RICHARD JAMES LABUN

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RICHARD JAMES LABUN As a result of a severe brain hemorrhage, Richard James Labun died at home on July 30, 2013, at the age of 70 years. It is with great sorrow we announce his passing. Richard will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of 44 years, Hanny, his children Samuel, Charlotte (Jayson), and his grandchildren Sophia, Zoe, Lexica, and Callia; also siblings Dorothy (Edward), (Grace), Walter (Martha), Theodore (Verna), Charles (Caroline), and their families. He was predeceased by his parents Peter and Esther Labun, and his brother Edward. Richard was born August 2, 1942 and raised in Winkler, Manitoba. As a teenager he was baptized on the confession of his faith into the Mennonite Brethren Church. In 1962, he received a Christian Education Diploma from Winkler Bible School, a teacher's certificate in 1963, taught for a few years and in 1968, completed his BA at Mennonite Brethren Bible College. After teaching music for several years in the Steinbach High School, he chose to further his studies and become an accountant. In 1997, he returned to teaching and experienced great fulfillment and success. In his last years he especially enjoyed substitute teaching. Richard married Hanny Unruh on May 17, 1969. Two years later they joined M.C.C. for voluntary service in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. On completion of their mission they made their home in Winnipeg. For several years they lived with Richard's in-laws, John and Susan Unruh. Richard honoured his father-in-law who had a lasting impact on his life. Richard was very proud of his children and focused his energies on building a godly home. He actively pursued a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ and prayer, through his chosen careers and activities. Much of his leisure time was spent enjoying his children and grandchildren, (camping, hiking the West Coast Trail with his son-in-law at the age of 69), music, bible study, worship and writing. Together with his wife, Richard taught courses on personal growth, marriage, motivational gifts and the Christian walk. Richard had a strong belief in the importance of attending and engaging in the Church. He was loyal and committed to building the community of Christ. His passion for music was expressed through singing in choirs, teaching music, playing the violin, attending concerts and encouraging the power of music in his children. A significant impact and highlight in the last few years was his participation in the St. Margaret church choirs. Richard valued his relationship with others and spent much time cultivating and enjoying times of fellowship with his friends. He was committed to walking his life out in the presence of others. The family wishes to express their gratitude for the supportive prayers and the rich memories that are being shared in this time of sorrow. We are confident in God's sustaining presence, "All things work together for good, to them that love God who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 Viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2013 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Friends Funeral Service, 2146 Main Street. Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Margaret's Anglican Church, 160 Ethelbert, Winnipeg, with viewing prior to the service. Reception and sharing will take place immediately after the service at Portage Avenue Mennonite Brethren Church, 1420 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg. Opportunity for donations in Richard's memory may be made at the reception to two missions with which Richard partnered: Dominican Vision, Inc. and Russia Reconnect.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 03, 2013