Obituary of Aldon Knelsen

Aldon Knelsen of Gravelbourg, SK, and formerly of Shamrock, SK, passed away on Friday, February 15, 2019, at the age of 70 years. Aldon was born on October 20, 1948, in Gravelbourg, SK, to Dietrich and Bertha (nee Tacholsky) Knelsen. Growing up he loved to be in the field and was so proud when his dad let him drive the tractor for the first time. His favourite time of year was harvest, when you could smell the grain going through the thrasher. Aldon spent countless hours in the barn caring for the animals on the farm. His love for animals lasted all his life and he had two very important dogs, George and Chico. Aldon was a welder by trade, but his true love was farming. Aldon enjoyed singing and was part of a choir. He had a very soulful voice. Aldon married Marcia Paton in November of 1977. They began their life together on the home quarter, sharing the yard with Aldon’s parents. Aldon and Marcia enjoyed cards, fishing, camping, and big family get togethers. Their door was always open, and everyone was always welcome. Aldon was a bus driver for a time and enjoyed listening to the stories the kids would tell. In 1982, Aldon and Marcia moved to Swift Current. There, Aldon delivered mail to the south line. He loved to drive and made many miles, hauling trailers from Chicago to all parts of BC, Albert, and Saskatchewan. Aldon also worked for many years with the Loomis courier. From 1993 to 2003, Aldon and Marcia had a group home and welcomed three young men to live with them during this time. They also became involved with Camp Easter Seal. Aldon loved people, visiting, watching CNN, and keeping up with politics. Funeral Service was held on Monday, February 25, 2019, 1:00 p.m., at the Shamrock Community Hall. Officiant was Reverend Janelle Shaw. The eulogy was shared by Val Bidaux. Interment took place at the Elim Mennonite Brethren Cemetery. Memorial donations in memory of Aldon to the Foyer d’Youville Foundation, Box 810, Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0, were greatly appreciated.