Born on March 31, 1934 on a farm near Deloraine, Manitoba, Ted died peacefully in his sleep on September 15, 2011 at the age of 77.
Born into a large family, Ted was one of nine children and was fortunate to have big brothers and sisters to guide him and a little sister and brother for him to guide. Family was the center of Ted’s upbringing and he carried the belief that a man could count his riches by the family and friends he had in his life – Ted lived a very rich life. An encounter with him started with a smile and a Teddy-bear hug and he never left you without another Teddy-bear hug and a “see you soon”.
Ted married a young lady named Mary Ann Sahlin in 1961 and thus began a 50 year adventure which included a whole lot of love, kids, grand and great grandchildren. Their marriage was a true partnership in raising their children, embarking on business ventures, travelling and entertaining so many people with their musical talents. Their marriage was a true testament of love, faith in each other, friendship and respect.
Over his lifetime Ted was involved in so many things it is nearly impossible to name all of the interests, hobbies and organizations. His enduring passion for family gatherings, his talent for painting, tinkering and inventing, his long career in musical entertainment and his amazing ability to analyze, assist and offer advice made him the ultimate “go to” guy. The void that Ted will leave in so many lives is incalculable. Throughout his life he was a member of the Eagles, the Boy Scouts as a leader, and the BC Old Time Fiddlers Association Branch No. 9 as their drummer and percussionist.
Ted was predeceased by his parents James and Maybell Stewart, sister Janet, brothers-in-law Gordon, Joe, Dick, Roy, Reg and nephew Gordon. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, children Brant (Shelley), Tonnie (Terry), and Don (Lori), grandchildren Melissa (Bob), Justin, Andrew and Paige, great grandchildren Fayt and Clairissa. He is also survived by his brothers Jim (Jessie), Bill (Margie), and Matt (Jill); sisters Betty, Maybell, Peggy (Jack), Dorothy (Bob). He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and their families.
Ted had a strong faith in God and believed we were all destined to move from our place on earth to be reunited with God. In recognition of Ted taking his place in God’s garden there will be a service on Friday September 23, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Castlegar Funeral Chapel 411-9th Ave, Castlegar. In recognition of Ted’s belief that family and friends are the basis of life, we will be having a celebration of life on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Genelle Hall 1205 2nd St, Genelle BC (between Castlegar and Trail). Please join us in giving the great farewell that Ted so richly deserves.
In lieu of flowers, you may wish to donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC.