NELSON Roy

On Saturday, October 4, 2014, ROY BALLARD NELSON passed away at St. Michael’s Health Centre at the age of 81 after a short but courageous battle with cancer. Roy will be forever remembered by his children Paul (Gwen), Linda (Don), Rick (Karen), Debra (Bob), and Shawn (Deana), 16 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. He was predeceased by his wife and best friend Claire, his son David and granddaughter Kristina. Roy was born in Fort Macleod, Alberta on April 8, 1933. He attended school in Fort Macleod, Glenwood and Pincher Creek. In 1950, Roy joined the Royal Canadian Army, Special Forces for Korea and served 3 years. Roy moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1954 and this is where he met, fell in love with and then married Claire Adams. Roy and Claire together with their five children made their home in Fort Macleod in 1968. After this, they lived in many different areas across Canada and the US. In 1982, Roy and Claire returned to Fort Macleod where they raised their sixth and youngest child Shawn. While in Fort Macleod, Roy enjoyed working for Crestbrook Forest Industries. Once he retired he did various jobs and enjoyed both playing and watching golf as well as traveling with Claire. Roy was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends. In 1996, Roy and Claire moved to Lethbridge to be closer to health providers for Claire. Roy was a diligent caregiver and devoted husband until Claire’s passing in 2009. After this, Roy moved to Garden View Lodge where he met and enjoyed the company of many of the residents and staff. He loved watching golf, reading western novels and spending time with his family. Heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all of the many friends and family who visited Roy over the years. The family would also like to extend a very special thank you to all of the wonderful caregivers at the Chinook Regional Hospital, St .Michael’s Health Centre and the Palliative Care Team. A very special thank you to Dr. Smuts who is an incredibly caring, professional person. Roy and his family greatly appreciated all of her help and kindness. A small private Memorial for family and close friends to be held in Lethbridge.