George “Claire” passed away peacefully at his residence at Davidson Memorial Health Centre in Cartwight, Manitoba on January 8, 2025. Claire was born on February 16, 1945 in Brandon, Manitoba and was the youngest of three boys born to Roy and Beryl Bartley. He was raised and attended school in the Carroll and Souris areas. Claire met Barbara (Ryckman) while working as a beverage waiter at the old Souris Hotel where she worked as a waitress. They married on September 16, 1967 in Souris and spent 51 years together before Barb’s passing in 2018. They raised three girls together, Kimberly, Heather and Tammy. Claire did numerous jobs throughout his life but from 1976 to 2005 he was employed by the Department of Highway where he retired as a grader operator. In 1985 Claire and Barb relocated to Brandon with their family and resided there until 2008 when they relocated to Killarney. Dad was an avid reader, loved fishing, camping, and watching planes, trains and people. He loved music and dancing, telling stories and jokes. He knew people in almost every place you could think of. Claire spent quite a few years refereeing hockey (a sport he loved) in and surrounding the Souris and Brandon areas, as well as being an avid hockey fan. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and they were one of his greatest joys in life from the time they were born until his passing. Claire was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Barb, his mother and father, and one brother. Claire leaves to mourn his three children; Kimberly (Jason) Soltys, Heather (Kevin) Skeoch and Tammy (David) Holowchuk, and three beautiful grandchildren; Kayla, Courtney and Brody. The family wishes to extend their deepest thanks and gratitude to the staff at Davidson Memorial who cared for Dad during the final couple of years of his life. A celebration of Claire’s life was held on January 16, 2025 at Kowalchuk’s Funeral Chapel in Souris with Reverend Douglas Craig officiating. Private interment has taken place at Souris and Glenwood Cemetery. In memory of Claire, donations may be made to Davidson Memorial Health Centre in Cartwright Manitoba.
Our condolences to the family. Linda Rainville ((nee Ardagh) and husband Claude Rainville
So sorry to hear of Claire’s passing. I had some great visits with him at the apartment when I was walking home in the mornings with the dog. He had an awesome memory and could tell stories for hours. He’ll be happy he’s back with your mom and I’m sure they will all be drinking coffee at grandmas table! Another angel to watch over you all. He will be missed by many.
We extend our condolences to the family’s of Claire, so Sorry to hear.
We go back many years ago when
we lived in Souris.
Hug’s
Bill & Bernice Petras
Kim, Heather, Tammy and families. We are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I remember well running into your parents at the mall in Brandon having coffee. They were always both smiling with a big hello! Keeping you all in our thoughts as you navigate the difficult days ahead. May your memories and friends bring you comfort.
My deepest sympathies to Kim Heather and Tammy and their families
We had many great times when they lived in Brandon area and had a wonderful visit when Rick and I visited him in Killarney
This world has lost a kind and gentle man
Love from Lois (Irwin)Cinnamon
Keith Sheila and Pauline
To Heather, Kevin and Brody ; My sincere sympathy in the loss of your Dad and Grandpa .
Kim, Heather, Tammy and families, we are so sorry to hear of Claire’s passing. He was a wonderful father, husband, and man. This world will miss his stories and incredible personality. We always looked forward to visits with him. Time and distance has meant that those visits were very few in later years but memories of earlier times with him and Barb are still cherished and in our hearts.