MURRAY WALDIE

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MURRAY WALDIE Murray Keith Waldie passed away peacefully on January 13, 2015 at Grace Hospice in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Murray is survived by Ellen (née Currie), his loving wife of over 60 years; children Bruce (Christelle), Mark, Sloane (Shelly), Noelle (Bryon); grandchildren Laurent, Joël, Stéphane, Dana, James, Lynne, Damian, Morgan and Skye; great-grandchildren Chlöe and Claire; brothers Russ and Bob; sister-in-law Iris (Grant) Wilson; brother-in-law Art (Florence) Currie, as well as many nieces and nephews. Murray was predeceased by his son Clyde, sister Janet, brother Dave, and parents Janet Ann and William Alexander Waldie. Murray was born on Mother's Day, May 12, 1929 in Killarney, Manitoba and was raised on the family farm in Holmfield, Manitoba. He attended Brandon College, and then began his career in Brandon as Credit Manager for J.A. Keddy Ltd. Murray moved to Winnipeg in 1953 and began working for Hart Emerson Grain Cleaning Equipment Ltd., which became Simon-Day Ltd. He remained there for over 34 years. As a skilled and talented accountant, Murray rose quickly through the ranks and retired as Vice-President of the company. After retiring, Murray worked with Sloane in his computer consulting business. Murray met the love of his life in 1954. They were married six months later at Westminster United Church. Both Murray and Ellen have been active lifelong members of the United Church of Canada. After moving to St. James in 1956 they attended St. James United Church. They began attending Sturgeon Creek United Church in 1967, where they immediately became members of the church choir. Both Murray and Ellen have been members of the choir for 48 years. Murray and Ellen valued education for all of their children. In addition to regular schooling, they ensured that they all had music lessons and supported their participation in as many educational activities as possible. As well as singing in the choir, Murray enjoyed ballroom dancing with Ellen. They were active in the Westview Dance Club. Murray was an active Cub leader and also taught Sunday School. Although he rarely got anything, he enjoyed hunting and fishing so much that he hand-crafted his own boat and trailer. He enjoyed building and spending time at the cottage at Spruce Sands, which the entire family enjoyed for 40 years. He was an excellent golfer and loved to travel all around the world with Ellen. After many years of experimenting he learned to make excellent wine. He was famous for his wild chokecherry wine. He and Ellen always worked to ensure that all were welcome in their home. Murray was an excellent host. Murray loved curling. He was a first-rate skip who combined skill and strategy to win numerous championships and trophies with his teammates. He continued to enjoy watching curling with friends and family until his very last days. Murray believed firmly in social responsibility. He worked hard to reform the Manitoba Mental Health Act and was a long-time member of the Schizophrenia Society as well as the NDP. He was not afraid to speak out against injustice and he had the courage to express his views without reservation, even when this was not popular. He sought justice and resisted evil. A celebration of Murray's life will be held at Sturgeon Creek United Church on Tuesday, January 20 at 2:00 p.m. At his request, cremation has taken place. The family wishes to thank the staff of Grace Hospice for their loving care and attention. Murray will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Murray has requested that donations be made to Winnipeg Harvest.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 17, 2015