22 November 1929 - 28 March 2022
Roy (the “Rock") was born in Sexsmith, Alberta, the 6th child of Louisa and Hans. He started his schooling in North Kleskun District, attended high school in Grande Prairie and obtained his BEd at the U of Alberta. Later, Roy obtained his MSc at the U of Oregon. Roy taught school for 35 years and loved it! He taught in many schools across Alberta, starting in Conklin and proceeding to North Kleskun, Bezanson, Beaverlodge, Athabasca, Edmonton and St. Albert where he retired from Paul Kane. Roy was instrumental in starting the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA) during his career. Many ex-students remained in touch with him for decades after he retired. Roy had many interests in life and always approached them with a passion and desire for excellence. He had a dry sense of humour that delighted us all!
Roy leaves behind his devoted wife of 68 years, Fern (Alm); children Rod (Deb), Gayle (Darcy), and Jady (Stan); son-in-law Chris Hagen; grandchildren Troy and Chelsea Gouchey, Dustin (Cassandra), Tyson (Kristen) and Jesse (Cheyanna) Purdon, Jory (Ozge), Kelby (Dani) and Kass (Sarah) Hagen; great grandchildren Nash and Trip Purdon; brother-in-law Gene (Chris) Alm; close friend Pablo (Naho) and Aika and numerous extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings and brother-in-law, Roy Alm.
As part of his final wishes, Roy asked to not have a funeral service which we have honoured but we invite you to stay in touch and keep him in your hearts with fond wishes and love. Roy touched many lives and we will miss him deeply. He will forever be our Rock.
