OCTOBER 6th, 1933 - JULY 13th, 2021
John Douglas EVANS of West Kelowna, BC , passed away on July 13th, 2021 at the age of 87. He is survived by his wife Norma, daughter Lynn Kurie (Drew), grandson Scott Kurie (Shannon) , granddaughter Ashley Michalchuk (Greg) and four great grandsons Eli, Harris, Emerson and Cohen.
A Memorial Service was held at the Chapel of First Memorial Funeral Services, on Tuesday, July 20th.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com
John Evans joined the Edmonton Police Department on November 15th, 1956. During his career, John had assignments in Patrol Division, Gaol Section, Readers Section, Criminal Investigation Branch, General Assignment Unit, Criminal Investigation Unit and Burglary Investigation Unit. Exact dates of John’s assignments were not listed on his file. However, his promotion dates are listed as: November 1967 to Sergeant; January 1974 change of rank to Detective, and; June 1975 to Staff Sergeant. John retired from the police service on June 30th, 1980.
Eric Ross Sly, 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 8, 2021, with his loving wife Maureen (Monaghan) by his side.
Eric was born on February 6, 1940, in Neepawa, Manitoba. He was the eighth of eight children of Andrew and Violet (Stewart) Sly. Eric grew up in Winnipeg Manitoba and has
spent the past 55 years in Edmonton. He spent 10 years working in the Canadian Military and later served as a City of Edmonton Police Officer. He retired in 1987 after a successful career. Eric was an entrepreneur at heart where he operated a catering company for nearly 40 years.
Eric is survived by his loving wife of 58 years; 4 children; daughter Colleen of Edmonton, son Dan (Carmelle) of Edmonton, daughter Lori (Doug) of Las Vegas and son Andrew (Norma) of Vancouver; special family friend Shauna of Edmonton. He is also survived by eight grandchildren (Alex (Nikki), Nick, Mathew, Ashley, Caitlyn, Andi, Jameson and Evan); 2 great grandchildren (Mason & Emily); sister Wilma, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Andrew and Violet, brother Raymond, sister Florence, sister Thelma, sister Hazel, brother Elwood and sister Shirley.
Eric’s Memorial Service will be held held at St. Thomas More Parish, 210 Haddow Close, Edmonton, on July 17th.
Eric Sly joined the Edmonton Police Department on September 18th, 1967 as a member of recruit Training Class 26. After training, Eric spent about 8 years in Patrol Division. After a transfer to Communications Division in 1975, he transferred back to Patrol for a spell before other transfers back to Communications Division, Case Supervisors Unit and
Property Control Unit. Eric retired from the police service on May 19th, 1987.
January 27, 1937 - June 22, 2021
Erwin Julius Anders, beloved husband of Elfriede Anders, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at the age of 84 years. Erwin was a devoted family man; married to his soulmate, Elfriede, for 63 years. He was fiercely proud of his two daughters, Carol and Linda, their partners, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Erwin
had a long and successful career with the Edmonton Police Service and was a Deputy Chief at the time of his retirement. Erwin and Elfriede built their dream home one brick at a time on an acreage near Sherwood Park. He was a self taught master craftsman. He also enjoyed golf and bowling and was an ardent Oilers and Elks fan.
Besides his loving wife, Elfriede, Erwin is survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law, Carol Richler (Lawrence) and Linda Gatto (Gerry) of Calgary, AB; four grandchildren, Dave Corbett (Kelly), Zach Richler (Sonya Odsen), Caitlin Richler (Andrew Halford), and Stephanie Berner (Thomas); and three great-grandchildren, Dylan, Hazel, and Tess. He is also survived by his two sisters, a brother-in-law, and a sister-in-law: Evelyn Sampson (Don - predeceased) of Calgary, AB, Lorraine Sorensen (Carl) of Sherwood Park, AB, and Ruth Anders of Edmonton, AB. Erwin was predeceased by his parents, Lydia and Julius Anders; and his brother Herb Anders.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at the Brentwood Care Centre for their excellent and compassionate care. Funeral Services were held at Glory Lutheran Church, 22577 Highway 16, Sherwood Park, AB. on Wednesday, July 7th, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. Graveside Service and reception to follow at Glenwood Memorial Gardens. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Erwin’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made in Erwin’s name to the Parkinson Association of Alberta (parkinsonalberta.ca)
Due to a records “glitch[EVA1] ” we couldn’t find Erwin’s career history but here’s what we know: Erwin Anders started his policing career with the Edmonton Police Department on September 15th, 1958 as a member of Recruit Training Class 8. He was assigned to Patrol Division until December 1965 when he transferred to Identification Section. In 1968 he transferred back to Patrol Division with a promotion to Sergeant. Early in the 70’s, Erwin was assigned, along with a number of personnel from other City Departments to develop and deliver a leadership program for front-line supervisors from all City Departments, including Police. We’re not sure when Erwin was promoted to Staff Sergeant but in 1977 he became a sub-Inspector and confirmed Inspector in Training Section. He transferred to Patrol as a Duty Officer in 1981. In 1983 he was promoted to Superintendent, i/c ‘A” Division. Erwin’s last promotion was to Deputy Chief, i/c Administration Bureau in 1990 from which position he retired in 1995 after almost 37 years of service.
With heavy hearts, we announce the death of David Hanks (Edmonton, Alberta), who passed away on June 10, 2021 at the age of 92.
He was predeceased by: his grandson Jason Cunningham; his parents, Albert and Amelia; and his siblings, Alfred Hanks (Ella), Jim Hanks (Nancy), Frank Hanks, Elsie Posein (Walter), Agnes Roth (Ace), Anne Shaw and Gladys Pearson (Ron).
He is survived by: his wife Myrtle Hanks; his children, Donna Cunningham (David) and Murray Hanks (Joan); his grandchildren, Scott Hanks (Cassie), Jillian Meyer (Matt) and Megan Hanks; his great grandchildren, Copper Cunningham, Cody Cunningham and Spencer Hanks; and his sisters, Sadie Hancock (Vince) and Dora Miller (Ervin).
In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s honour may be made directly to the Canadian Bible Society.
David Hanks started his policing career in Edmonton as a Patrol Officer on June 2nd, 1952. No such thing as Recruit Training Classes, as we now know them, in those days. Over the next fifteen years his other assignments included Traffic Division, Court and Summons Section and Morality Branch. He was promoted to Detective on January 1st, 1967 and in that rank held positions in Juvenile Investigation Branch, Fraud Branch, General Assignment Unit, and Assault Unit. David’s last three years were spent in C.I.D. Zone “C” leading to his retirement on January 14th, 1982.
March 11, 1947 - June 3, 2021
Kane was born and raised in Kamloops, British Columbia. In 1968 he embarked on a 25 year career with the Edmonton Police Service retiring in 1993 and the family moved to Surrey. There, he worked in a compliance and enforcement role where he became friends with many people. He retired again in 2015 and moved to Victoria. He continued to enjoy travelling, writing and researching family history. He passed away after a battle with cancer. Kane is survived by his wife Heather, daughter Jesse, son Robb and brother Jack of Kamloops. There was no service held at Kane’s request.
Kane Scott began his policing career with Edmonton Police Department on March 18th, 1968. After about three years in Patrol Division, Kane transferred to Traffic Division where he also worked in Traffic Safety Section. After his assignment to Traffic, Kane transferred back to Patrol Zone “D” with later transfers to Patrol Administration,
Information & Reception Unit and Communications Division. Kane was promoted to Sergeant in Communications Division in 1980. In 1984, he transferred again and changed rank to Detective in Morality Control Unit. Later assignments as a Detective included Auto Theft Unit and Arson Detail. Kane’s last assignment was to Internal Affairs Section and he retired from that section on March 20th, 1993.
GOWLER, Allen Edward Reg. No. 123
May 4th, 1933 - May 23rd, 2021
It is with heavy hearts and a tear in our eye that we say goodbye to a giant of a man, Allen E. Gowler. Known by many and loved and respected by all that knew him. There was nothing he was afraid of and nothing he couldn’t take on and overcome. He will be missed by all that knew him, but most of all he will be terribly missed by his four boys that loved him with every fiber of their bodies. Allen passed away on Sunday, May 23rd, 2021, at age 88 in the Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre after a brief stay in the
Sturgeon Community Hospital. He was born on May 4th, 1933 in Poplar Point to Albert and Gladys Gowler. On June 24, 1955, he married Emily Jean Boyle, together, they had four sons. Al and Em enjoyed traveling together as well as spending time with family and friends. They were also devout Christians and helped to found the St. Albert Alliance Church in 1978. Allen joined the RCMP in 1951. In 1955, he left the RCMP and joined the Edmonton Police Service. While with EPS, Allen had several notable assignments including homicide detective and as Staff Sergeant in the Traffic Division. Following his retirement at age 48 after a 30 year law enforcement career, he went on to work at several jobs, most notably as security for the Royal Bank and then as Associate Sergeant at Arms with the Alberta Legislature. During this period, he and Emily travelled extensively, often spending summers in Alberta and winters in Arizona. Allen was predeceased by his wife, Emily, and his brother Albert (Hildegard). He is survived by his brothers Ken (Margaret) and Casey (Myrna), his sister-in-law, Mary Warburton, sons, Michael (Christine), Cyril (Marjorie), Lindsay (Nonissa), Richard (Aurora); 9 grandchildren 4 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Note from the family: We haven’t finalized any funeral arrangements yet, but we’re talking about something in mid-July at the St. Albert Alliance Church.
Al Gowler started his policing career with the RCMP in 1951. However, on October 17th, 1955 he restarted his career with the Edmonton Police Department. As a Constable, Al had assignments in Patrol Division, Traffic Division and Readers Section. Promotion to Acting Detective was quite fast, perhaps reflecting his prior service with the RCMP, and he was assigned to Criminal Investigation Division in 1959. In the Detective rank, Al had many other assignments including Morality Branch, Criminal Investigation Branch, Homicide & Missing Persons, Homicide and Robbery Detail, Morality Control Unit and Youth Section. He was promoted to Staff Sergeant in 1973 and back to uniform when he was assigned to Traffic Section. After that, Al spent his last couple of years in Patrol Zone “A” and was assigned to Patrol Zone “B” until his retirement on October 17th, 1980.
WILLIS, Edward (Skip) Joseph, Reg.
No. 250 November 5, 1937 - May 12, 2021
Edward (Skip) Joseph Willis is predeceased by his loving wife Betty Willis. Skip deeply loved and cared for his dear wife Betty and was looking forward to his reunion with her. Skip passed away on May 12, 2021 at the age of 83 years.
Skip had an active full life and was a multitalented, gentle, kind man with a strength of character that shone brightly through his personality for all to see. He was a man of impeccable honour and integrity, honesty and fairness at the core of his life’s endeavours. His badge of honour was his credibility, sacred ground when expounding in testimony on anything of importance. Skip was an avid musician, singer, songwriter, who accomplished much, writing over 200 plus songs and creating three full length CDs of his work. Skip and Betty loved their music.
Skips accolades were varied and many in the areas of leadership, policing, physical fitness, education, and training. He has golfed most of his life and loved the game. His friendly demeanor, jokes, and sense of humour captured the hearts of many who he considered his friends. Skip was a husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great grandfather to his loving family. He will be remembered lovingly by all who received his smile and knew the humble man within.
A private family service was held. Interment was held at the Ryley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please send memorial donations to the Zebra Child Protection Centre (https://www.zebracentre.ca/) To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Joseph Willis please visit our Tribute Store.
Skip Willis’ career in policing began on January 21st, 1963 as a member of Recruit Training Class 16. As a Constable he had assignments in Patrol Division, Communications Section and Identification Section. Following a flurry of Acting Sergeant and detective assignments, Skip was confirmed in the Sergeant rank in 1973 in Patrol Division. In 1973, he transferred to Personnel & Training Section where his duties included being a Physical Training Instructor. He changed rank to Detective in 1975 and had assignments in General Investigation Section, Drug Control Section and Morality Control Section. Promotion to Staff Sergeant, in Training Section, followed in 1979 with subsequent assignments in Crisis Intervention/Child Abuse Section and “A” Division. Skip was promoted to Inspector, in “C” Division, in 1987. Later, he transferred tp Crime Scenes Section and his last three years were in North Division until his retirement on January 30th, 1994.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Raimon Spasiuk, on April 15, 2021 at the age of 89. He is lovingly remembered by his family: children, Diana (Dave) and Greg (Amy); 4 grandchildren: Richard, Ryan, Chris and Rachel; 2 great-grandchildren: Zackery and Justin; and his sister, Helen Shandro; as well as numerous extended family and friends. Raimon was predeceased by his wife, Hazel; his parents, Harry and Sophie Spasiuk; 2 brothers, William and Metro; and 5 sisters, Anne Osoba, Jennie Kindrakewich, Mary Jorgenson, Selena Powley, and Tillie Spasiuk. Raimon will be remembered as a loving and respected father who always supported his family. He had a long career as a Constable with the Edmonton Police Service. Raimon was a man of many talents. He built houses and was a skilled woodworker who meticulously crafted fine hardwood furniture and many other items. He was a beekeeper and was especially proud of the extra-large tomatoes he famously grew. He enjoyed vacationing, was an avid and expert fisherman, and in later years enjoyed golfing and travelling with Hazel in their motorhome. Raimon was known to be able to fix anything but will most fondly be remembered as a giving, generous man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to family and friends. He will be greatly missed. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Norwood Palliative Care for their compassionate care for Raimon. Cremation has taken place and Raimon will rest at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Raimon’s Life will take place at a later date when we can all gather together. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in memory of Raimon, to a charity of choice. To send condolences or to share a memory, tribute or photo please visit www.evergreenmemorial.com Published on April 19, 2021
Raimon Spasiuk’s policing career in Edmonton started on September 14th, 1959 as a member of Recruit Training Class 10. After about 5 years in Patrol, Raimon made several transfers throughout his 30 year career: Gaol Section, Communications Division, Case Supervisors Unit, Tactical Analysis Unit and Information Laison Unit. After completing 30 years, Raimon retired on September 15th, 1989.
On March 4, 2021 Clay Ullrich of Edmonton passed away at the age of 90 years.
Clay will be missed and lovingly remembered by his son, Clayton (Linda), and their children, Thomas and Jennifer; by his son, Douglas (Sherrill), and their children, Syd and Hugh; by his very special friend, Helene Howlett, she was his travelling companion, his dancing partner and his confidant for more than fifteen years; by one brother, Loyd (Elizabeth) Ullrich; by two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Ullrich and Viola Turner; and by a number of nieces and nephews. Clay was predeceased by his wife, Ethel Jean, who passed away on September 5, 2001; also, by his father, Gustav Ullrich; his mother, Charlotte Ullrich; and his brothers, Elmer and Wilfred Ullrich.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, at Clay’s wish, a Memorial Service will not be held. Clay’s final resting place will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon. Floral tributes and memorial donations graciously declined. Published on March 13, 2021
Clay Ullrich commenced his policing career in Edmonton on April 1st, 1957 as a member of Recruit Training Class 5. After about 9 years in Patrol Division, Clay was promoted to Sergeant in Patrol. He later transferred to Personnel Section and in 1971 and 1976 respectively, he was promoted to Staff Sergeant then Inspector. Between 1979 and 19??, Clay had other Inspector assignments in Recruiting Section, as Duty Officer, Homicide & Sex Crimes, Fraud & Commercial Crimes Section and Court Division. In 1987, Clay was promoted to Superintendent back in his old stomping grounds of Personnel Division. His retirement date was October 17th, 1990.