Elmer’s Story

Born August 29, 1938 & Passed Away February 5, 2026

On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Mr. Elmer (Olesiuk) Gawryletz of Lac La Biche passed away surrounded by family at the age of 87 years. Elmer is survived by his sons, Jonathan (Terri), Philip (Jennifer), daughters Michele (Gerald), Colleen, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his son David, wife Leona, daughter Phyllis, his parents Katherine and Micheal Olesiuk, Stepmom Doris Olesiuk, Nick and Mary Gawryletz, two brothers, eight sisters.

Elmer never knew his birth mom as she passed when he was too young to remember her. He grew up in Wandering River with his uncle Nick and aunt Mary Gawryletz.

Dad always had a soft spot for children and couldn’t bear to see them cry. He was a kind man and extremely forgiving.

Both mom and dad had an inner strength that we still can’t fathom. It could be in part from each other overcoming adversity as children, we don’t know. For me, Dad will continue to be a hard act to follow. His patience, kindness and honesty will never be forgotten, at least not by us.  

Dad worked for the Alberta Forestry, then to construction of houses. He then accepted a job working for E.S. Jonason Contractors building service stations and restaurants as well as bulk plants. This job took Dad across Western Canada and the Northwest Territories. This job had many adventures as we traveled to visit him and see many different places. The boys had the opportunities to work alongside Dad on some of his jobs.   

After sixteen years of working on the road Dad took a job working for the Alberta Department of Highways. Then various shuttle jobs.

Whatever Dad worked at he gave his all and never let anything hold him back.  That is one of the many traits which dad passed down to us children and grandchildren.

When he came home, in between jobs we had many adventures on the lake fishing or in the woods picking berries or on snowmobiles.

Dad was a character with a sense of humor. When he was with his family and friends there was always laughter and pranks pulled on whoever was close by.   

Dad always wanted to do something with the community but couldn’t because he was always away working. When the chance arose, he became a member of the Lac La Biche Heritage Society. After a few years he became the first president of the current Heritage Society Center in the new location. After 8 years as the president, he retired from the position. He always liked to mingle with people.

After Mom passed away, Dad picked up in the kitchen baking and started a Facebook page to inspire others in the kitchen.

Celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Evangelical Free Church, 14124 AB 55, Lac La Biche, AB with Pastor Emmanuel Chiwele officiating. Beverages to follow.