In Loving Memory Of
Edward Kenneth « Ken » Callies
Edward Kenneth Callies “Ken” passed away Monday, February 25, 2019, in Grande Prairie at the age of 88 years.
Ken was born in Wetaskiwin, AB in hospital on August 12, 1930 to Pearl (nee Short) and Edward Callies. He spent his childhood on the farm at Gwynne, AB.
In 1956, Ken married Patricia Emma Metheny and started with Canadian Utilities on the line crew. He became a journeyman lineman and worked climbing poles until his accident on a power line on a -40 day in December 1968, near Dimsdale, AB. After extensive surgery and rehab, he returned to, what was then, Alberta Power, working with the Rural department. In 1975, Ken moved from Grande Prairie to the farm near Woking, AB permanently and in 1978, he purchased Valard Construction. He sold the company in 2002 to his longtime partner and retired to the farm. Valard began with one used digger. At the time of his retirement, they employed hundreds of employees across Canada and the company has continued to grow and thrive internationally. Ken was very proud of his part in the creation of Valard and it remained dear to his heart until his death.
After his retirement, Ken remained busy with his many projects, he was an incredibly creative man with an engineering heart and could fix almost anything. He loved music, flying, his old classic cars and his family.
Ken is survived by his wife Pat; daughters: Louise Olinger (Bob), Kelly Callies-LeBlanc (George), Pam Rawlek (Ivan), and Colleen Irwin (Glenn); grandchildren: Devin, Louis, Logan, Amanda, Nicole, Madison, Stephen, Cameron, Scott, and Anna; and one great-grandchild Maximillian.
He was predeceased by his eldest daughter Dawn Callies, brother Ray Callies, and sister Carole Meyer.
A Celebration of Ken’s Life will be held Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 2:00pm, at Elks Lodge in Grande Prairie (10806 106 St.). Luncheon to follow.
“The world tried to get him in so many ways, but in the end, it was a man-made set of stairs that took him. He probably built those stairs. That’s beating the world and winning in my book”. Glenn Irwin (Colleen).
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Edward Kenneth Ken Callies August 12 1930 February 25 2019..
Décès pour la Ville: Grande-Prairie, Province: Alberta