Vern SINCLAIR

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SINCLAIR: Peacefully, after a brief illness, with family by his side, Vern Sinclair passed away in Brandon on Sunday, September 18, 2016, at the age of 88 years. Vern was born February 7, 1928 in Roland, MB. After completing 1st year engineering studies at United College and a few odd jobs, Vern commenced his career with Manitoba Hydro, working in various communities throughout the province. While working in Portage la Prairie, Vern met Gwen Richter and they were married on June 20, 1953. Shortly thereafter they relocated to Teulon where their children were born. Brandon became home in 1969. In the early years, all family road trips involved singing, with Vern’s baritone and Gwen’s alto in the front seat, and three young voices in the back seat. Songs such as Sipping Soda, This Land is Your Land, King of the Road and many others were family favourites. In later years, family gatherings included sing-alongs with Sid on guitar and Lynne playing harmonica. Volunteering had always been a huge part of Vern's life and became even more so after retirement from Hydro in 1986 following a 38 year career. He was involved with the Masonic Lodge and transported cancer patients to Winnipeg for 19 years. He was a member of UCT, canvassed for many charities, and was a very active member of AA for many years, during which time he supported and helped so many people. He was recognized for raising the most pledges by an individual for the Terry Fox Run for two consecutive years. Vern’s interests were varied and included golfing, curling, baseball, hockey, music, dancing and playing crib. Vern and Gwen were members at Glen Lea Golf course for many years, and then later at Northern Pines. Vern was extremely social. In fact, Vern’s family believes that he viewed all strangers as friends he hadn’t met yet. He would park his walker, sit on it, and talk to anyone whether he knew them or not! Vern is survived by his loving wife Gwen; his children Keith, Lynne (Sid), Kathy (Nick); grandchildren, Alison (Will), Jeff, Curtis, Hilary and Alicia, brother- in-law Ernie Richter and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Charles and Violet and his older brother Huntley. A Celebration of Vern’s Life will be held at Memories Chapel, 330 18th Street North, on Friday, September 23, 2016 at 1:00 pm. The family would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses on the 4th floor of BRHC and the 3rd floor of the Assiniboine Centre for the wonderful care Dad received during his short stay. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Vern may be made to a charity of choice. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.memorieschapel.com.

As published in Brandon Sun on Sep 22, 2016