RAYMOND J. BARRETT-CRAMER

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RAYMOND J. BARRETT-CRAMER It is with deep sorrow that Rays family mark his recent passing on November 12, 2003, after a long and difficult illness. Despite his many medical trials, Ray remained cheerful and optimistic and made others laugh. He was looking forward to the birth of his twin grandchildren who entered the world two days later. We hope he is joyfully looking down upon them. He is survived by Caroline Barrett-Cramer and his children, Daniel, Elaine (David) and Stephen; his sister-in-law Edith; and nieces and nephews, all who will miss him daily and dearly. Ray was always available for sage advice and to lend an ear or a helping hand. His life was defined by unlimited generosity, love and support. His demise leaves a void very difficult to fill. He was born into the Cramer furniture family and developed a love for fine woods and woodworking. He was often found lending a helping hand to family or friends who needed his expertise or the loan of a unique tool. He loved sports and played for the Blue Bombers for one year. He loved music, especially opera and jazz, which was a salvation in passing lonely hours. His professional life was long and varied starting with his graduation from the Manitoba Law School and call the Bar in 1958. He practiced with the law firm of Brotman Cramer & Cramer, then became a Deputy District Registrar at the Land Titles Office. From there, he joined the Manitoba Law School and thereafter was appointed to the Provincial Family Court, now known as the Provincial Court. He had a reputation for fairness, compassion and justice and was able to extemporaneously deliver an equitable judgement from the bench. His ready wit and wisdom will long be remembered by members of the Bar and the Bench. He was forced into early retirement due to illness, but his friends were loyal and steadfast. He passed many enjoyable hours reminiscing with pals who will miss his quick smile, sense of honour, and his talent for cutting to the heart of the issue, mincing no words and expressing his ready view point. The title, "friendly curmudgeon", would not be a misnomer. Those close to him spent many weekly sessions regaling each other with stories of "the old days". They are singled out for their unflagging devotion to a man whose friendship they valued despite the inconvenience of his physical handicaps. Our appreciation goes out to them and the many others who took time out of their busy lives to think of him. A private family memorial will be held and a celebration of his life will follow. Those who desire may make a donation in his memory to the Kidney Foundation of Manitoba for research or to their favourite charity.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 29, 2003