Wilbert David Toews was born to David D. and Helena Toews on April 8, 1938, at Swalwell, Alta. He passed away on Aug. 31, 2023, at his home at Crestview Lodge, Pincher Creek, Alta., at the age of 85. Dad’s heart was tired and broken since Mom left him in January. Although he was brave and patient in his grief, he was longing to meet Jesus and to join Mom again.

Wilbert grew up in the Linden area with five sisters and two brothers. He fondly told us of his childhood days; riding the little buckskin pony to school and learning to play baseball there without a proper bat, glove or backstop. He enjoyed chores at home and threshing with his dad’s team of horses. Wilbert gave his heart to Jesus and was baptized, joining the Church of God in Christ Mennonite. He was faithful and grateful till the end. When he was 17, his father died, and Wilbert felt the heavy load of supporting his mother and family.

Wilbert married Jennie Fern Reimer on Oct. 10, 1958, sharing life for over 64 years. Two daughters and three sons were born to them. Their first home was in Linden, Alta., and they moved to Pincher Creek in 1968, among the first families to call this new congregation home.

Dad enjoyed his small dairy, beef cows, John Deeres, Fords and auctioneering. He was an advocate of hard work, responsibility and the ordinary man. He taught us to follow the path of Jesus and loved the simplicity of the gospel. There was always time in Dad’s schedule for a picnic or ball game with family and friends. If we could sum up Dad’s life creed in one sentence, it would be “Let me travel the road of life and be a friend to man.”

Dad was a lover of song. He led with enthusiasm and promoted singing favourites from memory. Dad knew no greater joy than listening to his children and grandchildren sing. In later years, Dad amused us all by making up songs as he went along and singing them to whoever had the time to listen.

Dad taught us an appreciation for the little things in life, and to be strong in spite of trouble. At the age of 64 he had a heart attack and stroke, which left him with physical limitations. It was hard for Dad to accept that he would not own a driver’s licence again. Dad spent his last years living at the Crestview Lodge. He voiced his appreciation many times for the excellent meals and the loving care he received. His children and grandchildren meant the world to him. He always wanted us to stop in more often and to stay longer. The family gathering in heaven is looking sweeter all the time.

Those left behind include his children: Lorraine Unruh, son-in-law Jeff and Darci Dejax, Galen and Gwen Toews, Kelly and Joanne Toews, Kendall and Marla Toews; 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. One brother, Eldon and Lorna Toews. Two sisters, Irma and Irvin Megli, and Susanna Reimer. Mom’s family: Leroy and Marianne Reimer, Audrey Toews, Darlene Reimer, Ruby and John Hendrickson, and Dianne Reimer.

Those gone before include his beloved parents, wife, daughter, son-in-law and five siblings.

Arrangements entrusted to Snodgrass Funeral Homes.