On January 25, 2023, after a battle with Parkinson's Disease, with my wife Phyllis beside me I passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital in Winnipeg, MB.
I was born in Edmonton, AB, and moved to Winnipeg with my mom and dad when I was seven years old. I attended St. Emile Catholic School, and then spent my high school years at Glenlawn Collegiate. My career started at Safeway, before I moved on to work for Canada Packers for thirty-six years.
I was predeceased by my father, Thomas, and mother, Charlotte, as well as several of my in-laws. I leave behind one remaining sister-in-law, Patricia Kroeger, and several nieces, nephews, and beloved friends. I also thank my best friend and partner of 63 years, Phyllis, for our life together. Whenever you get lonely, just remember I will always be with you. Think about the laughter we shared on our many trips, which were some of my greatest joys.
Phyllis and I loved travelling together. We visited many countries in Europe, including the Netherlands, France, England, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and more. We also travelled to Trinidad and Tobago, Bonaire, Aruba, Singapore, Thailand, Bali, Hong Kong, and East Africa. We enjoyed exploring North America, too, and visited the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, Niagara Falls, Banff, Florida, Hawaii, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin for the car races, among many other destinations.
Walking along the Great Wall of China was my favourite trip, followed by our experience riding the bullet train in Japan. Phyllis and I also went on 21 wonderful cruises, the last of which was a beautiful trip to Alaska in 2022.
I want to thank all the wonderful nurses and staff at Victoria Hospital for the care they provided during my last weeks, especially those on floor 5-S. Dr. Adams and Dr. Cavers, thank you for the compassionate care you gave me. I would also like to thank my home care staff, Angela, Erwin, Kevin, and Olia. You guys were great!
My life was an exciting ride, but now I'm ready to reunite with my family and all my in-laws. May all of you stay happy and healthy. God bless!
The funeral service will be held Saturday, February 4 at 10 a.m. at Green Acres Funeral Home, located on Hwy #1 at Navin Road, Winnipeg. Those wishing to view this obituary and join the service by livestream may do so by visiting: www.greenacresfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Parkinson Canada - Winnipeg office would be greatly appreciated.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.greenacresfuneralhome.com for the Sipkema family.
