ROLAND (ROLLY) COUTURE

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ROLAND (ROLLY) COUTURE June 22, 1916 - February 15, 2006 Peacefully with his family at his side, Rolly passed away at the Grace Hospice following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Rolly was predeceased by his loving wife Bridget, in October 2004. He is survived by his five children, daughters, Judy Swanky (Al), Janet Joyce (Pat), sons, Tom, Rod (Lucy), Ted (Dianne); grandchildren, Lorie and Tammy (Olaf) Swanky, Mathew (Christina) Couture, Kaitlin and Molly Couture; great-grandchildren, Ladonna and Levi Swanky. Dad grew up in St. Boniface and Clandeboye, MB, areas. He was very proud to have served overseas in the Second World War, and while on leave in Scotland, he met the love of his life Bridget Rowley. They were married August 2, 1945, in Kelty, Scotland. After 30 years with The Department of Transport, Dad retired and fulfilled a lifelong dream, by starting a tree nursery in Clandeboye. Throughout his life Dad had several hobbies and interests. He was especially passionate about gardening and hockey. Together he and Mom shared many hours together tending to their award winning gardens and yard. Dad was involved in minor hockey for over 40 years, serving in various roles at Roblin Park Community Club, Winnipeg South Monarchs and Assiniboine Park Rangers. As a result of his many years of service with the Rangers he earned the nickname Mr. Ranger. Dad was honoured by the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association with a national award for his many years of volunteer service to minor hockey. He was perhaps the world's biggest Habs fan. Most of all Dad enjoyed spending time with his family, and he was so proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to spoil them. Dad was a hard working man who possessed strength of body and spirit, with a determination to provide for his family. We, his children, are truly grateful for the wonderful role model and friend that we had. Thank you Dad for our life together. The family extends their appreciation to the staff at the Grace Hospice for their loving care provided to Dad, and for the support provided to his family during his short stay. A memorial service celebrating Rolly's life will be held Wednesday, February 22 at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave., with reception to follow. Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca. Remembrances may be made to CancerCare Manitoba in Rolly's memory. CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 19, 2006