WALTER RODEWALD

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WALTER RODEWALD It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband and father, aged 75 years, on May 9, 2004 at the Victoria General Hospital. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 48 years, Betty and their two daughters Linda and Judy. He will be missed by his brother Louis (Linda) of Emerson, sisters-in-law Irene of Emerson and Ann (Don) Ranchie of California, brother-in-law Frank Horner of Calgary and many special nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Otto and Rosalie, brothers Robert and Herbert, sister Hilda and sister-in-law Verna. Walter was born on February 12, 1929 and spent his childhood on the family farm near Emerson. He began his formal education at the University of Manitoba and after graduating with his B.Sc and B.Paed degrees in 1953, he taught the science program in Dominion City High School for three years. In 1956, Walter and Betty were married and shortly after he went on to graduate studies in Chemistry. He joined the Chemistry Department at the University of Manitoba as a Lecturer and completed his education with a M.Sc and a Ph.D. In 1963 Walter accepted the position of Head of the Chemistry Department at Brandon University and during this time he enjoyed a year of postdoctoral studies at Florida State University in Tallahassee. After 10 years at Brandon University, Walter and Betty decided to enter the business world and developed a Rodeway Inn chain of motels and built two Smittys restaurant franchises. It was an exciting and satisfying time in his life and led to many cherished friendships and experiences. Walter was a loyal sports fan and after retiring in Winnipeg, he and his brothers attended many Jets and Bomber games. He enjoyed socializing with friends whether it be playing golf, curling, bowling, billiards or over a game of cards or Scrabble. The daily Free Press crossword was always a must. He was a devoted and loving father and husband whose family was his first priority. He was so proud of his daughters and always treasured their times together. He was a kind hearted and gentle spirited man who had a thoughtful word and a warm smile for everyone. His Christian faith was his foundation and this sustained him throughout his life. Walter will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his family and friends. Our family wishes to extend our appreciation to Diana Rasmussen of the ALS Society, the doctors, nurses and supporting staff at Victoria General Hospital for their kindness and care during his illness. Also we would especially like to thank our family and friends for their prayers, love and support. You were a great comfort to Walter and to us. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 1541 St. Marys Rd. with Pastor James Fritsche officiating. Interment will follow at Brookside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of Manitoba, 2109 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3J 0L3 or the Beautiful Savior Memorial Fund or to the Walter Rodewald Scholarship Fund at the University of Manitoba. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 12, 2004