RAYMOND WAKE

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RAYMOND WAKE The world has lost a kind and gentle soul. Surrounded by his family, Raymond John Wake passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully at the Grace Hospital on Sunday, March 13, 2016. Left to cherish Ray's memory is Marilyn, his wife of nearly 58 years. He also leaves three daughters, Karen Johnston (Doug), Susan Boychuk (Nelson), Janice Grant (Don); and a sister, Heather Anderson (Terry Brownlee). Missing their grandad are seven grandchildren; and a great-grandson. As well as sisters-in-law; brothers-in-law; cousins and nieces and nephews. Dad was born on April 3, 1934 and grew up in the West Kildonan area of Winnipeg. As a child he had fond memories of family visits to Winnipeg Beach. For summer jobs, he worked on the trains going to Minaki, and enjoyed being a golf caddy there. He had a head for the stock market, and as a young man enjoyed investing what little money he had. It was a hobby he would continue his entire life. Dad was a loyal employee of the Manitoba Telephone System for more than 35 years. He was a conscientious employee who always gave it his all. His career with the "phones" took our family to Selkirk, and Brandon, then back to Winnipeg. Mom and dad married on June 14, 1958. They were a great team. At one point, dad would come home from work, and almost immediately mom would leave to work nights at the Selkirk General Hospital, leaving him with three little girls to look after in a tiny apartment. We remember fun dinners on tv-tables watching Batman! One of dad's favourite places was the cottage at Beaver Creek. He built it in 1964 with the help of his dad, his uncles, his brother-in-law and his father-in-law, making it all the more special. He would love to sit in his favourite chair and read, and listen to the waves. He loved to walk around the property, something he called "mooching around". Dad loved animals, and was happiest when patting a cat on the head. Mom and dad were never without a cat, and gave them wonderful, caring homes. He was devoted to his Marilyn. That was especially evident when mom became seriously ill in 2011. After months of rehab, she came home and dad stepped up big time, helping her in any way necessary. He was also an enthusiastic grandad and was always happy to attend dance or band performances, hockey or basketball games. He was so proud of his grandchildren and delighted in their accomplishments. Mike, Adam, Matt, Kelsey, Megan, David and Hannah all have special memories of the things he did for them, and the time he spent with them. Over the last few years Dad endured a lot of health issues, mostly because of his type 1 diabetes. But he took things in stride, and never gave up. He always kept a smile on his face. Dad was a long time member of the Masonic Lodge and Kirkfield Park United Church. We are comforted that he had a strong faith; and hope that he has now been reunited with loved ones, especially his mother who died when he was just 21. Dad, you taught us so many things. You and mom made a great life for us. Your love and your hard work enabled your "three girls" to get great educations and to live well by following your example of kindness and love for family. We will love you and miss you forever. We would like to thank the people who provided compassionate care to dad, especially Dr. John Embil and Dr. Joshua Koulack and their staff. Also the people at Sturgeon Creek 2, Oakview Place and the Grace. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 26 at Kirkfield Park United Church, 472 Kirkfield Street, Winnipeg. A lunch will follow in the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Division of the Canadian Diabetes Association, The Winnipeg Humane Society or a charity of your choice. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.ca 204-885-9715

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 19, 2016