ROBERT IVAN TAITE

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ROBERT IVAN TAITE September 24, 1922 - January 2, 2014 On a cold Winnipeg winter afternoon, January 2, 2014, with his beloved daughter Angela at his bedside, Robert Ivan "Pops" Taite passed away after a strong and courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Sons Geoffrey, Andy, and Laurie were all quite stunned as "Pops" seemed to be in good spirits and getting around the care home on his own without any signs of trouble. The First Floor staff at Concordia Care Home, who throughout his stay were the best of caregivers, enjoyed his love of life and were always amazed at his abilities considering his ailment. Family members including his beloved and only sister Irene, and her daughters Margaret and Ellen were equally surprised by the sudden news. Pops was an avid adventurer. He liked nothing more than to delve into the strange and mysterious pasts of ancient civilizations, the cosmos and all things related to science and space travel. His knowledge of the ancient Egyptian times and the wonders of the galaxies was what inspired all his children to develop wide and varied interests in their own lives. To his friends Ivan was a mild mannered chap, who would rather read a good book or watch a good sci-fi or Laurel and Hardy Classic than go to a social. Yet, when the red wine, his favourite, was flowing, he was the entertainer. He would dance a Scottish jig at weddings, or tell outrageous tales from his childhood, all to the delight of the crowds. Pops had a dislike for all things electronic. Geoff and I were always over at home fixing anything electrical or his latest "recorder" that wouldn't cooperate. Angela (Ade) was the twinkle in his eye and they would venture out to the "Ex" year after year to play the "Diggers", one of his favourite things to do. Andy (Bucky) was always getting Pops to play the yearly Christmas Black and White tapes of all his best loved, old comedy acts from the early days. Olly and Stan, W. C. Fields, and the whole bunch of us would sit around and recite almost word for word the Original Bugs Bunny Classics. Thanks Ade. We would also like to send a huge hug and thank you to Matt. What can you say about this man. Not enough. As the disease took its course, and Mom (Sid), which they called each other, passed away some years ago, we became strangers to him on many visits. None of us really knew how this terrible disease worked. It left memories buried so deep, not even long visits could bring the recognition back. Dad served in the military. He was an accountant. He painted houses. He painted portraits and still life. He collected all manner of delicate collectables from cars and commerative plates, to a record and book collection that made him proud. We all got something special from Pops. Love of art, keen interest in science and the universe. But most of all we learned to love what we were good at. He wished so many times when we were young to go after that which he thought and knew we could accomplish. For that dear Pops, we all thank you and will miss you. Our family has lost a good man but the stars have gained a great explorer. Good bye Dad, see you on the flypaper... As per Dad's wishes there will be no formal service. Wheeler Funeral Home has taken care of all the necessities, with an incredibly fine and caring touch that we all greatly appreciate. Funeral Arrangements in Care of Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium 1800 Day Street 204-224-1525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 11, 2014