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BEELAERT: Albert Beelaert, age 96, passed away on January 14, 2013 at the Russell District Health Centre. He was born September 23, 1916 in Argusville, North Dakota, USA to Charles and Leona (Blomme) Beelaert. Albert and his family immigrated to Canada when he was a young boy. After finishing school he worked for local farmers in the Asessippi and Thunder Creek areas of Manitoba. In 1941 he joined the army and fought in World War II as a member of the Royal Canadian Artillery, 8th Field Regiment, 1st Canadian Division and 5th Armored Division and was a recipient of the Defense Medal, the volunteer Service Medal & Clasp, the War Medal, the Italy Star, the France and Germany Star and the 1939-1945 Star. He was discharged in 1946, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He purchased the southwest half of 4-22-28 where he farmed and raised purebred cattle. He retired and moved to Russell in 1994. Albert married Gwendoline Rose in 1943 in Reigate, Surrey, England. They would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary February 27th. Albert was a member of Christ Church (Anglican), a former member of the Canadian Hereford Association for over thirty years and a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #159. He was also a supporter of many charities. He enjoyed horses and raising cattle, holidays and time spent with his family. In November Albert received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal recognizing his wartime service. Albert was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Madeleine, Germaine (Mary), (Harold) Brown, Bernice (Alvin) Robb, his niece Shirley (Robert) McIntosh and his son Barry. Albert is survived by his spouse Gwendoline, his daughter Virginia, and his niece Shirley’s children, Debbie and Shelly and their families. A funeral service was held in Christ Church Russell January 18 with interment in the Russell Memorial Gardens. Rev. Laura Marie Piotrowicz officiated. Pallbearers were Jack Dunn, David Fisher, Brad Robin, Jim Spear, Barry Wishart and Ron Witty. Braendle-Bruce was in care of arrangements. If friends wish, donations in Albert’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, Unit #1-613-10th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 4G6 or to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Avenue, Room ON1160, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9.
As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 26, 2013