Obituary of Ron Gilkes

On July 10, 2023, Ron (Ronald) Frank Gilkes, aged 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Saint Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Ron Gilkes is survived by his six children: Debbie (Gerald), Rachael, Bobby (Tina), Dean (Nicole), Margaret (Frank), and Ronald Jr. He is also survived by his siblings Andrew, Mildred, Beatrice and Donna. Ron leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, as well as many close extended family members.

Ron is predeceased by his loving wife of 59 years, Anne, his siblings Roy and Alberta, his brother in-law’s Ollie, Ralph and Huey, his sister-in-law’s Jan and Lynne, his son-in-law Mike and granddaughter Brittany.

Born on October 16, 1934, to Pearl Fiddler and Albert Gilkes, Ron spent his early years taking the train to Winnipeg Beach, where he enjoyed dances, roller coasters, and time on the beach. It was there that he met the love of his life, Anne, with whom he raised six beautiful children.

Ron formed lifelong friendships wherever he went, both socially and professionally. He dedicated 22 years to working with the City of Winnipeg where he took pride in his work and was known as a great Foreman to work with. Several of his children and grandchildren have followed in his footsteps and work for the City of Winnipeg.

After retiring, Ron and Anne settled in the town of Winnipeg Beach. Despite retirement, Ron continued to work hard, volunteering for the Town of Winnipeg Beach. He was involved in marking and maintaining soccer fields, assisting with town events, riding and maintaining snowmobile trails, and helping his neighbors whenever they needed it. Ron was also a proud and devoted animal lover, treating every pet like a cherished member of the family.

Ron and Anne raised a big and very close family.  The memories of summer nights, dancing around the bon fire will be held tight by all his family and especially his grand kids. 

In his final years, Ron could often be seen motoring around town on his scooter, bringing treats to his grandkids and stopping by to visit with friends and family or closing down the disco on Mexico trips.  Special thanks to Ron Gilkes Jr. for taking such great care of him these last few years when he needed it most, as well as Sheena and Declan for the quality time they spent with Ron.

Ron, to say your presence will be missed is an understatement. Your legacy as a fun and dependable family man will endure eternally. Your spirit will continue to live on as loved ones reminisce about your amazing dance moves, clever one-liners, and unwavering commitment to living life to the fullest.

Special thanks to the staff at Gimli Hospital and St. Boniface Hospital for the care they provided to Ron and his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, 20 Hamilton Ave, Winnipeg Beach on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 2-6PM.  Family and friends are welcome to stop in and share some stories about Ron.