Obituaries

August 10, 1937 - July 25, 2023

Melvin Francis Golnick passed away peacefully on July 25th, at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta.

Born on a farm outside of Grande Prairie on August 10th, 1937, Melvin in his early life worked as a cattle hand on the family farm until age 14 and then as a construction worker. His proudest moment during those days was working on building the W.A.C Bennet Dam, where he worked his way up to heavy equipment operator until he was forced into early retirement in 1995.

In the second half of his life, he enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, gardening, and going to any hot springs he could find between BC and Alberta. After the birth of his grandchildren, he insisted on making sure they accompanied him while on these trips. An experience that carried on into adulthood and included bringing their children. Even though Melvin retired in ’95, he was never one to sit around and do nothing, at one point he even built and tended to a ¼ acre garden in his backyard all while recovering from various surgeries or ailments. When he wasn’t at home, Melvin’s constant “on-the-go” nature led him hitching his Wife’s vehicle to their motorhome and travelling to Grande Prairie to see their families in the region. From sightseeing trips to helping some members build their forever homes, he was always ready to volunteer his time and work to make sure his family was safe and smiling.

After an accident in 2009 finally putting a stop to his incessant “always-on-the-go” nature, Melvin settled a little more peacefully into his retired life within his home community of Parker Cove, BC.

During the final act of his life, Melvin enjoyed babysitting his great-granddaughter, watching wrestling with his son, and going on short camping trips with his family. He leaves a large family and a larger than life legacy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Darleen, his children Audrey and Derek, his sisters, and brothers Dan (Hilary), Elizabeth, Ted (Charlotte), Margaret, Alfred, Martha (Alan), Eddie (Erin), Irene (Brent) and Edith. His grandchildren Michelle, Kendra (Eric), Laylend and Desiree (Matthew). His great grandchildren Isabella, Rowen, Gage, Finn, Trenton, Brooklynne, Payton, Olivia, Hunter, and Hermione.

He is pre-deceased by his father Fred, stepmom Elsa and elder sister Laura.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the University of Alberta Hospital – Neurology Department and select “#10- Neurology” (direct link provided on the left under Melvin’s photo)

A memorial tea for Melvin will be held on Saturday August 5th, 2023, at Ted and Charlotte’s Home at 7061 Township Road 693 in Grovedale, Alberta from 1:00pm-5:00pm.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bcfh.ca