WES CHARTER

Aana Wiyaga

CROWFEATHER

December 14, 1944 - August 16, 2016

 

On Tuesday, August 16, 2016, at the age of 71 Wes peacefully passed away at his residence with his wife Jan and his dogs Spirit, Medicine, Nitankshi and Pepper at his side.

 

Wes was predeceased by his first wife Ann, father Harvey, mother Selina, brother Lloyd and numerous four legged family members.

 

Wes was born on December 14, 1944, in Toronto, Ontario. He is survived by his wife Janet; son Wes, sister Sharon, and brother Jim. His grandchildren: Selina and Hayden, and great grandchildren: Sophia and Hudson. Nieces and nephews: Joe, Wanda, Melissa and Aaron.

 

Throughout his life he traditionally adopted many people as his family. His daughters Luna, Thera, Connie, Monica, Maroeska, Angie, Leanna and Dustin; sons Jason, Ryan, Vern and John; grandchildren Desiree, Cole, Kai, Joyce, Thunder, Dennis, Lucas, Hunter, Robin, Ronnie, Kaya, Cameron, Jenna and Rowan.

 

Wes grew up in southern Saskatchewan, primarily in Regina.  His teen and early adult years were spent doing a variety of jobs and activities. In his early thirties, he met and married Ann.  From Regina, Ann and Wes moved to Thompson, Manitoba where Wes worked with the Northern Nursing Program and later as a Probation officer.  It was while he was in the north that he became interested in learning about his indigenous identity and began to attend ceremonies.  He was particularly connected to the community of Shamattawa where he always felt welcomed and at home. Wes carried a deep respect for the indigenous people of northern Manitoba who taught and shared so many things with him.

 

From Thompson, Wes and Ann moved to Winnipeg.  Wes attended the University of Manitoba and received his Bachelor of Social Work degree while maintaining his employment as a probation officer.  Throughout his career Wes was active on numerous indigenous volunteer boards and committees. He retired from all positions in 2004 due to illness.

 

After the loss of his beloved Ann, Wes married Janet, a longtime friend of his and Ann's. Janet provided tireless care to Wes and was by his side throughout his illness.

 

Wes had a passion and respect for all dogs. He often stated how his dogs had taught him many valuable teachings. He was honored by how they shared their lives with him while allowing him to connect with the joys of his inner child and showing him the world from a different point of view.  He looked forward to and enjoyed his daily walks with them where they introduced him to numerous other “four-leggeds” in the neighborhood.

 

Wes's quick sense of humor, warm smile and honesty will be sorely missed.  He was viewed as a mentor and elder by many and could be counted on for his directness and ability to break things down so they were easily understood.

 

Health issues created many challenges during Wes's final years, but he handled it with dignity, patience and humour.  He even followed doctor's orders.

 

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Sheldon Permack as well as the Doctors and Nurses at the Seven Oaks Home Hemo Dialysis Clinic for the kind, compassionate and excellent care that was provided to Wes and his family.

 

His life will be celebrated at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, August 21, 2016 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg, 603 Wellington Crescent at Academy Road.

 

Flowers are gratefully declined however the family would encourage memorial contributions to the Winnipeg Humane Society.

 

Friends and relatives are encouraged to share in photos, memories, stories and condolences using the form on this page.