Saturday, March 21, 2015

RICHARD WOJCIK WINNIPEG FUNERAL DIRECTOR - GARRY SCHROEDER FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

  

DR. GARRY CONRAD SCHROEDER, MD, FRCP
November 15, 1954 - December 28, 2014

It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved husband Garry who was forced to quit working from Cancer Care Manitoba due to acute illness in November 2014.
It was important to Garry that people knew he did not retire voluntarily and that illness coerced his leaving the medical profession. He had voiced that the perfect timing for his death would be to finish his week of call and then expire. Given a choice, there is no doubt that is exactly the scenario he would have picked. Always the consummate professional where patient care was first and foremost.
He did not want a lengthy obituary and honouring his wishes, this will be a relative short entry. He always said to those whom he mattered knew him and to those who didn't, it was of no consequence. He was a man of action, mostly anonymously; not one for flowery sentiment or public recognition. He was well suited to his profession, having served the people of Manitoba and Canada for nearly three decades as a physician.
Garry was a man of intense honour and integrity. His word and his handshake were sacred to him and he didn't give either lightly. His favourite all time TV series was Dallas and he loved it when JR said, "Contracts are made to be broken but a handshake is the word of God".
He was extremely generous with both his time and his money, always going and working the extra mile, as well as supporting many charities his entire adult life. Many patients also received the benefits of "A one-time social work stipend that only a physician could apply for on behalf of their patients". There was no need for them to bother themselves with the paperwork, he would do it for them. The next day, the fund was readily available. It was always patient care first and his dedication was reflected in his clinical practise every day, including time off as he would research like a fiend to ensure he was always up on the latest drug or therapy.
Garry was particularly interested in supporting the poor with social justice and their much needed medical attention. He also loved animals, "critters" as he affectionately referred to them and supported their well-being also. He was in many ways charmingly old fashioned and chivalrous.  He was a staunch defender of human equality. One such example was working with female Muslim residents who would ask if it was okay if they left to say their prayers. He would reply, "You don't ask me to say your prayers. You tell me". 
There are so many examples of his goodness throughout his life both professionally and personally, but honouring his wishes, they are private and not to be on public display.
As his wife, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the kindness shown to Garry during his hospital stays; gifts, food, visits, prayers, and the best medicine of all, a cup of tea.  Following in his own way, those of you who were important to him know whom you are. It was the encouraging words and doing what you could to show compassion that deeply touched him.  Although he did not want many visitors, his affections and thoughtfulness were voiced as it was expressed to him people were thinking of him or praying for him. He would say thank you and want you all to know it was appreciated even if it could not be expressed in person. It did comfort him and make a difference in his final days.
All of the staff, in all parts of his hospital stays were deeply appreciated; not just the usual physicians and nurses but the auxiliary staff and in particular the nursing assistants who provided him much physical comfort.  He mentioned this several times. As his wife I also wish to express my deep gratitude for your expertise and kindness on HSC H4 and MICU. 
The world is less of a better place because he is no longer in it. He will be deeply mourned and cherished.
A private family only service will be held to honour Garry's life.
Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematorium, 2157 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada 204.897.4665, is in care of arrangements. wojciksfuneralchapel.com 

Rest my dearest love rest.
You successfully ran a valiant race and made the world a better place.
 It was not in vain. It will not be forgotten.
You made a difference and it was indeed good.
Rest my dearest love rest. It has been well earned and more.

Wojcik’s
FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM
2157 PORTAGE AVENUE
204 - 897 - 4665


www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com

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