Growing up on Ministikwan
Roy often vowed if it were the last thing he would do it would be to live long enough to see the day Donna got married. That day came; the date was set for November 12 / 1977. The fishing season was over so Roy received his invitation at his home base in Senlac, Sask. just north of Macklin. Macklin was the closest trading center in the area for Roy and Melnechuks Dry Goods was the place to purchase a new suit or at least charge one up on your account, never mind a credit or debit card, trust was the key word and the way to do business. The store owner Alec was also a fisherman and summer resident at Ministikwan Lake, he was an influence in Donna’s formulative years and was subsequently ask to emcee at the wedding. While getting fitted for the suit Alec and Roy made plans to drive up to Loon Lake together for the wedding, this was great they would make the trip in one day keeping each other company on the road. When the day arrived they struck out early coming up the back way stopping in at all the lakes along highway 21 ( the Goat Trail) north of Paradise Hill to Ministikwan Lake. I recall Roy recanting at the reception the wonderful drive they had made and they had never really seen the country side or lakes at this time of year as they normally left in September only to return the following spring. As it turned out Alec did his part which lead into the dance where Roy took up a dance with Donna. With his shy smile he expressed his satisfaction at being able to share this day with her. I met Roy coming off the dance floor we chatted a little, shared a drink, then seconds later Eldon was performing CPR to no avail, Roy had done what he had vowed to do. Although the timing was a little on the tight side and who knew he would get a free suit out of the deal. Without question that was more than any bride should have to deal with. What can you say, only life goes on. These events from our wedding become reminiscent now as our daughter Natasha prepares for her wedding October 11 just around the corner. |
