VILIS "BILL" KRIEVANS -

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VILIS "BILL" KRIEVANS 1926 - 2004 On Sunday, May 16, 2004, with his wife and son at his side, Vilis passed away in the early morning hours. He leaves behind his wife, Marianne, of 49 years of marriage; and sons, Peter and Eric. Vilis left his homeland, Latvia, at 17 years of age, to fight the communists in the waning months of the Second World War. After the war, he worked with the American Army, which soon recognized his linguistic abilities and wanted to recruit him for a career in intelligence. He turned it down to start a family in Germany where he met and married Marianne. They had their first son Peter, and four years later moved to Canada with only five hundred dollars in their pocket. Vilis knew that Canada could provide the stability and safety that he did not have as a child. Canada was a land of opportunity for Vilis and his young family, and seven years later had another son, Eric. He provided everything a family could hope for. His stability and strong moral values were passed down to his sons, which they will forever try to uphold. Vilis taught by example, which is all too forgotten in todays world. He also spoke of his beautiful country of Latvia and told many stories of his childhood. Vilis always knew that one day Latvia would be free of the socialists. Almost 40 years passed, for his dream to come true and Latvia became an independent country from the communists. He never wrote to his family for fear of their persecution. It was a joyous day for him to finally be reunited with his brother, Krisjanis and his sister, Zelma. Vilis had travelled to Latvia twice to meet with his family and their children and grandchildren. He treasured the letters and phone calls right up to the last minute of his life. Vilas was always reluctant to spend money on himself, however, never hesitant to do so for his wife or children. For every dollar he made, he always managed to save a little. Vilis bought a house and paid it off in three years and lived in it his entire life. Never did he even think of getting a credit card. He loved to work in his garden in Beausejour, where he and his wife spent the summers. His green thumb provided his family, friends and neighbours with fresh vegetables. Vilis always planted three times what his family needed just so he could share his bounty. His sons never knew what canned vegetables were and to this day, no one believes that he burned rocks to get them out of the way of his growing garden. Out of all the jobs he worked while in his 44 years in Canada, his most treasured time was the 17 years working at MacDon Industries Ltd. He was very proud to be with them and enjoyed the working environment. During his time of employment, Vilis took great pride in the growth and development of the company. No formal funeral service will be held. A celebration of Vilis life will be held in the country he was born in, Latvia, where he will be united with his mom, dad and brother Karlis in the family cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Vilis memory may be made to a favourite charity of ones choice would be greatly appreciated. Our family would like to thank everyone at the Cancer Care Centre for their support during his illness. Special thanks to Drs. Czaykowski and Leylek and their support staff. Thanks to all the volunteers for their coffee and cookies, Vilis really enjoyed the treats. WOJCIKS ALL BELIEFS & FAITHS FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM 897 - 4665

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 22, 2004