RUSSEL IRWIN MCKAY

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RUSSEL IRWIN MCKAY With much sadness, yet celebration, the family of Russel Irwin McKay announce his passing on June 9, 2013 at 87 years, into eternity to be with his Lord and Saviour. Dad is missed by Peggy, his loving wife of (two weeks shy of) 65 years, his children Bob (Christine), Harry (Cathy), Jock (Elaine), and Lori (Gerald). "Bumpa" will also be missed by grandchildren Melanie (Dan) Bailey, Karen (Chris) Jansen, Russel (Erin) McKay, Ashli (Paul) Hodgert, Pauline (Quinn) McKone, Jonathan (Sara) McKay, Carol Reimer, Leah (Zac) Waddington, Erin (Dimitri) Chantziantoniou and Julia Reimer; great-grandchildren Eliana Bailey, Alyssa, Malachi and Eden Jansen, Neila McKone and Sophia Chantziantoniou. He is also survived by his brother Gilbert (Doris). Dad was born, raised and lived all of his adult years in the community of Meadowvale. He spent all of his working years doing what he loved best; living and working on the farm. He remained on the farm until well into his 80s before moving with Mom into Kin Place in Oakbank. Dad pursued many talents and passions throughout his life. He was an accomplished, self-taught musician who mastered the guitar, violin, banjo and accordion. At the age of 80 he released his first CD together with Harry on the guitar and Lori on the piano. Dad was a talented artist who would readily entertain his grandchildren with his caricatures. Most of his art work was done on a scrap of paper, the back of a napkin or whatever happened to be handy to his stubby pencil. Another of his hobbies was his love of photography and family history. He organized picture albums that date from his childhood and continue to the present. Dad loved to visit and talk about farming or the good ole days'. Sunday afternoons were often spent dropping in' on family and neighbours to chew the fat'. Being without a TV for many years, it wasn't unusual for Dad and the boys to drop in at the neighbours at hockey play-off time. Dad always displayed love and encouragement to his children. He was always available to help when asked. He loved sports especially hockey. He spent hours in the winter building and flooding the rink out back. It wasn't unusual to see neighbour boys making use of it as well. Dad quietly lived out his faith among his family, friends and neighbours. He lived what he believed. His faith was reflected daily in his concern for his family, friends and neighbours. The sparkle in his eyes, his shy grin, and his sense of humour will be missed. The family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Shenouda, Mr. Kin Chu and his home care staff for their care and concern for Dad. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 21, 2013 at Oakbank Baptist Church with Pastor Wally Frank officiating. It will be followed by a reception at the church. A private interment of his ashes will follow at Millbrook Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers will be his 10 grandchildren. Seasons Funeral Chapel www.seasonsfunerals.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 15, 2013