Kelly Irvine, the beloved husband of Gail, passed away at home on April 18, 2017 at the age of 61 years. 

 

He is survived by his wife Gail; children Grant, Crystal, Shawna (Clayton), Celeste Sweeney (Scott), Kevin (Amanda) and Keith; grandchildren Kayla, Riley, Keanan, Raena, Harlie, Niko, Avery and Nevaeh; great grandchildren; siblings Raymond, Candace, Melissa Witt and Daphne Hartman; brothers-in-law William Helstrom, Wayne Helstrom (Cindy), Byron Helstrom (Sherry), Garth Helstrom (Heidi); sisters-in-law Ruth Lagomdiere, Jean Helstrom, Linda Fulmore (Brian), Beverly Zazalak and Arlene Burnell (Mike); and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Kelly was predeceased by his parents Jean and Earl; Donna, Deidre Irvine-Scott, Ferne Chartrand and Stephanie; grandson Tyler Hawula; mother-in-law Hazel Helstrom (nee Ganton), father-in-law Alvin Helstrom; and brothers-in-law Denis Lagomdiere and Robert Helstrom.

 

Kelly was born in Manitou, Manitoba, raised in La Riviere, Manitoba where he created many life long friendships.  He moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba as a young adult.

 

He spent the majority of his career in the automotive industry where he excelled and established a strong network of friends.  He retired in 2009 and enjoyed his time at home.

 

He met the love of his life Gail at work and they married in July 1984.  Their relationship endured and flourished through life’s ups and downs. 

 

Kelly enjoyed being outdoors, travelling and loved camping.  His greatest joy was spending time with his family.

 

Kelly worked, lived and laughed hard.  His teasing and jokes will be missed by all that loved him.

 

The family would like to extend their heart felt thanks to the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and the Winnipeg Police Service for their help and kind words on that tragic day.  They would also like to thank the staff at the St. Boniface PD and Renal Health Clinic for their tireless assistance and upbeat attitude; you were a bright spot in a trying time.  

 

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Kelly can be sent to The Kidney Foundation of Canada www.kidney.ca.

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A celebration of life for Kelly will be held between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Sunday, May 7, 2017 in the St. Charles Country Club, 100 Country Club Blvd.

 

It is important to note that there is a dress code at the St. Charles Country Club. Please ensure your dress is at least business casual (denim is permitted but collared shirts required a requirement).

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“The World is Yours”

by:  Keith Irvine

​

There was once a time long ago,

in which I looked up and marveled

at your strength and capabilities.

I would watch you work, and

work you did, and in pure amazement

I sat and watched.  I did not understand how

you could, then one day you opened my eyes,

you took me under your wing

and showed me the way, your way.

 

I began to learn, I started to become skilled.

I started to master all of your techniques.

Then like a flash of light it all stopped.

I blinked,

once I opened my eyes again

everything was different.

 

Your body and soul seemed worn and haggard,

You seemed to look up at me, admiring my youth,

you started to wish that you were me,

as I once wished I was you.

 

Then it struck me, once you said

“The world is yours, just reach out grab a

hold of it and never let go.”

Upon instinct I spread my arms

and wrapped them around you.

You are my world and I’ll never let go.