Obituary of Maurice Roy Van Walleghem

After a very lengthy battle with dementia, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maurice at Riverview Health Centre with his family by his side.

Maurice (“Papa”) will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years Cecile (“Mana”); children Debra (Colin) Grenkow, Norman (Debbie) Van Walleghem; grandchildren Michael (Chantal), Laryssa (Sid), Trevor, Meagan (Kevin), Kimberlee, Katelyn; great-grandchildren Nathan, Wilder, Leah. He also leaves behind brothers Albert, George, sister Marlene (Laurie); numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents Wilbur and Angela, sister Joan, and his best friend and gardening partner Vince Scaletta.

In his early years, Maurice dairy farmed in Fort Garry with his dad and brothers.  In the 70’s he started grain farming with his hired help turned best friend Henry Gumieny near LaSalle. A few years later he started a beef herd.  He was very proud that his kids carried on his farming legacy.  He was not afraid of starting any project big or small, he absolutely loved challenges!

Dad was very energetic and had many hobbies and interests. His absolute favorite was his huge garden and greenhouse! Not too many left dad’s place without a trunk full of veggies! His close second was his love of lawn bowling.  He competed in singles, doubles and team events across the country all the while making many bowling friends.  Maurice was passionate about supporting and promoting junior sports, always helping with fundraisers. Dad loved to be outdoors!  In younger years he hunted moose, elk, deer and made the most delicious sausage, salami and his famous blood sausage.  Papa was always a card shark!  He was very competitive at any game, especially crib and poker, but was truly the definition of good sportsmanship! When Maurice was at home with family or friends there was nothing he liked more than to get the deck of cards out and have a game.  And as anyone that knew him, he did not like to sit for too long, any spare time he had he was out walking endless miles.  Upon return, he always enjoyed a piece or two of Mana’s delicious pies!

Thank you to ALL the staff at Riverview Health centre that took care of dad during his final years. A very special thanks goes to Noelle, Melanie, Melissa. Much gratitude to Juliette and Emile whom spent countless hours visiting dad and driving Cecile to and from hospital.

A private celebration will be held at a later date.