FRANK ERNEST BAREFOOT

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FRANK ERNEST BAREFOOT May 8, 1922 - October 20, 2015 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our dear father, Frank Ernest Barefoot, who slipped away quietly to join his wife Mary who predeceased him 11 months ago, after 71 years of marriage. Frank was born May 8th, 1922 in Kamsack, Saskatchewan. He was the second eldest son of Gordon and Mary Barefoot. Frank was one of five brothers and one sister who were all very athletic. After relocating in St. James, Manitoba Frank excelled at numerous sports, especially hockey. In the war years he met Mary, his wife to be. Before shipping out for active duty during the Second World War, Frank and Mary were wed. Frank had joined the Regina Rifles initially to play hockey and found himself on the Normandy Coast a few days after D Day. He was immediately captured by the Nazi Army and was interned in a POW Camp for the duration of the war. On return from Europe and after a few short term jobs, he started a career at Trans Canada Airlines (Air Canada) which lasted almost 37 years, 24 in Winnipeg and 13 in Dorval Quebec. He was very proud of his work in Stores at Air Canada and his family was equally grateful for his dedication to the Company and his family. Frank was dedicated to his wife and they had a unique relationship over 71 years. He was as devoted to her as much in their final days as he was as a young soldier. Frank is survived by two sons, Gordon, (Cheryl) and Randy as well as one granddaughter, Rebecca (Wayne) and one great-grandson Hunter. Frank was predeceased by all four of his brothers, Gordon, Harry, Tom and George and is survived by his sister Phyllis (Morris). After retirement in 1983 Frank and Mary returned to Winnipeg and enjoyed a vibrant retirement with family and friends for many healthy years. Frank is well remembered for keeping a party going or adding life to an event. He was easy going, avoided confrontation and always looked for the positive outcomes. We will always remember him as a solid family man who provided for his family and found ways to assist in making family priorities a reality. In the final years Frank was still doting on Mary when they were both living at Donwood Manor and they shared the final years together as they should. The family wishes to thank the staff at Donwood for their almost eight years of support and caring. The real legacy of Frank is that he cared for his family and friends and valued his job, a man of the earth, whom we were glad to have known and loved. Memorial service will be held Monday, October 26, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main Street. Interment and reception will follow. Glen Eden Funeral Home Cemetery 204-338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 24, 2015