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PETER FABRIS  Obituary pic

PETER FABRIS

Date of Passing: Feb 26, 2018

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PETER FABRIS February 20, 1927 - February 26, 2018 RIPOSI IN PACE Peter Fabris passed away peacefully on Monday, February 26, 2018, at Riverview Health Center in Winnipeg, with his family by his side. He was 91 years of age. Peter is survived and his memory cherished by Louise, his wife of 65 years; daughters, Donna and Gayle; grandchildren, Randy, Matthew and Gary; and great-grandchildren, Darian, Brendon, Kaitlyn and Alyssa. Peter is preceded in death by his father Girolamo, mother Velia, brother Fred, sister Geza and his daughter Marilyn. Peter was born on February 20, 1927 to immigrant Italian parents, Girolamo and Velia Fabris of Balmoral, MB. He was the youngest sibling to his sister Geza and his brother Fred. Peter attended school in Balmoral and then at age 17.5 in August 1944, he joined the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR) and served our country during the Second World War. After the war ended, Peter worked in a mine in Bissett, MB for a year and then with the Canadian Pacific Railway for a few years, before commencing employment at Stony Mountain Institution in July 1950. He married Louise (nee Dumore) in 1952 and they lived in Winnipeg and raised three daughters, Marilyn, Donna and Gayle. Peter retired from the prison in December 1983 after 33.5 years of public service. Following his retirement, he worked part time with Brinks for a few years and also learned how to play the tenor saxophone. Later, well into his sixties, he pursued his childhood interest by once again taking up the accordion, an instrument he particularly favoured, given his love of polka music. Peter was an intelligent man who loved to read. He knew everything about history, his favourite subject, however, he could be counted on for his knowledge and sound advice on nearly any topic raised. He had a talent for interesting conversation, shared many a good story and possessed a remarkable sense of humour. He insisted that laughter is the best medicine of all and often reminded us that there is a humorous side to every situation, no matter how difficult. For example and befitting the current circumstances, we recollect Peter's chuckle during his now and then recitation of an epitaph on a grave marker in a British cemetery. It went like this: "Pause my friend, as you walk by, As you are now, so once was I, As I am now, so you will be, Prepare my friend, to follow me." And a visitor added, "To follow you is not my intent, Until I know which way you went!" Peter maintained a positive outlook and attitude throughout his life. Upbeat and outgoing, he thoroughly enjoyed family dinners and get togethers, helping others, yardwork, gardening, caring for the family pets, folklorama, concerts, travelling, music, great cologne, making his own beer and wine, keeping up on world events, sponsoring a goat named Luigi, chit chatting with friends and neighbours or anyone he'd meet, a good plate of spaghetti, watching Coronation Street every night with Mom and Lawrence Welk on Sundays and making sure all the outdoor critters were fed. Above all, Peter was a man who was truly devoted to the happiness and well being of his family. He was an incredibly supportive, kind, generous and caring soul. He was always there for us. There are no words to express just how deeply he will be missed. Forever loved, he will live on in our hearts forever. Peter said he wanted things kept simple. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service and internment is planned for late spring at the Victoria Cemetery, Balmoral, MB. Peter said that according to the scriptures, we are suppose to leave this earth for something better. He said, no tears please. Peter held a special affection for animals, especially those in need and throughout his life he generously contributed to animal welfare in any way he could. Please consider honouring Peter's memory by making a donation in his name to Craig Street Cats, 16-1421 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y9 or the Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter, 3062 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y1 or any animal rescue shelter of choice. We would like to thank family, friends, neighbours and Peter's health care providers for all their help, kindness and support throughout Peter's brief and valiant fight against cancer. Peter kept the following poem tucked in a bible that he kept by his bedside. To Those I Love And Those Who Love Me When I am gone, release me. Let me go I have so many things to see and do. You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears, Be happy, we had so many years. I gave you my love and you can only guess How much you gave to me in happiness. I thank you for the love you each have shown But now it's time I traveled alone. So grieve a while for me if grieve you must Then let your grief be comforted by trust. It's only for a while that we must part So bless those memories in your heart. I won't be far away for life goes on So if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near with all my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and "Welcome You Home". Author: Unknown Ken Loehmer Funeral Services 204-886-0404
Publish Date: Mar 10, 2018

PETER FABRIS The family of Peter Fabris are deeply saddened to announce his passing, on Monday, February 26, 2018. A longer obituary to follow in next Saturday's Free Press. Ken Loehmer Funeral Services 204-886-0404


Publish Date: Mar 3, 2018

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 10, 2018

Condolences & Memories (10 entries)

  • I started seeing Peter as a hair client a few yrs ago and looked forward to seeing him each and every time . He was a kind individual and loved having my chats with him . When I seen him last was before Christmas, I had a feeling that it would of been my last, so I gave him a big hug and glad that I did . Rest in peace Peter xo - Posted by: Stephanie (Hairdresser) on: Apr 12, 2018

  • Peter was more to me than a Grandfather. He raised me as if I were his own child, from the age of 5. He was the only Father I truly knew. He was always there, through the good and the bad. I wasn't the perfect child, nor am I perfect today, but he never judged me for making mistakes, and if help or advice was needed, he was there. I have so many fond memories that I hold dear to my heart. I think of them, and of him often. To this day, I share with people about the many times while I was still in grade school, he would sometimes watch cooking shows in the morning, and if a recipe interested him, he'd head off to Safeway to buy the ingredients, and have this new dish ready and waiting for me when I came through the door for lunch, and let me tell you, the man could cook. I often think about the many times growing up, when he and I would make a trip to Robin's Donuts. We would sit at the same spot at the end of the counter almost every time. He would have his coffee with a cigarette or two, and I'd have either an apple, cherry or a blueberry turnover and a Coke. And he was always eager to help with homework. He loved math and history, and it seems it has rubbed off on me because I too, love math and history. There was another time, back in grade school, I was given a project to do, involving "interviewing" a family member about a memory from their childhood. It had to be recorded on tape and played back to the class. He happily abliged, and went on to tell a story from his childhood, of a time in Balmoral, where he witnessed a plane crash. I was fascinated by the tale. But it didn't matter who you were, or what was on your mind. When he told a story like only he could, your attention was helplessly undivided. My classmates sat in complete silence as I played back that recording, and for a very long time after that, I would listen to it myself at night, over and over, each time listening as if it were the first time I was hearing it. And there were the drives to and from school, or a drive anywhere I needed to go, anytime. And the allowance, even though many weeks I probably wasn't deserving of one. He was so much more than a Grandfather, and he was just always there to make your day a little bit brighter. Always cheery and able to make anyone smile. I learned a lot from him. Most importantly, I learned how to be a good man. I haven't always made all of the right choices, but I'm proud to say that my moral compass, and a lot of the good that I have in me, came from him. He will be missed dearly, his kind face and warm voice will always be in my heart. He truly was my Father, and I've known it for a long time. I'm very proud to call him my Dad, and there is none better than he. - Posted by: Randall (Grandson) on: Mar 30, 2018

  • To Louise, Gayle and family, I was saddened to hear of Peter's passing. I had the pleasure of meeting Peter when I visited Winnipeg several years ago with his grandson. I have enjoyed listening to many conversations between him and Randy since. Always positive, always a funny word or story to share. I have to say that time spent with Peter while I visited Winnipeg are some of the fondest memories I have. He was a wonderful ambassador for the city and I especially enjoyed joining him for Folklorama, the breakfasts we shared were also nice. Please know that I am thinking of you all during this difficult time and sending lots of positive energy all the way from Nova Scotia. - Posted by: Janice Rideout (Friend) on: Mar 14, 2018

  • Condolences go out to Gayle and rest of the Fabris Family. I worked with Peter for many years. Was a great man. Wayne Drennar - Posted by: Wayne Drennar (Co worker) on: Mar 12, 2018

  • My condolences to the Fabris family on the recent passing of Peter. I remember Peter for his kindness and gentle manner. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Tom Carrick (Former son-in-law) on: Mar 11, 2018

  • My condolences go out to Gayle and rest of the Fabris Family. I worked with Peter for many years. Sorry to see him go. Rest in Peace Peter. - Posted by: Ron Komonko (Co-worker) on: Mar 11, 2018

  • Truly such an amazing man. My condolences and sorry for your loss. Hugs! - Posted by: Diane G (Family friend) on: Mar 10, 2018

  • We are sorry to hear about the loss of your husband and father. Please send our sympathy to your Mom, Gayle and sister and all your loved ones. Peter will be missed in the neighborhood. Gerald & Margaret - Posted by: Gerald & Margaret Monaster (Neighbours ) on: Mar 09, 2018

  • Dear Mrs. Fabris, Gayle & family, We are so sad to hear of your husband and Father's passing. Life will never be the same on Parkdale Street. Your Dad was a great neighbour and also a very good friend to my Father. We pray that all the wonderful memories that you have of your dear husband and father will help you through this most difficult time. Know that we are holding you up in prayer and sending you our most heartfelt sympathies . . . Hoss & Gail (nee Larkin) Schell. - Posted by: Hoss & Gail Schell (neighbour) on: Mar 09, 2018

  • It is with heartfelt sadness that I learned of Peter's passing. Peter and I worked together from April of 1967 to June of 1979. We spent many pleasant hours together, off the job as well as on. He was a great companion and a warm friend. With great personal sorrow, I ask to share your loss and to extend my heartfelt sympathy. Bill Kynar - Posted by: Bill Kynar (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2018

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