Mr. Gene Leonard Sobie

Gene was born in Red Lake, ON in 1945 and grew up in the West End of Winnipeg. He spent many summers as a youngster helping out on the family farm in Meleb, MB. He was well-known on the rinks and diamonds of Orioles Community Club and he attended Daniel Mac, where he met the love of his life, Carole. Gene and Carole were married in 1967 and would have celebrated their 55th anniversary this year.

One could never accuse Gene of taking a short cut. He worked hard in all aspects of his life to ensure his family had all they needed. His professional career was based in the insurance and financial services industries. He got his start at Monarch Life in 1964, spending the better part of three decades there, climbing the ranks to become a highly regarded and respected Manager in the Group Pension and Benefits division. In 1992 he joined Rice Financial where he spent the latter part of his career as their National Compliance Officer, retiring in 2006.

Gene was an exceptional athlete and a fierce competitor. He excelled at hockey and baseball, and over the years developed many close and lasting friendships with teammates and opponents alike. He continued to enjoy sport throughout his life and as a valued coach, he shared his knowledge and love of the game with his children and the community. When he wasn’t coaching, he loved to watch his kids play and he never missed a game.

His passion in retirement involved the honing of his golf game. He could often be spotted practicing his swing (without a club) in the backyard or family room. A proud member of the Elmhurst Golf & Country Club for 35 years, he loved spending time at “the club” with friends and family.

He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed a walk through the woods in any season. Gene, Carole, and the kids spent many enjoyable times at the family cottage in Gimli – a place he cared deeply for. Gene and Carole also took many memorable trips to BC and California visiting friends and family along the way.

Above all, Gene could always be counted on. When the chips were down, he would step in without a moment of hesitation to help. He took care of us, and we will forever remember all of the care he provided through the years.

Left to mourn Gene’s passing are his loving wife Carole, daughter Susan (Dwight Ewanika), and son Greg (Megan). Being “Gigi” to Audrey and Adele was his all-time favourite job. His granddaughters were the light of his life and they will carry wonderful memories of him through their lives. He will be missed by his siblings and their families: Gord (Marianne), Duane (Hazel), and Marge (Ron Brown). Gene will be fondly remembered by the families of Carole’s siblings, Wayne Carter and Audrey Allen – as well as many other friends and family.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff and nurses at Concordia Hospital for their kind and compassionate care, with special thanks to nurse Lidia. A celebration of life will be held on March 1, 2022 at 1:30 pm at Klassen Funeral Home (1897 Henderson Highway). A virtual service will also be offered.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s memory can be made to the Elmhurst Legacy Fund (c/o Elmhurst G & CC, 23113 PR 213, Springfield, MB R5R 0B5 - [email protected]).