Garry SHURVELL

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SHURVELL: Garry Wayne Shurvell of Brandon, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away on August 15, 2014 at the Palliative Care Unit, at the age of 78. Wayne was born at Birtle, MB on June 11, 1936 to Terry and Helen Shurvell. During his early years, he lived in Isabella, Beulah, and then moved to Harding in 1945. At the age of 16, he contracted polio and spent a year in a Winnipeg hospital. He showed determination and bravery during his year of therapy which included exercise, water therapy, and relearning to walk with crutches and a leg brace. After his release from hospital, Wayne completed his high school education and then went on to obtain his drafting certificate. He began his drafting career at a mine in Lynne Lake where he spent a few years until moving to work at Rivers Airbase. Besides drafting and an interest in the stock market, Wayne enjoyed farming and spent over 20 years farming with his dad in the Harding area. When Rivers Airbase closed, he transferred to Winnipeg with the Department of National Defence where he met Linda. They were married on December 22, 1978. Linda and Wayne transferred to CFB Shilo in 1980. They built a home in Brandon and started their family in 1986. There are many fond memories of the time spent at the cabin at Cherry Point celebrating birthdays, anniversaries or socializing with friends which usually included a potluck supper. In later years he enjoyed an occasional visit to the casino with Linda and his Aunt Doreen. He enjoyed the socializing more than the gambling which was never very profitable. Everyone needs a best friend and Wayne and Elwood English had a friendship that stood the test of time. Few people are blessed with a gift that lasts a lifetime, but Wayne had Elwood by his side from the time he was a young boy right up until the moment he said good-bye. His special times were spent in the company of his grandson Gage with “Pops” teaching Gage to play ball and ride his bike. Wayne was known as a caring and giving person, he would always put the needs of others first. Whether it was helping out with a nail and hammer, fixing your truck or tractor or drawing up plans for your dream home, you could count on a great visit while he was helping you. Wayne is survived by Linda, his wife of 35 years, son Garry, daughter Danielle and grandson Gage, along with sister Lana (Brian) Butchart and their children, Monica and Ryan. He was predeceased by his parents Terry and Helen. Wayne’s interment took place at Greenwood Cemetery on August 23, 2014. Donations in memory of Wayne may be made to Greenwood Cemetery, c/o Box 23, Kenton, MB or BRHC Foundation for Palliative Care, 150 McTavish Avenue, Brandon, R7A 2B3.

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 30, 2014