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RAYMOND VAN BASTELAERE  Obituary pic

RAYMOND VAN BASTELAERE

Born: Oct 03, 1941

Date of Passing: Nov 15, 2017

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RAYMOND VAN BASTELAERE October 3, 1941 - November 15, 2017 Ray's words that he wished to share: "I have finally succumbed to my fight with cancer, but am thankful to be going out on my own terms. I have been blessed with a loving family; my brother Ivo; my four boys, Beau, Kevin, Chris and Aaron who all made me proud, along with my wonderful grandchildren. I have only one regret in life, I am leaving behind my wife Sharon who has made my life so wonderful. I would like to thank family, friends and clients who have all enriched my life in their own way. I could not have asked for a more wonderful journey. Thank you all." Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sun on ripened grain. I am the gentle Autumn rain. When you awake in the morning hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circling flight. I am the soft starlight at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die. Mary Elizabeth Freye We would like to truly thank family and close friends for all the support received over the last few weeks. While it has been a difficult time we cannot be more proud of how our father fought this terrible disease and made the tough decision to go out on his own terms. He faced death as he did all things in life, head on with both dignity and grace. Dad, you will be forever missed and in our hearts! At Ray's request, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rotary Club or Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 25, 2017

Condolences & Memories (12 entries)

  • We had just heard of Ray's passing. Our condolences to Sharon and the family. Barb and I have many fond memories of our time with Ray & Sharon curling, golfing and, of course, partying at the Wildewood Club. Ray was always an uplifting person who was a joy to be around. -Wayne & Barb Worobey - Posted by: Wayne & Barbara Worobey (Friends) on: Dec 02, 2017

  • I recently heard about Ray’s passing from a friend. I had the good fortune of working with Ray as an account manager for his group benefits clients. Ray always expressed a genuine care for his clients and for those he worked with to support those clients, Ray and I had a great working relationship but I will also remember him as one of the kindest people I ever met with a great “voice for radio”. On behalf of the Selectpac team at Great-West Life in Winnipeg, we offer Ray’s family our condolences and will fondly remember Ray for being a true gentleman in our business. He’ll be missed. - Posted by: Marcel Auriti (Work colleague and friend ) on: Nov 30, 2017

  • Sharon, Beau, Kevin, Chris and Aaron We are saddened by the loss of Ray. Many good times were spent over the years, from working together to socializing, golfing and learning to play bridge. Although our paths have not crossed over the last years, our memories of Ray will always be with us and may your memories of a very special life be a comfort to each of you in your sorrow. With Sincere Sympathy. Rene, Marguerite and family - Posted by: Rene and Marguerite Fillion (Old friends) on: Nov 29, 2017

  • I saw Ray at the Rotary Club of Winnipeg's "Rib Fest" this past August which turned out to be the last time that I saw him. Even though we knew he was in tough with his illness it was still a shock to hear of his passing. He was a true Rotarian and a fine person. We will miss him. Sharon and I send our condolences to the family. May the good memories keep Ray alive in your memories. - Posted by: Glen Torgerson (Friend and fellow Rotarian) on: Nov 29, 2017

  • As Linda & Rob Freeman said, Ray left us with Grace and still his Presence. Sharon & families are lucky to have had so much close time with Ray. When helping to start the Manitoba Chapter of Cdn Association of Financial Planning, Ray & secretary Judy were constant willing contributors with me. Ray also helped sort out clients needs with me in their best interests, I can see why his clients trusted & benefited from his nature. I can still picture the flowing forms of Sharon & Ray on the dance floors June Wells & I shared over the years! And his ever-present smile! Besides so many other accomplishments, I remember Ray being the main encouragement behind our Rotary Club's Career Symposium and Rotary Leadership Circle. His nuturing efforts are leaving legacies for tens of thousands, truly, in our Winnipeg & worldwide communities. Yes Ray, you are not gone. - Posted by: Denzil FEINBERG (Rotary Friend & Financial Advisor Associate) on: Nov 29, 2017

  • Beautiful tribute Ray...you have eased the shock to us all of your passing by leaving a touching note...just your style....your positive aura. Sharon we have such good memories of you two, hand in hand, whether it be on your way to the pool, or on the dance floor....may you find peace and comfort in the days ahead as you recall much happier days....we are blessed to be among your company and we send you our sincerest sympathy....Hugs, and love.....be strong. - Posted by: Linda and Rob Freeman (Texas neighbours/friends) on: Nov 26, 2017

  • So sorry to hear of Ray's death. Will never forget the wonderful ski trips we shared with Ray, Sharon and the boys. Great memories. Also the great help Ray was to us with our business investments, insurance, and helpful ideas on how to enjoy our funds! Such a lovely obit that he wrote. I am sure that Norm and our Holly will be very pleased to have him join them up there in heaven. My sincere sympathy to you, Sharon and the entire family. - Posted by: Aurlie Young (Friend) on: Nov 25, 2017

  • Sadly haven’t been in contact with my good friend and confidant for many years. My thoughts are with his wonderful family, Ray had an enormous effect on everyone who came in contact with him. - Posted by: Dean Wilson (Old friend ) on: Nov 25, 2017

  • Judy Stratton met Ray and Sharon in 1981 at Mutual Life in Winnipeg. Judy worked as Ray’s secretary for several years. Judy and her husband attended company functions with Ray & Sharon. We treasure the lovely memories. Judy & her husband retired in Vernon, B.C. in 2003. Ray will be missed. Sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Judy & Alex (Sandy) Stratton (Judy worked with Ray Van at Mutual Life) on: Nov 25, 2017

  • A true gentleman on/off the ice - treated everyone with the same respect regardless if you were a CEO or someone down on their luck. We will miss your booming voice, cause when Ray spoke to us, we listened As we look to the stars, we will think of you with a smile and feel the warmth that you always brought. RIP Ray - I know you will be looking down on us and smiling as well. from Grant: - one of many of your Texas Trailer Trash Hockey teammates - Posted by: Grant Laviolette (Trailer Trash Hockey Teammate) on: Nov 25, 2017

  • We will never forget Ray. Our sincere condolences to Sharon, and the rest of the Van Bastelaere family. We grieve with you and you are in our thoughts at this sad time. - Posted by: Ken & Terry Thomson (friends) on: Nov 25, 2017

  • Please accept our sincere condolences on Ray’s passing. If only we have known Ray for the past few years we will always remember the good times we have had while in his company. - Posted by: Jackie and Claude Bru (Friend) on: Nov 25, 2017

Neil Bardal Inc. (Winnipeg)

Neil Bardal Inc. (Winnipeg)

3030 Notre Dame Ave (Map)
Ph: 2049492200 | Visit Website

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