Obituary of Ronald Burnstad

Mr. Ron Burnstad of Camrose, Alberta passed away on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at the age of 84 years. Ron Burnstad was born July 21, 1927 to Sigurd and Beulah Burnstad at the Burnstad Coal homesite. He was the middle child of six children and was raised on the farm and coalmine. He attended the Meldal School up to Grade 9 and left to work in the family business. In 1954 when his dad passed, he, together with his younger brother Robert, and mother Beulah, charted the path for the new company. Along with the hard work he enjoyed, he took social liberties to join in community events, like barn dances, some that even involved the opposite sex. In the very early 50's his paths crossed with a younger, flashy redhead, that unbenounced to him had a burning desire to date this handsome Burnstad guy! Helen Fouts stole this young fellows heart and on July 18, 1952 they were wed. Together they raised four children on the coalmine until 1974 when they sold the mine and built a new home in Camrose. Camrose remained their home. During their 49 years of marriage they enjoyed family, the addition of grandchildren, and travelling with close friends. Dad lost his soulmate Helen, and three quarters of his heart, in January 2002. In 2010 he found a new home in Stoney Creek Lodge, where he was loved and cared for until his passing on Wednesday, April 25, 2012. Left to cherish his memory are his children Sandra (Ken) Lee of Sherwood Park, Dale Burnstad (Gwen Lancaster) of Edmonton, Doug Burnstad (Allise Paradis) of Bawlf, Rhonda (Don) Blades of Sherwood Park; five grandchildren Darren (Luella), Rachelle (Tim), Jody (Jonathan), Chelsie, and Shilene; five great-grandchildren Thomas, Logan, Ty, Ashlyn, and Brooks. Ron is also survived by brothers Garnet (Ella May) of Camrose, and Norris (Elaine) of Camrose. Ron was predeceased by his wife Helen; one sister Irene; and two brothers Robert and Howard. A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. from the Round Hill Hall. Interment followed in the Trondhjem Cemetery Round Hill. If friends so desire memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Trondhjem Lutheran Church or cemetery fund.