Residents of Portage la Prairie gathered earlier this week at the Portage Legion Branch #65 for a Will Planning seminar hosted by Joy Bowman, a nationally certified executor advisor and funeral pre-planning specialist. The event highlighted the importance of finalizing wills, arranging funerals, and easing the burden of loved ones, while raising funds for the Legion through attendee donations.
Immediate funeral decisions and executor challenges
Bowman stresses the urgency of funeral planning, noting families often face critical choices mere minutes after a death.
“Funerals happen immediately. Somebody passes away, and within literally 5 to 15 minutes, somebody in that family is going to be asked which funeral home to call. The family needs to know what the wishes of that person are,” she says.
She emphasizes the value of pre-planning, including setting aside funds and documenting preferences.
Materials from Canada Purple Shield were presented, with local representative Richard Taylor offering guidance.
Bowman also addresses wills, executor roles, and estate complexities, noting, “Executors are left with a job that can last for years. Doing a few things ahead of time makes it easier for them.”
Fundraising through education
The seminar doubled as a fundraiser, with Canada Purple Shield donating $20 per attendee to the Legion.
Over 25 participants generate between $500 and $700 for Branch #65.
“It’s a very easy, effective fundraiser,” Bowman says. “Any group—a church, curling club, or hospital—can host this and get money to help with their costs.”
Community response and resources
Attendees engaged with “lots of good questions,” particularly about balancing personal wishes with practicality.
“Some people are shy and quiet and just want something personal for their funeral. They need to express that wish,” Bowman explains. She likens preparation to “grocery shopping with a list,” reducing stress and financial strain.
Bowman underscores the seminar’s role in providing free, localized advice, saying, “Having this resource right in the room with me and Richard has a big effect. People can tap us on the shoulder and ask, ‘What happens to my cottage when I’m gone?’”
The event left attendees with tools to navigate estate planning, all while supporting a community institution—a blend of education and philanthropy Bowman hopes to replicate across Manitoba.