LARRY REA

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LARRY REA February 23, 1958 - June 18, 2017 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Rea on Sunday, June 18 at the Health Sciences Centre, in Winnipeg, at the age of 59 years. Larry is survived by: his loving wife Jennifer; his sons, Lukas and Connor; his mother Gladys Rea; sisters: Donna (Elmer), Erin (Ken), and Brenda (Larry), brother Ted (Kelly), parents-in-law, Elmer and Edna Schultz, brothers-in-law: Randy (Carlanna), Russ, and Dallas; numerous nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends and colleagues. A friend once described Larry as "a prince of a man" and this was a most perfect summary of how he lived his life. Unfailingly considerate and thoughtful, he was kind and polite to everyone right to the end even in the most uncomfortable and painful circumstances. His recent fight with cancer was a testament to his character as he still carried himself with dignity, humour and optimism thereby making it so much easier for everyone around him. He was truly a "glass half full" kind of guy who enjoyed life so much especially the simple things like that first cup of freshly ground coffee in the morning, that glass of red wine, the pleasure of looking at his freshly mowed back yard ("park like!" he said every time), wrestling with the kids, solving the crossword puzzle with Jen, playing with his dog and watching his beloved teams, the Canadiens and the Yankees, play. Larry always put his family first. His boys were his world and as he put it "having his family was the best thing that ever happened to him". He was an extraordinary dad, the "fun parent" who made summer camping, Christmas, Halloween, and even weekly movie night more enjoyable by his enthusiasm and sense of humour and willingness to do the work to make it extra special. He was also an exceptionally loving, considerate and supportive husband and friend to Jennifer. He loved family events, especially in Dauphin in summer and Thanksgiving, and in particular, the endless discussions surrounding a certain horse. He also loved the annual Easter basket hunt in Kleefeld because of his special weakness for chocolate. Larry was also a loyal son, a wonderful brother and a great friend and colleague. He was an especially good uncle who saw the uniqueness of all of his nieces and nephews and loved them all so much. He was a meticulous employee who truly understood rail operations and his very important role in rail safety with Transport Canada while at the same time always adding a humorous and fun element to the job. He was able to see the email responses to his retirement email and they truly touched him with their sentiments. Thank you, Larry, for a life well lived and for providing an example to the rest of us on how to be a good spouse, father, family member and friend. You will be missed so much but because we know that you are in heaven we can plan to see you again. The memorial service for Larry will be held on Friday, June 23, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, 162 Hwy. 52 W, Steinbach, MB. If friends desire, donations in memory of Larry may be made to Mennonite Central Committee or The Winnipeg Humane Society. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 21, 2017