TROY GORDON DRAPER

It is with great sadness that the family announces the sudden death of Troy Draper on Aug. 17, 2023 at the Health Science Centre, in Winnipeg, MB resulting from heart failure.

Troy was born in Winnipeg on May 16, 1983 to Greg and Valerie Draper. Troy jointed his “adopted” family in 1992.

Troy is survived by his “adopted” parents, Gary & Marcy Saunders, his brother Marty Draper (wife Tiffany, and sons Merrick & Dorian) and his “adopted” brother Josh. Also left to mourn the loss of our “tall red head” are his numerous relatives in the U.S. and Winnipeg. Troy will also be missed and fondly remembered by “his other family” of friends, workers and caregivers from the New Directions program he was a part of for 15 years. To them we say thank you for all your friendship, encouragement and support over the years during Troy’s journey.

Troy is predeceased by his birth mother Valerie, grandparents Al & Mary-Ellen Miles of Shreveport, Louisiana, Grandma Elaine Shreve of Jamestown, New York. Nan & Papa Kavanaugh and Auntie Mary of Ladner, B.C. and “adopted sister” Shelley (Saunders) Fierback of Winnipeg.

Troy could be described as loving, kind hearted, easy-going, fun-loving personality with a unique spirit. You knew when Troy was in the room, aside from the fact that he was 6’3” with red hair. That spirit allowed Troy to be compassionate, and share his “words of wisdom” that brought both a smile to your face and comfort to your soul.

Troy had his share of ups and downs, enjoying many good days and laughs as well as many that didn’t pass as easily.

Troy struggled with some of the tasks in life, however some of the one’s he accomplished with pride are swimming, bowling, roller blading and bike riding. Although he would tell you that he out grew roller blading, the remaining activities he enjoyed to the end. Troy was active with the Beavers and Cubs for a number of years. Troy’s love of music from an early age resulted in him being able to hear a song and then tell you, the name of the song, the artist, when it was released and if it was a remake from when and by whom. Tory was also proud of the work experiences (vending machine service assistant, various positions in the sanitation field, delivery and moving services) he received from, and presentations he made on the most difficult of subjects at his New Directions program including his newspaper article. The one goal Troy had in recent years was to live on his own. He said he needed to do this to prove to himself that he could. This he did accomplish, be it with a great deal of support. Though at times he questioned if he could do it, he felt proud that he was on his own.

On every call or visit home, Troy shared many fond memories of family and friends and the time spent together in years gone by. He always wanted to remember all the details, and often asked if we still had the pictures. With his family, Troy traveled to various parts of the U.S. (Graceland, Disney World, Shreveport, Jamestown, Houston Space Centre to name a few) as well as, from coast to coast in Canada (B.C. to Nova Scotia many times by train and car). From 1995 when not traveling, summers were spent with family at the trailer located at Terryal Resort, Catherine Lake, Ontario. Troy enjoyed fishing (until the snacks were gone), swimming, tubing, and lake life in general.

We want to say thank you to the doctors and nurses at HSC for the compassionate care provided to Troy.

We hope Troy has found “peace beyond understanding” and that he is playing his favorite video games, planning to watch the Jet’s games, laughing, sharing memories and telling stories to those he loved.

I believe that if Troy could leave us with a heartfelt wish it would be:

Remember the best times, the laughter and games. The good life I lived when I was strong.

Troy leaves those he loved here on earth to be with those he loved in heaven.

A celebration of life (the early years) will be held at 2pm on Friday, September 8, 2023 at Troy’s home (269 Beliveau Road).

A celebration of life (the later years) hosted by New Directions will be held at a later date.

Rest in Peace, Troy

Troy’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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