May 17, 1958 – December 23, 2021
It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Lorne Szmerski on December 23, 2021. He leaves to mourn his loving wife and best friend of 45 years Patsy; daughter Jaime (Derek); son Clayton (Nicole); and his precious grandchildren Rylan and Kailyn, Roxul, Halo and Luxor. Also left to cherish his memories are his sisters Shelly (Mitchell) and Colleen (Art); many sister and brother in-laws; several nieces and nephews; special aunties, uncles and cousins, and Don.
Lorne was predeceased by his parents Stan & Rosalie Szmerski; Gerda; some very close family members and a few very close friends.
Lorne loved anything outdoors; including boating and fishing which drew him and Patsy to purchase an island with their best friends Peter and Kim. He enjoyed over 30 years of making island memories. He retired from Milner Ridge Correctional Center in 2016. His love for hunting, gardening and any yard maintenance led him to the perfect parcel of land where he could “do it all” and enjoy retirement. He raised chickens, grew vegetables, and took pride in his extra-large heads of garlic. Anyone who came to visit “The Garlic Man”, left with a bag of fresh veggies, a jar of pickles, salsa and of course a few heads of garlic. Lorne was a proud member of the Manitoba Metis Federation and became the vice chairman for the LDB local. He helped many Metis members throughout his 3 ½ year term and was very happy to do so.
Lorne was a very generous man, and most will remember him as the man with a joke or trick up his sleeve. Everyone that knew him has a “Lorne” story to tell.
Lorne’s medical issues had caused him to recently take things a little bit slower after being diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. The family wants to take the time to thank all of Lorne’s doctors, Lisa, and his team of mental health advisors.
As per Lorne’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of his Life will be held at “The Island” at a later date.
Lorne,
Have I told you lately that I love you (Rod Stewart).
Until we meet again, Patsy xoxoxo
Offer Condolence for the family of Lorne Douglas Szmerski
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Sally Charlie hirst
So heart broken for Lorne’s decision and his beautiful family bearing this sudden loss of husband, father, and grandpa. ((God works in mysterious ways that it’s hard to understand, but Lorne and him made this decision and he’s being lifted by angels to his new home)). Let’s grant Lorne his last wish and give support to his family left behind. There’s a reason for everything. Bless youse all in this time of heavy hearts and despair.
Kathryn Hogan
To the family and friends of Lorne,
I met Lorne and the Szmerski family 40 years ago when I was working in Bissett. The kindest folks you could ever hope to meet. I hope the memories of your lives together along with the support and love of your friends and family carry you through this most difficult time.
My deepest condolences,
Kathryn Hogan
Freda Van Niekerk and Richard Gatien
Dear Patsy and family, I just heard the sad news when I phoned your sister Ronnie today. Words cannot express how sorry and shocked we are to hear this. I know he was a great man and will be missed by many. We will keep you in our prayers.
Georgia
When I think of Lorne, I remember his kindness and welcoming and giving nature. He’d be the one to “give you the shirt off of his back”. His and Patsy’s support over the last couple of years has meant a great deal to me, and I know it did to Calvin as well. I hope Calvin and Lorne are together telling funny stories and just having a good time together now, pain free. I will miss Lorne’s laugh and his teasing and joking nature. Rest In Peace Lorne, a good and kind soul gone too soon.
Sherry Meade
My heart is broken for you, my old co-worker/friend, and your family. Words cannot express the sorrow so many of us feel. I will always remember the many laughs we had as we shared an office and how you found humour in everything. Rest in peace Lorne. May your family somehow, someday find healing.
Char Silvester
Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. So sorry to hear of your loss. Take comfort in the happy memories ❤️
Phil Meade
So sorry to hear the news, sincere condolences to the family
Bonnie Meade
My deepest condolences to patsy and family, Rest In Peace Lorne.
Roberta and Fjoyd Carlson
So very sorry for your loss Patsy and family our condolences hugs
Connie Dancyt
Our thoughts & prayers to family & friends,
Treasure the precious memories!
Sincerely,
Connie & Curtis
Cathy Olive
Sincerest Sympathy to all of Lorne’s family & friends during this very sad time of loss. I hope that precious memories along with the love and support of family and friends helps to ease your pain as you navigate through the tremendous loss of such a wonderful man.
Marilyn
My deepest condolences to patsy and all.the family. Very sad news to hear of Lornes passing. Everyone has a story of Lorne. I do have many. RIP
Bruce & Kandace Nagy
Our deepest condolences. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Bob Phillips
My condolences to the family and friends of Lorne. Although I have not crossed paths with Lorne since the days Woodys by all accounts he was very special, kind man who easily shared his gift of laughter to many. “Whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord.” Ephesians 6:8
Rest in peace and may Christs guide you through the kingdom of Heaven.
Harold and Anita
Patsy and family,
It is with a broken heart that I write this.
I am so sad, and sorry for your loss.
I will miss my good friend and co-worker, as will I miss the fishing trips to the island and goldeye smoking.
Affectionately referred to as”UNCLE SMOKY” by my kids while growing up, you will be missed.
May you lie in peace my friend till we meet again.
Harold and Anita Girard
Sanford and family (the Girard’s)
Our condolences to Auntie Smokette and family at this sad time. Uncle Smokey was truly a gem. His kindness and glowing personality will always be remembered.
Laura
Sending my condolences Pasty and rest of the family ❤️.. Lorne was great man ❤️ RIP
Kim
I’m so sorry to hear of Lorne’s passing
He had recently chatted with me about my Metis status and helped me any way he could.
He sent me a message not that long ago reminding me that I would always be a part of the Szmerski family. I became an honorary daughter to Stan and Rosalie in the 1970’s. My best friend in the world is his sister Shelly. Lorne was always the one who could make me laugh and always looked out for girls. I will miss him and send my love to all of you
Anne Cowley/Elliot
I am so very sorry to hear of Lorne’s passing. I worked with Lorne for several years at MRCC, he brought a smile to work with him every day. He always had wonderful stories to tell and spoke very lovingly about his Patsy and children. Lorne and his Dad Stan helped me remodel my kitchen in exchanged for a silver wolf pelt. We had lots of laughs! He will be greatly missed.
My thoughts go to his family. ❤️
Donna & Les Schichl
Our sincerest condolences of this sudden news of the passing of Lorne.
We are so sorry for your loss Patsy, family and friends – may all the great memories you have gathered through the years bring you peace and comfort.
Lorne was a kind, considerate and funny person who shared jokes and tricks every time you meet him.
Our hugs and love go out to you all during this difficult time
Les & Donna
Loredana
I am so sorry to hear of Lorne’s passing, he was a kind man. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers and may all of your wonderful memories of him shine on in your heart.
Marianne
Patsy; we are so very sorry to hear of Lorne’s passing. We will remember him with fun memories and hold you close in our thoughts and prayers. Marianne and Don (Gouch).
Norman and Iona Plato
Patsy and family,
We are so sorry at the passing of Lorne. Treasure the memories you and your family have had with him.
Art and Cindy Braun
So sorry for your loss Patsy and family.
Lorne was a one of a kind loving person. He will be missed by many. Take care and cherish the memories.
Angie Arthur
My deepest condolences to Patsy and family. May God hold you in his arms throughout this very difficult time.
Rob and Barb
So shocked to hear the news, so sorry. Condolences Patsy and family.
Josephine Gebauer
Very sorry for your loss I still remember delivering food from Lou’s pizza to you guys on a regular bases Lorne will be missed by many people
Tommy Harrison
I am stunned by this news. I was just thinking it’s time for our Christmas call.
Patsy, losing Lorne must be so hard for you and the family.
Lorne will be truly missed. Know that if you need anything you can call on me.
Lorne was one of a kind, he may be gone from our sight, but, never from our hearts.
Tommy and Bonnie
John & Diane Sauer
We are so very heartbroken for your loss Patsy and family. We had many good times together from fishing, playing games, drinks and the many laughs. We will miss Lorne’s jokes, smile, kindness and laughter. Hugs and prayers to you and your family.
Ron & Lil
Dear Patsy & family we are so sorry for your loss. Lorne was a true friend, we have many cherished memories of Lorne both at work and at your home. I wish I spent more time with both you and Lorne. The memories I have will never fade. Peace be with you and your family.
Jackie Hodge
My thoughts are with you all at this time of sorrow.Treasure all the good memories you have of Lorne as I know there are many .
Sheri Hirst
You are all in my thoughts during this extremely difficult time. Lorne was one of a kind with a heart of gold and ability to always put a smile on someone’s face or lend a hand without thinking twice. I will always have fond memories of Lorne and may stories that will be cherished. May you all find strength in each other and hold each other right. RIP Lorne… never to be forgotten.
Terri Schwartz
To the Szmerski Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your Lorne’s tragic passing.
While we didn’t know Lorne well, we enjoyed being Lorne and Patsy’s next door neighbours over the past few years. Whenever we had the occasion to meet along Tinant Road, there was always a smile and a cheery wave.
Our foster daughter, Bailey, loved being invited to join Kailyn at the Szmerski’s home when they were having a hotdog roast and a bonfire. She always said, “Kailyn’s grandpa is a really nice guy.”
He truly was a lovely man!
Our most sincere condolences to you all from Bill and Terri Schwartz and Bailey Carlson.
Joel
My deepest condolences to you all, please feel free to get a hold of me for anything, 204-268-5657
Diane Nolin
Patsy, Jamie and Clayton, heartfelt condolences to all.. to Judy and Guy and the rest of the family know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Lorne was one of a kind and may he Rest In Peace.
Lovingly,
The Nolin family .
Corey Augustine
Lorne Lorne how he would stand, on a special island with open hands. With a laugh, joke or trick to be played, his intention was never to hurt, or pose a person in an dismay. The crack of a smile or even a beer with the love of the land, water and all of his peers. This is for Lorne my Uncle and friend, your presents on this earth showed many how to rock and roll again. Board games and cards is what all played, while at the island where many have stayed. You’re a man that lived vicariously indeed, weather you help a float plane flipped over or a fellow man in need. Your generosity has been touched with many indeed.
No need to worry about your grandkids today, your children are fine adults and parents today. May you rest in peace with a warm southern breeze.
Rosie Boel
Pasty and family ,friends of Lorne
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lorne was a great Man with a big Heart.
Rosie Boel Bill Johnston
Dwayne and Charlene Fitkowsky
Our deepest condolences to Patsy and family. It was a pleasure to work several years with Lorne at MRCC. He always made the time fly by with some laughter and good times He was always smiling and had an infectious laugh. He was so very considerate and had a great sense of humour He will be greatly missed. RIP Lorne
Janice Hoffman
Patsy and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Lorne’s passing. Please accept my most sincere condolences. Patsy, cherish the many memories you and Lorne shared, the love and respect you had for each other, and the wonderful family you created together. Rest in Peace Lorne.
Jan Hoffman
Peter Tetrault
Deeply Heartfelt condolences to you all. I look forward to great times ahead with my awesome friend, mentor, & even protector at times, Lorne. when we meet again in Heaven above.