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KRISTJAN FREDRIC STEFANSON Obituary pic

KRISTJAN FREDRIC STEFANSON

Born: May 14, 1944

Date of Passing: Mar 02, 2016

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KRISTJAN FREDRIC STEFANSON May 14, 1944 - March 2, 2016 Surrounded by family and friends Kris passed away peacefully on March 2, 2016, at the Grace Hospital. He leaves to cherish his memory his brothers Tom (Diane) and Eric (Myrna), sister-in-law Claire, numerous nieces and nephews and their families: Cheryl Washington (George), Brent Stefanson (Lynne), Grant Stefanson (Shannon), Jason Stefanson (Heather), Colleen Gurba (Brent), Kristen Stefanson, Eric Stefanson Jr. and so many good friends. Kris was predeceased by his brother Dennis and his parents Eric and Sigrun. Born in Eriksdale, Manitoba when his parents lived in Oak Point, the family moved to Gimli in 1949 where Kris spent most of his childhood. He graduated from Gimli High School in 1962 receiving the Governor General's Medal. In 1966 he received his B.A. and in 1969 his LLB from University of Manitoba. He was called to the Manitoba Bar in 1970. Kris initially practiced law in Winnipeg with Aikins, MacAulay and Thorvaldson before moving to Brandon, Manitoba in 1971. In 1973 he became a Crown Attorney with the Provincial Attorney General's Department in Winnipeg prosecuting cases throughout Manitoba. Although he resided in Winnipeg for most of that time, he was the resident Crown Attorney in Thompson, Manitoba in 1973 and 1974. Kris was appointed to the Provincial Court of Manitoba in 1979, initially as the local judge in The Pas. From 1983 on he presided mainly in Winnipeg and in 1988 he was appointed Chief Judge. Five years later, in 1993, Kris was appointed to the Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench, Family Division. Throughout his years as a judge, Kris was active in numerous educational and administrative programs and initiatives which had an important impact on the judicial system. In later years, he took great pleasure and fulfillment from being a mentor and advisor to his colleagues on the Bench, including many of the court's newly appointed members. He treasured his colleagues and the many friendships he formed within the legal community. Always fair and reasonable, he treated all who came before him with courtesy, compassion and respect. Kris had a huge heart. Kind and generous to a fault, he was everybody's beloved Uncle Kris. His warm smile and genuine interest in others brightened their day and made everyone feel that much better. He particularly loved his role with family and friends as the wise Uncle Kris and always had time for those who sought his advice and counsel. Well read, intelligent and possessing good common sense, it is not surprising that many people looked to him for advice on a wide range of topics. Somehow he always seemed to be able to help no matter what the problem. . Kris was also a shopper extraordinaire, often arriving at gatherings with bags of goodies or special gifts. He loved discovering the latest gadget and was always excited to present it to someone whom he thought might enjoy it and watch how they reacted. He was also a believer that if you found something good you should buy more than one. He loved a good party with family and friends, especially those involving lively discussion (maybe even some politics), a toast or two and even the odd speech. Kris was extremely proud of his Icelandic heritage. All four of his grandparents were born in Iceland. He was actively involved with several Icelandic Canadian cultural organization such as the Logberg Heimskringla, the Icelandic Canadian newspaper. He was also a long time member of the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba and was especially proud of being made an honorary life member of that organization. But most of all, Kris received tremendous enjoyment from the more than forty trips that he and Eric made to Iceland. He established many wonderful friendships there and was a key figure in strengthening ties between Iceland and Manitoba. Kris will be forever remembered as a positive, generous, kind, optimistic and respectful individual. Family, friends and loyalty were his watchwords Special thank you to Dr. Kroeker, Albak, Macek and Borrett as well as all the nurses and staff of the Grace Hospital third floor south. A time to gather and celebrate the life of Kris Stefanson will be held on Thursday March 10, 2016 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom of The Fairmont, 2 Lombard Place. In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Kris' wishes donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, The Icelandic Festival of Manitoba or the charity of your choice. Goda Nott Elskan Min. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Mar 5, 2016

THE HONOURABLE MR. JUSTICE KRISTJAN FREDRIC STEFANSON On Wednesday, March 3, 2016 at the Grace Hospital, Kris Stefanson passed away at the age of 71 years. A time to remember and celebrate Kris will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 10 in the ballroom of The Fairmont, 2 Lombard Place. Longer obituary in Saturday's paper. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 NEILBARDALINC.COM
Publish Date: Mar 4, 2016

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 05, 2016

Condolences & Memories (32 entries)

  • So many wonderful and treasured memories of Kris, going back to his years in The Pas....social events, Trapper's Festival - Kris loved people and his kind and warm personality was rewarded by countless respectful and lasting friendships. I was so very sad to read of Kris's passing. What a beautiful soul he was! Rest, Kris. - Posted by: Betty Jane Frykas (Friend) on: Mar 13, 2016

  • Kris was a truly good guy, one of the few. I was so very sad to hear of his passing. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family, and to all who knew and loved him. Sincerely, Jennifer - Posted by: Jennifer Johnson (Friend) on: Mar 11, 2016

  • It's a sad day indeed having to say goodbye to Uncle Kris. I am fortunate to have so many fond memories of time spent with Kris at holiday gatherings, or sunny summer days in Gimli. He had many endearing qualities but one of my favorites was that he was such a great conversationalist. Courteously listening and paitently waiting for his opportunity to add his insightful opinion to the topic. That was one of the many quality characteristics that made Kris such a great man. I am grateful for knowing him. My sincere condolences to the Stefanson family and many others who are feeling this loss. Malcolm - Posted by: Malcolm Bellinger (Family friend) on: Mar 10, 2016

  • Very sorry to read this news. I was Kris' admin assistant for a number of years. We worked closely together, sharing a lot of laughs along with some pretty feisty discussions. My sincere condolences to the Stefanson family. - Posted by: Deb Verwey () on: Mar 10, 2016

  • The Icelandic National League of North America sends its Condolences to the family of Kristjan Stephenson. The North American members appreciated his dedication to his Icelandic heritage and his efforts to support and work with others. He hosted a fantastic evening at Islendingadagurinn that was an honor to attend! Thank you Kristjan for all you did for Icelandic heritage and culture. - Posted by: Claire Eckley (President, Icelandic National League of North America) on: Mar 09, 2016

  • I am very sad to hear of Kris' passing. I always loved running into Kris and having intellectual discussions. He was always level headed and provided a calmness to the moment. He was a very wise man and an all around good guy. He will be missed by many. - Posted by: Andrew MacIver (Friend) on: Mar 09, 2016

  • Highly regarded in both professional and private life. He was a pleasure to work with. Condolences to family and friends. - Posted by: Guy Bissonnette (RCMP Thompson 74-77) on: Mar 08, 2016

  • Kris was a very dear friend and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. We had the honour of having him in our bridal party and I worked with him on my first political campaign for his father in the riding of Selkirk Interlake close to 50 years ago. We are out of the country so cannot attend the service but our thoughts will be with the extended Stefanson clan who one of the pre-eminent families in Manitoba. Rest well Kris as you have touched many lives and will always be in our thoughts. Bob and Deirdre - Posted by: Bob and Deirdre Kozminski (Old friend and law school fellow student) on: Mar 08, 2016

  • So saddened to hear about Kris. I attended school in Gimli with Kris and he was a great friend. Our sympathy to all of his family. - Posted by: Colin and Patty Wilcox (Friend) on: Mar 08, 2016

  • Very sorry to hear of Kris's passing, I have many great memories of time spent with him in northern Manitoba back in the seventies. He was a fine man and will be missed by all that knew him. My condolences to his family and friends. - Posted by: Rick Kille (Friend) on: Mar 08, 2016

  • Although I have not seen Kris for many years, he made a deep impression on me with his knowledge (excellent at Trivial Pursuits), his wit, and his kindness and generosity. He was a very handsome and accomplished young man, as I remember him. It seems that "the good die young". I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family at this difficult time. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue. - Posted by: Merika Graham Skirko (Extended family member through marriage) on: Mar 07, 2016

  • We were so saddened to hear of Kris's passing. He had friends of all ages and will be missed by us and our Manitoba community. He was a man who listened and welcomed everyone, our lives were made better by knowing him. Sandra and Hans Hasenack - Posted by: Sandra and Hans Hasenack (friends ) on: Mar 06, 2016

  • My condolences to the family and close friends of Justice Stefanson. I had the honor of appearing before Justice Stefanson for over 30 years... both in provincial court, in the early years, and later, in court of Queens Bench. He was always kind, gentlemanly, and thoughtful in his treatment of all who came before him. It was apparent that he often toiled to make the right decision. He approached all matters with intelligence and fairness. He will be missed. - Posted by: Connie Weipert (Lawyer) on: Mar 06, 2016

  • When i think of the time I spent with Kris as a young lawyer and Crown Prosecutor a smile cannot help but come to my lips and warm glow spread in my heart. His enthusiasm for everything he took on and his great warm laugh and sense of humour will be remembered and missed by all who knew him. - Posted by: Bryan Newton (Friend and Colleague) on: Mar 06, 2016

  • Kris was one of the best and will be sadly missed by every one who knew him. Sincere condolences to the family Ed - Posted by: Ed Morrison (Professional) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • This obituary characterizes perfectly the Kris I met in the small prosecution office in the Public Safety Building. That he is described in such terms over forty years later is a perfect tribute. - Posted by: Rocky Pollack (colleague in early 1970s) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • I was saddened to hear of Kris's passing. We were fellow Crown Attorneys but more importantly close friends along with Bruce Miller, Rob Finlayson and many others. He was truly a good guy. - Posted by: Paul Stunt (old friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • Very sorry to hear about Kris; he departed too soon. He was a very accomplished gentleman. Sincere sympathy to Diane & Tom, Myrna & Eric and the rest of the family. - Posted by: Wayne & Carol Guicheret (Family friends) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • I was saddened to learn of Kris's untimely passing. Although we didn't see each other a lot in recent years, whenever we did meet Kris always had a ready smile and a welcome greeting. Kris was an all-round great guy who has departed this life far too soon. Sincere condolences to the Stefanson family in your time of loss. - Posted by: Jae Eadie (friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • Kris grew up three doors down from our family. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. I can still see that wide smile every time you saw him. He was a very kind and gentle man and a fun kid to play with when we were young. My sincere condolences to the family. Shyrl - Posted by: Shyrl Johnson (Slywka) (Friend and neighbor) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • We were so sorry to hear of Kris's passing. He was such a kind and gentle person. We regret that we will not be able to attend his service as we are out of the country but will have a toast in his honour - Posted by: Ruth and Robert Arnason (Frien) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • The world is a sadder place without Kris' smile and chuckle. We are sorry to hear this news and send condolences to the Stefanson family. - Posted by: Don and Lynda Hamilton (Friends) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • We are sorry to hear that our dear friend has passed away. It was always a treat to run into Kris in Gimli during the Icelandic Festival. Even tho he had a very busy schedule, he always would make time to have a visit with us. He was such a special guy, simply the best. Our deepest sympathy to his brothers Tom and Eric and their family. - Posted by: Pat and Jim Peacock (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • An advisor, a mentor and, most importantly, a dear friend. We give a toast to you dear Kristjan. We will miss your ever present smile and gentle spirit. Rest well - Posted by: Tim and Del Arnason (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • Kris was a beloved family friend. I have known Kris since his Univercity College days in the 60's. Lots of fun and laughter over the years. We will miss your smiling face and your kind ways. Our sympathy goes out to the family. Rest in peace old friend - Posted by: Helen Campbell Graeme Rowswell Chris and Tannis Campbell (Family friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • Kris was a colleague of my late husband Bruce Miller. Our entire family knew Krisjan very well. Our sons, Scott and Ryan, grew up calling him Uncle Kris. He was a welcome, regular visitor in our home and we always celebrate Christmas with the Stefansons. He was a wonderful friend and colleague to Bruce and our entire family and he will be missed a great deal. Rest in peace our dear, dear friend. - Posted by: Peggy Miller (Close family friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • I had the honour of appearing before Mr. Justice Stefanson on many many occasions over the past 25 years. His Lordship was a true gentleman who was always kind and considerate to counsel and to the parties before him. He was learned in the law, and reasoned in his decisions. He will truly be missed. - Posted by: Karen Burwash (Lawyer) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • The Stefansons were always close friends of my family's but Kris was older than I was so I never really got to know him when I was young. But later on in life I had the pleasure of getting to know him quite well. I can clearly see his sweet smile whenever we were talking. And he never wanted to talk about himself, always wanted to know about me and my family. Such a kind loving man. My love goes out to his family. He will be missed. - Posted by: Norma Bailey (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2016

  • Knew Kris back in the '80s when I was an RCMP Officer when he became a Provincial Judge. Super guy that was very down to earth. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends. - Posted by: Kevin Duckett (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2016

  • We are saddened with the passing of Kris. Our prayers & thoughts go out to the family & friends. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Don & Gwen Dempster (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2016

  • We are saddened with the passing of Kris. Our prayers & thoughts go out to the family & friends. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Don & Gwen Dempster (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2016

  • Kris was a kind individual who never seemed to have anything bad to say about anyone. His sharp mind and quiet wit were enjoyed by many when I knew him as a prosecutor in Manitoba. My condolences to family and friends. - Posted by: Jim Hislop (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2016

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