Theodore Clarence Zoller « Ted »
September 17, 1943 – April 06, 2018
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the legendary Theodore Clarence Zoller on April 6th, 2018. Ted was born in Macklin Saskatchewan on September 17th, 1943, the 9th of 16 children to Leo and Josephine Zoller. He grew up in Denzil Sask. where he was a very successful farmer, taking over the family farm until 1999 when he retired. During this time he also earned a Diploma in Agriculture (1963) and a variety of other academic achievements.
Ted’s pride and joy was his children. Shannon born in 1975, Dominique born in 1976 and Anna-Marie born in 1978. He loved his children; taught them to be fiery, strong, independent and hilarious. He bestowed wisdom and created true character and virtue – the value of being a good neighbour, helping the less fortunate, and making light of the most serious of situations. He read to his kids as often as he could, sang them the Rodeo Song while they slumbered and always encouraged a well punctuated swear word. He also taught all of his nieces, nephews and neighbourhood children, how to give the finger, that it’s ok to kiss any fella’ on the cheek, and made sure they always felt welcome to come back and visit.
Dad never met a sandwich he didn’t want to eat, a cookie he didn’t want to devour, a lady he didn’t want to flirt with, and a conversation he didn’t want to be a valuable part of. He loved all things food and family and was teased relentlessly for crying during TV shows, always having mustard on the corner of his mouth, and having the quickest gag reflex to anything remotely stomach turning.
He was a traveller of the world, happiest when he had sun on his face, no itinerary, and new people to meet. He travelled unreservedly across North America, South America, the Caribbean, and his favourite, Africa. He’d leave us few details, with disregard for civil wars and upheaval, always making it back with new friends, and the next trip in mind.
In 2002 Ted would earn his name of « Papa Ted », becoming the most proud Grandpa to Faith, his first real love. Soon after came « the boys » (Ty and Lane) and relished in their misadventures and fed their spirits with gifts of live animals, racing bikes, and giggles at their spunk. When Jamison arrived he admired his gentle soul, precocious nature and ability to introduce himself with a firm handshake. Finally one last tiny Princess for him to love – Ara Mae. Papa loved his grand kids more than anything else in the world. They were his universe, the little people he looked forward to, and his fridge became a shrine of pictures in their honour. In return they all came to love his gruff voice, invited him to play Barbie’s, listened while he read them books, relished when he babysat as anything and everything was allowed and fought over who got to sleep with him when he visited.
Left to mourn his passing are his children: Shannon (Mike), Dominique (Allen) and Anna-Marie (Braven). His grandchildren; Austin (Maria) , Morgan, Faith, Ty, Lane, Jamison and Ara. Siblings; Rita (Gary), Mildred (John), Sheila (Phil), Leona, Denise, Ernie, Ronald (Jean), Mary (Mike), Betty, Blanche (Dan). His numerous nieces and nephews, friends, neighbours, and all who came to know him. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association – c/o Dominique Stang, Box 635 Macklin Sask. S0L 2C0.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Theodore Clarence Zoller Ted September 17 1943 April 06 2018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Biggar, Province: Saskatchewan
