Obituaries

MICHAEL FRANCIS O’ROURKE  
   It is with deep sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of Michael Francis O’Rourke. On Friday, June 3, 2016 with family by his side, Michael was able to say his final goodbyes at the age of 77 years.   Mike will be forever remembered by his beloved wife Irene O’Rourke; son Paul (Christina); daughter Lorraine (Richard); brothers, Paddy (Maureen), Frank (Kay); sister Kathleen (John); grandchildren, Nicole (Brent), Miranda (Kyle), Melissa (Evan), Haley (Ryan), and Mathew (Morgan); beloved great grandchildren Emma, Cale and Weston; godson Kieran Mynes; numerous nieces and nephews, relatives, and arms full of friends. He was predeceased by his father William O’Rourke, mother Kathleen O’Rourke (nee O’Hagen), brother Billie O’Rourke, sister Maureen Mynes, brother in law George Mynes, and nephew Gerrard Mynes.   On October 16, 1938 Michael was born in Dublin, Ireland where he spent the first 23 years of his life. He married his true love Irene O’Rourke on August 1, 1961. In 1962 they welcomed their first child, Paul into the world. The decision to immigrate to Canada in 1965 began the next chapter of their life, including the arrival of their second child, Lorraine. Michael cherished family time spent at Sunny Harbour Beach camping, having picnics and swimming. Outings at Kildonan Park which included tobogganing and skating while sipping hot chocolate. Later in life Mike and Irene found their perfect getaway North of Gimli. Here they enjoyed the company of family and many new friends. Mike was either busy woodworking or enjoying a Guinness at a fire and he always had a contagious smile across his face.   Michael began his career as a welder at Tatra Iron Works. He continued his welding career at Federal Pioneer (Pauwels) where he later became a respected supervisor. He had several passions outside of work including his Irish Heritage. Mayor Steven Juba presented Michael with the City of Winnipeg Cultural Award for the involvement and dedication to keeping the Irish traditions alive. He was a dedicated president of the Sons of Ireland and one of the founding members of the Irish Association of Manitoba. His position of long-time manager for “Irish Stew” fulfilled his love for a good Irish singsong. One cannot describe his love for sports, but most of all, soccer. From helping organize the sport in the 60’s to coaching, watching and videotaping the game.   Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Thursday, June 9, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. in St. Vital Roman Catholic Church, 1629 Pembina Highway with Rev. Fr. Barry Schoonbaert presiding. Interment will follow in St. Vital Roman Catholic Parish Cemetery, 826 Crescent Drive. Pallbearers will be son, Paul O’Rourke, son in law, Richard Bobrowski, Michael’s brother, Paddy O’Rourke, nephews, Damian and Leo O’Rourke and great nephew Tyler O’Rourke.   The family would like to thank the Victoria Hospital emergency staff (Cheryl and Amanda) and Dr. M. L. Cummings.   In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s name may be sent to World Vision Canada http://www.worldvision.ca/   Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematorium, Winnipeg, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com 
 “Those we love don’t go away,They walk beside us every day,Unseen, unheard but always near,Still loved, still missed and very dear.”