Peacefully with his family by his side, Ivan George Jefferies of Glenboro, MB, passed away at the Glenboro Personal Care Home on Sunday, September 6, 2020 at the age of 88 years. Ivan was born to Archie and Lily Jefferies on September 16, 1931 in Glenboro at his grandparent’s nursing home. He lived his entire life to its fullest in this prairie farming community. Ivan grew up on the farm and was forever a farmer at heart. He learned from an early age about hard work, the importance of family and community. He farmed alongside his dad and brother for many years. Ivan and Gordie jointly rented land in 1956, and gradually purchased equipment and land together pursuing their farming partnership until 1972. Ivan then worked to build his own mixed farm with grain, cattle, pigs, and chickens. He worked very hard and took pride in all aspects of the farm. Ivan was very active in the 4-H Seed Club, started curling at age 14, and learned to dance at Hawkins School. Ivan married Gwen Rousseau in Bissett, Manitoba on October 8, 1960. Over sixty years of love and commitment, they were true partners for life. Ivan introduced Gwen to life on the farm as they settled into their first home together on the family farm and his parents moved to town. History would repeat itself through five generations. They were blessed with three children Ron, Marilyn and Leanne. Ron followed in Ivan’s footsteps with the love of farming and worked together with him for many years. Ivan and Gwen moved into Glenboro in 1988, and Ron and Wanda moved to the home farm. Community meant a lot to Ivan. He’d say, you have to give to your community for it to give back to you. He volunteered many hours for the Ag Society, United Church, School board, 4-H Seed and Calf Clubs and ushered for funerals. He never hesitated to lend a hand to these organizations or his neighbors. Ivan and Gwen loved to dance, camp, and travel. He said many times how glad he was they traveled when they could. Above all, family occasions were extra special. Ivan had many friends and loved to chat. He started to golf in retirement, and the Monday Night Golfers were great friends. Later in life, he enjoyed trips to the casino and visiting with friends. Ivan was so very proud of his seven grandsons. He loved ice cream and was anxious to treat the boys to cones. As they grew, he encouraged and watched them through all their various interests from sports, to 4-H, music and academics. The grandsons sparked Ivan’s interest in hockey as he became an avid fan. His deep love for his grandchildren was evident as they grew into adulthood, so proud of their choices. Family was so very important to Ivan, and he cherished seeing his family grow. Ivan was very determined to overcome adversities that arose during the past few years. He moved into the Glenboro Personal Care Home in November 2019 accepting this next phase of life. He had a positive attitude, smile on his face and kind words for all. He was very grateful to care givers and visitors. Ivan was happiest going for drives to check the crops and see the farm with all the advancements. Farming to Ivan was not a job but his life! Ivan leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife of 59 years Gwen (nee Rousseau), son Ron (Wanda) Jefferies of Glenboro, MB, Marilyn (Cliff) Cullen of Glenboro, MB, Leanne (Brian) English of Rivers, MB; seven grandsons Cale (Hailey), Riley (Shelby), Braydon (Jenna), Addison (Elise), Colby (Jade), Connor (Kyla) and Brendan; sister Orma (Bud) Graham of Wawanesa, MB, sister-in-law Jeanette Jefferies of Glenboro, MB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended relatives. Ivan was predeceased by his parents Archie & Lily Jefferies, sister Irene and brother-in-law Harold Chalmers and by brother Gordon Jefferies. A Family Graveside Service was held on Thursday, September 10, 2020 at the Glenboro Cemetery with Sandra Rex officiating. Friends that so desire, memorial donations can be made in Ivan's memory to the Glenboro United Church Memorial Fund, Box 623, Glenboro, MB or to the Glenboro & Area Foundation, Box 147, Glenboro, MB R0K 0X0.