MATTHEW DAVID POLLOCK

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MATTHEW DAVID POLLOCK 1911 to 2001 Peacefully, at his residence with his family by his side, Matt passed away on December 28, 2001 at the age of 90 years. He leaves to mourn his sister Cassie; wife Evelyn; son Larry (Diane) daughter Careyn (Bill) grandsons, Derek (Shannon), Clayton (Andrea), Ryan and Kevin; great-grandchild Taylor and two more who are due to arrive in the next couple of months, along with a host of many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends too numerous to mention. Matt was predeceased by his mom Katie; dad Anthony; sisters, Ann, Mary and Margaret and brother Morris. Matt, Pop or Papa, as he was affectionately known, led a long life that was full of accomplishments and blessings. Born in Angusville, MB in 1911, Matt learned very early in life the meaning of adversity when he lost his mom and dad as a child. He took on the role of working on the family farm for a few years to help support his brother and sisters, two of whom were blind. Eventually, he left home to try his hand at a number of different occupations but one that caught his interest was barbering. In the early 30s Matt enrolled in the Moler Barber School in Winnipeg and received his accreditation in this trade. He barbered with some partners for a time and then in 1934 acted on an opportunity to work with one of Canadas largest cosmetology businesses, International Associated Hairdressers, which operated product supply houses, training schools and professional salons. Because of his solid work ethic and talent, it wasnt long before he was appointed manager for the companys Western Canada operations. He continued on in this position until 1961 when he decided to go out on his own. It was at that time that he founded, along with his wife Evelyn, Pollock School of Beauty and Tru-Art Beauty Salon. He developed these enterprises over the next 25 years in Winnipeg and Brandon to a point where they were well known and respected in the beauty business in Manitoba and indeed Canada. In 1986, Matt and his business faced his second expropriation when it was decided that the north side of Portage Avenue was to be redeveloped. He assisted in the move but grew tired as the process dragged out over 10 years so he turned over the reins to his son Larry and daughter, Careyn, who still today operate the business that bears Matts name and pride. In his retirement years, Matt was still a going concern getting up early every morning, reading the paper from beginning to end and then embarking upon a new daily adventure. He loved hunting for deals and he loved getting together with his many friends for outdoor sports but he had no greater passion than that for his grandchildren and great-grandchild. His eyes always lit up when one of them entered the room. He loved them dearly and was very proud of all of their accomplishments. Matt became afflicted in 1993 with dementia that ultimately led to Alzheimers disease. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service and reception in celebration of Matts life will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. at Thomson Funeral Chapel, 669 Broadway, Winnipeg (courtesy parking west of the chapel). The family would like to thank the staff of Tuxedo Villa Nursing Home for their care of Matt over the last several years and the compassion they have shown during these difficult times. Flowers are gratefully declined. Instead, donations may be made in Matts memory to the Alzheimers Society of Manitoba or to a charity of ones choice. "Do not mourn for me, I have been set free. I no longer have pain, nor anguish. I am the wind that blows through the trees, the rain that falls from the sky and the heat that radiates from the sun. I am the melting water in the spring and the rustling leaves in the fall. I will always love and be with you." Til we meet again, Pop. THOMSON FUNERAL CHAPELS 783-7211

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2001