Theodore Kenneth Tollifson

It is with heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of Theodore Kenneth (Ted, Teddy, TK) Tollifson on Wednesday July 31, 2024 at the age of 78 in St. Albert, Alberta after a short stay in hospital. 

Ted is predeceased by his parents, Thomas Robert and Olive Irene (Bea)Tollifson; his brother Robert Duane (Ole) Tollifson; brother-in-law Merlin Vanstone; and very dear aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. If Ted himself were writing this, he would catalogue his predeceased by many more generations without having to double-check the family tree.

He is survived by his loving wife Doris; his son Robert of Saskatoon; his daughters Lauren (Lucas), and Carlie (Jaco); and his cherished grandson Oliver, all of Edmonton. Ted also leaves behind his sisters Anne Huys (Art), Carol Vanstone, and Janice Mann (Tom), many nieces, nephews, family members, and a wide circle of very generous friends. If Ted himself were writing this, he would list each of you by (at minimum) name, birthdate, educational credentials, hobbies, passions and most recent place of residence.

Ted grew up in and around Deloraine, Cartwright, and Purves, Manitoba. After he graduated from high school in Cartwright he embarked on a number of entrepreneurial endeavours across Western Canada before settling down in Mervin, Saskatchewan with his family. He was at times a tobacco picker, a logger, co-proprietor of the Bo-Peep Sheep Ranch, a roofer, the owner of a feedlot cleaning operation, farmer of pigs, chickens and other fowl, and elk and finally an oilfield contractor for Husky Oil. If Ted himself were writing this, he would detail each job title, boss, and wage (indexed for inflation to 2024).

Ted was a reader, a poet, an encyclopedia of facts, a conversationalist. He was so funny and so loyal. He was all of these things to his very last days. If Ted himself were writing this, he would leave these things out because he’d hate to sound like he was bragging. He’d just want you to know he cared deeply about you. He was proud of you. He was so glad to know you. 

A small memorial service will be held at a future date. Donations in Ted’s memory can be made to your local hospital foundation.