FRANK MCDONALD

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FRANK MCDONALD On May 1, 2005, at Victoria General Hospital, Frank passed away to join his dear wife Audrey, after a mercifully short struggle with cancer. He is survived by his children, Shannon (Lorne Charbonneau), Dan (Sonia); grandchildren, Elizabeth, Alexandra, Jon, Colin, Richard, Andrew, Holly and Noelle; his sisters, Millie, Isabel and Margaret; and many nephews and nieces. He will also be missed by the many friends he made in his life and countless others he helped and supported. Frank was born February 9, 1928, and lived his whole life in the West End of Winnipeg, except for brief periods in Thunder Bay and Los Angeles. He was one of 11 children, in a deeply religious Catholic family, and attended St. Edward's and St. Paul's schools. His faith led him to attend mass daily, deepen his understanding in the Nathanial deaconate program and devote numerous hours ministering to the sick and bereaving of his community. Frank had two careers, first as a railroader and later as a salesman, but later in life he found his true calling, as a caregiver to his spouse, siblings and many others in palliative care searching for comfort and meaning at the end of their lives. He had the ability to make quick friends, wherever and whatever he did, and he kept those friends close throughout his life. His quick smile, and sharp wit, drew people to him, whether he met them through work, church, golf, curling, or playing pool with the guys at Donwood West, his last residence. He was a humble and generous man, of simple wants, but particular tastes. As with his friends, he never tired of and rather relished those things he found to his liking. A good roast, the view over Caddy Lake, a roadside bag of fresh peas, small white dogs, crossword puzzles, wine gums and weekend sports, were lifetime examples of his many strong preferences. The McDonald family sends a special thank you to the caring and compassionate staff on the 5th floor of Victoria General. Nurses Marian, Wendy and Sharon, and Doctor Ken, did everything they could to ensure Frank's last days were comfortable, peaceful and filled with kindness. Funeral mass will be sung on Friday, May 6 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 510 River Ave., with viewing starting at 9:30 a.m. Rev. Fr. Sam Argenziano will be presiding at the Eucharist. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Manitoba, 2109 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, R3J 0L3, an organization Frank supported intently. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 04, 2005