August
18, 1942 – Grandview, Manitoba
October 19, 2015 – Okotoks, Alberta
Bev passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 19, 2015 after a four year struggle with pulmonary fibrosis at the age of 73.
Bev was born Aug. 18, 1942, at Grandview, MB, the only child of Charles & Irene May. He grew up on the family farm. Bev started grade one at Halton School, a one-room country school, then attended Brickburn Collegiate in Gilbert Plains, MB, graduating in 1960.
He then moved to Winnipeg to pursue his radio operator’s training. In 1961, he went to Air Services School in Ottawa to attain his license, and then began employment with the Dept. of Transport. He was stationed at many airports throughout, MB, SK, ON, and the NWT.
After a 13-month stint in the Arctic, Bev was posted to The Pas where he met Elizabeth “Betsy” Soshycki. They married on Aug. 10, 1968 and were blessed with two children, a daughter, Corinne and a son, Curtis.
In 1973, Bev decided it was time to part ways with the Transport Dept. and began employment with Transair in Winnipeg as a flight dispatcher. Over the years he worked for PWA, Canadian Airlines, retiring from Air Canada in 2002.
His job took the family to Winnipeg, Vancouver, and then Calgary in 1984. He loved his job and became known for his humourous “Bevism”. Bev enjoyed sports, playing slowpitch baseball, curling and golfing. He loved nothing better than his weekly hikes in the Kananaskis with Everett and John. At home, he kept busy making wine, reading, and researching his family’s history.
Bev is survived by Betsy, his wife of 47 years, his daughter, Corinne (Mark) Eppleston, grandsons Noah & Liam, whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by his son, Curtis and daughter-in-law Tara; who became part of the family just three months ago. He was overjoyed when they married on July 25. Bev is also survived by many extended family members.
In living memory of Bev May, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: 403-256-9575.
(Source: McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes)