BRADSHAW ERNEST MAYFIELD - Obituaries (2024)

It is with love and sadness that we share the passing of our dear Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, Ernest (Brad/Brownie) Bradshaw, peacefully, on Thursday, December 21, 2023.

Predeceased by the love of his life Mona (2006), he was the devoted father and father-in-law to Ken and Mary Bradshaw, Wayne (predeceased 2012) and Robin Bradshaw, Donna and Tim Trach, Nancy Bradshaw and Doug McLellan, Dan Bradshaw and Heather Blue; proud grandfather of David (Meagan), Owen (Carolyn), Michael (Lisa), Megan (Kevin), Bailey, Quinton, and Joelle; blessed to be great-grandfather to Ellen, Lena, Kennedy, Billy, Willa and Lucas. Grand-dog Louie was a much loved visitor at the Maples Long Term Care home where Dad resided for the past four years.

His mother always said he was a very good son, and that he was; a good son, brother, and uncle. The son of Hannah Gertrude Hamilton and Daniel Norman Bradshaw, he was the last living of five children, predeceased by his infant sister Josephine, two older brothers, Morley Dal (Violet), Daniel (Kay), and younger brother Melvin (Win). He leaves behind his nine nieces and three nephews, cousins, and some very dear friends.

Our dad was a man of integrity. Humble, kind and sweet, he was loved and respected. He was the parent always in the stands for any game and in the audience for any concert or ceremony. In their 62 years of marriage, an incredible partnership, he and Mum made a home where all were welcome. Perhaps nothing epitomized this more than the friends of their children who would often drop in, just to have a visit with them (and hopefully a piece of Mrs. B’s chocolate cake). As a family, we were raised in the warm embrace of this environment and we were proud to extend this to our spouses, our children, and our children’s children. Dad gave us the most special Christmas traditions, summer camping trips, the desire to travel, and none more special than the care he took of the family cottage which he loved dearly. The legacy of Mum and Dad, and Nan and Pop, has made the cottage a place that generations of family continue to gather, reconnect, and enjoy.

Brownie was born and raised in Winnipeg. A prairie boy, he had a passion for farm life and enjoyed time on uncle Bill and auntie Annie's farm near Portage La Prairie. He has been welcomed by extended family to farm celebrations over the years (and to perhaps say a few words), and was always pleased to be included in these events.

He graduated from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute, and this year he would tell you that his high school and he were celebrating their 100th birthday in the same year. He remained deeply connected with the school as both a parent and, over the years, as a great organizer on alumnae committees.

He served in the R.C.A.F. from 1942 to 1945. While he did not go overseas, there were many postings across Eastern Canada which led to cherished lifelong friendships. He was a proud veteran and was committed to his 35 years of volunteer work with the Air Cadet League of Manitoba. Dad found great fulfillment and reward in his 30-year career with TCA/Air Canada, retiring in 1983. He was blessed to have made many lifetime family friendships which he valued and enjoyed.

Retirement also brought more time for grandchild enjoyment. As grandparents, Mum and Dad were a positive and present influence in their grandchildren’s lives. As youngsters, grandchildren enjoyed all sorts of adventures; be it sleepovers, camping trips, overseas travel, trips to the library, and much Winnipeg Beach cottage time. Their grandfather was proud of the adults they have become, their visits, letters, or reports of what was new in their lives, always giving him pleasure. As a great-grandfather, a visit from a great-grandchild, a shared photo, or a story would bring a smile to his face.

His deep roots as a West End boy were apparent in his years of involvement at Harstone United Church, where Mum and Dad found their family’s church home. Their contributions to the church and to the community through the activities they led remains a positive memory for many, particularly their ‘Hi-C Kids’, a teen youth group they led enthusiastically for years. After the closing of Harstone, they were welcomed into the community of Westminster Church. Dad’s skills were soon sought after and he took great pride in organizing the book room for the annual Westminster sale. After Mum’s passing, kind parishioners took Dad under their wing, which enabled him to continue enjoying church life for some time to come.

Ernie/Brownie/Brad/Mr. B/Mr. Bradshaw - known by many names depending on his age when you met him, or the circ*mstance of where you met him. But no matter what name you knew him by, he was the same person to all. He was rich in friends, both in Canada and overseas. The impact he had on others was exemplified by the numerous cards, letters, and tributes he received this past July 17th in honour of his 100th birthday. To have celebrated this milestone with him, and with such joy and fellowship, is a gift his family will not forget.

Our dad, father-in-law, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle, and friend was a great man. He never thought of himself that way and he would be the first to tell you he couldn’t believe his good fortune in winning Mona’s heart. He lived proudly, with kindness, courage and integrity, and always strived to do the right thing. His family was the most important thing to him, and he attributed his long life to being surrounded by their love. His quiet presence will be missed, but felt in the places we live our best lives.

We wish to express our gratitude to the staff of The Maples Long Term Care home and to his Home Instead companions. These caregivers have all been caring and compassionate and the world is a better place because of them.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to Grace Hospice c/o The Grace Hospital Foundation, 300 Booth Drive, R3J 3M7 or Westminster United Church, 745 Westminster Ave., R3G 1A5 would be appreciated.

Please join our family to remember Ernest Bradshaw on Saturday, January 20, 2024,10:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave., and at the reception to follow. Interment will be held Saturday afternoon at Brookside Cemetery.