Erwin Robert Mack

Erwin Robert Mack passed away peacefully on Friday, December 4, 2020 at the age of 97 at the Russell Personal Care Home.

Erwin was born on June 7, 1923 in the Boulton Municipality to Robert Mack and Natalie Mack (Schmitke, Fingas). His mother was a widow with seven children and Erwin became a part of a large family having 5 half sisters and 2 half brothers. At age 15, Erwin’s parents moved from the Fingas farm, starting the Mack farm 3 miles east of Inglis. This farm would be Erwin’s home until 2012 when he and his wife, Enid, moved to Russell.

Erwin married Enid Halwas on September 8, 1946 and very happily celebrated 74 wedding anniversaries. Erwin is survived by his wife Enid and 5 children: Judy (Butch) Metcalfe, David (Rita) Mack, Kelly (JoAnne) Mack, Ruth (Robert) McCosh and Connie (Doug) Schroeder. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren: Alexis Metcalfe (Dan), Nathan Mack (Kristen), Stephen Mack (Amy), Kaitlyn Schnell (Jesse), Jordan Mack (Samantha), Colin McCosh, Thomas McCosh (Tia), Michael Schroeder and Luke Schroeder and 2 great-grandchildren Colter Schnell and Ada Mack.

Erwin took pride in both his crops and his cattle. He thought the farm was a great place to teach responsibility, a strong work ethic, and raise a family. Erwin was a community minded individual and spent many years chairing or serving on boards for the Manitoba Pool Elevators, Boulton School Board, Bethany Church Council, and the Inglis Credit Union. He also volunteered his time with 4-H Grain and Beef Clubs, Inglis School, and the Inglis Elevators. Being comfortable chairing meetings and speaking to people, he was often asked to participate or chair events in the district. With his interest in people and community he developed an extensive network of acquaintances who would become his friends. Whether Erwin was in Inglis, Russell, or Roblin, he always seemed to know people and was happy to visit with them.

Erwin’s first love was his family. He was always supportive, caring and generous. It didn’t matter if it was his children or grandchildren, family life would include rides through the countryside, stops for ice-cream cones, card games, and lots of food and laughter. A high light of each week would be Friday night and Sunday night visits with extended families, nephews and nieces. In retirement, there was more leisure time to spend with family. He loved the grandchildren and they all loved grandpa.

The family wants to express their thankfulness to Dr. Almalky and the entire staff at the Russell and District Personal Care Home for the care, kindness, thoughtfulness and dedication that they showed to Erwin and the Mack family.