Walter Ranald Woodske, age 71 of Canal Flats, passed away peacefully Friday, November 21, 2014 with loved ones at his side, in Cranbrook. He was born July 20, 1943 in Coleman, Alberta, the son of Albert and Josephine Woodske. They moved to Canal Flats when he was one, and grew up and went to school in Canal Flats. Walter later went to work at Crestbrook Forest Industries where he worked until his retirement in 2001.
On his 21st birthday he met June Onfrychuk, and they were married the following year on May 14, 1966. They have four daughters.
Walter was very active in the Canal Flats community, as a firefighter and later Fire Chief with the Canal Flats Fire Department, he was involved with the Improvement District and then became a Village Councilor. He worked as a first aider, and he enjoyed curling and softball, and was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.
Walter is survived by his loving wife of 48 years June, 4 daughters Maureen Woodske, Marilyn Woodske, Janice (Brad) Fisher, Kathleen (Kevin) Cuthbert, as well as 4 grandchildren Megan, Katelyn, Courtney, and Lucas.
A memorial service for Walter will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 28, 2014 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cranbrook, with interment of cremains to follow in Westlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.