Desmond (Des) Joseph Walsh, a man of resilience, warmth, and dedication, peacefully passed away in Edmonton, Alberta on Saturday, May 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 24, 1934, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Des embodied the spirit of the Canadian prairies throughout his remarkable life.

From his earliest days, Des displayed a passion for sports, finding joy in activities ranging from hockey to baseball, and even a stint in boxing, though his mother always frowned upon such rough pursuits. His zest for life continued into adulthood, where he pursued a career in Civil Engineering, graduating from the University of Saskatchewan.

Des’s professional journey led him through various endeavors, from his early days with Underwood and McLellan in Saskatoon to his impactful tenure with the Yellowhead Tribal Council. Through his work, Des contributed significantly to the development and well-being of five Indigenous Nations west of Edmonton, leaving a lasting legacy through his efforts in providing clean drinking water, designing roads, and developing subdivisions.

Outside of his professional commitments, Des cherished moments of leisure, whether it was curling, bowling, or teeing off for a round of golf. Amidst his competitive spirit, Des remained a gracious and humble sportsman, embodying qualities of fairness and sportsmanship.

Central to Des’s life was his enduring love for Leone, his companion in life’s journey. Together, they raised a beautiful family and tended to their home and garden with pride, finding solace and joy in each other’s company until Leone’s passing. Des continued to cultivate and take pride in the bounty of his garden until he died.

Des leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in his five children: Laura Watmough (Ed), Doug Loveridge (Shari), Russanne Perry (Randy), Michael Walsh (Debbie), and Kevin Walsh (Tammy). His expansive family includes 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, a testament to the love and bonds he nurtured throughout his life.

In addition to his family, Des is survived by his brothers Pat Walsh (Dian), Doug Walsh, and sister Maureen Gagnon (Paul). He is reunited in eternal peace with his loving wife Leone, father and mother Bertram and Genoa Walsh, brother Bert Walsh (Helene), and sister Bernadette Reis (Hank).

Desmond Walsh will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his unwavering love, kindness, and devotion as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed but his legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

A Mass and Celebration of Life in honor of Des will be held on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Dominic Savio Parish, 14406 – 62 Street, Edmonton, Alberta. Let us gather to commemorate a life well-lived and to bid farewell to a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many.