), Dena Gorrie (Scott - Adam, Andrea), Darcy Rollins (Sherri-Lynn - Grace) special son Paul Chapman; mother Min Rollins; sisters, Donna Wilkins (Art), Maxine Bloomer (Al) brother Dale Rollins (Wilma) and brother and sisters-in-law, Mayme Hirst, Myrtle Helgason (Victor), Rosalie Szmerski (Stan), Ron Hirst (JoAnne), Arnold Hirst (Joan), Glen Hirst (Blythe), Hazel Pohl (Bob), Beatrice Holm (Allan), Laurel Torgerson (Jerry) and numerous nieces and nephews. Durwood is predeceased by his father George Rollins; nephew Terry Bloomer; brother-in-law Allan Hirst; father and mother-in-law Ralph and Loreley Bogle and also Gordon Hirst. The family would like to thank the people at CancerCare, NEHA and especially Dads special angel, Dr. Elsie Beyers. The service celebrating Durwoods life will be held on Saturday, November 29 at 10:00 a.m. in the Lac du Bonnet Community Centre. Donations in Woodys name can be made to the Lac du Bonnet Wildlife Association. My Precious Durwood, It seems like only yesterday that you and I were just a pair of young teenagers, so much in love and ready to face all the challenges life had to offer. Fortunately, God truly blessed us because not only did He bring us safely through some deep and difficult water, He allowed us to linger on the mountain top and experience many of the joys and pleasures this world has to offer. We always knew, though, that the greatest of His gifts was our love for each other and our beautiful children - and oh what a blessing they are! They and their spouses and our grandchildren (our angels) have given us so much incredible love, joy, laughter, happiness and comfort. They are a beautiful testimony of our love. Though my heart is broken and shattered, I realize that no amount of time together here on earth would have been enough. I take comfort in knowing that one day you and I will be reunited in Heaven and will be together forever. So until that day, My Precious, walk softly and may God hold you gently in the palm of His hand until we meet again. Love always and ever, Marlene. SOBERING FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM, Beausejour 268-3510 or MB Toll Free 1-877-776-2220

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2003