Wilton Carol, long-time resident of Clairmont, AB, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at the age of 91 years.

Wilton was born on his family’s farm near Antler, SK, on December 3, 1930. Always hard-working and ambitious, he left school at a young age to work on a ranch near Cadogan, AB, a job he always spoke of with great fondness. After joining the army at the age of 19, he earned the rank of Corporal, completed parachute training, and served in the Korean War as a mechanic.

In 1956, he met and married Lillian Wasyjczuk. They lived and worked in Edmonton and Uranium City before settling in Clairmont in 1962 when Wilton was hired by R. Angus (now Finning). There, he had a long and successful career as a heavy-duty mechanic, welder, and for a few years, service manager. Over the years in Clairmont, Wilton and Lillian raised their two children and established many long-term friendships.

Although he retired in 1991, Wilton never stopped working. Inventive and resourceful, he could usually be found puttering in his garage, renovating one of his properties, or finding something to build or fix on his acreage east of Clairmont. He enjoyed quadding with his grandchildren and playing pool with them at the Legion. He and Lillian did some travelling, but Wilton was always happiest when he was working. A strong, no-nonsense, self-made man, Wilton will be sadly missed.

Left to mourn his passing are his children Duane (Leona) and Darrys (Wayne); grandchildren: Justin, Dallas, Karson, Jamie, and Kurtis; great-grandchildren: Karter, Kamrie, and Maverick; sister Bonnie (Bill); sister in-law Jane; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Lillian; his father Frank; mother Alexandria; as well as two brothers and six sisters.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Dr. Pope and to the kind and skilled staff at Prairie Lake Avondale Cottage, whose sincere caring made his last years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

A private graveside ceremony has taken place at Grande Prairie Cemetery.

Those who knew him well are encouraged to make a memorial donation and raise a glass in his memory at their local Royal Canadian Legion (Grande Prairie Branch #54) (9912 101 Ave., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 0X8), or Army Navy Airforce Veterans in Grande Prairie (10117 93 St., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 1Y1).