Obituaries

ANDREW JOSEPH MESSNER
   It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Joseph Messner into Gods’ hands on Saturday, November 12, 2017 at the age of 84 years, recently of Ste. Anne, MB.   Left to survive Andrew are his loving wife Gisele (nee Jubinville) Messner of 64 years of marriage; his children, Teresa (Pierre) Lanoie, Mike (Sue) Messner, Dan (Kathleen) Messner, Eileen (David) Jones, John (Julie) Messner, Rebecca (Bruce) Schleicher; grandchildren Bob (Lindsay), Rachelle (Guy), Jolene (Curtis), Andrew (Leasha), Suzanne (Ian), Rick (Deanna), Jennifer (Brian),Jeremy (Heather), Stephanie (Mitch), Nic; Chris, Michael, Adam, Kevin, Janique (Thomas), Joel, Jaxon, and Noah; 22 great-grandchildren; siblings Mariette, Remi (Linda), Claire (Lawrence),Dennis (Anna), Yvonne (Jack); and many brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Gary; daughter Debbie and granddaughter Dawn-Marie; siblings Hilda, Edward and Anita; along with his parents Nick and Laurette Messner.   Andrew was avidly involved in his local parish, Mary Mother of the Church. While there he was involved in Parish Council, several committees, Knights of Columbus, actively taking part in the first Renew program, the Nathaniel program, and led bible studies for 11 years. He strongly believed his faith was the guide to his good life.   Starting his career as a heavy-duty mechanic in the Air Force, Andrew later continued his career with Manitoba Highways for 35 years. Upon retirement, he spent 11 years overseeing a community food bank. He was an accomplished curler, loved fiddling, country music and spent many years researching his family tree which led to the publication of his book, “The Genealogy of the Messner Family”.   Andrew’s greatest love in life was his wife Gisele and his family. He was best known for his patience and was an honest, gentle and compassionate man who lived his life with integrity, love and respect for others. His motto was to be kind and joyful at all times.   Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 17, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Mary Mother of the Church, 85 Kirkbridge Drive with Rev. Fr. Kevin Bettens presiding. For those who wish, viewing and prayers will be held at 10:30 a.m. prior to Mass.   The family would like to thank the staff at Ste. Anne Hospital along with the EMS personnel for the wonderful care and attention given to Andrew during his brief time in the community.   Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematoriums, Winnipeg, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com