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Roy Cuddeford

Image by Nick Andréka

ROY CUDDEFORD

July 5, 1949 - August 22, 2022

With great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of exceptional husband, father and friend, Roy Cuddeford, on Monday, August 22, 2022

 

Roy was born on July 5, 1949 to Margaret and Leonard Cuddeford in Kelowna, British Columbia. He was the second born to the family, joining his older brother Donald and later joined by a sister, Cheryl. He grew up playing sports, excelling at golf, basketball, rugby and baseball. He loved to spend time outdoors, camping and working his way across northern British Columbia in the summers. In 1969 he accepted a role at Quest Metal Products, a pivotal decision that moved him from Vancouver to Winnipeg. Ignoring the harsh winters, Roy quickly bonded with his Winnipeg co-workers and it was through this connection that he met the love of his life and wife of 46 years Joan Cuddeford (née Speers). They married and settled in Charleswood in 1976 where they welcomed their son Ryan, followed by their daughter Leanne two years later.

 

Roy had a strong love of sports both as a participant and fan. He was actively involved in the Charleswood minor hockey community playing the role of manager and spending countless hours organizing hockey tournaments and working the crowd for 50/50 draws.  As an active father, Roy played a large role in his children's sporting lives, never missing a game, recital or swim meet. Routinely up before the sun, Roy would drive to early morning swim practices while always providing subtle coaching, consistent encouragement and support. He was also a supporter of the local "big time" sports in Winnipeg, having been a long-time season ticket holder to both the Bombers and Jets, even though he was a fervent Boston Bruins fan. 

 

Next to his family, his second love was Quest Metal Products where he spent 50 years being instrumental to the success of the company. He was Quest. His passion for his work and commitment to developing talent within the organization saw him play the roles of mentor, boss and friend. He took great pride in the organization and held a deep level of respect for his colleagues both in Winnipeg and across Canada. His impact to the organization and industry was immeasurable, leaving a lasting legacy and setting a standard for excellence.

 

When not working or enjoying time with his family, you'd find Roy playing baseball, routinely playing with guys half his age. He loved the game and the time spent on the diamond with his buddies.

 

Catching the travel bug later in life, he spent a lot of time exploring England, surfing in the Southwest of France, scuba diving in Egypt and hiking in Morocco. Moving his adventures airborne he took on skydiving and flying lessons.

 

Roy was thrilled when the family grew, welcoming in daughter-in-law Nadean, in 2012, and son-in-law Stefan, in 2016. Relishing his new title, he was a proud Grandpa to Alexis, Robin, Kate, Mac and Elin. He lived for his grandkids and cherished the time he spent with them, teaching them new things, reading stories and going on adventures.

 

A kind and generous man with his time and energy, Roy lived his values and treated all as equals. He made life fun, injecting his selflessness and enthusiasm into everything. He made simple things exciting and went beyond to make sure people were happy and felt special. That was his greatest gift.

 

A life cut too short, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of living life committed to your family and your passions. He will be sorrowfully missed and never forgotten. We are extremely privileged to have known him, to have loved him and be loved by him.

 

The family would like to thank the outstanding team at the Grace Hospital and Cancer Care Manitoba. The efforts of Dr. Harris, Lesley and Adrian will not be forgotten.

 

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Cancer Care Manitoba to allow them to continue to deliver exceptional care to families in need.

Roy's family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Lance Shaw

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

One of the best Managers and I ever knew. A real Great People Person. Sadly left us way too very soon

Peter Phillips

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Another good one gone way too soon , Roy was a colleague of mine over the years working with him from our Halifax branch of Russell Food Equipment . Always supper helpful and knowledgeable. One of the great ones for sure , he will be missed . Condolences to the family . 

morgan kotz

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Spent a lot of time with Ryan at the Cudderford household growing up and Roy was a great man.  Great dad to his kids and great to al the neighborhood riff raff whenever we were around.  He wil be missed.

Jody Adams-Shawn

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Growing up as a family friend of the Cuddeford’s, Roy demonstrated kindness, gentleness and a great sense of humour. I remember with fondness the times he helped his daughter, when Leanne and I were flatmates in London. It was clear how much his family adored him, and he adored them in return. The photo montage and tribute captured so much of what made Roy great. My heartfelt condolences go out to the whole family.

Mike Shawn

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I'm very sorry to hear about Roy's passing.  Ryan and I grew up together, and Roy was always very welcoming, whether it was a swim in their backyard pool, a drive in his classic silver corvette or his volunteer work with the Charleswood Hawks.  My deepest condolences to Joan, Ryan, and Leanne. Mike Shawn

Wendy Clutterbuck

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Uncle Roy has left us with many wonderful memories.  Many fun gatherings at the pool, BBQ’s, those special Christmas eve celebrations, and babysitting at their house on New Year’s eve will always be fondly remembered. He always had a smile for us and had a great sense of humour!  Uncle Roy always took the time to ask about us and was so encouraging and supportive.  He showed such amazing strength and courage throughout his illness. Uncle Roy will be greatly missed, but always remembered.                                                                             Wendy, Eric & Matthew❤

Diane Peck

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Roy was a great brother-in-law…always willing to help out, especially when we were building our cottage at V.B.   He was the ultimate host at family gatherings and loved to have fun with his nieces and nephews in the pool.  He was so thrilled and proud when his own grandchildren arrived.  We will miss him.     Garry and Diane 

Stephen Peck

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

We could not have asked for a better uncle in Our Uncle Roy. He was always interested in what was going on in our lives  and was a strong supporter of our kids, making them feel so proud of their accomplishments.  He left us far too soon but will always be remembered with a smile.  ❤Stephen, Correna, Jordan, Sidney and Madison

Alex Garcia

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I met Roy back in September of 1998, when I was hired by him, and for the next 23 years I worked at Quest; Roy was not only fully in control and at the helm of the best family oriented place I had ever been fortunate enough to be a part of, but he would also become much more for all of us, the lucky people that got to spend the better part of our lives around this very special man; he taught us all by example; and shared with all of us at Quest his great and very deeply rooted family values. Words like loyalty, fairness, tactfulness and honesty were indeed synonymous with Roy.  He practiced a culture of inclusiveness in the work place long before that was even a “thing”, treating all of us with respect and as equals, making us feel always as being part of something special. That was his true gift, as it was stated so eloquently by his family’s tribute. Many life lessons I learnt from the man, that at various times in my life helped reinforce, confirm or decide many other aspects of my life outside of Quest; he never liked being called boss, or manager, he was always Roy; he was a mentor an a very gifted teacher, for myself and for many others at Quest and RFE. That is the kind of legacy I feel he left behind. He will truly be missed and admired by many, I personally feel very great full and thankful for the positive influence and difference he made in my life, and in his passing, as he would have expected, I too would like to honour his wish to join in the celebration of his life along Joan, Mrs. Cuddeford, his children and the rest of his family and friends Alex García

Larry & Pam Ring

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Condolences to Roy's family I have a son, the same age as Ryan I got to know Roy with our son's in minor  hockey in Charleswood Roy's love of sports and his willingness to volunteer is legendary Roy was a Board Member for the Charleswood Hawks   and his son Ryan was a skilled player and Captain of the 1998 MMJHL team Personally and on behalf of the Charleswood Hawks, thanks for your years of service. We are better for having known you Larry Ring

Judy Scammell

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Roy was a kind and caring brother in law. I will always remember our chats about current events and politics that always ended with smiles and laughter. We had many happy family gatherings over the years.  Our family will really miss him.  Judy and Jim

Kim Morrison

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Uncle Roy leaves us with many cherished memories such as family gatherings by the pool and Christmas Eves with the tallest, most festive trees. He always made you feel welcome in his home and enjoyed a good laugh. I recall last summer he spent hours swimming in Lake Winnipeg one afternoon despite his health challenges. He always showed courage and strength. He will be really missed.  Kim, Glen and Ethan ❤

Claudette Blunderfield

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So sorry to hear of Roy’s passing. Thinking about you Joan. 

Robin Goddard

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Roy was a man I held as a standard to other men, especially my husband and father of my children. He taught me what it was to love children unconditionally, made me feel a part of his family and I always felt comfort in his presence. He leaves a legacy that will not be forgotten and a place in my heart always.

Lyla

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I am so very sorry to hear about the passing of Roy. Thoughts and prayers go out to your family. He will always be close in your memories.

Karen Eliuk

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So many great memories of time with Uncle Roy, baseball swimming at the beach and family gatherings. Always a big smile and a big heart that will be remembered with great love. Glad that he is resting peacefully after fighting for life and more time with his family!!  A great man to be remembered! Love His niece Karen

R. Creaghe

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

R.I.P. Roy you'll be sorely missed.

Amy

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

What a wonderful father, husband and man! The world was a better place with him in it. He will live on through all of you. With care, Amy

Ray Krause

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I pen with profound grief. After leaving my previous employment I was looking to fill out my working days. I saw an ad in the paper, applied, and got an interview. As it turns out, the interviewer was a former team mate. The job lasted close to 20 years. Roy was a great ball player and an even better boss. He will be sorely missed.  Ray Krause

Adrianna Kupresak

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Roy Cuddeford was the face of Quest for 50 years. There was nothing he did not know about Quest and was honoured to pass it along to his employees and the sales teams. He was a wonderful boss and will be greatly missed. Rest easy Roy - Adrianna

Marilyn Seguire

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

The tribute captured Roy beautifully. Jon and Marilyn Seguire

Monica Auringer

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

A beautiful tribute to a life well lived but cut too short.

Carole Regnier

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Dear Joan, Ryan, Leanne and families,  We are so deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved Roy. We have  fond and fun memories of Roy as a neighbour  and friend.  Remembering how proud he was of his family and their accomplishments. May all the special moments you shared help to comfort you. Sincerely, The Regnier Family❤

Lori Sidoryk

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Dear Joan I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband Roy. It has been a difficult time the last few years, and I will pray that God gives you the strength to make it through these difficult days/months ahead. If you need a friend to talk to, please make sure you call me. Hold onto all the wonderful memories, it helps a little. Hugs and love dear lady. I am here for you.

Corina Sellner

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

So sad Roy has passed away. May I on behalf of the Crestview Men's Fastball league give the entire family our deepest condolences on the loss of this amazing man. In memory of Roy, this September Long Weekend Playoffs will be dedicated to him. Us Old Sox will be having a huddle at home plate at 6pm Friday game time. Saturday at noon when the Old Sox play there will be a moment of silence in recognition of Roy and the loss to many in the league. We will be collecting for Cancer Care Manitoba all weekend long in memory of his battle. Sleep well my friend. ❤

Roger newton

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

He was a friend and a star. My wife and I remember fondly the dinner we had out with Roy and his wife

Stefan Witton

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

In the time I knew Roy, as a person and a father-in-law, he was welcoming, kind and generous in many ways. But he also had a way of teaching and influencing not only through his words and actions but also with his approach to life. He was one of the very best and will be missed.

Mel Kostenly

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Deepest condolences to all of Roy’s family and friends. In the 40 plus years I have been with RFE Roy and I  put in a lot of Quest equipment.  He was never to busy to take a call and always had an answer for any problem that might occur. He organized some great meetings at quest and always welcomed the Russell salesman with grace and gratitude. God Bless and take care!

John Andersson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Deepest condolences to the Cuddeford family. I met Roy when my company Andersson electric did work at Quest.   We feel grateful to have known him.  

Ian Johnstone

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I really enjoyed the video tribute. Roy was a great father and a kind man. I spent far too much time at the Cuddeford house during my time in Winnipeg, being a general nuisance with Ryan. We could always count on Roy for an early morning ride to the golf course and if we were lucky he might even play some holes with us using his classic Tommy Armours. I am very sorry to hear of his passing and I wish all the Cuddeford family the best. RIP Roy, you will be missed!

Susan Torrance

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

A lovely tribute to a wonderful man. We have many fond memories of our visits to Winnipeg and your special visits to Buckhorn.  You will be missed. May he Rest In Peace after a hard fought battle  Susan and Jim Torrance

Christopher Dohie

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

The Dohie family is saddened to hear that Roy Cuddeford has passed on. A friend and neighbour to us, we feel grateful to have known him. Our thoughts and love to Joan, Leanne, Ryan and Roy's entire family.

Joan Witton

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

We are so very sorry to hear of Roy’s passing. He fought a valiant battle over  the last few years. Clearly a legend of a man reading the many wonderful tributes. We send our sincere condolences to Joan and all the family. Roland and Joan Witton

Glen Holmes

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Roy will be greatly missed.  He was such a generous uncle and every Christmas faithfully bought a huge box of hockey cards as a gift for Ethan.  Even when he was ill he still managed to make the trip to the sports card store.  We always loved going to the house for family events and pool parties, lots of great memories all around.  We would always learn something new or interesting about him every visit, and in fact I just heard today that he was a huge Cap’n Crunch cereal fan which is also my favourite, cause he was a bit of a kid at heart. Rest In Peace.  Glen Holmes

Dawn and Gord wilson

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

We knew Roy for over 42 years, first as a neighbour and then a friend. He was always available to give a helping hand or some well thought out and down to earth advice. He was very welcoming to our family who had no relatives of our own in the city, either in his pool or his home we were always welcome. What a hard battle you fought to stay with your family. We will miss you. Love the wilsons

Cindy Schmidt

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I had the pleasure of working with Roy for over 20 years - indirectly during my time at RFE and the directly when I moved over to Quest in January 2018. he really was a great person. He cared deeply about his family, both his family and his work family. We will miss him dearly, but are lucky to have known him. Condolences ❤

Richard T McCallum

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

I met Roy at age 14 and we were close friends throughout our teen and early adult years.  In high school, we played basketball, golf and rugby.  We represented our school on the TV quiz show, Reach For the Top.   Out of school, we travelled and camped, partied and picked up girls.   The summer after graduation, Roy and I hitch-hiked to Prince Rupert and found work in a fish cannery.  The next summer we worked in a lumber mill near Dawson Creek.   We eventually moved on to better jobs, to different cities, to marriage and maturity.   But the memories of those formative years and the adventures we shared never faded, and my affection for Roy never diminished.  He was always the smartest guy in the room and the best friend anyone could ever hope to have.  

Rick Brown

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Joan, Ryan and Leanne, since hearing of Roy's passing i have thought a lot about the 30 years we worked together. He was a great friend and teacher. I would say he was "The Great One" of our industry.

Krista

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Uncle Roy, I have such fondness in my heart for you and sadness that you have moved along. I feel fortunate to call you my Uncle. Thank you for hosting so many family events. Your effortless way of connecting with people made being with you feel so welcoming and comfortable. I will never forget your smile, always accompanied with a knowing sparkle in your eye. You always asked about my life and cheered me on. Thank you for caring. Your love and adoration for your kids, grandkids and Auntie Joan was a beautiful thing to witness. May they continue to feel the pride you have for them for the rest of their days. And may all of us, fortunate enough to have had you in our lives, continue to honour you by living life with qualities you seemingly so effortlessly possessed: strength, fortitude, passion, silliness and care. ❤

David Barclay

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

Very sorry to hear about the passing of Roy.  He was a gentleman and professional and someone that I learned a lot from.  He will be missed. 

Patty & Dave McDonald

September 25, 2024 at 7:32 PM

We were so saddened to hear about Roy’s passing. Loved the video tribute…he was a wonderful, kind person & gone too soon. Our hearts go out to you Joan, Ryan, Leanne, and families. 
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