DONALD CLEON BOWER

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DONALD CLEON BOWER Peacefully on September 6, 2008 at Beacon Hill Lodge, Dad passed away at the age of 89. Dad was predeceased by his partner Violet Clegg in 2007, his parents, his brother Richard, son-in-law Paul, grandson Terry, great-grandson Ben and niece Shirley. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Bett Thompson of Soham, England, grandchildren Jackie (Frany), Keith (Jeanna), Jamie and Paula, great-grandchildren Ronny, Joe, Tom, Dale, Drew, Rianna and Rome; daughter Marilyn (Grant) McLaren of Winnipeg, grandsons Rob and Dustin; daughter Carol (Paul) Dupuis of Winnipeg, (Suzanne, Melissa, Amanda, and Renee). His sister Beth, nieces Pat, Kim and Kathy and their families also survive him. Dad was born in Winnipeg, March 13, 1919 and grew up on the family farm in Union Point near Ste. Agathe. After finishing school, he worked on the farm until 1940 when he enlisted in the RCAF and was immediately sent overseas, where he stayed for the duration of the Second World War. Dad was proud to be able to serve his country and especially being involved in the Battle of Britain. After the war Dad worked a few different jobs, then to Bristol Aerospace in 1951 where he stayed until his retirement in 1984 after 33 years. He enjoyed his retirement with Violet spending summers at Sandy Hook and travelling the world. He was especially grateful for being able to see his family in England several times. Dad and Violet Clegg were re-united in 1982 after being each other's first love in the 1930's and being separated by the Second World War. They were together for almost 25 years until poor health separated them again in 2006. Dad lived and breathed baseball! He pitched as a young man (Lefty), and later rarely missed watching his favorite Yankees either on TV or occasionally going to Minneapolis to see them. Dad was a kind, caring, loving man with a wonderful sense of humor and we will miss him. The family would like to thank all of the staff at Beacon Hill Lodge for their wonderful care and compassion, especially Mary (Dad's special nurse), who went above and beyond. According to Dad's wishes there will be no memorial service. A private family gathering will be held. We, the surviving family ask that you, Donald Cleon's friends, raise a glass in a warm heartfelt toast to his memory, as that is the way he wanted it. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. GLEN EDEN FUNERAL HOME 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 09, 2008