Obituaries

ALEXANDER WILFRED TAYLOR Peacefully on Monday, April 15, 2013 at the age of 97 years, Alec passed away at Riverview Health Centre after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. Proud and loving father (Pop), grandfather (Gramps) and great-grandfather (G-Pa), Alec will be deeply missed by sons, Barry and Gary (Irene); grandchildren, Sandi (Rob), Nikki (David) and Jason (Helen); Tim and great-grandchildren, Devon, Cameron, Jaron and Brooklynn; as well by his special daughters Barb (Gary) and Jan (Dale); extended family; friends; especially Ted, Dave and Cathy, Peter, Nancy; and many neighbours who were all friends to Mr. Taylor. He was predeceased by his devoted wife Mick (Louise) in 2005. Growing up on a farm in the Lily Bay Area, Alec was one of nine children born to Scottish immigrants James and Agnes, where he learned the value of taking pride in hard work. He, along with two of his brothers and close friends, joined the armed forces and served overseas in the Second World War. Fortunately, Alec returned (as many of his friends did not) to Winnipeg where he lived and worked a number of jobs including chimney sweep, painter and oil burner service mechanic. A true Jack of all trades, he had talents that many friends and family were beneficiaries of. One might even include dog trainer among his career repertoire as he taught his friend Bailey to fetch his slippers, count and speak low. Alec loved animals, especially dogs, and all the neighbourhood dogs loved him as he never left the house without a cookie in his pocket. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, going for walks, planting his gardens and tending to his roses. He loved to tell stories, many of which included invaluable wisdom and personal life lessons. Taking great pleasure in looking after his family, Alec will forever be remembered as a generous man who always helped others. Active, vibrant with an abundance of energy and strength, both physically and mentally, he enjoyed independence and good health for almost all of his 97½ years. A truly remarkable man, his sense of humor, kindness and courage were evident to all right up until the end when he said it was time to go. These qualities made Alec endearing to everyone he met. People were drawn to him and we all feel blessed to have had him in our lives. As per Alec’s wishes, no formal service will be held. The family would like to thank the staff at Riverview Health Centre, WRHA Palliative Care and CancerCare Manitoba for your kindness and compassion. Also a special Thank You and much appreciation to friends Ted, Dave and Cathy for all your help, you’re Tops! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Alec’s memory to CancerCare Manitoba or a charity of one’s choice. Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 1020 Main Street, Winnipeg, 204 586 8668 wojciksfuneralchapel.com. A life well lived Good Show!Publish Date: Apr 20, 2013ALEXANDER WILFRED TAYLOR On Monday, April 15, 2013 Alexander died at Riverview Health Centre at the age of 97 years. A longer obituary notice will follow. Wojcik’s Funeral Home & Crematorium, 1020 Main Street, Winnipeg, 2045868668 wojciksfuneralchapel.com.Publish Date: Apr 17, 2013   As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on April 20, 2013