EARL: It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear Dad and Grandpa, Earl McKone, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 95 years of age. Earl was born December 3, 1930, in Lashburn, SK, to Fred and Elsie (Clench) McKone. He often spoke with great love, admiration and respect for his parents and fondly recalled happy days growing up on the family farm with his siblings Kay, Eleanor and Ralph. Earl was a kind and caring man with quiet strength, integrity, resilience and a wonderful sense of humour. He had a deep love for his family, nature and the outdoors and a genuine interest in others. In February 1956, Earl married the love of his life, Viola (Vi) Rice and together they raised their children—Valerie, Terry, Lyle, Bonnie and Lori—in the home they built overlooking a scenic coulee hill south of Lashburn. Earl cherished the love he shared with Vi and many happy times were spent with family, friends and neighbours in Tyrone District and the Lashburn community. Earl took great pride in farming the land he loved and valued the true partnership he and Vi shared in all farming decisions. He embraced the challenges of seeding and harvest, served on the Credit Union Board and together with Vi supported local Girl Guides and Boy Scouts as Group Committee members. Earl and Vi also enjoyed many years bowling together at the Lashburn Bowling Alley. Music was a source of joy for Earl; the melodies lifted his spirit, filled his heart with happiness and brought comfort to his days. A devoted father and grandfather, Earl was happiest spending time with his family, playing catch and frisbee, ping pong or pool and visiting at the kitchen table. He was always up for a round of golf with good friends. Earl took great pleasure in planting trees and working on projects in the yard. He was an avid reader, a talented artist and he enjoyed playing his favourite tunes on his harmonica. Earl was a skilled woodworker; his workshop, affectionately called the “Boardroom,” was where he built furniture that will be treasured by his family for generations. After our Mom, Vi’s passing, Dad continued to enjoy visits from friends and family at his acreage and later at his care home in Lloydminster. Our family extends heartfelt thanks to the team at Dr. Cooke Extended Care and Dr. Adel Naude, for the wonderful care they provided, sharing stories of singing and whistling with Dad and of the joy he brought to everyone around him. While we will surely miss our Dad and Grandpa and his radiant smile, we find comfort in knowing he is at rest and reunited with loved ones who have passed before him. Earl was predeceased by: his wife, Vi; and children, Valerie, Terry and Lyle. Earl is lovingly remembered by: his daughters, Bonnie Roberge and her children, Erin (Michael) Quiambao, Kyle Roberge (Rebecca Page) and Elyse Roberge (Matteo Bellusci); Lori (Kevin) Gagnon and their children, Ceanna Gagnon (Rylan Fischer) and Alissa Gagnon (Bailey Tomlinson); Valerie McKone’s children, Tobi (Kevin) Hollingworth and Tony Holmen; and Terry McKone’s children, Becky (Jesse) Gammell, Danielle Reece, Kristen Reece and Casey Reece (Anthony Woodson); Earl was also a proud grandfather of numerous great and great-great grandchildren. Dad, your family loves you with all our hearts and we will always hold our memories of you close. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring 2026 in Lashburn, SK. Further details will be shared at a later date on McCaw’s website. Donations in memory of Earl may be made to donor’s charity of choice. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, AB will administer the funeral arrangements.
CARD OF THANKS Earl McKone’s family would like to thank all those who are sharing their kindness and support at this time.
