It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of EPSVA member Bill Peeke. Bill passed away on May 7th, 2024 with his family at his side, having fought a courageous battle with cancer.
There was no public funeral or celebration of life to mark Bill’s passing. His family held a small private gathering.
Bill Peeke joined the Edmonton Police Department on July 17th, 1975. He retired from the service on January 10th, 2007.
** No obituary was located marking Bill’s passing **
LANGER, Lyle Emil Reg. No. 249 June 15th, 1941 - Dec 28th, 2023
With broken heart and deep sadness we announce the passing of Lyle on Thursday December 28th, 2023 in Edmonton with family at his side.
Born and raised in Cadomin, he left after high school graduation in 1959, where he worked in the lumber industry, finished one year engineering at U of A, and served in the military before becoming a recruit constable in class number 16 in September 1962. He retired in January 1994 as an Inspector, after 31-1/2 years of service.
Post service he enjoyed retirement living in Edson, with bountiful fishing, hunting, and berry picking ever at the ready, but also caught the travel bug travelling extensively across
Canada and the US in the RV with partner Carol. He also used the time to take up oil painting, which he became quite proficient at painting mostly the breathtaking scenery of the Rockies.
At his request, there was a low key celebration of life amongst his family and close friends which was held at the Edson Pioneer Cabin on June 8 2024. As per his final wishes, his ashes were scattered at his favorite wilderness place by the Mcleod River near Robb.
** Lyle Langer joined the Edmonton Police Department on September 17th, 1962 and retired on January 28th, 1994.
KUTASH, Nick William Reg. No. 194 May 19, 1939 – February 12, 2024
It is with great sadness and much love that we say goodbye to our beloved husband, father and grandfather (aka Gido), Nick Kutash, who passed away on February 12, 2024 at the age of 84 years. Nick leaves behind his beloved wife, Genevieve, of almost 63 years, two children, Greg and Charlene (Lyle Deckert) and his two precious grandsons, Ryley and Brody. He was predeceased by his parents, six siblings, seven brother-in-law’s, one sister-in-law, three nephews and one niece.
A funeral service was held on February 19, 2024 in Edmonton.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Kensington Long Term Care for their kindness, support and care shown to Nick during his stay. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made directly to the Heart and Stroke foundation.
Nick joined the Edmonton Police Department on September 14th, 1959, and retired on September 14th, 1986.
Terry’s wife Evelyn wrote: Terry and I were married Feb. 8th 1992 by the EPS Chaplain in Edmonton. We moved to San Antonio, Texas in 1993 after he retired.
Terry was a mentor for our blended family of three children: Ashley, Jeffrey and Dorian. He was strict but fair. Each of our children knew he had their back when the chips were
down. When our grandchildren Max (8) and Ella (6), came along, he was a strict papa that became a marshmallow! Those little people were near and dear to his heart.
A 40 year, 32nd degree Mason and Shriner. He was very active in the San Antonio Alzafar Shrine and enjoyed being on their pistol competition team. He was the consummate sportsman with firearms and fishing rods. Under his tutelage I learned how to wield a fly rod and skin a bear with a pocket knife by the headlights of his Bronco. We spent many happy hours hunting deer and hogs.
Terry was one of the most outgoing and gregarious individuals I have ever known. He never met a stranger. He had a wide circle of friends and they were well aware that he would always go the extra mile for them. On the other hand he did not suffer fools gladly.
Terry was a master of the bar-be-que grill. Many happy hours were spent with friends and family around the grill with a Bud Light in one hand and a spatula in the other.
My husband was a man of many talents. Our kids called him “Mr. Dictionary Head”. He had an extensive vocabulary and command of the English language. He wrote a book
entitled “Reluctant Killer” which was loosely based on his police career. It was in its final stage of being edited when Alzheimer’s overtook him. It is my hope to have it published at a future date.
Our entire family has wonderful memories of Terry. If asked, they each have a funny story to tell. He made a lasting impression on all of us. He can never be replaced and
will never be forgotten.
Notes from Geoff Wilson: Terry left the lodge he resided in at Post Falls, Idaho, in a flag-draped casket, on February 1st, 2024. He will be cremated in his EPS uniform and his ashes will be committed to the Bulkley River in B.C., in the late summer or early fall. Terry fished there for about 25 years. Steelhead Trout fled in terror, at the mere mention of his name.
Terry graduated with EPS Class #20 on December 11th, 1964 - his 20th birthday. He ultimately became the highest-rated aircraft pilot in EPS history, with a license that included “Multi-Engine Commercial Transport.”
Some of you may recall in the March 2020 edition of The Call Box we shared “A walk down Memory Lane with Evelyn and Terry DeGrood”. You can find that story in The Call Box archives in this website.
Posted in the February 2024 edition of The call Box.
Dec 25th, 1947 - Jan 28th, 2024
Harold Ira Johnson was born December 25th, 1947 in Edmonton, Alberta. He grew up on the Johnson Valley Ranch near Newbrook, Alberta.
In 1965 he studied at Prairie Bible Institute, then was employed in the construction and oil industries over the next few years. He moved to Edmonton, and soon after met his wife-to-be Hilde, in 1969. They married on May 23rd, 1970. For the next 25 years, Harold served with the Edmonton Police Service where he was fortunate to have many interesting jobs. This included walking the beat in a buffalo coat, City Parks patrol on a Skidoo, traffic section on motorcycle, ident section, detective in plain clothes, and finally completing his career with the rank of Sergeant.
His retirement was more active than ever filled with multiple community centered projects and various new roles. Highlights include working in 911 call evaluations, driving the former Lieutenant Governor (Lois Hole), many renovations, landscaping, and other handy man jobs for friends and strangers. No one stayed a stranger long. He was a jack of all trades kind of guy that loved to help everyone. He recently said that helping others energized him and brought him joy. Harold had a heart of servitude, always using his gifts to share his faith in Jesus, his Saviour.
After a year of struggle with cancer, Harold passed peacefully to be with his Lord on January 28th, 2024. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Hilde; daughters, Andrea (Jeff), Rebecca (Ryan); grandchildren, Riley (Faethe), and Lydia; siblings, Clarence (Carolyn), Mervyn, Norman (Louise), Sonya (Rick); beloved in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff at St. Joseph’s Auxiliary Hospital.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 10th, 2024 at Wyecliff Bible Chapel 169-22560 Wye Rd, Sherwood Park, Alberta T8A 4T6
For those who are unable to attend, a recording of the Celebration will be added following service.
In lieu of flowers, Harold specifically chose the following organizations to donate to:
• Shelter Canada - https://www.shelterhelps.com/edmontonyoungadults
• Operation Smile - https://www.operationsmile.org/
• Guide Dogs for the Blind - https://gdbinternational.ca/
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Harold, please visit our Tree Store.
Harold Johnson became a member of the service on March 9th, 1970 and retired on January 30th, 1995. After retirement, Harold was rehired in Commincations Division, working
there from January 21st, 1977 until September 1st, 2007.
Posted in the February 2024 edition of The Call Box.
Husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He remains in the hearts of many people.
A hero as he dealt stoically with health issues maintaining his sense of humour and gentle ways.
Artist. Renovator. Woodworker. Cook. Policeman. A Wickedly competitive player of Mexican train dominoes!
Nothing meant more to Robin than his family. The excitement of his own sons’ births was only equaled when grandson, Aiden, arrived! Robin was always there to support his family, he was a role model for his sons and he was someone you could count on.
Robin always had artistic talent and upon his retirement he was determined to become an artist. He spent many hours watching Bob Ross then he joined the Spruce Grove Pioneer Art Club. He left a legacy of beautiful acrylic art work.
His grand puppies adored him. Hannah, Roxie, Herc, Mia, Thor and Sebastian all held special places in his heart.
Motor homes were another passion and he knew all the models! Finally he purchased his pride and joy the Intruder class A, and joined the cavalcade of men driving these big units to Arizona for the winter. This love affair never ended as he continued to take his scooter and his enthusiasm to the Annual RV show every February to see those brand new units!
Robin saw so many of his dreams come true. He and wife of fifty-four years, Heather, had two kind and considerate sons, Sean and Chris. Incredible Daughters in law,
Patricia and Andrea and the light of his life, Grandson, Aiden. He enjoyed an acreage home for 30 years. He got his wish to live in a location that is on the water. Camping trips. Travel with his family. Motorhomes. A wonderful retirement in Arizona. Trips to Europe, Mexico, Hawaii and Cuba. PLUS He got to fulfill his biggest wish, to go to Disneyland with his grandson, Aiden. Twice!
Robin COLLING became a member of the service on October 1st, 1973 and retired on March 8th, 2003.
Posted in the February 2024 edition of The Call Box.
SMITH, David Abraham Reg. No. 566 Jan 22, 1950 – Jan 14, 2024
It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of David Smith on January 14th, 2024, at the age of 73.
He was predeceased by his loving son Darin, and two granddaughters Ericka & Abbey.
David will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 53 years Shirley, daughter Rhonda (Kym), daughter-in-law Sandra and his grandchildren Madyson, McKenna, Katy, Alyssa, Coleton and Jacob. Sister Sharyn (Doug), sister-in-law Sharon (Jim), and extended family Bernard (Catherine) and Christine. As well as numerous
cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.
David was a retired Edmonton Police Officer and was an active member of The Millwoods Breakfast Lions Club. He loved his family, his time spent at Garner Lake, coffee and lunch with his close friends and his dog Mitsy.
A Celebration of Life was held on January 22nd, 2024, in Edmonton.
Memorial donations can be made to any animal rescue of your choice.
Dave Smith joined the Edmonton Police Department as a member of RTC 31 on September 23rd, 1969, and retired on April 11th, 1997.
Born 23 March 1929 in
Crossmaglen, Northern Ireland and died 03 January 2024 in Edmonton. He is survived by his son David (Ann) and grandsons Ross and Kevin from Chilliwack, BC and predeceased by his wife Una. He was the last remaining member of a group of men recruited, by the Edmonton Police Force, from the Royal Ulster Constabulary in 1952. John served with the RUC from 1947-1952 before resigning and leaving Belfast on 11 November of that year on a ship overnight, bound for Liverpool. On November 12th November John and 23 others boarded the SS Franconia left Liverpool and began a six day trip across the Atlantic, to the St Lawrence and Quebec City. John fondly remembered
the the fine food on board and the fun he had becoming acquainted with the others. Quebec City was of particular interest for it was there that he saw tea bags for the first time and often laughed about the men riding up and down on moving stairs (escalator) in a huge department store. *
The next journey was the 4 day rail trip from Quebec to Edmonton. The train stopped often at remote stations where the men were able to stock up with provisions and the occasional case of beer. Once they arrived in Edmonton they were all billeted with various Irish families until they were able to get lodgings of their own. Within days all were provided with uniforms, firearms, and a week of basic training before being assigned to various beats in the city.
John’s policing career in Edmonton spanned 34 years, His start date with the police in Edmonton was November 24th, 1952. He was promoted to detective and worked in various positions in Vice and Drugs and later as Staff Sergeant in charge of Technical Support. He was one of the 100 members who took the famous “buy out” in 1986, retiring on April 15th of that year..
John will be remembered as a true gentleman with a keen sense of dress, an avid reader with an incredible knowledge of history, an unrivaled recall and a great love of
languages including his native Gaelic. (OBITUARY DRAFTED BY JOHN’S GOOD FRIEND MIKE BRADSHAW)
** John was subject of a “Where are they now?” article in the June 2022 edition of The Call Box. You can access that In The Call Box Archives area of the EPSVA website. **
FLADAGER, Richard Earle Reg. No. 33 Jul 16, 1930 - Dec 17, 2023
It is with deep sorrow and loving memories we announce the passing of Richard Earle Fladager on December 17th, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Earle was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Earle’s legacy is marked by a life well-lived and a heart full of cherished memories.
Earle will be lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 69 years Betty, children David (Nataliya), Neal (Deborah), and Marilyn (Dave); his grandchildren Katherine, Victoria,
Calista, Michael, Jackson, Alysha, and Melanie as well as numerous extended relatives, neighbours and friends.
Born on July 16, 1930, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan to Tedden Fladager and Marguerite Mair, Earle’s family relocated to Edmonton in 1934, where his sister Beverley was born. Throughout school Earle excelled in baseball and hockey, earning accolades and championships, including being named most Valuable Player during his midget year with the Edmonton Athletic Club. He went on to the Junior level and even had a Chicago Blackhawks NHL Scout offer a professional contract!
After completing his education at Garneau and Eastwood High Schools, Earle embarked on diverse professional paths. From his time as a deckhand with the Northern
Transportation Company to joining the Royal Canadian Air Force for aircrew training in 1949, his professional journey led him in 1951 to a 30-year dedication to the City of Edmonton Police Department, rising through the ranks with distinction and earning many promotions and accommodations. Following retirement in 1980, Earle continued his public service as an Inspector Auditor with the Alberta Attorney General’s Department.
In 1954 Earle married the love of his life, Betty Marlene Chrysler and together they raised their family in Edmonton. His passion for fishing, hunting, and weekends spent at both his cabins at Lac La Nonne and the Overlander Mountain Lodge defined his leisure time. Earle was a man of many abilities and there was nothing he couldn’t do. Carpentry, genealogy, gardening, hockey coach, landscaping, oil painting, plumbing, and even writing an autobiography typified only some of the wide range of skills he pursued! A lifelong member of various organizations, including the Boy Scouts of Canada, the Southside Athletic Club, the United Empire Loyalists and the Edmonton Minor Hockey Association all reflect his dedication and commitment to community service and youth development. In 2022, Earle received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Earle took great pride in his family, embraced life, he was generous, caring and the best husband, father and grandfather one could wish for. His smile was contagious.
Earle’s funeral service to celebrate his life was held on December 22nd, in Edmonton with interment at Glenwood Memorial Gardens in Sherwood Park.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Ottewell United Church, the Cross Cancer Institute or the Edmonton Humane Society.
“One final word – do all things in a positive way with love and truth because the negative will not provide good results.”
** EPSVA notes: Earle FLADAGER joined the EPD on November 13th, 1951 and retired on October 23rd, 1980.