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Rhett Dilts

Image by Nick Andréka

CHARLES EVERETT DILTS

November 28, 1953 - November 22, 2020

The world has lost a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Charles Everett Dilts (Rhett) was born in Winnipeg in November, 1953, and passed away just days before his 67th birthday. After meeting his wife, Diane, at 15, they started dating and have been inseparable since. They married in 1977 and welcomed two daughters, Jessica (Clay) and Amy (Lonn) into the world, making life’s pace accelerate exponentially. As life was starting to slow down, Rhett became a grandfather in 2010 to Deyton and again to Isla, in 2013.

 

Rhett had a special connection with his brother and sisters, Lesley, Pat (Bill), Marilyn (Chuck) and Dwight (Nancy), especially into adulthood. He was the first from his family to graduate from college with a business degree from Red River, which he put to use during his successful career with Investors Group. In his personal life, Rhett was an avid lover of music and was often found wearing headphones, captivated by his music. He loved the great outdoors and watching the birds at the lake. He enjoyed camping with the family and could often be found tinkering around with his tools, finding “projects” to do around the cottage. He and Diane not only had a passion for spending time at the cottage with family and friends, but they loved traveling, especially to Costa Rica and Hawaii.

 

Known for his quick wit and sharp sarcasm, infectious laugher regularly accompanied his conversations. Those that knew him best appreciated his strong personality, his record keeping skills that kept him glued to the computer for hours, and the way he valued his lifelong friendships. He was always anxious for his fly-in and cottage weekend fishing trips with close friends and as a storyteller, often shared memories of these with anyone that would listen.

 

A celebration of Rhett's life will be held at a later date, when we are safely able to come together. In the meantime, Rhett'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. They also encourage the sharing of photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations as a “Tribute Gift” may be made to the Fort Whyte Nature Centre.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

Please share a story, photo, memory or condolence for the family by completing the form below and clicking "Post Comment"

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Cassie Lewis

January 17, 2021 at 11:11 AM

It was a true blessing to get to know both Rhett, Diane & family. We are grateful to be apart of their lake experience & this past fall was able to have great conversations with Rhett. You will be dearly missed. Much love, comfort to the family.  Sincerely Cassie Lewis & Kevin Henwood 

Jim Cooper

December 4, 2020 at 4:27 PM

I was the beneficiary of many rides home from Rhett, whom I affectionately called Redd, during our years working together at the Civil Service Commission. He was a fellow Yes fan, which gave us something to talk about. I remember him as a very gracious and considerate man with a great sense of humour, meaning that he laughed at my jokes. I cannot accept that he has left us. Please accept my condolences. Jim Cooper

Carla D'Andreamatteo

December 3, 2020 at 6:00 PM

Hi Diane,   I'm thinking about you and sending hugs. ❤

Becky & Dave

December 1, 2020 at 4:46 PM

Dear Diane, we were so sorry to hear of Rhett’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and your girls Jessica and Amy and the rest of your family. Thinking of you lots! Love Becky and Dave

Roy Hardie

November 30, 2020 at 11:02 AM

I am so sorry I will not be able to visit with Rhett again.  I enjoyed his dry sense of humor and wit.  I knew him as a strong willed man who loved his family.  Thank you Diane for introducing him into my life.   Deepest Condolences from Cherylene and Myself to Diane, Jessica, Amy and all of your family.

Jennifer

November 30, 2020 at 9:48 AM

When the person you are closest to is gone, hold on to their memories and know that they are always with you. Wishing you, Amy and Jessica strength and peace during this hard time. Prayers for you and the whole family. 

Candace van Reede

November 30, 2020 at 9:24 AM

Words cannot express how sorry I am for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. I am so saddened to hear of this. May the Lord comfort you in your memories at this very difficult time. Condolences to you Diane and your girls. 

Ian Middleton

November 29, 2020 at 10:36 PM

Deepest condolences Diane and family. The last I remember of Rhett was being at his cabin in, I want to say, Ontario.  I was a young kid and my brother, Kyle, and I were playing games with his girls while the parents talked in the living room. I remember we had a bit of a walk to get to the lake to go for a swim. Damn, that water was cold! RIP Rhett. You will be missed.

ClaireWorkman

November 29, 2020 at 10:31 PM

Dear Diane, our deepest sympathy to you and your family! Rhett was a gracious and courageous man, and we would like to have known him better.  He will certainly be missed at Echo Bay. Fondly, Rick and Claire Workman

Arild Sletvold

November 29, 2020 at 6:32 PM

My deepest condolences.  I worked with Rhett for a few years, and he was truly a great guy.

Deborah Bensky

November 28, 2020 at 11:47 PM

Sincere condolences Diane and family. Rhett was a warrior during his long fight.  Cherish the many memories...happy birthday in heaven Rhett. Deborah Bensky  (Marilyn's friend)

Warren Middleton

November 28, 2020 at 5:33 PM

Sincere condolences Diane and family. Rhett is someone I've always known, in fact don't remember meeting him, he's just always been there! Too many memories to share here but feeling blessed to have known him. Very grateful to have had time these past few years to reconnect and reminisce. Rest well old friend, you'll be missed. ❤

Tom & Laura Macgregor

November 28, 2020 at 5:33 PM

Long time friends with both Diane and Rhett.  Rhett and I met when I was in grade three and our friendship continued for eternity. Camping, diving on the west coast and many a weekend as young adults at Rush Bay with the group. No wonder you had acquired his own cabin in the same vicinity.  Rhett, I know you will be heaven's busiest fisherman trying to catch that elusive pickerel.    Our memories will endure. Rest in peace my friend. Love you buddy!!!!

Tannis taylor

November 28, 2020 at 5:00 PM

A loving memorial. Our very sincere condolences to Diane, Jessica, Amy and family. How bittersweet to see your pictures here. We are reminiscing now about you as wonderful neighbours...yes, all the Halloween parties...Rex's nose poking under the fence...fun at your beautiful cottage...birthday parties with the kids...so grateful to have met you. Love to you all. Don and Tannis Taylor and family. (Kingston, ON)

Anne Singbeil

November 28, 2020 at 3:46 PM

Such a wonderful pictorial tribute to for such a wonderful guy. Want to share a pic of Rhett and a poem entitled "A Life Well Lived":  "A life well-lived is a precious gift of hope and strength and grace   from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place.   It's filled with moments sweet and sad, with smiles and sometimes tears   with friendships formed and good times shared and laughter through the years.   A life well-lived is a legacy of joy and pride and pleasure,   a loving, lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure."

Brenda Allan

November 28, 2020 at 3:30 PM

Rhett was my leader at IG for many years.  A great guy, with many a funny story. Talked about Diane and the girls alot, I feel like I know you.  So saddened by this news. Rest in peace Rhett you deserve it!!  Brenda Allan former IG colleague.   

Maureen Christie

November 28, 2020 at 2:23 PM

Diane, Jessica and Amy.  I am so sorry for your loss.  I worked closely with Rhett and he became a good  friend. Rhett was so proud of his family.  He talked about you constantly and with such great love. I will miss Rhett greatly. 

Glenn Ibbetson

November 28, 2020 at 2:08 PM

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Diane and family. So many memories of a new and very youthful street on The Bridle Path in Charleswood. We all started families around the same time and the street was a beehive of activity. The neighbors were all close-nit and there was many a fun Halloween party at the Dilts residence. A fond memory is Rhett and Diane joining at our home with many other neighbors for the finale of MASH with everybody dressed in their finest medical attire. And yes; Rhett was addressed from time to time as Rex and he would let out a roar of laughter in return. Our condolences to the family Peggy and Glenn Ibbetson❤

Linda

November 28, 2020 at 2:07 PM

Rhett was so much more than my brother-in-law. Whether he liked it or not, he became my brother after falling in love with Diane.  My very best and most vivid memories of him are from our countless summers at the lake...his favourite place despite seldom swimming in it! Fishing, puttering, and taking the kids for tube rides filled our days with smiles and laughter all around.  Rhett made the absolute best bbq’d beef ribs. With drink in hand he would tend them for over an hour while entertaining us spectators on the deck.  And when he had a story to tell, best you got comfortable. Brevity wasn’t his strong suit! Love you, Rhett.  You will be missed.

Deb Clement

November 28, 2020 at 2:00 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of Rhett's passing. He put up the good fight for a very long time and is now at peace. My heart goes out to you all. 

Pauline James Curtis

November 28, 2020 at 1:44 PM

Dear Diane and Family, I'm so sorry to hear of Rhett's passing and your deep loss of such a wonderful partner, father, grandfather and friend. I'll always remember the magical time when you two met and the sparkles were in your eyes and voices from your new-found happiness and love. While we were separated over the decades by many miles, your friendship and memories of those happy high-school years never left and have been so treasured. I'm sending virtual hugs and thank you for preparing such a lovely tribute in Rhett's honour. Love, Pauline James Curtis (Victoria BC)❤

Charlie Salina

November 28, 2020 at 1:26 PM

Worked with Rhett at investorsgroup.  Always had a funny story for me when I visited in his office.  Condolences to the family. 

Bruce Thompson

November 28, 2020 at 12:25 PM

Diane and Family, so sorry to hear of Rhett's passing, please accept our deepest condolences. We were looking forward to seeing more of you at Echo Bay and enjoying some deck time. Bruce & Ginny Thompson 

Loretta kinash

November 28, 2020 at 12:08 PM

So sorry for your and your families loss Diane..what a beautiful tribute to their dad❤️ take care❤️ Love Loretta

Len Lorraine Prokopchuk

November 28, 2020 at 12:01 PM

Our heartfelt sympathy, love and hugs are sent to you Diane, Jessica and Amy and family. We share many happy Bridle Path memories with all of you! The Halloween parties were the ultimate! Rhett always teased me because I always mixed up his name with your dog, Rex! ❤ The Prokopchuk family... Leonard, Lorraine, Alaina & James xoxo

Bruce Middleton

November 28, 2020 at 10:16 AM

From Grade One at Assiniboine School the Dilts and the Middletons have been the closest of friends. So many great memories of Rhett. Too many to share in this space but one stand out was Rhett and Diane, Linda and I piling into his Triumph Spitfire to go to a party one summer night. What were we thinking. Rhett was one of a kind. Funny as Hell, generous to a fault and a wonderful friend. We will miss him terribly. Our hearts go out to Diane and the family. Rest easy Rhett - Love - Bruce and Linda Middleton ❤

Bob and Maureen Spiers

November 28, 2020 at 9:55 AM

Amy, Lonn, Diane, Jessica and Clay, we are sorry for your loss. The beyond wonderful video shows that memories are endless and to be cherished forever. Take care.  

Lynda and Wade Wawryk

November 28, 2020 at 7:30 AM

Diane and family, we are so sorry to hear of and now read of Rhett's passing. He was quiet gentle man and it was a pleasure to have known him. Take great care.

Kristine

November 27, 2020 at 11:14 PM

I will forever cherish all of the memories of Uncle Rhett and our time spent at the cabin in LOTW. After working tirelessly around the cabin doing the lists of jobs poppa laid out for everyone, uncle Rhett would spend the afternoons behind the steering wheel of the boat making every attempt to hurl us off the inner tube or take us for one more lap on the water skis. I looked up to uncle Rhett and believed every single word he told me despite him saying multiple times “look, gullible is written on the ceiling”. Nevertheless, I continued to fall for his sarcasm and hilarious sense of humour. He was a storyteller indeed and I’ll miss that. I love you uncle Rhett and I’m so grateful for our time together. Love little k 

Peter

November 27, 2020 at 4:53 PM

Wow, what can I say, what a loss. He s been my brother for 50 years. When he arrived on the Hermick doorstep I was just out of the hospital after getting hit by a car, and one day he assisted my mother and myself, in a full leg cast,driving us from children’s hospital in his cherished car a Triumph. If anyone knows about this car it is only for two people so I was wedged in the back in a full leg cast as he drove us home. What a keeper, I will never forget him and his smiling face. Again what a loss...miss you brother. 👍

Keri & Geoff Oliver

November 27, 2020 at 1:55 PM

Rhett was truly a great friend. We have such wonderful memories of summers at LOTW, holidays in Cancun & Maui and many many Saturday night dinners. Lots of laughs and so many stories to tell! We will miss him. Sending much love to Diane, Jessica, Amy and families, as well as all the Dilts & Hermick families. Keri & Geoff Oliver

Travis Bannatyne

November 27, 2020 at 11:28 AM

That was such a beautiful tribute video! I will forever cherish my memories of uncle Rhett. I remember so many evenings as a kid, sitting with the “adults”, and laughing until it hurt at uncles Rhett’s quick wit and sarcasm. I’m sure many of the jokes were over my head but I laughed all the same because everyone else in the room was laughing so hard. Those evenings shaped my sense of humour and what I find funny in life. Even when life had thrown him too many curve balls he still had a wicked sense of humour. I’m so grateful to be able to call him my uncle and for the time I got to spend with him. So much love for the Dilts family!
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