Contributions to the tribute of Theron Bennett Finley

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Le-Roy Medby posted a condolence

Thursday, May 19, 2022

I first met Bennett at a small park outside Medicine Hat in 1970. I remember meeting his beautiful wife Margaret (my wife, Jill’s cousin), and their energetic boys. I also remember thinking how interesting it was visiting Bennett. We enjoyed our time in the park with the Finley family and continued to enjoy visiting with Margaret, the boys, and Bennett for the next half-century. When we would stop to visit the Finley’s in Saskatoon, we were made to feel so welcome. They asked about our family and talked about their family with all the pride in the world. I always got a kick out of how Bennett and Jill used to banter and torment each other. Two years ago Bennett, Derek, and Jacqueline came over for a coffee and visit and the two of them still had us laughing as they bantered back and forth. When Jill talked with Bennett on the phone she would be laughing throughout the whole conversation. There's a moment in my lifelong relationship with Bennett that I remember as if it happened a few minutes ago. This would be in the mid-1980s. We were waiting for the Finleys to arrive at our cottage at Candle Lake. I decided to put up a flag pole and fly a flag for Margaret and Bennett. So, I am in the water with my electric drill, drilling away when they arrive. Bennet came out on the dock to say hello, but no hello. When he saw me operating the electric drill, he said with 130 % assertiveness, “Stop that drilling and get out of the water Le-Roy before you kill yourself! If you don’t, I will have nothing to do with you.” I immediately did what he ordered, and to this day every time I see an electric drill, I think of Bennett, the order, and how forthright he was. Some of you will identify with my experience. Over the years I have always appreciated Bennett’s wide range of knowledge, skills, talents, experiences, and wisdom. We would make trips through the forest trails near Candle Lake, stopping frequently to photograph flowers, butterflies, birds, and other wonders of nature. I respected his talent with a camera and learned much as we were on our knees photographing the beauty of nature. His enthusiasm was infectious. Bennett loved to go for wild spins in my performance boat. He would be laughing away as he would say, “Light the water on fire, Le-Roy”. He also enjoyed my recklessness with the boat. He would get quite excited as we made the boat leap and spin on a dime. Being two old fools, with Bennett, was a wonderful time. I cherish my time with Bennett. It was not a huge amount of time, but it was quality time. I had always had a tremendous amount of respect for Bennett. But, when I saw how committed he was to Margaret, through her last several years, the amount of respect grew exponentially. Time and time again, Jill or I would say, “What a wonderful person. He is so strong and so committed”. About 4 years ago (before Covid 19) we had lunch with Bennett at Moxies. He talked about Margaret, the boys, the daughter-in-laws’ and the grandchildren. He was so proud to tell us about his family. It was so nice to hear. Of course, he and Jill tormented each other, and we all had a special time together. Bennett: Thank you for sharing your time with us. We will fondly remember you always. Le-Roy (& Jill) Medby

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Valerie Cameron posted a condolence

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

What great visits we had with Bennett and Marg at St. Martin’s church and when Don rode his bike to their house. You will reassure the vast memories. Hugs to Mathew and Sarah whose kindness and respect we experienced at the church. Love, Valerie Cameron and Don Reimer

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Judy A Solberg lit a candle

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

A Memory of Bennett: One of the best days of my life was when Marg and Bennett became our neighbours. Marg loved her pots and flowers and yard. Bennett not so much/ other than feeding his birds EXCEPT for crows which is another story best not shared. He adored Marg and spent every day with her when she had to go to a Care Home. His evenings, while he was able to drive, were spent touring the city and river banks taking his amazing photos. I guess if I had to choose a special memory, it would be when I visited daily to take his favourite moose hamburger soup or macaroni casserole or a piece of pie, cookies. or other dessert with the pretense of checking on him and see the twinkle in his eye and great smile and knowing I had not fooled him at all. We had wonderful chats as he shared his memories of his beloved Luseland and people in the community and his sons escapades with their music and motorcycles. He will be forever remembered and missed and I sincerely hope the special friendship we have with his family will remain a lifetime. Judy and Gerald Solberg

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Jeanette Halpape posted a condolence

Monday, May 16, 2022

Bennett was truly a great man. I very much enjoyed my visits with him during my university days and then in the past few years when I moved up to Saskatoon. He will definitely be missed!!!

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Cheryl Finley posted a condolence

Monday, May 16, 2022

What a wonderful tribute to a man that lived large. Bennett will be remembered for his infectious smile and sense of humor. Although he faced many adversities during his lifetime he was always positive and anxious to move forward. Bennett was a man of many hats and could do anything well, which is obvious by the many careers he took on. He loved a challenge and was eager to master anything. When Marg got sick Bennett was her lifeline with visiting her every day spending long hours at the care home. It was just like Bennett to take on the selfless role of caregiver. Bennett was especially proud of his family who he raised by his values and work ethics. When Bennett talked about his "boys" he glowed. And in return Craig, Derek and Blair were always there for their Dad. Our lives have been enriched by knowing Bennett. He left all who knew him memories of the incredible person he was who inspired all of us. My heart goes to Craig, Derek and Blair and their families. You are in my thoughts, Cheryl

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Pamela McKay posted a condolence

Sunday, May 15, 2022

I only had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Fin for the last 5 years but he always had a smile and kindness that would light up the room. Thinking of all that knew and loved him, he will be so missed. Pam McKay

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Eric Einarson posted a condolence

Sunday, May 15, 2022

An amazing man and very special close friend , I miss Mr.Fin everyday , but , so many great memories. Eric Einarson.

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Jocelyne Duerksen Posted May 15, 2022 at 11:15 PM

So many wonderful memories of both Bennett and Marg and their time in Luseland and ‘the store’. Bennett’s friendships were lifetime friendships and how he loved those fishing trips with his buddies. His laugh is ringing out and he is listening to great music. He is missed.

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The family of Theron Bennett Finley uploaded a photo

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Theron Bennett Finley

1934 - 2022

Prairie View Cremation and Memorial Services