The lives and careers of two former paramedics were celebrated today as northern Manitoba lakes were renamed in their memory.

Beausejour paramedics Manuel Cuadros and Keith Barrie were killed on July 27, 1995 when their ambulance collided with a tractor-trailer while responding to a medical emergency. 

MGEU EMS Component Director Rebecca Cliffton attended the ceremony today in Beausejour on behalf of MGEU President Michelle Gawronsky.

“As a former paramedic myself, I know first-hand the dangers this job presents,” said Gawronsky. “Our paths crossed many times, and I remember Manuel and Keith as dedicated paramedics with a passion for helping others. This is such a fitting tribute for both of them.” 

The Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard applied to have the lakes named in memory of the two paramedics. The designation itself came from the Department of Sustainable Development through theManitoba Geographical Names Program.

Both lakes are located approximately 45 to 60 kilometers northwest of Lynn Lake.  There exact locations are:

  • Keith Barrie Lake - 57° 13' 54" latitude / 101° 48' 41" longitude; and
  • Cuadros Lake - 57° 13' 29" latitude / 101° 50' 30" longitude.