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WILLIAM BLAIN
Born: Jul 17, 1931
Date of Passing: Jan 09, 2015
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryWILLIAM (BILL) BLAIN July 17, 1931 - January 9, 2015 It is with much sadness my daughters and I announce the passing of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle. Bill died as he wished, at home surrounded by his family the morning of January 9, 2015. We take comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. Bill was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Ethel Blain, and by his sister Patricia (Blain) Keilback. He is survived by the love of his life, Joy aka "Honey"; and four daughters Lynne (Ken) Stewart, Cathy (Ken) Toews, Theresa (Patrick) Feal, and Marianne (Dave Duncan); grandchildren Michelle, Chrissy, Justin, Lee-Anne, Samantha, Cassie, Thomas; and great-grandchildren Alexandra, Abby, Anne Noreen. Family meant everything to Dad as long as his "girls" were happy, he was happy. He called each of his girls "kid", which he said with great love and affection. Dad loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much and shared many special memories with each of them. Dad was such a compassionate and caring man. His compassion extended past his family to friends, strangers and the broader community. He would as readily help a friend build a sound studio in his basement as he would ensure sick children had Halloween candy, or try to help someone turn their life around. If he heard that someone lacked plans for a holiday meal, he would invite them to our house even though this meant he and Mom would often cook dinners for 30 people or more. He loved nothing better than having his whole family around him. We all knew his dream would have been to have a house large enough for all of us to live together. Dad worked for the Winnipeg Police Service and then moved over to the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission when it was created. He retired in 1996 as Manager, Inspection Services, after 40 years with the Commission. He then went on to volunteer with several agencies and to focus his energy on Mom. Dad had many interests, including hunting, sports, reading and history. Dad was famous for his sense of humour and his story telling, some of which may even have been true! Mom and Dad are one of the many couples who met on the train to Winnipeg Beach. It was love at first sight and they eloped soon after on July 26, 1950. It was fitting that, in his high school yearbook, his interests were "girls, girls, girls." Because that is what he ended up with, even the family pets were female. The way he lived his life taught us what it meant to be good and decent people. Dad, we will love you always. There will be a private family memorial service on January 14, 2015, at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue. Donations may be made to the Canadian Red Cross, Children's Hospital, or a Pet Rescue Shelter. www.chapellawn.ca 204-885-9715
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 13, 2015
Condolences & Memories (10 entries)
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Deepest sympathies to the family. Bill was always fun to be around. - Posted by: Bob Cox (Friend) on: Jan 19, 2015
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Dear Joy & Family. Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your dear husband & father. Bill was a wonderful friend and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Keeping you in our thoughts. Sincerely, Bryan & Karen - Posted by: Bryan & Karen Reece (Friend) on: Jan 14, 2015
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Aunt Joyce and cousins you bet Uncle Bill was a special man. It was always such a joy to see you guys, wish we could have those times back. I have such fond memories of visiting when we were children and remember how happy everyone was and remember my Mum started playing the piano downstairs, amazing, I had no idea that she knew how to play a piano, but Uncle Bill just brought out the best in people, the happiness in people and he did have a knack to make sure everyone felt comfortable. He included everyone and spoke to everyone. I still laugh when I think about Uncle Bill telling me he wasn't allowed on the city buses anymore he been kicked off for life. They even posted signs on every bus that said "NO BILLS ALLOWED" so he'd turn around and get off the bus haha. He was a fabulous Uncle. We sure were fortunate that he touched our lives. Take care cousins and Aunt Joyce I'll be thinking of you. With love from your Monster Andrea - Posted by: Andrea Schoenecker (niece) on: Jan 13, 2015
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I am so sorry to hear about Bill. It was always a pleasure curling with him (or against him on other teams). As he was a long-time executive member of the MLCC Curling Club, on behalf of all present and past members of our League, our sincere condolences to the family. Jerry Kolbuck Past President MLCC Curling Club - Posted by: Jerry Kolbuck (Co-worker) on: Jan 13, 2015
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Mary-Anne and I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Joy and "Bill's Girls" and family. Bill was a GREAT BOSS and friend. Even though some of Bill's stories may not be true, let me say Joy that ALL of mine ARE. And great stories they are! Our road trips were always great fun, the "over-nighters" stuff of legend. I will always remember Bill trying to get me to drink Scotch. Couldn't do it, just couldn't, but these days I have learned to enjoy a good Irish Whiskey. Our prayers are with you, always. And Billy, until we meet again, may God hold you gently in the palm of His hand. - Posted by: John & Mary-Anne Derrick (Co-Worker & Friends) on: Jan 13, 2015
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May you rest in peace Bill. - Posted by: Robert Eng (co - worker) on: Jan 13, 2015
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Very sad. For whatever reason my uncle always seemed larger than life. Whenever I was in Winnipeg my brothers and I would always try to fit in a visit with Uncle Bill and Aunt Joyce. Yes, it's true, our uncle could spin quite a yarn but we always had a good laugh with the two of them and whichever of the girls who might be present. We miss you already and hope for the best for our Aunt and cousins. - Posted by: Drew (nephew) on: Jan 13, 2015
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Our deepest sympathy to the Blain family. We will remember Bill with great fondness. - Posted by: Blaine McMillan (Family Friend) on: Jan 13, 2015
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Aunt Joyce and cousins...I'm very saddened to hear of the passing of Uncle Bill. He was the most fun & loving uncle. I always felt so welcome & comfortable in your home. I too loved his stories & will surely miss his laugh. All my love to you! - Posted by: Ginny Keilback (niece) on: Jan 13, 2015
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We are extending our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. - Posted by: Staff at the PBC Edmonton office (co-workers & friends of Marianne Blain) on: Jan 13, 2015