Tribute

Frank passed peacefully in long term care in Lady Minto Hospital, Salt Spring Island, BC, following a brief illness related to a Covid infection. He was much loved by his wife, Gertrude, three children, Kimberley, Lyle, and Darrell, and a cohort of grandchildren consisting of three boys and five girls.

Frank was a favourite of the nursing team for his cheerful cooperation. He was always pleasant in the face of so much mandatory pandemic isolation. In spite of this, his family found ways to visit, be it through the window or internet or telephone.

Born into a large farming family near Morris, Manitoba, in a raging spring blizzard, Frank grew up working hard and enjoying sports. He married Gertrude Ginter in Swan River in 1957 and in 1966 he bought a farm in the Swan Valley which over the years provided a good living and lots of recreational opportunity, particularly for the children. Frank will be remembered by his brothers, sisters, large extended family, and neighbours for helping out whenever something needed to be done. For a number of years after his farm was sold Frank helped with seeding and harvesting with his brother
and nephews in Swan Valley. He very much looked forward to these busy seasons each year and being able to do his part on the team. He also helped his youngest son, Darrell, with his thriving business in Edmonton, building various tables, carts, and storage racks which continue to be in use currently. His volunteerism and leadership will be missed by his retirement community in Radium Hot Springs, BC where, for twenty-two years, he and Gertie were part of the hiking group, the Alliance Church, and the strata complex.

In 2018, Frank suffered a stroke, which drastically reduced his mobility, so Kim and family packed up the grandparents and moved them to Salt Spring Island. Frank celebrated his 92nd birthday with the family, accompanied by the staff (and Pepsi and cake) on the Extended Care patio. It was a beautiful day with balloons, flowers, and birdsong. Three weeks later he came down with Covid. Frank’s faith in his gracious God and Saviour was his sustaining strength throughout his whole life.

There will be a graveside service in June at the Rosenort EMC Cemetery in Manitoba where Frank’s remains will be laid to rest in his home turf.

To our best dad, husband, grandfather and role model: “May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.”