MERLE THEODORE MANDERS

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MERLE THEODORE MANDERS Merle passed away peacefully, November 15, 2004 in St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg, MB, at age 87, after a short illness. Merle was a veteran of the Second World War, serving in France, Italy, and England, before returning home to Winnipeg at the end of the war. After moving to the West Coast for a brief time, living first in Victoria and then Vancouver, Merle once again returned home to Winnipeg where he spent most of the remainder of his life. Merle was exceedingly proud of his children, particularly his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, - extolling their virtues to anyone who had the patience to listen. Memories of Merles romantic nature, his sense of humour, and his zest for life will remain alive forever in the minds and hearts of those who knew and loved him. Merle loved to read, and could be frequently heard reciting poetry - both his own, and that of his favourite poets and playwrights. Merle also enjoyed opera and classical music and, with a brandy in one hand, and a cigarette in the other, he would sing an arousing accompaniment to either. Widely knowledgeable and quick witted, Merle would readily engage in conversation on almost any subject. Merle spent many an hour with his close friends at Club 60, where he was a 20 year member, sitting around the big table, playing cards, sharing the important moments of their lives, and entertaining each other with "extravagant" stories. It was here he recently met his "Juliet", Lewina, who became his wife, referring affectionately to Merle as her "Romeo". Merle is survived by his loving wife, Lewina, his daughter June, her friend Chris, grandsons Thomas (wife Rhonda), John and Kyle; granddaughters Taura and Angela, great-granddaughters Elizabeth and Hannah, brothers Bill and Harold, sister Gladys, and many nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by his good friend Craig Gilchrist. Merle was predeceased by his first wife and mother of his children, Margaret, his second wife, Eva, his son Michael, and his brothers Percy, Herbert, Clarence and Stanley. Merle was a thoughtful and loving husband, a proud and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and a loyal and trusted friend. He will be sadly missed by all of us. A celebration of Merles life will be held on Saturday, November 20 at 12:00 p.m. in the ANAF Club 60, 279 Garry Street. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: EDWARD J. COUTU LTD. 680 Archibald Street 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 20, 2004