John “Billy-Joe” Waldner

  • John “Billy-Joe” Waldner
  • Date of Passing: March 12, 2025
  • Born: January 11, 1943

Obituary

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our dear husband, father and grandfather, John “Billy-Joe” Waldner, of Elie, MB.

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, John passed away at his home and was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and reunited with family and friends who have gone before him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Irene, their sons Billy (Beverley) and Dale (Kalina) and their daughter Sheri (Michael), along with his grandchildren Everett, William, Luke, Sydney, Oliver, Sullivan, and Savannah. He also leaves behind several siblings. He was predeceased by his parents and five brothers and sisters.

John was born on January 11, 1943, at Rosedale Hutterite Colony, one of fourteen children born to John and Katherina Waldner. In 1962, he left the colony and worked for local farmers in Fannystelle and then Portage La Prairie before heading to Thompson, Manitoba, in 1963. There, he spent 14 years working underground and at the open pit mine for Inco, Ltd. It was during those years that he met Irene at Waldheim Hutterite Colony and he had to have her. “You’re coming with me” was all it took as they began their lives together in Thompson in August 1971. They were married on December 18, 1971 and were blessed with three children together and many memories.

In December of 1977, John and Irene moved their very young family to Fort McMurray, Alberta, where he worked as a Heavy-Duty Operator for Syncrude for 20 years. He took great pride in his work and a job well done, particularly during his time spent operating the grader.

In 1992, John purchased an acreage close to where he grew up for his family to enjoy each summer. In 1998, he retired, and he and Irene built their dream home on the acreage. John loved life and enjoyed every second spent working outside. He could be found most days mowing the lawn, cutting down trees or clearing snow – it was where he was the most comfortable and content. He always looked forward to when the kids and grandkids would come for a visit, especially during the summer.

John was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether it was ensuring the neighbours came home to a cleared driveway in the winter, watching over their animals when they were away, or driving Tim Horton’s employees to work in the early morning on cold winter days in Elie, he would be there without being asked.

John loved the Lord and would spend his mornings reading the bible and always took the opportunity to share the message of salvation with others. Our family finds comfort in knowing that he passed away in the place he loved most, now resting in his heavenly home.

The family would like extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Portage La Prairie EMS and Headingley RCMP for their quick response and tireless efforts in trying to save our husband, father, and grandfather, as well as for their compassion and kindness following his passing.

Funeral Details

Arrangements