Evelyn Wray

Born in Dauphin, Manitoba, it would be hard to imagine a time when her feet didn’t hit the ground running. Growing up on the family farm with her brothers and sister, she took school very seriously and went on to pursue a teaching career in Brandon. While there, not only did she drive a fancy car, formed many of her lifelong friendships, and later obtained her private pilot’s licence.

Evelyn expanded her horizons by going to Germany to teach at the R.C.A.F base near Baden, Germany. She travelled all throughout Europe, the Middle East and Egypt. In Germany she met the love of her life, Harry, an Air force pilot. Mom would definitely tell you about the fabulous times of the 60’s, her favorite decade. The 70’s brought marriage, children and a move back to Canada. She always kept busy, whether it be gardening, baking, cooking, taking classes, or working. She fully integrated our family into any community we moved to, whether it be Cold Lake, AB., Ottawa, Panama City, FL or Winnipeg.

She was compassionate, kind, fiercely determined and energetic, and it showed in every aspect of her life. After she retired, she gave back by volunteering with many organizations and events. Whether she was volunteering on the political campaign trail, Fort Whyte Alive, the Winnipeg Art Gallery, her many sporting events especially her beloved Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Evelyn would always be the one to strike up a conversation and be genuinely interested in you. This was her gift and those interactions, friendships and relationships truly blossomed. For now we grieve, as is the price of a lost love, but our hearts will smile again with cherished memories of the time we shared.

Evelyn is survived by her loving husband Harry; daughters Jeanine (Stephen Madrigga), Leanne (Kyle Goerz); beloved grandsons Austin Madrigga, Brandon and Jordan Goerz; brother David (Zelma) Coombs; sister Irene Coombs (Phil Rosenzweig); sister-in-law Sonia Coombs; and numerous nephews and nieces and extended family.

She was predeceased by her parents Bert and Anne Coombs (nee Slobodzian); and her brother Ken.

Due to the challenges of Covid-19 there will be no immediate celebration of life ceremony and a family burial will take place in Dauphin at a later date.