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Howie Whatman

Image by Nick Andréka

HOWARD BLAIR
"HOWIE" WHATMAN

December 27, 1950 –April 21, 2021

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Howard (Howie) Blair Whatman, in Winnipeg on April 21, 2021 at the age of 70.  Born in Winnipeg, he grew up in River Heights and graduated from Red River Community Collegiate.

 

Howie married Marilyn Sneyd in 1977 and worked in the automotive industry the majority of his career, living in Brandon, Thunder Bay and moving back to Winnipeg (Westwood) in 1982. He was a member of the Assiniboine Chamber of Commerce for many years.

 

Howie was a devoted husband, and dad and friend to two sons, and was actively involved in their many activities growing up.  He loved to downhill ski, and cherished his summers spent at their trailer at Falcon Lake and Hilly Lake over the past 33 years.  He was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Hilly Lake”.  He had a great personality and always had a dad joke ready.

 

Howie is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marilyn; sons, Trevor (Rose) and Kevin (fiancée Cheries), both of Winnipeg; mother-in-law Norma Sneyd of Fredericton; along with several brother and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. He was a chosen grandfather to Dylan, Brooklynn and Zayden, who will affectionately remember him as Harry. He is predeceased by his mother Joan; father-in-law Neil Sneyd; and his beloved grandmother,

Elona Taylor, who helped raise him.

 

During the last weeks of his life, he was in CancerCare Manitoba’s in-home palliative care program.  Special thanks to his nurses Trish and Angela. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution, in Howie’s memory, to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and, at his request, there will be no funeral service. Howie's family hopes that you will consider sharing your own photos and/or sharing your own memories and stories using 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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Larissa Webster

June 11, 2021 at 4:40 PM

Our deepest condolences to Marilyn, Trevor and Kevin.  Howie became a part of our family at the Frenchway, first as a customer, the "Ham Man" and afterward he joined our team. Saving the day on numerous occasions. Always a smile, or a joke to help brighten the day when things were tough. I will always remember the kindness and support that Howie shared with me. Rest in peace Howie ❤

Bob James

May 5, 2021 at 1:50 PM

So sorry to hear of  Howie’s passing. I met Howie in the car business years ago and  what a great man he was. Howie had so much integrity and a great sense of humour. Thanks for the memories Howie I will miss you. Rest I. Peace. 

Margot and Len Bowes

May 2, 2021 at 8:44 PM

Marilyn, Trevor and Kevin, we were so saddened to learn of Howie’s passing. We have so many great memories of Howie from earlier years: of junior high and high school, college days, skiing, working and partying together. I hope you can take comfort in all the beautiful tributes and heartfelt condolences that reflect what a kind, caring and humorous man Howie was. He was always a wonderful friend and it is clear that he continued to make life happier and “funnier” for all those around him throughout his life. We wish you strength to get through the difficult days ahead. With deepest sympathy, Len and Margot Bowes

Brian Drummond

May 2, 2021 at 8:36 PM

Howie was a good friend of mine going back to Brock Corydon school days. I played organized hockey with Howie. Howie always stood up for me when I needed some help. He was a very positive guy and straight shooter. My sincere condolences to the family.

Paul Marchinko

May 2, 2021 at 5:38 PM

Growing up as friends with Kevin. My fondest memory of Howie was that he always greeted me as Fred the Plummer. My condolences to all!! 

Darren Ford

May 2, 2021 at 2:19 AM

So what do you say about Howie Whatman? Wow. It’s hard to know where to start.  This is a man of character and of integrity. So it’s hard to know where to begin. Howie was a friend’s dad. He was band trip chaperone. He was a boss at Birchwood Motors. But most of all, he was just about the coolest “dad”-aged guy I may have ever known. And he always had my back.  And me, his.  From jamming in his basement with Trevor amongst Marilyn’s day care mini tables, to him sternly telling me to get back to the hotel in Denver on the phone of the Colorado Cafe in downtown Denver to just flat out chuckles around the table at Silver Heights Restaurant (I could also mention the time he picked up Trevor from my Grade 12 house party in 1995, but I’ll abstain).  This has hit me harder than I anticipated. I just loved Howie. He was a source of optimism and endless support, for not only me, but his two sons and everyone else that could crack a smile his way. He had my sense of humour to a T and his belly laugh was so sincere, it was palpable.  Holt Drive is in mourning today. As are the rest of us. Everyone should have the privilege of knowing a “Howie Whatman” I did.   And I’ll never forget that privilege.  My deepest thoughts to all of you.  Love, Darren, Kristin and Jake Ford.    

Bonnie Berryand Randy Marchinko

May 2, 2021 at 1:38 AM

Marilyn, Trevor, Kevin, we are so sorry you have lost Howie.  We have so many warm and funny memories of him. He was truly a family man.

gerryloeb

May 1, 2021 at 9:04 PM

Marilyn and family.We are very sorry to hear of Howies passing. We have many fond memories Joanne and Gerry Loeb

Gail Doug Jackson

May 1, 2021 at 7:02 PM

Well, what do you say about an old friend from junior high school, so many fun memories! Howie  and I were buddies from our part-time jobs at The Bay, Red River College and our skiing trips. Our friendship continued with our families in Thunder Bay and Westwood. Condolences to Marilyn and family. Doug and Gail Jackson

Shirley & Rick

May 1, 2021 at 6:31 PM

So very sorry to hear of Howie's passing. We met Howie and family while camping near them at Falcon Lake for many summers. While I watched Howie string  patio lights around his awning, I pointed out to Rick that we should have some too.  And thus our summer friendship began.  Good times around the campfire while your kids and ours got into their own adventures while we were otherwise occupied. Howie had such an amazing wit.  You could never have a straight conversation with him as he always turned everything into a joke. Marilyn, Trevor, Rose, Kevin and Cheries, you have our most sincere condolences.  Howie will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.  Shirley & Rick Sokol

Arlene

May 1, 2021 at 3:22 PM

Howie was our new car sales manager at Park Pontiac.  He is the only man I can say could look me in the eye and scold me to go get more money for the car with the biggest smile on his face, when I was a vehicle sales person at Park Pontiac. Sorry to see him leave when he did, but I am sure that smile of his won over many people.

Gord Wintink

May 1, 2021 at 3:11 PM

Howie..We’ve been BFFs for some 53 years. And we’ve done a lot of fun, crazy  & awesome things durning that time. You are an amazing person, always there to lend a helping hand & support us during the rough times. I’ll miss you & all your “recycled” humour. Rest In peace Ol’Buddie & don’t forget to save the “shotgun” seat for GW when it’s his turn to join the eternal ride. My deepest condolences to Marilyn, Trevor, & Kevin.   Gord Wintink

Julie Brown

April 29, 2021 at 9:16 PM

Howie was always kind to our family.  His smile and wonderful sense of humour will never be forgotten.  Marilyn, Trevor, Rose, Kevin and Cheries,  we are sorry for you loss.  We are keeping you close in our thoughts and our hearts during this difficult time❤ Julie and Doug Brown

Sharon and Ryan M

April 29, 2021 at 2:53 PM

We are sadly writing this, because you, the family lost a very important member. We have very fond memories of Howie. He blessed many lives with his presence. If you only remember one thing about his passing, may it be this...." The Soul would have no Rainbow, if the Eyes had no Tears." ( a native proverb) Mnay blessings to you all in this very challenging time. Sharon and Ryan ( Frost ).

Dennis Dyck

April 28, 2021 at 3:50 PM

To live in the hearts of those left behind is not to die. Amen Howie Whatman

Joanne miller

April 28, 2021 at 5:10 AM

Marilyn so sorry to hear of Howies passing. May you find comfort in the memories you made. ❤

Elaine Brown

April 27, 2021 at 4:28 AM

Marilyn so sorry to hear of Howie’s passing. Love to you. Elaine (Hefferton) Brown

Heather

April 27, 2021 at 2:12 AM

So sorry Carrie :(  Our deepest condolences 💙

Linda Schnerch and Paulette Desaulniers

April 27, 2021 at 1:19 AM

Howie always had a smile when you met up with him.  Always giving you help when needed.  you will be missed Howie. Rest in peace.. Our sympathies to you Marilyn and family .❤❤

Mona Mikkelson

April 27, 2021 at 12:35 AM

We first met Howie and Marilyn when my husband Keith, began playing baseball for the Westwood Royals fastball team. Always a jokester and a smile from ear to ear. Over the years we've run into him and still a smile from ear to ear regardless of his health struggles. Heaven has definitely gained a very special angel. Marilyn, you are in our hearts.❤ Mona and Keith Mikkelson

Gerry Peterson

April 26, 2021 at 10:46 PM

The worlds loss is heavens gain. My deepest condolences and sincerest sympathies. 

Gail Surman

April 26, 2021 at 8:05 PM

I first knew of Howie through his reputation as this great funny guy in Westwood. Later I met him at Scrapbookers Anonymous and I will always remember his big smile, a joke or two and how he lit up a room when he walked in. He will be missed. Rest In Peace Howie. 🙏❤️

Laurie Scarfe

April 26, 2021 at 7:42 PM

I first met Howie when I used to do Folk Art Painting with Marilyn.   A group of ladies and myself would often invade Marilyn’s basement workshop for painting.  We always loved it when Howie got home, as he would come downstairs to see us ladies, full of jokes and laughter.  One of my favourite parts of these visits from Howie was the big bag of candy he would bring us, always my favourite JuJubes and chocolates.  Bill and I enjoyed our visits with Marilyn and Howie at their home and trailer.  Always a good time full of laughter and fun.  Howie will be missed by us all.  Deepest condolences to Marilyn, Kevin/Cheries, Trevor/Rose.  Laurie & Bill Scarfe

Alexa

April 26, 2021 at 7:34 PM

I met Howie through Marilyn who was my childrens nursery school teacher. Howie had such a great sense of humor and he had the best smile. Me and my family send Marilyn Trevor and Kevin our love and our condolences. Alexa

Brenda Skene

April 26, 2021 at 6:46 PM

I met Howie through Marilyn’s classes when she worked at Michaels, so we’ve been friends a long time.  Howie’s smile is what I remember most, and his helping Marilyn at many crafting events, where he supported her.  My thoughts and prayers go out to Marilyn and the whole family.

Angie Schlichting

April 26, 2021 at 5:15 PM

I met him at crafting events! He was always helping Marilyn! Always had  a huge smile when you spoke to him!  Hugs and prayers to the family!

Percy

April 26, 2021 at 4:53 PM

You could never forget his "smile"  Always lit up the room !

Jeff mitchell

April 26, 2021 at 4:50 PM

Howie was the “ moon “ king.  He was the only person I knew who could flip burgers bending over looking between his legs at the fire and shining a moon at the entire campground.  Man of many talents.😁  Jeff Mitchell

Joyce

April 26, 2021 at 4:17 PM

Always a joke teller. He brightened a room. I will miss him. 
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