William Edward (Ted) Earley, born April 18, 1921, a lifetime resident of Wadena/Clair area, passed away peacefully in the company of long-time friend, Pat Larson, at Wadena Hospital on Sunday, April 21, 2002.
Ted is survived by brother Archie Earley of B.C., sister Doreen Williams of Vancouver, sister Violet Earley of Victoria and numerous nephews and nieces from Ontario to B.C.
Ted's family moved west from Winnipeg in 1910 and established a homestead north of Clair. Ted attended school in the Clair area, and served in the South Saskatchewan Regiment during World War II. He entered France with the Regiment on July 7, 1944. The SSR's participated in the liberation of Dieppe and the battle for Caen. Ted was wounded near Bery Sur Mere, France, but returned to the Regiment to participate in house-to-house fighting in Antwerp and the liberation of Holland.
Ted returned to the family farm north of Clair after the war and established his own farm. As well as being an area farmer, he also worked for the Town of Wadena, operated a plumbing business and a greenhouse in Wadena until he retired in the early 80's. Ted cared for his mother for many years until she was admitted to a personal care home.
Ted was a quiet, gentle man who loved family and took many trips to Ontario, Winnipeg and B.C. to visit his many relations.
Ted was living at home until shortly before surrendering his life to cancer.
Ted's caring attitude and friendly personality will be missed by all who knew him.
The funeral service was held on Friday, April 26, 2002, at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Tompkins Funeral Home at Wadena. Officiating was Rev. Mary Gavin, organist was Myrna Price, and in care of the memorial book was Pat Larson. Congregational hymns were The Lord's My Shepherd and Just a Closer Walk with Thee.
Interment was in Wadena Cemetery with Tompkins Funeral Home in care of arrangements. Pallbearers were members of Royal Canadian Legion Wadena Branch #62. Lunch was served at St. John's Anglican Church basement following interment.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Wadena Hospital.