OMER VAN WALLEGHEM

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OMER VAN WALLEGHEM It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Omer Van Walleghem on May 28, 2013 at the age of 95. Born in Winnipeg on November 10, 1917 to Elodie and Adolph Van Walleghem, he was the youngest of eight children. Omer was predeceased by his wife Marguerite, and by his parents Elodie and Adolph, his brothers Oscar, Jerome, Wilbur, Wilfred, Walter and sisters Alice and Cyrilla. He is survived by his six children, Fred (Ailsa Drinnan), Eileen (Ron Engen), Carole (Len Sitter), Marjorie (Tony Guertin Jr.), Kenny, Deborah (Charlie Guertin), 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. In 1938 following the death of his father, Omer, along with his brother Walter, took over the operation of Royal Dairies. After selling Royal Dairies to Beatrice Foods in 1965, Omer continued managing the dairy until its closure in the early 1970s. Dad continued to work for Beatrice Foods as manager of Modern Dairies until his retirement in 1982. Omer was highly regarded in the Winnipeg business community. He was Chairman of the Manitoba Milk Pricing Board, Past president and Honorary Life Member of the Manitoba Dairy Association, the Manitoba Pigeon Association and the Heather Curling Club. Dad was active in the Belgian community and as a young boy joined his father in the sport of pigeon racing. The editor of Thoroughbred Magazine referred to him as one of the world's most eminent pigeon flyers. He had an outstanding reputation throughout Canada and the United States for his racing and breeding of pigeons, and was considered among pigeon fanciers in Winnipeg as the "Godfather of Racing Pigeons." Omer was married for over 74 years to his beloved wife Marguerite. They enjoyed spending many summers with their children, grandchildren, family and friends at Clear Water Bay and Falcon Lake. They were fortunate to be able to travel to Europe, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Following retirement, they became snowbirds in Arizona and California. As an avid sports enthusiast he participated and excelled in bowling, golfing, and curling, winning many trophies. For decades he was an outstanding curler in Manitoba, winning the Grand Aggregate trophy in 1957. As Director of Heather Rink Ltd. he was instrumental in the relocation and building of the current club. The family would like to extend their appreciation and love to their brother Ken who so generously and lovingly gave of his time and support so Dad was able to remain at home for an extended period of time. The family would also like to offer a special thank you and appreciation to Dr. Pravinsagar Mehta for all the care and support he gave Dad for so many years. We are grateful to his Home Care coordinator Jerry and the aides for their kindness and care to our father. Dad was well respected by his family and friends. He was known for his kindness, gentleness and generosity, gifts that will always be cherished. A Memorial Mass for Omer will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 6, 2013 at St. Ignatius Church, 255 Stafford Street at Corydon Avenue. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba, or to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace dear husband, father and friend. You will always be loved and forever missed. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 01, 2013