Obituary of Ernest Wilcox

WILCOX: It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Ernest 'Ernie' Wilcox on August 10, 2015 in Brandon. Ernie will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife of 63 years, Catherine, and by his children, Sherrill (Claude), Karen (Gregg), Janet (Phil), and Neil (Randy). Also left to cherish his memory are eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Ernie grew up in Elkhorn, Manitoba as the brother of Leroy, Bernice, Lyle and Marie, and son of Albert and Alice. A proud World War II veteran, Ernie served this country in Europe for four years. Following the war, he studied dairy technology at the University of Manitoba which led him to a 40 year career at MANCO Dairies in Brandon. It was there that he met a young woman who quickly captured his heart. Catherine Wood and Ernie were married on September 13, 1952 and from that day till his last she was the love of his life. Together they raised their family with selflessness, love, and encouragement. They instilled in their children a deep respect for family and leave a legacy of kindness and generosity that will live for generations to come. During the early years there were many camping trips filled with adventure and fun. Later on the family built a cottage together at Oak Lake where many summers were spent with family and friends. Ernie was keenly interested in the lives of his family and was fiercely proud of their accomplishments. All of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren will fondly remember his cheerful disposition, his sense of humour, his laughter, his good spirited teasing and above all, his love. During his 30 year retirement Ernie became an avid golfer ultimately joining the 'hole in one' club at Glenlea. He also enjoyed woodworking and creating wonderful scroll saw creations. Although content to be at home, Ernie was curious about the world and enjoyed trips to Europe, Vegas, Florida, and cruises to Alaska and the Panama Canal. He was an active member of the Legion and proudly volunteered to share war memories at Remembrance Day services in and around Brandon. Cremation has taken place. Following a private interment a celebration of Ernie's life will be held at Central United Church, 327-8th Street, Brandon, on Thursday, August 20, 2015 at 2:00pm with Rev. Joe Ball officiating. To honour Ernie's memory and his love of golf, feel free to wear your favourite golf shirt. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, 'Acute Care', 150 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, MB, R7A 2B3 or to the Brandon Humane Society, 2200-17th Street East, Brandon, MB, R7A 7M6. Ernie was a kind, gentle man and a gifted conversationalist who chose to spend his time laughing rather than waste time arguing. He lived his life simply and honourably and focussed his attention squarely on his family. He was not a famous nor wealthy man, but he was a rich man indeed. For anyone who, at 95 years old, leaves this earth knowing he is deeply loved and respected by so many truly has it all. Rest well sweet man, rest well. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.