FEKETE, Louis “Lou”

LOUIS “LOU” JOHN FEKETE February 22, 1938 – January 3, 2026 It is with great sorrow and love to announce that Louis “Lou” John Fekete passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at the age of 87.
Lou was born on February 22, 1938, in Lethbridge, Alberta, to Vera and John Fekete. Lou grew up on a farm in West Lethbridge, where he developed a strong work ethic and practical skills that would guide him throughout his life.
He attended Coalhurst High School, where he excelled academically and athletically, particularly in track and baseball. Following High School, Lou earned his Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Calgary.
After completing his studies, he returned to Lethbridge to begin a long and meaningful teaching career. Lou taught Industrial Arts Education for one year at W.P. Meyers School, and at Wilson Junior High School for over 30 years, where he was respected by colleagues and remembered by students for his dedication, patience, and hands on approach to learning.
In 1965, Lou married Barbara Carol Nicol, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted for 60 years, until his passing. Together they raised two children, Shari Lynn, born in 1966, and Michael James, born in 1969.
Lou had a lifelong passion for fast cars and racing. In 1967, he joined the SAAR organization where his skill and competitiveness of racing stock cars quickly led to an impressive collection of trophies over many years. Lou’s love for racing became a family lifestyle and his brothers-in-law also joined the racing club due to their admiration and enthusiasm gained by watching Lou race.
Outside of racing, Lou was a devoted husband and father. He generously volunteered his time with many local organizations and sports teams, where he supported his children in hockey, soccer, and figure skating. His willingness to always help others also led to him to donate over 170 blood donations with Red Cross and Canadian Blood Services.
Summers were always spent camping, travelling with family and friends, and driving out to the coast to spend time with his grandchildren. Lou was always up to the challenge of keeping up with his children and grandchildren enjoying activities like swimming, boating, snorkeling, bike riding, hiking the coulees, skiing, and riding snowmobiles.
Lou’s love for adventure and curiosity took over after retirement, with he and Barb traveling to more than 65 countries around the world, exploring historical sites and meeting interesting people. He loved being outdoors, whether he was soaking up the sun on vacation, working on his garden, or helping his neighbours shovel snow in the winter. Because of his career teaching shop classes, he was an expert at woodworking, home renovations, and loved spending time building and fixing things in his garage.
Lou will be remembered as the most kind and gentle man who would go out of his way to help anyone who needed it. His lighthearted nature and sense of humor would make everyone around him smile and feel at ease.
Lou resided in Edmonton at the time of his passing, allowing him to be closer to his family. Lou was predeceased by his parents, Vera and John Fekete; brother, Joseph Fekete; niece, Lori Fekete; parents-in-law, Barbara and James Nicol; brothers-in-law, Tom Nicol and Dick Kerber; sister-in-law, Ferrol Nicol; and nephew, Kyle Nicol.
Lou will lovingly be remembered by: his wife, Barbara; children, Shari (Russ) Cronk, Mike Fekete; grandchildren: Liam and Logan Cronk, Mya and Jayda Fekete; as well as extended family members including: brothers-in-law, Brian and Reg Nicol; sisters-in-law: Yvonne Kerber, Carol Fekete, Bonnie Nicol; nieces: Carol, Patricia, Brenda, Kim, Stefanie, Lindsay; nephews: Grant, Jim, Brent, Josh; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
As per Lou’s request, there will be no services or funeral, but cremation only.
To share photos, memories, and condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com. Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home – Downtown (780) 422-2222