Ernest "Bud" Edwin Fullerton

Ernest “Bud” Edwin Fullerton

1928 - 2025

With sadness, the family announces the peaceful passing of Ernest Edwin Fullerton, known fondly to all as “Bud” on November 27, 2025, at the Benito Health Centre, at 97 years of age. He left this world surrounded by the love and presence of his family.

Bud was born on August 7, 1928, to Sonny and Olive (Eagle) Fullerton in the Ruby District of Durban, Manitoba. He attended school in Ruby and completed Grade 9 at Durban High School. At age 16, he completed a welding course in Winnipeg, training that became a valuable skill on the family farm. Bud worked alongside his family for many years and eventually purchased the original WJ Fullerton farm site.

In 1964, Bud married Anne Toews, and together they shared 14 years of marriage and welcomed three children, two sons and a daughter.

Bud’s love for farming began early in life and continued well into his 70’s. He milked cows, raised beef cattle and pigs, did custom mowing, logging, and built chimneys for people throughout the Valley. Bud’s favorite game was playing crib. He also enjoyed curling, especially in Durban and Swan River.

In 1991, Bud married Mavis Stringer, and together they shared 33 years of marriage. They lived on the Fullerton family farm until recently moving to the Benito Health Centre.

Community involvement, politics, and volunteer work were lifelong passions for Bud. He served as a trustee for the Ruby School Board, was a lifelong supporter of the NDP and NFU, and participated on numerous boards, including the Pool Elevator. Both Bud and Mavis were active members of the Swan Valley Historic Museum, where Bud devoted countless hours to selling tickets and fundraising.

Bud loved attending auction sales and took great joy in collecting unique items, proudly showing off his latest finds. In retirement he developed a talent for woodworking, creating bowls, candlesticks, clocks, napkin holders, and even urns, gifts he was always eager to share.

His garden was another source of pride and fulfillment. He especially loved growing tomatoes, peas, and potatoes, and found even greater joy in giving his harvest to family, friends, and neighbors.

Bud is survived by his children Marty (Michele), Michael (Min), and Christine (Dan); his grandchildren Bailey, Dharma, Lucas, Elise, Declan, and Allison; his brother Roy (Marilyn); and his sisters Shirley and Clysta. He is also survived by his stepchildren Leroy (Brenda), Dale, and Marion, along with their children Kim, Bev, Matt, David, their mother, Rita, Nikki, and Alistair.

He was predeceased by his wife Mavis, brothers Boyd and Kip, brothers-in-law Jerry and Harold, and his parents, Sonny and Olive.

Bud will be remembered for his generosity, his strong community spirit, his craftsmanship, and his lifelong passion for the land he farmed. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

If friends so desire, memorial donations in memory of Bud may be made to Swan Valley Historical Museum Box 2078 Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0.

Bud will be remembered for his generosity, his strong community spirit, his craftsmanship, and his lifelong passion for the land he farmed. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.