Wilfred STAPLES

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

STAPLES: Wilfred Fowler Staples 1915-2009, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home in Brandon on 7th September, 2009, in his 95th year. Wilf was born at the family home in the Hullett District, RM of Turtle Mountain, Manitoba on the 25th March, 1915. He was the youngest and last survivor of thirteen children born to Robert and Mary (Latimer) Staples, coming after Myrtle, Charlotte, Edna, Vona, Clarence, Alma, Isabel, Eva, Jack, Cecil, Dora and Viola. As was often the case in those years, his education at the Hullett School was interrupted by the demands of planting and harvest, and he helped on the family farm until they moved to Regina in 1947. His early accomplishments included playing the violin and he and his father often performed at country dances. In Regina he worked for McGavins Bakery and the Saskatchewan Transportation Company, often juggling two jobs simultaneously. He would rise at 3:00 a.m. to work a shift in the bakery, then finish the day at the bus depot. After retirement he lived in Regina and Killarney, but finally settled in Brandon, with his friend and partner Irma Johnson. There he spent the last 12 years of his life; sole parent to one small dog after Irma died in 2005, but in the company of supportive neighbours and friends. His close friends across the street, Evelyn and Gordon Ratz, helped him in many ways to live alone and maintain his independence in his later years. He is survived by one sister-in-law, Ann Staples, several nephews and nieces, their families, and by many good friends. Wilfred’s ashes will be buried in the Killarney Cemetery and a graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, 11th September. In lieu of flowers please send a donation to the charity of your choice. Following internment there will be a reception at the Killarney United Church CE Centre where friends and family can celebrate a life well lived, filled with hard work, zest and humor. Funeral arrangements are by Brockie-Donovan Funeral Home in Brandon and Killarney Funeral Home. Please access their web sites for further details and condolences. www.wheatlnd.com.

As published in Brandon Sun on Sep 10, 2009