Obituaries

CHARLES (CHARLIE) GREELEY

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of an incredible husband, dad, and grandad. Charles (Charlie) Greeley passed away peacefully on Monday, November 9, 2020, at Oakview Place.

Left to cherish Charles’ memory is his loving wife Elizabeth (Betty) of 62 years; his daughter Katherine; grandchildren, Kyle and Meghan Goderis (BC); his brother Dennis (June) Greeley (nephew Nevil and family) in Scotland, as well as other family members and friends in both Scotland and Winnipeg. Dad was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Euphemia Greeley and his brother James Greeley.

Charles was born on May 26, 1933 in Dundee, Scotland. He completed trade school in Dundee and came to Canada, in 1954, just prior to his 21^st birthday. An initial engineering position in Winnipeg then led him to the drafting office at Pioneer Electric. Dad married the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Whammond in 1958. For 62 years they shared a wonderful story of unconditional love and respect. Mom was the absolute love of his life. In October 1956, Charlie joined the City of Winnipeg Fire Department and worked out of the #1 Hall until he retired in May 1993. In 1968, Mayor Steve Juba set a precedent and awarded Dad, along with two other firefighters with a certificate of merit for “service beyond the call of duty”. This was the first time such a certificate had been awarded to any member of the Fire Dept. With a work ethic second to none, on his days off, Dad could be found washing windows and general home maintenance for neighbours and many homes in St. James and River Heights. He had a soft spot for all animals and nature. He also enjoyed a round of golf with friends and summer camping trips. Dad was very humble and had the kindest heart. It was his kind heart that continued to carry him for 37 years, following his first heart attack. He loved woodworking. He took great pride in his workshop, creating many wonderful crafts including sail boats, capturing his love for the sea. Dad’s handiwork could be found in many places around the house, always able to repair, build or renew something in the home. He also had a love for watercolours and enjoyed painting in his spare time. Dad and Mom travelled to many countries over the years and have albums filled with wonderful memories. Their home was always the hub for all celebrations and special occasions, filled with incredible food and good friends. On Christmas and New Years (Hogmanay) Dad could be found tending bar for friends and ensuring the stereo played his favourite Scottish tunes.

Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful support of friends and for the care Dad received at Deer Lodge Centre, Seven Oaks Hospital and most recently during his final days, at Oakview Place.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Charlie’s memory would be appreciated and may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Deer Lodge Centre Foundation or Manitoba Fire Fighters Burn Fund.

When the world rights itself, a celebration of life will be held and as promised, I will bring you home to Scotland Dad.

In our hearts forever.