Raymond Tirrell Summerly

On October 21, 2019 at Golden West Centennial Lodge, Winnipeg, Raymond Summerly, beloved son, brother, friend, husband, brother-in-law, father, uncle, grandad and great grandad, passed away at the age of 91 years.

Dad is survived by four daughters, Susan (Ralph), Lynn (Sandy), Arlene (Harry) and Dale (Buck). He is also survived by ten grandchildren, Erika, Tim, Colin, Michael, Jennie, Perry, Tyrrill, Alyssa, Sara, Lucas, fourteen great grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Beth and 2 nieces, Donna and Barb.

Dad was born in 1928 to Ethel and Arnold Summerly. Dad often reminisced about the wonderful times he and his sister Betty had, growing up in the north end, on Jefferson Ave. He cherished his friendships and developed a strong work ethic and many lifetime skills. Dad was a regular Mr. Do-It-Yourselfer and Mr. Fixit! As a young adult, he met his bride-to-be at the PALA Club. They married in 1950 and enjoyed 48 years of wedded bliss. All four of his daughters were born in Winnipeg and then in 1964, he packed up the family and moved with Air Canada to Montreal. Upon retirement dad and mom moved back to Winnipeg where dad took on a courier position at the Portage and Main, Bank of Montreal. His second retirement allowed for many years of country living in Hilbre, Manitoba.

Dad was a devoted husband and father. He was most happy when surrounded by his family and friends. He loved to laugh and tell jokes. He also enjoyed the great outdoors, walking, riding his bike, skiing and swimming. Dad had an adventurous spirit and thought nothing of taking his young family on splendid vacations. He was an excellent dancer, could carry a tune and easily remembered the words to all his favourite music. Dad’s garden was the envy of his neighbours as he was a master gardener! Dad was generous and thankfully shared the vegetables and fruit that he endlessly tended. Dad equally loved to grow flowers and his roses were both beautiful and fragrant.

Dad, your family LOVED you and thought you were more than “just ducky”.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Golden West for their care. Christine B., thank you for your knowledge and compassion and for patiently answering the many questions that needed to be asked. Brenda R., you were a bright light in our father’s life. He truly loved his visits with you.

In keeping with dad’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family celebration of dad’s life will follow.