TED BRIAN WHEATON

We miss his love and cheery ways,

With him we spent our happiest days,

In memory, we see Ted the same,

As long as we live, we will cherish his name.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ted Brian Wheaton, beloved Husband, Father, and Pop, who left us peacefully on October 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 71. A devoted husband to his wife, Kathleen, for 49 years, they shared a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support for one another. In his final moments, Kathleen held his hand and listened to his last heartbeat, a poignant reminder of the bond they shared.

What we never wondered about was his love and dedication to his family. He was devoted to every one of us; he was a loving, caring husband, a proud father and grandfather, a man who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He left this world knowing he was loved and cherished by each of us and cared for and respected by all who knew him.

Ted will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Kathleen; and their three children, Barbara (Brad), Justin, and Jonathan (Ann); and by his five grandchildren, who were his absolute pride and joy: Nicholas, Alexis, Hudson, Grayson, and Bodee. Whenever around, he always asked, “Who loves you?” and the answer was always “Pop!”

Ted came from a large family, and he leaves to mourn his passing his siblings, Joan (Roland), Geraldine, Tom (Isabel), Clayton (Sue), Allister, Jack, Sandra, Caroline; and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his stepmother, Mary; his father and mother-in-law, Tom and Marie Chow; his brothers-in-law, Rick (Jackie), Ken (Lynn), David (Linda), and Rob (Amanda); and his sisters-in-law, Madonna (Ted) and Barbara (Brad). 

He was predeceased by his father, Claude; his mother, Rhoda-Jean Budden; his sisters, Shirley and Patsy; and his brother-in-law, Bruce Lane, who we take comfort in knowing were there to meet him when he left us. Over the years, Ted formed an extraordinary bond with his mother-in-law, Marie. He often called her Mother, among other things, and their relationship was one of friendship and light-hearted banter.

Ted grew up in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, and began a career with CN Railway in 1972, the same year he met the love of his life, Kathleen. Ted and Kathleen married on May 21, 1976, and had a strong and lasting marriage. They were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary next year. Ted and Kathleen were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Barbara, and two loving sons, Justin and Jonathan. In time, their children blessed them with five grandchildren —Nicholas, Alexis, Hudson, Grayson, and Bodee —all of whom were Pop’s treasures.

Together, they raised their children, instilling in them the values of love and togetherness. Ted dedicated his life to his family, working to provide for them. His lifelong career with CN Railway led to several relocations. In 1995, he brought his family from Corner Brook, Newfoundland, to Winnipeg, Manitoba, where they have resided ever since. After 37 years with CN Railway, Ted retired in 2009, ready to embrace a new chapter in life. He left behind a work family who thought very highly of him, some of whom became good friends.

Surprisingly, Dad, who had always envisioned a quiet retirement filled with gardening, fishing, and hunting, embraced an unexpected role as the mall Santa for several years. With his own full white beard, twinkling blue eyes, and gentle demeanour, Dad brought joy to countless children. Families would stand in line for hours, and so many returned each year to see him as Santa. Dad’s time as Santa was simply a reflection of the generosity that had defined his life.

Mom and Dad were inseparable, sharing countless adventures. For many years, they spent their summers camping in their RV trailer and fishing at Dorothy Lake. They also enjoyed their peaceful trips to Jessica Lake year after year. Being out on the boat was their happy place! Often, Mom would catch the bigger fish, and although we joked that Mom was the better fisherperson, that didn’t matter to him. It was being there in his favourite place with the person he loved most in the world that made him happy. They were each other’s best friend.

He was also a hunter. Being in the woods is where he found his solitude. And every fall, he headed to the Sandilands to set up his tree stand and try to shoot the big one. Many falls were spent hunting with his good friend Andre. Even days before his passing, he was in the woods in search of a deer. This hunting season will be the first time he doesn’t bring one home.

Dad loved gardening. He could grow anything and always insisted on adding more to the garden. He had created a beautiful backyard sanctuary for him and Mom to enjoy the beautiful Manitoba weather.

Dad had a special relationship with all three of his children, always showing such love, support, and pride.

Barbie will forever be Daddy’s little girl.

It made Pop proud to see his grandchildren all share his love of fishing. He cherished the moments spent by the water, watching their faces light up with every catch. He also enjoyed time spent in the woods with Nicholas and Alexis, teaching them how to shoot. And every spring, he would plant a garden with Alexis. He was so proud of all their accomplishments.

Unfortunately, Dad fell ill in 2016. Throughout the years, he displayed incredible strength and resilience, and even during his toughest times, he consistently showed our family love, kindness, and encouragement. Throughout Dad's illness, Mom remained his steadfast pillar of strength, standing by his side with boundless love and support, ensuring he never faced a moment of struggle alone. He was her rock, and she was his.

We are heartbroken beyond words at the loss of our North Star. Our world seems less bright and quieter without you. But we will go forward one day at a time, drawing on the strength, courage, and wisdom you imparted to and left with all of us. Rest in peace and tight lines. We take comfort in knowing you’re still watching over us.

In keeping with Ted’s wishes, there will be no formal service. His family will honour him privately. Though he may be gone from our sight, our Husband, Daddy, and Pop have finally found peace and will forever be in our hearts. 

We love you!

God grant that I may live to fish

Until my dying day,

And when my final cast is made,

I then most humbly pray,

When in the Lord’s landing net,

I’m peacefully asleep,

That in his mercy I be judged,

As good enough to keep.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​