Marcel Julian Degrave Obituary

Marcel Julian Degrave attended Sisler High School in Winnipeg, MB. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Marcel Julian Degrave.

Graduation Year	Class of 1962
Date of Passing	Dec 28, 2021
About	MARCEL JULIAN DEGRAVE 19 NOV 1945 - 28 DEC 2021 It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Marcel Julian DeGrave, on December 28, 2021 in Winnipeg, Manitoba at the age of 76. Marcel was predeceased by his mother Irene (nee VanDeKerkhove), father Julian and sister Linda. He is lovingly remembered by his son David (Melanie), daughter Renea (Peter); grandchildren Talula, Raini (Nick), India (Xavier), Kiana and Jacob; great-grandson, River; siblings Lorraine (John), Julian/Tookie (Glenda), Bob (Bev), Larry (Tracy), Ray (Diane); step-siblings Steve and Christine (Ryan); his father's spouse Anna, Aunt Mary, Uncle Hilaire and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Family was important to Marcel, the eldest of seven children with a huge extended family. He loved to share stories about his siblings and their misadventures, which he mysteriously was never a part of. Marcel never missed a birthday or special occasion, making sure to call or send a card to let you know he was thinking of you. Marcel's five grandchildren were very special to him and he bragged about their accomplishments to whomever would listen. He held a special place in his heart for his first great-grandchild, River. Marcel forged friendships with many people over the years, having maintained contact with friends from his youth and making new ones through various sports, work, volunteerism and being a good neighbour. Marcel possessed the gift of conversation and loved to meet new people. It was amazing how he could find a commonality with anyone he spoke to and never forgot anyone he met. Marcel knew the value of an honest day's work, having worked the family dairy farm, construction and starting a successful business, Seven Oaks Transmissions, with his younger brother, Bob. While he "retired" in 2007, he was busier than ever. He volunteered at the Belgian Club and Belgian Legion, shovelled snow, cut grass and rototilled gardens. Marcel loved to keep busy, loved working with his hands and in the past several years had honed his carpentry skills, specifically building decks and fences. Along with his work ethic, Marcel was a very patient man who lived a simple life. He valued people and relationships more than material items and this was very evident in how he lived his life. In accordance with Marcel's wishes, cremation has taken place. A service, interment and celebration of Marcel's life will be held in late spring or early summer, to be announced. This will allow all who loved and knew Marcel an opportunity to gather together to grieve and share stories and fond memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marcel's memory to Harvest Manitoba, The Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund, or a charity of your personal choice. Family and friends may sign a book of condolence at www.glenlawn.ca. Glen Lawn Funeral Home 204-982-7550 As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 15, 2022