It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Thomas “Butch” Evan Elward on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the age of 71 years, with his loving wife Doris at his side in the Valleyview, AB hospital.

Butch was born on September 24, 1953, in Blairmore, AB, to Thomas and Sigred(Hostad) Elward. He was the last of 5 children, with 4 sisters coming before him. I’m sure you can imagine Sigred and Thomas’s joy when their baby boy finally arrived. Butch grew up in The Crowsnest Pass/Nanton. He spent most of his time being doted on by his sisters and was a very active and mischievous kid.

Butch helped his dad deliver freight to many businesses throughout the Crowsnest Pass and eventually ran his own business. Butch stuccoed with his best friend Josh, made ceramics, was a carpet cleaner, and later opened Something More Than Dining with his wife Doris. Butch and Doris eventually moved to Sexsmith, AB, where he went on to work at Norms Tank Rentals (Rockwater) in Grande Prairie, AB, and he retired in 2019.

He became very resourceful and determined, learning many trades to keep things “cost-effective.” Some would have called him cheap or frugal. He will be remembered for his enormous heart and sense of humour.

In 1976, he met the love of his life, Doris, at a Seely reunion, accompanying his best friend Josh, and later married Doris in 1979. They had 2 daughters, Julianna and Aleshia.

Butch is survived by his loving wife Doris, his daughters, Julianna Dettling and Aleshia (Greg) Beaunoyer; grandchildren: Alexander Dettling, Teera Dettling, Tye Dettling, Hannah Deering (Kyle), Carter Dettling, Evalyn Wanotch (Megan), Grace Beaunoyer, Orry Beaunoyer, and great-grandchild Harlow Brown, who he was extremely proud of. His sisters Hilda Hoffarth, Judy (John) Ellison, and Linda (Stevie) Samuel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Waiting for him at the door of heaven will be Thomas and Sigred Elward, Evalyn Therriault, Ole and Ruth Hostad, Norman Seely, Rylan Seely, Dalven Seely, Cameron Seely, Harvey Hoffarth, and Frank Poty.

At this time, a memorial has not been planned, however, an open house will be held in the near future for family and friends.