Thomas Wayne Rees

On Saturday, November 7th, 2020, Thomas Wayne Rees, loving husband, father and grandfather passed peacefully away at his home with his beloved wife, Bernice, of 54 years by his side. 

Wayne was born on December 20th, 1940 in Winnipeg to Thomas and Jean Rees.  Growing up he enjoyed spending time with his Aunt Alice, Uncle Casmir and cousins at their family farm outside of Beausejour Manitoba.

Wayne started working at 15 years old for the CNR as a telegram delivery person.  He diligently delivered telegrams by bike through snow, sleet, rain, and heat.  He later worked for CNCP and Unitel as an office clerk, from where he retired after 35 years.

He married Bernice Stratechuk on July 2nd, 1966.  They raised three daughters, Kimberly, Karen, and Glynis.  Since family and tradition were significant to Wayne, he adopted the Ukrainian Catholic faith and Ukrainian traditions.  He methodically kept a record of family birthdays and anniversaries.  Everyone would receive a card signed in his distinctive calligraphic signature that was the envy of everyone. 

Wayne was meticulous and private.  Although he was a quiet person, he had a dry sense of humour and loved telling jokes and stories.  He was not shy about offering his opinion on the topic at hand. He had Fred Astaire's feet; elegantly demonstrated as he and Bernice would twirl circles on the dance floor from a jive to a waltz, and even a kolomeyka. 

He prided himself in being physically active; walking, biking, cross country skiing, skating and canoeing. He could not get enough of classic movies and especially if they were in black and white.  He religiously watched figure skating every season, every episode of Downtown Abbey and Star Trek- adhering to the mantra - live long and prosper. 

Wayne and Bernice travelled throughout their 54 years of marriage.  Internationally to Japan to visit Glynis, Wales to meet the Rees extended family, Alaska and many KOA campgrounds in the USA.  They travelled coast to coast to coast in Canada.  Camping and canoeing became a passion. 

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Jean Rees and his in-laws John and Mary Stratechuk.  He is survived by his wife Bernice, his three daughters Kimberly (Frank; Brayden and Cole), Karen (Scott; Shaelynn, Darian), and Glynis (Matthieu, Gabrielle).  Sister-in-law Charlotte (Stuart; Lauren, Ian), Brother-in-law Melvin (Sharon; Kyle, Eric).  

Since Christmas was Wayne’s favourite time of year, we ask that on December 24th each person around the dinner table chooses their favourite Christmas Carol and everyone carols after dinner.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ the King Ukrainian Catholic Church Cemetary Fund, Sheho, SK. S0A 3T0 where family interment will be held at a later date. Or to Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 390 Marion Street, Winnipeg, MB. R2H 0V5.  Or as Wayne was an avid blood donor, blood or monetary donation to your local Canadian Blood Services.

The family would like to thank Wayne’s Medical Team of Dr. F. Salem and Dr. C. Lau for their diligent attention and countless hours.  Also, to Father D. Kawiuk for his spiritual guidance and support.  Lastly, to family and friends for your prayers, phone calls, and compassionate support.

Vichnaya Pamyat-Memory Eternal

Korban Funeral Chapel

(204) 956-2193

www.korbanchapel.com