STEPHEN BOND

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STEPHEN BOND Stephen Bond of Steinbach passed away quietly in the early hours of Thursday, October 28, 2004 at the Bethesda Place Personal Care Home. Stephen was born June 1, 1917. He didnt talk too much about the early years. Both his parents died before he was two years old and his grade school years were spent in foster homes. Very early in his life he recognized the need for a good education, so in exchange for the privilege of attending school he worked for farmers in the area, later taking factory jobs until finally in 1941 he was able to enroll at the United College (presently the University of Winnipeg). After earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1946, he took further courses at the University of Manitoba to obtain his Bachelor of Education. Stephens Manitoba teaching experience took him to Emerson and Morris, teaching English and French. It was while he was in Morris that he met Chris Baker whom he married in 1958. In 1955 he took a teaching position in Fort Frances, Ontario where he remained until his retirement; at which time he and Chris moved to Steinbach. Stephens church was an important part of his life as was his music. He loved the old hymns as well as the Gilbert & Sullivan operas, and was often heard singing a portion of one of those productions. Both of Stephens stepdaughters felt blessed when he consented to sing at their weddings. During the summers of 1954 and 1955 Stephen attended the Banff School of Fine Arts where he obtained a certificate in choir conducting, which he later put to use conducting the church choir in Fort Frances, as well as conducting "The Messiah" in International Falls. Always learning, he took a hand-writing analysis course in the late 80s and appreciated any opportunity to practice this art. Stephen is survived by one brother Bill of Anaheim, California; two stepdaughters, Louise Janke (Lloyd) of Winnipeg, Dorothy Dixon (Mick - deceased) of Swan River, and all of their children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Chris in 1989 and two brothers. The funeral service will take place 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 1st, 2004 at Steinbach United Church, with Reverend Steven Johann and Mary Annan. Interment to take place at a later date. Viewing Service will be held 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 31, 2004 at Loewen Funeral Chapel. Should friends so desire donations in Stephens memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10-120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2 LOEWEN FUNERAL CHAPEL 5 Chrysler Gate Steinbach, MB (204) 326-1351

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 30, 2004