Obituary of Garnet Austin Robertson

ROBERTSON: Garnet Austin Robertson of Brandon, passed away on November 12, 2011 at the Brandon Regional Health Centre – Assiniboine Centre. Garnet was born June 12, 1925 in Winnipeg, MB. He was the son of Jack and Eva Robertson. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Della, baby daughter Marsha Lynn, brother Ross and sister-in-law Yvonne. Garnet spent most of his growing up years in Isabella and took his schooling there. His dad showed hackney horses and this is where Garnet developed a love for horses. He went on to show horses himself. Garnet joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at the age of 17 and completed 32 missions. Although he returned to Canada physically unscathed, the war years defined him for the rest of his life. He didn't talk much about the war, but he was able to write about his memories and shared them with his children in a booklet called Ghost Squadron. Garnet married Della Lints in 1946 and began his career as a station agent. This career resulted in many moves within Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Two communities became "home" to Della and Garnet– Wawanesa and Maryfield (where they made a home for over twenty years). Garnet had many interests over his lifetime including curling, fishing, carpentry and gardening. All through the years, Garnet had a green thumb. Everywhere he moved his yard became a showpiece. Garnet is survived by his children Terry (Alma), Harvey (Cheryl) and daughter Donna (Ed). He will also be greatly missed by his grandchildren Troy (Dani) Robertson, Ryan (Krista) Robertson, Jarrod (Christine) Robertson, Rhonda (Mike) Hunter, Justin (Nashly) Epp and James Epp. A Celebration of Garnet's life was held at Brockie Donovan Chapel on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. Interment was at the Brandon Cemetery. Donations in memory of Garnet may be made to a charity of choice.