Obituary of Tobias "Toby" Randell

September 12, 1942 - March 22, 2021 It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend at the age of 78 years on Monday, March 22, 2021 in Winnipeg, following a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his devoted wife Wanda; children Tobias Jr. (Val), Roy, Wayne, Tony (Rowanda), Mary (Ryan), Tasa (Lance), and Randy; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; brothers Ross (Merci) and Joshua (Ivy); as well as numerous nephews, nieces, friends and his dog Ginger. Toby was predeceased by his parents Uriah and Nellie Randell; his brothers Hiebert and Cleophus; and his sisters Cora and Effie. Toby was born in Williamsport, a remote fishing village on the Great Northern Peninsula in Newfoundland. He always considered himself a Newfoundlander as he was born before the Province joined Confederation. Toby was the 6th of 7 children. Growing up, he would go out in the fishing boats with his father, and later would work in the fish plant. Starting in his teenage years, he worked in construction until his retirement. Toby and Wanda met on January 3, 1985 and were married on June 28, 1986. Prior to meeting her, Toby had five children. He was a great hockey dad, and coach, spending many hours on the ice with his boys. When he met Wanda, she had two young children. He looked forward to their summer road trips in Canada and into the States, stopping at every mini golf site he could find. Toby loved to travel and especially loved his cruises. He and Wanda sailed the Eastern and Western Caribbean, thoroughly enjoying and exploring the different cultures and food, and he especially loved “fine dining” on the ships. They made many trips back to the East Coast over the years, and he finally visited family and friends in Newfoundland in 2015 – his first visit home in 33 years. They traveled to Newfoundland again in 2018. He made many friends throughout the years through his participation in the Manitoba Maritimers Association, Transcona Golf Club Dart League, and Brooklands Senior Activity Centre. He boiled many lobsters at Birds Hill Park, and at the famous “lobster do’s” every summer in his back yard. He was known to place a last minute call to friends on a Saturday Night inviting them to a Sunday Fish’N Brewis, or Jiggs Dinner. He was never happier than when entertaining in his home, with a meal, game of cards, or cheating at Marbles and Dice. His favourite sport was hockey - he loved the Maple Leafs and would boo the Canadiens! He loved to joke around, especially with his buddy Jack. In short, Toby was a character! Not only would he open his home to family and friends, he and Wanda hosted numerous international students over the years. He had a special bond with them, and they referred to him as their “Newfie” or “Canadian” Dad. He was especially close to his “Brazilian Daughter” Walkiria. Toby will be remembered for his cheerfulness, sense of humor, gatherings, and love of all things Newfoundland. Toby was able to remain in his home during the majority of his illness with the assistance of his palliative care team. The family wishes to especially thank his nurse Angela for her wonderful care and humorous visits. We would also like to thank Dr. Susan Green of CancerCare Manitoba. In accordance with Toby’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. If you wish, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation. I’m Still Here I may be gone but please don’t cry Death is not the last goodbye Death releases me of my pain There will come a day we will meet again Don’t be blue and don’t be sad Think back to the fun we had I am always here I hear you speak In time of trouble it’s me you seek You don’t see me but I see you I will do my best to pull you through Speak to me and I will hear Never far I am always near Be brave my love do not cry See you again it’s not goodbye By: John F. Connor