Ivan Vekved, lifelong resident of Sexsmith, AB, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, November 29, 2018.

Ivan was born on the family farm on November 6, 1930 to parents George and Janny (nee Liland) Vekved. He resided on that same land for all of his 88 years, surrounded by a closely-knit community of relatives and friends.

Ivan loved his Saviour, Jesus Christ, his family, and the farm. He spent many years freely sharing his musical talent in home meetings and church services which at one point took him to Saskatchewan where he met his wife Astrid (nee Lima). They were married on July 17, 1965. The following years were filled with the arrival of five children and then a sixth whose time here was very short.

Throughout his life, Ivan took note of many things and was able to easily recall people, places, events, weather patterns, crop yields and more. We treasure the knowledge, wisdom and family history he passed on as he shared his memories.

Ivan will be greatly missed by Astrid, his wife of 53 years; sons Stanley (Lisa) and Kerry (Monica); daughters: Diane (Gareth) Morris, Janet (Beckett) Jubb, and Donna (Collin) Nelson; grandchildren: Sam (Kirsten) Maki and Jonathan Vekved, Ethan and Abby Vekved, Bryn, Rhys, Lewis and Liam Morris, Kara, Jared and Rachelle Nelson; sister June Vekved; and brother Ron (Carolyn) Vekved and family.

He was predeceased by his parents, infant son Andrew, and great-niece Rachel Vekved.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, December 17, 2018, at 1:00pm, at Christian Fellowship Assembly in Grande Prairie (11449 92 St.) at 1:00pm. Interment and lunch to follow at Bethel Church in Sexsmith (734036 Range Rd 80).

Memorial donations may be made to Peace River Bible Institute (Box 99, Sexsmith, AB, T0H 3C0) or to the charity of one’s choice.