STAPLETON, Edward Arland

December 8, 1937 — October 19, 2024

Born on December 8, 1937, Edward Stapleton passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024, at the age of 86. He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Phyllis Josephine Stapleton (née Keller).

Edward “Ed” Stapleton was born in Cardston, Alberta.  He was the 6th child of Samuel Michael “Mick” Stapleton and Elsa Stapleton (née Fehlberg).  He leaves behind two daughters, Lisa Price (James Wise) and Jeanette (Robert) Vinek, and three beautiful grandchildren, Jesse Price, Anna Price (Russell Coffin), and Grace Freiheit.  He is survived by his sisters Betty Noakes, Linda Vasseur and Patricia Silvestri, and his brothers Eldon Watkins and Victor Stapleton.  He was predeceased by his sisters Georgine Shanks, Joanne Taft, Glenda Raessler, Elsa Terry, Carolie Jackson, and Mae Bennett, and his brothers William “Bill”, James “Jim” and Michael “Mike”.

Ed’s early years were spent on the family farm in Jefferson, AB, where he learned the value of hard work, and the importance of family.  After the passing of his mother, he became the glue that held together his blended family, welcoming his stepmother Lois Stapleton (née Christie); two stepsisters, Mae and Carolie; and 3 half siblings, Pat, Mike, and Vic.  This family of 15 is the foundation on which Ed created his life.  His dedication, love, and commitment to his family was unwavering and beautiful.  His family was everything to him.

Ed was the most amazing father, grandfather, husband, brother, and uncle. Talented in countless ways, he was an accomplished athlete, a Boy Scout Leader, a Ducks Unlimited advocate, and an enthusiastic volunteer with both the Lions Club and the Legion. Skilled in work as a Master Mechanic and Welder, he not only excelled in his trade but also used his expertise to develop programs that provided employment for the physically and mentally diverse. Ed’s enthusiasm extended beyond work and community service—he was a spirited dancer, a dedicated gardener, and a beloved supporter and driver for his daughters’ volleyball team. When his girls won provincials, the team gifted him a medal inscribed with “Number 1 Father, Driver, Fan”.  His medals and accolades for his community service are too numerous to list, and are symbols of the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation his community felt for his service.  Ed’s love language was family and community service; he lived it every day.

People were drawn to him and wanted him close, and for good reason. His energy was strong enough that it stopped the watches on his wrist. His family bought him many, and finally settled on the old-fashioned windup type, the only kind that would keep running.  If someone was grieving, he would put his huge hand on their back (unintentionally across from their heart), grounding and calming them. His hugs were legendary, and always accompanied by the sweetest kiss on the cheek.  He was never afraid to share his love out loud.  Imagine being his child and being enveloped in that.  He told his daughters every day they could be or do anything.

He was a strong man who was a big teddy bear. He was just so kind. He smiled and danced his way through life and was such a force of positivity and love. His glass was always half full.  The strongest testimony of his legacy is his love of his wife, Phyllis Stapleton. He married a strong, independent woman, and he never dimmed her Light.  He was the shining example of what it means to be a Good Man.  Confident of his own worth, and never afraid to shine his Light on others. We all got to bask in the glow of that Light.

The loss is immense. Deep and wide, yet we are all better for feeling his love and loving him in return.

We love you, “Papa Bear”. Thank you.

Ed’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 12:00 pm (MST), at Legion Branch 140, 30035 Range Road 253, Cardston, Alberta. Reception to follow.
Interment for family and friends prior, at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Woolford Cemetery.

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