Read, Graham Arthur (Art)
Posted on May 11, 2017 by Maple Creek
READ – Graham Arthur (Art) ~ June 4, 1947 – May 5, 2017
With great sadness, we announce the passing of G. Arthur Read, most recently of Airdrie, after a valiant fight with esophageal cancer.
Art will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Penny, of 47 years; three daughters, Denise (Alvaro Lopes) and their son, Sam; Julie (Mark Baum) and their son, Decker and daughter, Danika; Bonnie (Darren Guise) and their daughter, Siena and son, Mason; by sisters, Shirley (Bob Pridmore); Kathy (Skip Matyear); brothers Tom (Mary); Gary (Richelle); as well as many nieces and nephews.
Art was predeceased by his young son, Steven in 1975; his parents, Graham and Florence; brothers-in-law, Larry Wilson and Bob Bigg; and nephew Rob Bigg.
Art was born in Climax, Sask. and moved many times in the southwest area during his childhood, living at Supreme, Robsart, Vidora, and Consul.
As a teenager, in Maple Creek, Sask., Art began his long career with the Co-op. First at the service station, then delivering fuel, until he became the Branch Manager in Consul. After four years, he attained a General Manager position with Churchbridge Co-op, followed by Rocanville Co-op. In 1978 Art worked for Federated Co-op Ltd. in Regina as a Retail Advisor for two years. His next move was to Brandon, Man. from 1980-83. He moved back to Saskatchewan where he managed Cabri Co-op before accepting the position of General Manager at Sedgewick, Alta. in 1985. He managed the Co-op until his retirement in 2007.
Winters were spent touring in the motorhome, visiting places in California, Arizona and Texas, while enjoying the sunshine and making new friends. Sports were always very important to Art. He grew up playing hockey and pitching baseball. Many years were spent coaching and playing baseball at the various towns where he lived. As his daughters began their sports, he coached girls fastball, achieving Provincials, which made him very proud. During the 30 years in Sedgewick, he participated in many sports. Fastball, slo pitch, curling, bowling, tennis, and for the last many years, Art could be found on the golf course with his good buddy, George.
Art was very active in the Sedgewick community, volunteering and serving on many boards. He was a long time Legion member holding many positions. He held the old veterans in highest regard.
Art was a wonderful grandpa!
His grandchildren meant the world to him and he filled the “grandfather” role with obvious pride and mutual, loving adoration.
A Remembrance Open House in Art’s honour, will be held at Woodside Golf Course, 525 Woodside Drive NW, Airdrie, Alta. on Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. where everyone is encouraged to share a fond memory. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made in Art’s memory to the charity of their choice.
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at http://www.myalternatives.ca.
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