It is with extreme sadness we announce the passing of Jason Corey Enns, at the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care Unit in Winnipeg.  

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Diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in the Fall of 2019, Jason battled courageously through treatment and a pandemic to maximize time with his family.  He leaves to mourn his wife Joanne (Hildebrand) and son Lucas.

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Predeceased by his mother Sharon and niece Jenny Lou Hildebrand, Jason is survived by his father; John (Ruth), and siblings Justin (Vanessa), Noel and Tessa.

Jason was a loving husband and proud father, an outdoor enthusiast, a world traveler and a dedicated athlete.  He loved cycling, running, canoeing, exploring and camping in all seasons and terrains.  Jason completed the 50 km Spruce Woods Ultra Marathon in 2017 challenging his physical and mental endurance. He generously shared his passion for nature and sport with Joanne and Lucas, contributing his energy as a Coach and a Parent Volunteer; supporting Lucas in all his recreational interests including hockey and Kids of Mud cycling group.  

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The family went on countless camping and canoe trips across Canada, always seeking adventure and appreciating the wild.  Family friendly ‘car-camping’ trips included annual bookings at Rushing River and Sioux Narrows.  Jason's preference was always for proper ‘canoe-camping’ and one of his favourite trips was taking Lucas on a two week paddling trip through Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. 

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Jason built his own canoe as a project with his father.  It was a cedar strip canoe and it was a prized achievement.  If you ever paddled in the front of this canoe it was your responsibility to divert the bow from rocks or any damaging debris!

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As a traveler, Jason’s desire for exploration was established young and never ceased.  He undertook an epic year long journey to Australia, New Zealand and the Cook Islands.  Throughout his adult years, he would constantly be on the go, both near and far, needing only the suggestion of a good bike ride or concert as inspiration.  While Jason particularly loved the Rocky Mountains and BC, he visited and appreciated every corner of Manitoba too.  

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Jason was an adventurer and could make a walk to the corner store as exciting as an international journey. The first thing he wanted to do after being handed his diagnosis was to go zip-lining in Manitoba’s Pembina Valley. He appreciated nature’s detail and would scan the environment for excitement or some uniqueness.  A new plant, a different leaf, an interesting  bird or song; Jason would always appreciate and share his love of nature. 

On his travels, Jason was also constantly on watch as a staunch environmentalist, tending as a shepherd would over his flock.  He was an avid reader and student of the environment, which shaped his life as a conscious consumer and citizen of this world. He cared deeply for the world’s health and accepted his responsibility to maintain it for future generations.  

A graduate of Westgate Collegiate and the University of Winnipeg, Jason built a career with the City of Winnipeg Water and Waste Department. He began his employment as a summer student and spent his entire career in the department spanning almost 30 years.

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Jason built a beautiful life.  He was a leader, a creator, a listener, and a steadfast friend.  He will be deeply missed by his family, many friends, neighbors and colleagues.  

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The family would like to thank the staff at the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface Hospital and the support of Dr. Shantanu Banerji at CancerCare Manitoba for their expertise and care of Jason. A private burial has taken place.  In lieu of flowers, please support a local charity of your choice or donate to CancerCare Manitoba.

 

Voyager upon life's sea,
To yourself be true,
And where'er your lot may be
Paddle your own canoe

Never, though the winds may rave,
Falter nor look back;
But upon the darkest wave
Leave a shinning track.

- Sarah Bolton