Obituary of Oswald Louis Rees

Oswald "Ossie" Louis Rees

(July 20, 1935 - September 4, 2023)

Oswald "Ossie" Louis Rees of Camrose, Alberta, formerly of Whitemud, passed away on Monday, September 4, 2023 at the age of 88 years.

Ossie was born in Elk Point on July 20, 1935. He was adopted as an infant and went to live with his adoptive parents Tom and Frances Rees in Ponoka. He soon fell in love with Aunt Zora and Uncle Evan who lived on a farm close to Ponoka where he spent the majority of his time. He loved to be in the open air, riding horses, working with cattle, helping in the fields, and lending a helping hand. 
 

Ossie started his first trucking job around the age of 14 and continued doing that most his life. He worked with his best friend Uncle Dave. In December of 1962, Uncle Dave invited him to his home for Christmas and to meet his family. It was there Ossie fell in love with Carol. She was the love of his life and his life would forever be changed. In July 1963 Carol and Ossie were married. 
 

Ossie’s work moved them around a little bit. Their son David was born in Whitehorse, Yukon in 1964, son Ralph was born in Dawson Creek in 1966 and daughter Shelley was born in Kelowna in 1968. 
 

Deciding they were ready to stop moving around, they bought a farm in Whitemud in the spring of 1975. Ossie farmed, enjoyed his cattle, and continued trucking. He took great pride in providing for his family. Ossie battled bowel and liver cancer in the early 90’s and was able to beat that game. He did let all the cattle go but held onto a bit of trucking. 
 

Granddaughter Krysta came into their lives on September 18, 2000. Papa got her into his Kenworth when she was 10 days old. 
 

Around 2005, Ossie retired from working out. He bought a motorhome and both he and Carol enjoyed touring around. They spent many winters in Arizona. 
 

Ossie loved a good rodeo and good old country music. In 2007 Carol had a massive stroke and Ossie’s life changed dramatically. He was a shining star. He helped, cared and protected her in every way he could. 
 

In 2014 they sold the farm and retired to Camrose. They were able to be in their own condo until October 2022. Then Ossie’s Alzheimer’s progressed enough that placement was necessary. Ossie and Carol went together and had adjoining rooms until he was moved in February 2023. 
 

Ossie loved his wife, his family and many friends. He taught them all kinds of lessons. He loved telling a story, listening to a story, and had a great sense of humour. Now he’s farther up the ladder and can continue watching and guiding. 
 

Bless your soul Ossie, Dad, Papa and friend. 
 

Left to cherish memories of Ossie are his loving wife Carol; David’s children David Jr and Samantha; Ralph, wife Debra and family Rebekah, Deidra, Carter, Lincoln, Kristin, and Jaylyn; Shelley and daughter Krysta; and many extended family and dear friends.

Ossie was predeceased by his parents Tom and Francis Rees; son David; parents-in-law Mike and Edith Kyrsta; brothers-in-law Dave Krysta and Ken Krysta; sister-in-law Pat Krysta; and son-in-law Ray Hurley.  

A Funeral Service was held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at the Burgar Memorial Chapel, officiated by Rev. MaryAnn Pastuck. 

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Ossie's memory may be made to Alzheimer Society of Alberta.