George (Ernie) Wilson

George Ernest Wilson

“Ernie”, “Pops”

June 29, 1941 - April 23, 2025
 

After a lengthy illness, Ernie peacefully completed his journey on Earth knowing that he was greatly loved and had lived a good life. Cherishing his memories and mourning his passing are his beloved partner, Lorraine Kovachik; daughters Marla, Janna, and Lori (Chad);  grandsons Christian (Sheehan), Isaac, and Malcolm George; step sons Bob (Monica), Jim (Evelyn), Glen, and their children Cameron, Colin, Amelia, David, Cole, Carter; as well as his nephews, nieces, and many others he was honoured to know as friends.

Ernie was predeceased by his parents George Henry and Jean Isabel, brother Wesley, sisters Eleanor Jean Elizabeth, Elsie Margaret and his wife of 42 years June Claire (née Trojack). 

Ernie grew up in Selkirk, Manitoba where he developed his love of sport and learning. He went on to complete his formal education at the University of North Dakota and the University of Western Michigan. He was an educator in the Seven Oaks School Division for over thirty years, taking great joy in supporting others as they developed their love of sport. In his retirement he continued to educate preservice teachers at the University of Manitoba.

While he loved all sports, Ernie had a special place in his heart for distance running; using his talent and hard work to earn athletic bursaries and academic scholarships to pay for his post secondary education. 

In his retirement years Ernie loved golfing at Pine Ridge golf club, curling at the Fort Rouge, being the sound system manager at Church, and travelling all over, including becoming a snowbird to Palm Springs. He loved spending time in Grand Beach and Bel Air, and cheering on the Winnipeg Jets. Ernie was always learning and approached things with an open mind. To him, anything he didn’t know or understand was a new adventure, experience, or activity waiting to enrich his life. 

Everyone who knew Ernie knew he had a particular skill set of being kind and friendly to everyone he met. It wasn't long before acquaintances became friends and then family. He loved life and wanted to experience it to the fullest.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Ridge II, St. Boniface Hospital, Victoria Hospital, the Health Sciences Centre, and everyone who reached out, visited, and supported Ernie.

If you are able, please join us for a celebration of Ernie’s life at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street on Friday, May 2nd, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation in Ernie’s name to the charity of your choice.

Please remember Ernie’s joy and excitement for living life, and the words you would hear while waiting to leave him a voicemail message:  “And say, wasn’t it great to wake up again this morning? Enjoy your day”

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