Obituary of John Sandford Edmunds

In memory of John Sandford Edmunds, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 82 in the Red Deer hospital, surrounded by his loving family. John was born in Calgary and lived his younger years on a farm located just west of Calgary City Limits. The family moved in 1956 to the southwest Calgary community of Glenbrook. He attended Glengarry Elementary, Melville Scott Junior High and Viscount Bennett Senior High schools. In 1967, John married Judy Ziola and in the following years, they welcomed two beautiful daughters, Jacquelyn and Jo-Anne.

John became co-owner of Strathmore Antique Auto Parts with his dear friend and brother-inlaw, Lorne Postma. They operated a successful auto-body shop from 1967 until retiring in 2007. John worked very hard and dedicated himself to provide for his family and ensured, by repairing or rebuilding a myriad of items, that everything operated properly. John had many interests including building vintage model aircraft, constructing amazing bird houses, and creating an intricate doll house. His attention to detail in all his endeavors illustrated his extreme thoughtfulness. He had a lifelong passion for vintage cars, steam trains, historic aircraft, and motorcycles. Above all, John loved to go out for a ride on his Harley Davidson. When his beloved granddaughter, Auria, learned of John’s passing, she said, “I am going to miss Grandpa, but he will be riding his Harley soon.” After retirement, many happy years were spent living at Rochon Sands, Buffalo Lake, where John enjoyed the view of the Lake from the deck with his special little dog, Daisy. John loved to laugh and he will be remembered most for his smile and light-hearted sense of humor. He enjoyed evening gatherings around a fire with family, friends, and wonderful neighbors, where much hilarity and entertainment brought smiles and laughter to all.

John was predeceased by his father and mother, Albert Henry and Winifred Ethel (Sandford) Edmunds and sister-in-law, Ann Ziola. He leaves his loving wife, Judy Edmunds; his devoted daughters, Jacquelyn (Rick) Shoemaker and Jo-Anne Edmunds; and his precious granddaughter, Auria Shoemaker. He also leaves to mourn his sister, Rosemary Postma (Lorne); niece Sharon van der Merwe (Ben) and daughter Karina; nephew Brian Postma (Katie) and children Henry and Evelyn; as well as cousins, brothers-in-law, a sister-in-law and families, as well as many life-long friends. If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Alberta Humane Society, or a charity of your choice. Condolences to John’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Edmunds” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944