Obituary of Chris Blades

Christopher Alan Blades

(August 12, 1957 - December 30, 2021)

Christopher Alan Blades of Camrose, Alberta, passed away on Thursday, December 30, 2021, at the age of 64 years.

Everyone who knew Chris knew that he was a caring, encouraging, and thoughtful Christian man.  He was the epitome of respect and dedication in all aspects of his life. He adored and cherished his wife, Joy, and together they were a loving example of what a marriage should be for 43 years. As a father and grandfather, he always made sure that his love was known to each and every one of them, even through the more challenging times. As a son, brother, and friend he put time and effort into being present for others and valued them all tremendously. Chris demonstrated dedication in his career of almost 40 years at Augustana (CLC - Augustana - U of A) as an employee, a manager, a director, but most of all as a servant leader who respected and cared for the people he worked with. Chris was dedicated and involved in the community through volunteering with the Camrose Fire Department and many years of coaching and encouraging youth to grow their talents and gain confidence. He was also a member of the Wildrose Co-op board for many years.

In his free time, Chris enjoyed tending to his yard and garden, working on home or hobby projects, and fishing at the “pond” or anywhere that he could either from the shore, a boat, or his kayak. He loved the outdoors! He shared this passion with his children through countless camping trips and impromptu nature lessons along hiking paths and continued this with his grandchildren as well. Golfing, painting, playing cards and games, woodworking, tropical winter vacations, feeding/watching birds, and admiring the stars were among the many things he loved to do with and for the people he loved.
Chris’ faith in God was present in the way he lived his life and cared for others. He will be remembered by all for the sparkle in his eye when he smiled and the warmth and care of his presence. He will be tremendously missed and forever loved.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Joy; children Francine (Sean) Hamilton of Camrose, Vanessa (Mathew) Hamilton of Stony Plain, Jalene (Steve) Johnsen of Ardrossan, and Sean Blades (Sahara Pelkey-Cooper) of Edmonton; seven grandchildren; and siblings Larry (Deb) of Vernon BC, Gary (Shelley) of Leduc, Don (Rhonda) of Sherwood Park, and Lori Blades of Camrose.

Chris was predeceased by his parents Jack and Katie; granddaughter Emelyn Johnsen.
 

Due to Alberta Health regulations, a private family service was held.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Chris's memory may be made to SML Christian Academy (c/o St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Stony Plain, AB), or to the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association, or to Kidsport Camrose.