August 22, 1940 – June 3, 2021
Peacefully in his sleep, Danny Somers passed away on June 3, 2021 at the age of 81. Cherishing his memory are his wife of 51 years, Betty; daughter Tanya (Paul) and son Dean (Anie) and soon-to-be-born granddaughter, Angelina Danielle Somers.
Danny was born in South Porcupine, Ontario and moved to Winnipeg with his family as a toddler. He was an only child and grew up in the North End. He had already begun his career as a meat inspector with the federal government at Canada Packers when he met a tall, beautiful new secretary. Danny and Betty married in 1969 and moved to East Kildonan to raise a family.
Danny retired in 1996 following a workplace injury. Sadly, his health and spirits slowly deteriorated after that point and in recent years he became reclusive, remaining in his favourite chair and watching TV. He passed from a combination of serious medical conditions.
In his younger days, Danny was general manager of the St. Boniface Saints hockey team for a few seasons and an award-winning bowler at La Verdendrye Lanes, where he and Betty made numerous close friends, including Norm and Isabelle Brunel and their family. Many happy summers were spent with the Brunels and Danny’s bowling “crew” at Albert Beach, plus bi-annual bowling tournaments in Grand Forks and Fargo.
Through Canada Packers, Danny and Betty met Doug and Sharon Rudnicki, both deceased and remembered with love. Highlights included the 1975 Grey Cup in Calgary and visits to the Rudnickis’ Grand Beach cottage where the Crown Royal flowed, cribbage was played and Bomber games were celebrated.
Danny was a sharp dresser who loved a good laugh and music from the 60s, 70s and 80s. He worked hard to provide for his family with a generous, soft heart and that is how we will remember him.
The family wishes to thank the many friends for trying to keep in touch with Danny over the last 20 years and for supporting Betty in her heavy caregiver role. Thank you also to all of Danny’s wonderful homecare nurses and aides.
Danny did not want a funeral, so please wear his favourite colour, red, and raise a glass (or two) in his memory. Cremation has taken place.
Donations may be made to the St. Boniface Hospital Foundation, www.stbhf.ca, as Danny spent his final days receiving excellent care at St. B or to a charity of your choice.
