Ronald Slack

February 28, 1940 - May 16, 2024

In Loving Memory ~

The family of Mr. Ronald James Slack announces his passing at the Innisfail Health Centre, Innisfail, Alberta, following a short illness, on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the age of 84 years. Ron was born on February 28, 1940, and was the only son of Wilf and May Slack. He grew up on the farm south of Gasoline Alley. His sister, Joan has fond memories of the two of them on the farm and skating on the slough.

Ron started his career as a firefighter in Red Deer. He made many lifelong friends during his time with the Fire Department. He continued his coffee time with friends for many years. Ron was an exceptional athlete growing up, playing baseball and excelling in hockey. People who knew him still speak of his athletic abilities and achievements to this day.

Ron met his future wife, Jo at the Red Deer Judo Club. In 1962, Ron married his partner and best friend in life, Jo Parr. Together they raised two girls, Bonnie and Linda. Ron and Jo took over the family dairy when Ron's father became ill. He always had a soft spot for animals, and never said no when his girls would bring strays home. We even looked after a baby moose. Our family life on the farm was wonderful.

In later years, the Dairy Farm was converted to the Wild Rose Stallion Station. This was one of the first Quarter Horse/Thoroughbred (AI) breeding facilities in Central Alberta. On June 1, 1984, Ron was presented with a plaque for the official opening of "Slack Slough" for his outstanding contribution to the preservation of Wildlife Habitat in the Province of Alberta.

Forty years later, as a 100th Anniversary Legacy Project through the Red Deer Rotary Club, with help from Bob Mills, Gloria Beck and many others, this Slough will be protected forever. When Jo and Ron left the farm, Ron worked at the Chrysler Plant, until he retired. Wherever Ron worked, he made close friends. Following a short break, Ron chose to join Rosenau Transport for a few years to keep busy, until he finally retired.

Ron enjoyed spending time and supported his family in all their endeavours. He especially enjoyed time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed travel including trips to Maui, Disneyland, Tofino, Butchart Gardens, Banff, Jasper, trail riding in Kananaskis Country, fishing and enjoying time with family at the cabin in Ontario.

Ron's infectious smile, incredible kindness, honesty, quiet wit, and sense of humor were the backbone of the man we all knew and loved. Ron was always willing to help anyone in need and remembered everyone's name.

Ron will be lovingly remembered by his wife of nearly sixty-two years, Helen 'Jo'; his daughters, Bonnie (Ken) Hayward, and Linda (Gary) Juenke; his grandchildren, Matt (Jacki) Hayward, Tim Hayward, Megan (Joel) Power, Jessica (Colton) Bridge; and his great-grandchildren, Ryan, Marley and Ferron Bridge, Jasper and Margot Hayward and Farley Power.

He will also be sadly missed by his sister, Joan Briggs of Powell River; his nephews, Steven (Kristen) Briggs, Camron and Duncan, and Darren Briggs (Andra), his niece, Dawne Briggs, Jan (Demi) and Lief (Bria).

A Celebration of Ron's Life will be held on Sunday, July 7, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at their family home. If desired, Memorial Donations in Ron's honor may be made directly to his special charity STARS Air Ambulance at www.stars.ca.

Ron's family would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank You" to all the special people and staff at the Innisfail Hospital for their caring, support and kindness. You were amazing. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 - 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium