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MICHELLE BERNADETTE LABELLE-RISKE  Obituary pic

MICHELLE BERNADETTE LABELLE-RISKE

Born: Jun 15, 1976

Date of Passing: Oct 19, 2012

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MICHELLE BERNADETTE LABELLE-RISKE Michelle Bernadette LaBelle-Riske was called to her eternal home on the evening of Friday, October 19, 2012. She passed away peacefully in her Steinbach home after a two and a half year battle with ovarian cancer. Michelle is survived by her husband Jim Riske, her parents Gus and Hilde LaBelle, her brother Rejean, her sister Nicole (Kevin) LaBelle Drain, and her beloved nieces Ellianna and Cassariel Drain. Michelle was born on June 15, 1976 at Victoria Hospital in Winnipeg. She grew up in Kleefeld, attended Kleefeld School and SRSS. Michelle earned a Bachelor's degree at the University of Winnipeg, and a professional degree in journalism at Red River College. As a young woman, Michelle excelled at sports, playing baseball, softball, volleyball, ringette and hockey. As a high school student, Michelle was selected to play volleyball on a team touring Germany. She played both volleyball and hockey at the university level. Throughout her career as a photographer and journalist, Michelle worked for CTV, The Winnipeg Free Press, and The Carillon. In her more than 10 year career at The Carillon, Michelle's beats included crime, local government, and human interest stories. She was especially proud of The Carillon's Christmas issues, featuring pages of her photos of local Christmas light displays. Michelle poured her heart and soul into each story, demanding of herself that each story be as close to perfection as possible and truly tell the stories of those involved. Michelle was our constant source of information, from sports to politics, from geography to entertainment news. Her many friends and family will remember her joyful nature, sense of humour, and passion for life. Michelle could light up a room simply by walking into it, and her simple presence commanded attention. Her smile was contagious and her laugh infectious. Our Lord Jesus, healed her pain, and sat with her until, in His own perfect timing, He escorted her to her eternal home, the peace, joy, glory, and paradise of heaven. In her final days, Michelle declared that her fondest hope is that each of you will get to know Our Great God, so that she will be able to greet each of you at the gates of heaven. A funeral service will be held at Southland Church (190 PTH 52 West) in Steinbach at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 25. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, memorials may be directed toward: Tupendane Africana, a project of Southland Church, Box 219, Steinbach, MB R5G 1M2. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 23, 2012

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

  • I didn't know Michelle personally but I saw her work and knew how gifted she was. I also know what the family's going through. My parents and I lost my brother Dale Letwinetz 3 weeks ago at the age of 48 very suddenly. He was also a single parent of a 14 year old boy. On behalf of my parents and myself I offer our deepest and heartfelt sympathies. - Posted by: Corey Letwinetz () on: Oct 26, 2012

  • So sorry to hear of Michelle's passing. She was one of those students who left a lasting impression--dedicated, industrious, always full of good humor. My thoughts are with family and friends as you celebrate her life. Sincerely, - Posted by: Barb Mekelburg (former college instructor ) on: Oct 25, 2012

  • We are saddened to hear of the passing of Michelle. Although we never got to know your daughter, we have prayed for her as well as for you, and know God has HEALED her. Our prayer for you is that God would wrap his loving arms around you during this difficult time and comfort you and be your Strong Tower of Refuge and Strength. Bevan and Sandra Wiebe - Posted by: Bevan and Sandra Wiebe (Hilde's cousin) on: Oct 24, 2012

  • May the God of all peace and comfort keep you. - Posted by: Richard & Agnes Warkentin (Agnes--her mother's cousin) on: Oct 23, 2012

  • Our deepest sympathy to the entire family! Michelle was such a beautiful lady, with an infectious smile and always left you feeling great about life in general. Knowing her was truly a blessing. May your memories of her be of great comfort during this very difficult time! Our thoughts and prayers are with you! - Posted by: Adam and Pat Krupa (Acquaintances) on: Oct 23, 2012

  • .....thinking of you all.......may our thoughts and prayers strengthen you at this difficult time and may you find comfort and joy knowing that she is walking with our heavenly Father.......hugs for all!!!! - Posted by: Randy and Agnes Friesen (her mother's cousin) on: Oct 23, 2012

  • I met Michelle several years ago when I was covering a trial for the Free Press in Steinbach and Michelle was there for the Carillon. Her friendliness, warmth and enthusiasm - not to mention her rhyming name - were memorable and infectious. I was so sorry to learn that she'd passed but grateful that our paths had crossed. My condolences to her husband and family. Carol Sanders - Posted by: Carol Sanders (fellow reporter) on: Oct 23, 2012

  • I am deeply saddened, to hear of Michelle's passing. Her infectious and luminous genuine personality will be greatly missed. I am so blessed that Tim and I were able to attend her joyous wedding day. I have prayed for the whole family and will continue to do so. - Posted by: Roberta Loughrin (friend) on: Oct 23, 2012

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