July 17, 1937 - June 13, 2020
Wilbert's family is sad to announce his passing. Wil was born on July 17th, 1937 to Jack and Marjorie Gladdish at Dauphin Manitoba.
Mourning his loss are his four children, Lonnie, Kelly, Cindy, Lisa (Rob) Fisher, ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and his wife Ellen (nee Higgins) of 62 years. Siblings Marlene, Brian, Eleanor and Morgan, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Jean.
Wil loved all of his family completely and unconditionally and he and Ellen enjoyed a house full of grand children and great grand children with all of their love and laughter. We all remember Wil as he was before his illness; a friend to all and always willing to lend a hand.
Wil worked for the Forestry Services back at the time many of the government parks were being built. Next Wilbert worked for Nelson's Building Supplies in Fruitvale. Later, Will worked for Schneiders, then Maglios at Waneta. Wil thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the customers and his co-workers and loved the challenge of working through building problems and sharing a few good jokes and more than a couple of bad ones.
Wil worked two jobs most of his career, even having an appliance store in his homes garage. Wilbert was a member of the RCMP auxillary and took pride in helping his community. Wil remodelled several houses for resale and built the family home in Fruitvale close to family and friends. A new construction project was always a welcome challenge for him.
After their retirement, Wil and Ellen moved to Balfour beside the lake and enjoyed fishing and boating. Wil's five year struggle with cancer required a move to Trail to be closer to treatment. Wil became very fond of the staff at Oncology and we are very grateful for the care they provided him as well as the assistance the home care nurses provided. We sincerely thank you all.
In good times, Wil and Ellen loved to travel; across Canada in a truck and camper, a United Kingdom bus tour, Hawaii, Mexico and Costa Rico.
Wil loved fiddle music and loved to dance with Ellen. His family fondly remembers camping trips in the trailer and the home stereo under the rear couch playing Dad's favourite records non-stop.
Due to the pandemic, there will be a private graveside service. The family looks forward to when we are able to host a celebration of life and share with you the many stories and wonderful memories we have of Wilbert Gladdish. In lieu of flowers, the family asks if you would honor his memory with a donation to an organization that helps feed those less fortunate.
Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence by visiting the family's register at www.myalternatives.ca
Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services