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ALVIN MERVIN BRACKEN Obituary pic

ALVIN MERVIN BRACKEN

Date of Passing: Mar 06, 2013

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ALVIN MERVIN BRACKEN It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our husband, father and grandfather, Alvin Mervin Bracken, at Selkirk and District General Hospital on March 6, 2013. Alvin is survived by his wife, Mabel of 54 years; daughters, Linda (Harry) and Wendy (Garry); grandchildren, Pamela (Adam), Blair (Bonnie), Rosalyn (Patrick), and Gordon; brothers, Ted, Edwin, Gerald, Allan, Ken; and sisters, Florence, Leora, Mayme and Mabel. He was predeceased by his son, Blair, granddaughter, Catherine, brothers, Howard, John and Earle, and sister Viola. Alvin was born to Manford and Violet Bracken on April 17, 1935 along with his twin brother, Allan, in Tessier, SK. His family moved to Marchand, MB in 1935 to a dairy farm and later moved to the farm in Clandeboye, MB in 1944. Alvin attended the University of Manitoba and obtained his diploma course in Agriculture. In 1957 Alvin met Mabel Speer and they were married in 1958. They raised their family on Brackendale Farm, along with his brother, Gerald and sister-in-law, Evelyn and their children Cheryl, Marilyn, Gordon and Brenda, sharing the farmhouse until 1966 when Alvin and Mabel built their home north of the farm yard. Alvin was actively involved in the work and life of the Clandeboye 4-H Club, the Clandeboye United Church, the Clandeboye Community Club, the Clandeboye Skating Club, the Clandeboye Fire Department, International Agricultural Exchange Program, and was a life member of the Selkirk Rotary Club. He believed that giving back to the community was important and encouraged his family to do so also. Alvin's love and dedication to Mabel truly warmed hearts of those around them. His love for his girls and his grandchildren was also evident. Although a man of few words, his actions always told us that he loved us very much. Losing Blair was truly a difficult time for him but Alvin's strong determination and faith enabled him to carry on. Alvin was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1997. He was able to continue living a full life until the last few years as the disease progressed, slowly taking from him small bits of his mobility and independence. He never once complained. He was strong in his fight and accepted each setback as the disease progressed. Alvin and Mabel moved from Clandeboye into Mapleton Lane in St. Andrews and enjoyed making new friends and settling into town living. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 11, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. at Selkirk United Church, 202 McLean Avenue, Selkirk, MB. Pallbearers will be Garry Church, Gordon Church, Harry Hawes, Blair Hawes, Gordon Bracken and Ian Grieve. Honorary pallbearers will be Cheryl Bracken, Marilyn Wilkinson and Brenda Harris. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Alvin's memory to the Palliative Care at Selkirk and District General Hospital, Clandeboye United Church or Selkirk United Church. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements www.gilbartfuneralhome.com.
Publish Date: Mar 9, 2013

ALVIN MERVIN BRACKEN Surrounded by his family, Alvin Mervin Bracken, passed away peacefully at the Selkirk and District General Hospital, on Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 11, in the Selkirk United Church, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Deborah Vitt officiating. Full obituary to follow in Saturday's Free Press. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements
Publish Date: Mar 8, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 09, 2013

Condolences & Memories (14 entries)

  • I am truly saddened and shocked to hear of Alvin's passing. I had the opportunity of getting to know Alvin and his family over the past two years and a fine gentleman he truly was. I will always remember him for his gentle manner and loving smile. He truly adored his family and they always came first in his life. My sincerest condolences to you Mabel, Linda, Wendy and family. A great man has left this world and he will be truly missed by all. Take care. - Posted by: Sharon Sass (Home Care Attendant) on: Mar 14, 2013

  • We send our condolences to Mabel, Linda, Wendy and all the rest of great uncle Alvin's family during this difficult time. Mark will always remember the Reunions at Brackendale Farms and spending time with Alvin, Mabel & family. May you take comfort in fond memories of the time spent together as family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you. - Posted by: Mark, Joanne, Nolan & Quinton Bracken (Regina) (Great nephew) on: Mar 12, 2013

  • I am truly sorry to hear of the passing of Alvin. My heart goes out to Mabel and her family. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Gerty Edmonds () on: Mar 12, 2013

  • I am sorry to hear of the passing of Alvin, my heart and prayers will be with all of you during this very difficult time. I can only hope that the tender memories of the love, laughter and good times shared will give you comfort in the days ahead. My deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Evelyn Armstrong (Preun) () on: Mar 10, 2013

  • Alvin was a true gentleman. I had the privlege to care for him on a few different occasions. We had a great time playing cards, or just talking about life on the farm. My deepest sympathy Mable and family. - Posted by: Elodie (HCA) on: Mar 10, 2013

  • We looked forward to our visits to the farm and a chance to see what new things Alvin and Gerry were doing. Always modestly accommadating, they shared their time and ideas freely. Many times, we were welcomed into their homes, especially at REUNION time and were treated royally during their very busy lives. Dad spoke highly of his relationship with his brothers. We met Alvin and Mabel at several Rotary conferences, from Flin Flon to Dryden, and Winnepeg. He was dedicated to community service. We will miss him.What a wonderful family they raised together. May he rest in Peace. - Posted by: Lockie & Elaine Bracken (Nephew) on: Mar 10, 2013

  • I knew Alvin for a short time, but in that time we shared stories and spent quality time together. Alvin never complained about being ill and was very appreciative of any kind gesture no matter how small it was. Every visit with Alvin always brought a smile to my face. He will be sadly missed, he was a kind and gentle soul. - Posted by: Gary Shrimpton (Health Care Aide) on: Mar 10, 2013

  • DEAR LINDA AND FAMILY, MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY ON THE PASSING OF YOUR DAD.PLEASE KNOW THAT I AM THINKING OF YOU AT THIS TIME. WHAT A LEGACY HE HAS LEFT BEHIND! - Posted by: KATHY BRYAN (SISTER OF DEBBIE FEY) on: Mar 09, 2013

  • With sincere sympathy to the family. - Posted by: Wendy Fields (Bracken) () on: Mar 09, 2013

  • Our deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences to Mabel and family - Posted by: Dennis & Ruth Stewart (Friends) on: Mar 09, 2013

  • I'll always remember Alvin for his gentle smile and great sense of humour. Always a gentleman. My prayers and loving thoughts are with you,Mabel, and your family at this difficult time. - Posted by: Iris Kolada (home care attendant) on: Mar 09, 2013

  • I extend sincere sympathy to you Mable and your family at this very sad time. It is not easy after spending so many years together. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. - Posted by: Phyllis Cook (Friend) on: Mar 09, 2013

  • My sympathies to all the Bracken family and the extended family. I am so sorry to hear about Alvin's passing. He was always ready to give a ride home when I was a kid growing up. I loved my babysitting gig for Linda, Wendy and Blair when he and Mabel would attend something. I just hope the house didn't smell too bad when I snuck a cigarette after the kids were in bed ( a habit I've long since given up ). You will be missed Alvin! - Posted by: Alison Lowe (Neighbour growing up in Clandeboye) on: Mar 08, 2013

  • Although I believe I told him so, Alvin likely never realized how much he changed my life for the better. He was a wonderful role model and his influence helped guide me through life, including some of its tough spots. I was privileged to know him and his family. - Posted by: Laura Tutlies (Long time friend and admirer) on: Mar 08, 2013

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