June 20, 1921 ‑ March 22, 2014

Gilbert will be warmly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Geraldine; sons Ted and Phillip (Leslie); three cherished grandchildren, Ian, Derek, and Kelsey; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by five brothers and two sisters; his favourite sister, Phyllis Nixon, died only recently. Gilbert was born in Gilbert Plains, MB, and at an early age, was involved in a car/train accident near Grandview in which his mother was killed, his father disabled and Gilbert hospitalized. As a result of this trauma, he experienced many life challenges, one of which was his decision to become a teacher. Consequently, with little financial help, but armed with courage and determination, he not only received a Vancouver Normal School Diploma, but three degrees from UBC.

During his 40‑year teaching career he taught French to English school students in Victoria, and English to French military students in Quebec. Retired and living in Winnipeg, he was a volunteer for 10 years with the Winnipeg Branch of Unitarian Service Committee (USC) Canada. He found satisfaction in knowing the money raised, often through shopping mall craft sales, was used for important projects such as “Seeds for Survival” in Ethiopia and/or in Mali “Desertification and Drought” projects. He was a member of the Winnipeg branch UN Association and supported peace organizations: Project Plough Shares and anti‑poverty associations such as LITE (Local Investment Towards Employment) and others.

His final years were troubled as a result of a major depressive disorder following a stroke. Our thanks to the Kildonan Personal Care Centre for exceptional, professional and kind care. A somewhat sad ending to a very productive life.