Wade Hamelin

John ‘Wade’ Alexander Hamelin

August 26, 1946 – August 4, 2016

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Wade Hamelin. Wade passed away peacefully at the Selkirk and District General Hospital on Thursday August 4th after an eight month battle with cancer.

Wade was predeceased by his parents Tony and Blanche (nee Bray), and younger sister Janet. He leaves to cherish his memory: Arlene (nee DeMeyer) his loving wife of 48 years; daughters Sharron (Kevin) and Colleen (Jay); grandsons Anthony (Jenna) Potvin, Reid and Cade Ahntholz, Chance and Maxden Ducharme; “favourite granddaughter” Ashley (Clint) Schroeder; great granddaughters Chloee and Myliee Potvin; brother Ian (Kathy) Hamelin and sister Jean (Don) Krampetz; Arlene’s extended family; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins throughout Canada and the United States.

Wade was born in Portage la Prairie and growing up, lived in Poplar Point MB, Coquitlam BC, Kirkfield Park and Baie St. Paul MB. Following their marriage, Wade and Arlene lived in Fannystelle and Headingley prior to retiring at Johnson Beach, Oak Point MB... Wade loved the lake and his many friends there.

Wade’s working life started at age 15, operating heavy construction equipment, and in subsequent years he owned a garage and bulk fuel dealership in Fannystelle. A self-taught mechanic Wade founded and operated “Wade’s Diesel” in Headingley for over 30 years where he earned a reputation as a much sought-after diesel mechanic. In retirement Wade continued to dabble in mechanics and engaged in trucking on a seasonal basis, including hauling freight to Northern Manitoba on the ice roads. In addition, Wade and Arlene spent several winters as “Snow-birds” enjoying extended holidays with friends in Yuma Arizona and Puerto Penasco Mexico.

Throughout his life, Wade enjoyed many hobbies; among them, carpentry, hunting and fishing. He particularly enjoyed his involvement with the Red River Métis Heritage Group and their weekend and annual horse-drawn treks. A personal highlight for Wade was the Group’s two summers journey “In the Footsteps of our Ancestors” from St. Norbert Manitoba to Batoche Saskatchewan in 2005/2006. These were adventures in which Wade excelled: outdoor activity with physical, geographical and mechanical challenges; the utilization of authentic “horsepower”; friendships developed through shared goals and teamwork; capped off by camaraderie at the end of each day.

As a devoted Father and Grandfather, Wade was always available to lend his mechanical expertise to repair or fix just about anything. Above all, Wade loved that his interest in horses extended to his daughters and their families, and he thoroughly enjoyed and supported their ongoing participation and success in gymkhana and rodeo competitions over many years.

Wade loved animals. In addition to horses, from an early age Wade always had a pet dog. None were so favoured as his beloved “Blue”, his constant companion who visited him regularly during his final stay in hospital.

The family wishes to thank the devoted friends and healthcare professionals who demonstrated their support, commitment and kindness to Wade and the family during his battle with cancer. Specific appreciation is extended to Tammy Hagyard-Wiebe, Tara Bergner, and the dedicated staff of the Selkirk and District General Hospital.

Respecting Wade’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held. Wade loved a good party; therefore a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

If family and friends so wish, donations may be made to: the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, 675 McDermot Ave, Wpg MB, R3E 0V9; or the Palliative Care Services Program, Selkirk and District General Hospital, Box 5000, Selkirk MB, R1A 2M2.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com