With dignity and courage Mervyn Burton Williamson passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2001 at the Assiniboine Centre in Brandon, Manitoba. Merv was born a twin on November 19, 1945 in Glenboro, Manitoba to Burt and Mary Williamson. He grew up on the family farm and attended school in Hilton, Manitoba. Merv worked on the family farm until 1966 at which time he moved to Brandon and began his career as a welder with Metal Industries. He met and married Beverly Warrener, of Baldur, Manitoba, and together they shared 32 years of love and laughter. Merv and Bev were graced with two sons, Shawn and Barry, who were by his side until the very end. In 1984 Merv partnered with Bruce McEwen and founded MGB Services, in which they provided petroleum services to southern Manitoba. Even during his battle with cancer, Merv worked up until his last couple of months. Merv's love for life will always be remembered by his snappy "one-liners" and his dry sense of humour. Going to the lake became a passion for Merv. The "Lakers" as they were known, became Merv's second family at his home away from home. There was rarely a weekend that Merv would not be at the cabin participating in the campfire sing-a-longs, belgium bowling or a round of golf. The lake just won't be the same without him. Merv was pre-deceased by his father, Burt Williamson, who had also fought the same battle as he. Merv is survived by his loving wife, Beverly, sons, Shawn and Barry, his mother, Mary of Hilton, sisters, Joan (Merlin) of Winnipeg; Sharon (Jack) of Winnipeg; twin brother, Gordon (Vivian) of Hilton; brother, Robert (Jean) of Hilton; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be sadly missed by his family and by many friends. A time of visitation was held on Tuesday, May 8, 2001 between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. at Memories Chapel. The Funeral Service was held at Central United Church on Wednesday, May 9, 2001 with Rev. John Nesbitt officiating. Pallbearers were Gerry Cowan, Eric Penner, Ron Clark, Jim Coates, Murray Davidson and Wayne Wunch. Interment followed in Rosewood Memorial Gardens. Donations in memory of Merv may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 415 - 1st Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7A 2W8 or to a Charity of Choice.