Ogilvie, Alexander Edward (Alex)
June 20, 1919 - June 30, 2008
Alex passed away on June 30, 2008 at the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre after struggling for many years with cancer and diabetes. He is survived by his living wife Viola (Kinley); his children: Martin (Shirley), Marvin (Mary), Laverne Thiessen, Louise (Dale) Spelrem, Ross (Marilyn), Kathleen (Ken Quast), Phyllis (Ken) McNutt and Gary (Ruth); 16 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife Marion(1991), grandson Steven Spelrem and son-in-law Don Thiessen (1987). Alex was born and raised in the Wilmot District west of Ponoka. He often talked fondly of his grandparents and their trips with them to California. He took basic training in the army, then returned to the farm to contribute to the war effort. He married Marion Stokes in 1941. Life was often hard on the farm. Alex turned his hand to many things to support his family: running a portable planing mill, driving the school bus, running a road maintainer as well as other equipment for the town of Ponoka. He was a skilled mechanic and often spent his Sundays helping neighbors. He worked as a road foreman with Alberta Department of Highways for many years until his retirement in 1984. He was instrumental in building roads all over Central Alberta including many sections of the David Thompson highway. Alex approached life with great humor, zest and optimism. He worked with inspiring determination to maintain his health. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was also known for his booming voice leading to his nickname "Foghorn". He liked nothing better than driving and visiting, playing crib, telling stories and drinking coffee with friends. We will all miss him. A Funeral Service was held at the Ponoka United Church on Friday, July 4, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. Interment followed in the Forest Home Cemetery. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, The Canadian Diabetes Association or to a charity of your choice.
Funeral Arrangements Entrusted to Ponoka Funeral Home
403-783-3122
~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~