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JAMES RONALD DREGER
Born: Dec 31, 1942
Date of Passing: Dec 28, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJAMES RONALD DREGER My Dad got his wish - he didn't have to set one foot in a nursing home, which is a relief because otherwise we would have had to "shoot him"! His words - not mine. James Ronald Dreger, aka Jim, Jimmy, Dregs, Jimbo (and I'm sure many other nicknames) left this world peacefully on December 28, 2017, three days short of his 75th birthday. He never was that into birthdays anyway. James was predeceased by his parents, James and Jean Dreger and leaves behind his daughter Marla; his granddaughters, Johanna and Olivia; Marla's Mom Holly; his brother Garry (Madeleine), many cousins, and long-time friend Roger Reay who was so supportive in Dad's last months. Dad was born on December 31, 1942 in Winnipeg and attended Isaac Brock for elementary and middle school, and Tech Voc for high school. After that, he clearly wanted a new adventure so he made a move to Stockton, California. There, he worked at a Hilton Hotel and judging from pictures I've seen, he had a lot of fun with his buddies. He was drafted at the start of the Vietnam War but was excused because of his hearing impairment. He came home shortly after and met Holly, whose family happened to live on the same street. They got married and had me in 1974. Unbeknownst to many, my Dad was a worry wart and said to my Mom when I was one, "Why isn't Marla talking?" Then when I turned two he said "why won't she stop talking?"! Dad was a lithographer by trade, and a very good one. I remember going to his workplace and thinking what a cool job he had. He spent much of his career at Lithocolor and then at LGM Graphics - and was a dedicated, accomplished and valued employee. My Dad enjoyed relaxing, reading the paper, and doing his very predictable daily routine during retirement. He showed his softer side when he was around his granddaughters, Johanna and Olivia, who fondly call him Grandpa Jim. He still had all the hair you see in the picture and none of it had turned gray! I admire many things about my Dad - he was neat, organized, responsible, and certainly spoke his mind! In his last week, I asked him where the power of attorney document and his will were and his response was "They are in the bedroom- don't go mixing everything up". Dad, as I promised you in the hospital, I will take care of everything. Although it was excruciating for you and me, it was an absolute honour to be there by your side. We love you. Cremation has taken place and a private memorial will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers or donations, commit to being a strong advocate for your health and the health of your family. If you know something isn't right, don't ever give up. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 06, 2018
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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We have lived on this street for 36 years and knew Jim Sr. and Jean. Jim Jr. has been a good neighbour for several years and we have had many a backyard conversation. I (Eleanor) was away for 3 months and after returning at the end of April, have been wondering how come I hadn't seen Jim. As you said, he was a creature of habit. We are so sad that we weren't around to say goodbye. Our sincerest condolences to you Marla, Holly and the rest of the family. He will be missed. If there is anything we can do, don't hesitate to let us know. - Posted by: Eleanor and Leslie Bruce (Neighbours ) on: May 07, 2018
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So sorry for your loss. Your father was a very warm-hearted man who had the patience for those working around him. I met your dad back in 1977 when I started working at Litho-color. It was my first job in the industry and I'll always remember your father's way of understanding and calm when things went sideways. We had some fun times back then. - Posted by: Doug (work associate) on: Mar 11, 2018
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Marla, my condolences to you and your family for the passing of your father. May loving memories ease your loss and bring you comfort. - Posted by: Rina D'Ottavio (Co-worker) on: Jan 08, 2018
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Marla, what a lovely tribute to your dad. He was very blessed to have you by his side. I agree with the need to advocate for your own health and for the health of others that don't want to "bother anyone". Take care. - Posted by: Yvonne Burman (Friend) on: Jan 08, 2018
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Dear Marla, What a lovely tribute to your father. It is very difficult to lose someone you love, but you are so strong, loving and selfless to see the silver lining in his not having to leave his home. Take care. - Posted by: Karen Walpole (Colleague) on: Jan 07, 2018
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Sorry for your loss Marla - Posted by: Sherry (Co-worker) on: Jan 06, 2018
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Marla, My condolences go out to you and your family. Thinking of you. Chrystal - Posted by: Chrystal Hiebert (Co-worker) on: Jan 06, 2018
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So sorry for your loss - Posted by: Susan & Alan (Friend ) on: Jan 06, 2018
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Hearing Holly speak of how you have dealt with this last month have been an inspiration. I am so very sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Sandra Troehler (Marla would be my First cousin once removed (possibly)) on: Jan 06, 2018