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Murray Gadd

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MURRAY ALAN GADD

April 29, 1956 – October 16, 2025

It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of Murray Gadd on October 16, 2025.


Murray is lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend, Bonnie, son Casey and favourite daughter-in-law, Jackie; sisters Barb and Marty and their respective Dougs; brother Andrew and wife Chris; sisters-in-law Alison and husband Vince; and Kathleen. Uncle Murray was a favourite of many nieces and nephews.


Born in Ottawa, Murray was the third of four kids, and his efforts to keep up with older siblings drove him to excel at many things. An excellent student, he completed his Engineering degree through the University of Waterloo Co-op program. His diverse career led him from steel design, to airport technical support, to project management of commercial and industrial projects. A favourite project was the Journey to Churchill exhibit at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. As a Project Engineer at FWS Group of Companies, Murray taught Grain Elevators 101 to all new employees. He loved sharing his knowledge and could make the most technical of information interesting and easy to understand.


Murray’s greatest joy was his family, in a home full of love and laughter. He was a devoted husband to Bonnie for 32 years, proud dad to Casey, delighted father-in-law to Jackie and was so very excited about becoming a Grandpa in the new year.


Murray had a lifelong love of nature and the great outdoors. The annual camping trip to Rushing River was a cherished tradition, while other adventures spanned the country. Murray and Bonnie shared a passion for mountain biking, hiking, kayaking and cross country skiing. They’d recently discovered the joy of winter fat biking. Too much fun!


Murray delighted in his prairie garden and enthusiastically shared his garden journey with school children, friends and fellow members of the Prairie Garden Club.


His love of theatre led Murray to volunteer as an usher at MTC Mainstage, the Warehouse Theatre and Manitoba Theatre for Young People which held a special place in his heart. The Fringe Festival was a favourite summer event.


Self-taught in bicycle repair, Murray was the go-to guy for anyone with bike troubles. After retirement he volunteered at W.R.E.N.C.H., a bike advocacy group, where he refurbished bikes that would be affordable and accessible to all.


Murray was an avid reader and researcher, loving esoteric facts and words. He took great pleasure in crossword puzzles (the tougher, the better) and cryptic crosswords kept his mind especially sharp.


Murray navigated his cancer journey with fortitude, positivity and good humour, humbled by the efforts of Dr David Szwajcer and the team at CancerCare. The nurses and staff on GD6 at Health Sciences Centre provided exceptional care during Murray’s many stays on the unit. We can’t thank them enough for their skill, professionalism, love, and compassion.


Murray was exceptional. He was a treasured friend, thoughtful, kind and without judgement, generous with his time and talent. His keen sense of humour lives on in Casey. He will be missed.


In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Health Science Centre Foundation (Dale Rayter GD6 Nursing Education Fund), Manitoba Theatre for Young People, or W.R.E.N.C.H.


A celebration of Murray’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Manitoba Theatre for Young People – Richardson Hall, 2 Forks Market Road.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Camilla Holland

November 15, 2025 at 3:19 PM

Marie was an incredible volunteer and supporter of Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre. I particularly remember him working on the Black and White Ball and bringing his logistics brain to the execution of our silent auction and volunteer deployment. He always had a warm smile and a great well of patience, and will be missed. My condolences to his family and to those who loved him.

Lee-Ann Hoffmann

November 14, 2025 at 9:49 AM

All our hearts are broken for the loss of Murray, and for his families and many friends loss as well. I only knew Murray for a blink of a moment but felt like I knew him for a lifetime, best hugger I have ever came across. I met Murray through Bonnie who trained me at Qualico, also very dear to my heart I can not imagine the loss she must feel. Her best friend, soul mate yet she keeps the most positive attitude and is always gratefull for the moments they shared together before his passing. She and her family are an inspiration to so many and Murray will never be forgotten this I am sure of. You are all in our thoughts during this difficult time, big hugs, love, kindness to all who will miss Murray.

 

Sheila Victor

November 12, 2025 at 7:15 AM

Murray graced our halls at Brookfield High School with humour, great grades, contributions to the sports teams and a likeable personality that fit into all social circles. I am so very sad to hear of his passing. It appears that Murray's high school years were a mere stepping stone to an amazing life well lived.

 

Sheila Victor

Miriam VandeHoff

November 11, 2025 at 9:16 PM

I knew Murray back at the university of Waterloo. He was a roommate of a good friend Bill Fretts. He was a terrific guy and afriend to me. So sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.

Sue Peterson

November 9, 2025 at 9:23 AM

I'm so sorry to hear about Murray's passing. I also had the pleasure of working with Murray at Dominion and then FWS. Our offices were beside each other at DCC and Murray always had a smile and was always ready to lend an ear or give me advice when my projects were challenging. He was so patient and kind. I always knew when Bonnie was calling because he'd answer 'Hi Sweetie!' and his voice would light up. I remember hearing stories about Bonnie and Casey frequently, it was so evident how much he loved his family. Murray never had a negative thing to say about anyone and he got along with everyone- he was so truely one of a kind. I feel blessed to have known him. My deepest condolences to Casey- after loosing my Mom suddenly 2 years ago- I know how difficult it is to lose a parent so young. I'm sure Murray's spirit lives on in you, and he'll be close to you always.

Blake Anderson

November 6, 2025 at 4:54 PM

My condolences Bonnie and Casey, I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Murray at both Dominion construction and FWS but we really had our fun together on the mountain bike trail rides with our little group he named "The Mud puppies".

love from Tammy and I.

Ian McIvor

November 6, 2025 at 9:54 AM

So sorry to hear this news. I worked with Murray at FWS and took his Grain Elevators 101 course when I started 7 years ago. I loved bumping into Murray around the office, he was such a genuine, nice, positive person who always had something interesting to talk about. Condolensces to his family and friends.

Shirley Murray

November 5, 2025 at 9:59 AM

Our deepest condolences to Bonnie and family. I recall Murray's quiet smile and unbelieving chuckles when he bowled most strikes in a row in one game. No bragging needed! And when his immune system wouldn't allow crowds he quickly offered up his expertise for behind the SCENES volunteer work at youth theater. We are privileged to have shared good times with Murray. Many hugs and love to all who will miss him. Bill & Shirley

Lynda Ruban staff & friends at the HSC Foundation

November 4, 2025 at 11:52 AM

Dear Bonnie Gadd & family, extending our deepest and heartfelt sympathy on the sad passing of Murray Gadd.. Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute - it's evident he touched alot of lives along the way. A dear friend to the HSCF now dearly missed. Thinking of you all at this very sad & difficult time.

Myralyn Patrocinio

November 4, 2025 at 8:07 AM

Our condolonces Bonnie and the whole Gadd family. So sorry for your lose. Sending hugs and prayers for you and your son.

"Eternal rest grant unto him and let perpetual light shine upon him"

Jeff Smith

November 3, 2025 at 12:24 PM

So saddened to learn of Murray's passing. One of the most genuinely positive souls I've ever met, Murray's presence always brightened whatever room or place he was in. So patient, kind, and caring, he will truly be missed.

Ian and Tracey Woodward

November 3, 2025 at 12:18 PM

Dear Bonnie and family our deepest condolences.

Murray was an excellent engineer and always had time to pass his knowledge on to his coworkers .

I totally enjoyed every moment working with Murray over our several years together at FWS , a true gentleman that will be sadly missed.

Elyse Love-Dillman

November 3, 2025 at 12:15 PM

I'm so very sad to hear of Murray's passing. I worked with him at FWS and he was always so kind and encouraging, truly one of the most genuine people I've ever worked with. He was always the first to send a note of congratulations or words of encouragement, and it meant a lot. I don't think I've ever met anyone who didn't think the world of him. My deepest condolences to Bonnie and family.

Chris Buckingham

November 3, 2025 at 10:11 AM

Sharing a memory of my good friend Murray

While living with Murray after university in 1980 he shared with me his own version of the Sun Maid Raisin Oat cookies. Not satisfied with the company published version. He said his tweaked version made them perfect. He was right and this recipe made it into my family favorite’s cookbook. We still enjoy making his cookies all these years later. Murray was a good friend and I will always have the happy memories of our time in each other’s lives.

Murray’s version of Sun Maid Raisin Oaties

Ingredients

1 cup Butter softened

3/4 cup Brown sugar packed

3/4 cup White Sugar

2 large Eggs

1-½ teaspoon Vanilla

2 cups All-Purpose Flour

1 teaspoon Baking Soda

1 tsp Salt

2 cups Oats old fashioned

1 cup Sun maid Raisins

Instructions

Cream together butter and sugars, eggs and vanilla until smooth

Stir in, flour, salt, baking soda and Oates. Mix well and stir in raisins

Drop by tablespoons on to lightly greased baking sheet. Bake above oven center at 375° F for 10-12 minutes until lightly brown. Remove to wire rack to cool.

Makes about 36 cookies

Jason & Kristy Coreau

November 3, 2025 at 8:18 AM

Bonnie and Casey, our deepest condolences. Murray was an absolute prince of a guy and I really enjoyed working with him over many years at FWS. He will be remembered very warmly and with big smiles.

Michele Taylor

November 2, 2025 at 6:19 PM

Bonnie and family - t breaks my heart to write this. I had imagined many more years of shared laughter and adventures with you and Murray in retirement. Instead, I’ll treasure the memories of the long hours Murray and I spent discussing, planning, and gardening with native plants —— and the too few hours the four of us managed to spend kayaking.

To Bonnie, Casey, Jackie, and Murray‘s extended family — Allan and my heartfelt condolences.

Bonnie, that you were the love of Murray's life, there is no doubt. Murray’s eyes always lit up when he spoke of you; his love for you and the family you and he created was so clearly joyful and deep. Allan and I will miss him greatly.

With love,

Michele

April Barker

November 2, 2025 at 10:59 AM

Bonnie and Casey,

I am so sorry for your loss. Although, I didn't know Murray well, after reading about his life, I can see it was a life well lived and you must be so proud.

Take care.

Frank Kuerten

November 1, 2025 at 5:37 PM

Murray, I remember our "Flyer" days with much fondness. You were a mensch and a role model for all in the dept. So saddened to hear of your passing, and I offer condolences to everyone that held you dear. See you on the other side.

Sandy Fodchuk

November 1, 2025 at 3:26 PM

I'm so saddened to see that the world has lost such a wonderful person. I worked with Murray at FWS. Always enjoyed his kindness, friendliness and humor. My very deepest condolences to Bonnie and the family.

Mel Chow

November 1, 2025 at 11:38 AM

My heart breaks for Bonnie and the Gadd family. I first met Murray when I worked at FWS. His kindness and his passion for his work shone bright. I learned a lot from him. He would teach with patience and encouragement. He always had time to answer my questions. Then by coincidence, when I started working at Qualico, his wife Bonnie became my coworker. Another true gem of a person. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Rest easy, Murray.








Montana Fragomeni

November 1, 2025 at 11:13 AM

What a beautiful tribute to Murray's life! Murray was truly the perfect patient - genuine, thankful and always kind, even during the most challenging moments of his illness. I feel incredibly honoured to have been able to play a role in his care and get to know both him and Bonnie over the last couple of years. I know how excited he was to become a grandpa and there is no doubt that he would have embraced that role perfectly. He will be missed!

 

Montana from D6

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