Obituary of Donald Eugene Welda

Donald Eugene Welda

(June 8, 1932 - August 24, 2019)

Donald Eugene Welda of Camrose, AB, formerly of Hay Lakes, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the age of 87 years.

Donald Eugene Welda was born June 8, 1932, the oldest son of Jacob and Rosalie Welda, of Hay Lakes, Alberta. Donald and his younger brother Roger grew up on the family farm. Donald attended Swan Hill School for Grades One through Eight, and then completed his schooling at Hay Lakes School. He was baptized in the Christian faith, attended Sunday School, and was confirmed at St. Joseph Lutheran church.

Donald married Helen Mary Peddicord of Amisk, Alberta, on July 23, 1955 at Moddel United Church in Amisk.

Helen and Donald’s four sons Craig, Grant, Alan, and Blayne were also raised on NE 28 48 21. For many years he worked in the oil industry and drove school bus at the same time as continuing to farm. Donald was especially proud of his herd of black Angus cattle. His community involvement included curling, serving as a Cub Scout leader, Sunday afternoon ball games, and being a founding member and participant in the Hay Lakes Gymkhana club.

Donald’s world was shaken by the unexpected death of Helen in 2003. In 2013 Donald moved from the farm to Sunrise Village in Camrose. He resided in Sunrise Village until his death on August 24, 2019.

Donald was predeceased by his wife Helen; grandson Lars Welde; older siblings Rolfe, Gordon, Norman, Alpha [McLean], and Helen [Sware] and younger brother Roger; nephews Keith McLean, James Welda; and cousin Anne Deeves. 

Donald is survived by his sons Craig [Linda], Grant, Alan [Ilene], and Blayne [Sally]; eleven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and their families.    

A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 21, 2019 from the St. Joseph's Lutheran Church, Hay Lakes with Rev. Charlotte Strecker-Baseler officiating. Inurnment has taken place in the St. Joseph's Lutheran Cemetery.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Donald's memory may be made to St. Joseph's Lutheran Church or to the charity of one's choice.