Milton Waddle of Taber, beloved husband of the late Jean Waddle, passed away at the Taber Health Centre on Thursday November 5, 2009 at the age of 80 years.
Milton was born in Lethbridge and raised on the family farm in the Circle Hill District. He attended school at Retlaw and Circle Hill and graduated from the Vauxhall High School. Milton graduated with a university scholarship but decided to stay and assist on the family farm. For over fifteen years while on the farm Milton was an active member and leader of "Farm Clubs" which later became the 4-H, this is where he met his future wife, Jean Postoloski. They were married on October 30, 1953. In 1954 Milton and Jean moved to their own farm in Circle Hill. During the farm years Milton worked for the PFRA and the Taber Sugar Factory during the fall and winter. In 1966 Milton attained a permanent position as a steam engineer with the sugar factory. In 1990 after twenty eight years of working he chose early retirement from the factory. Milton continued to actively volunteer his time with youth organizations and his loving commitment to his sons. He was involved both with The Taber Air Cadets and Boys Scouts of Canada at the same time. Milton was committed to the 225th Taber Air Cadets for over twenty six years. He served as a civilian instructor and later became an Officer with Canadian Armed Forces, serving as Captain and Commanding Officer of the Air Cadet Squadron. During this time Milton was also actively involved as a leader with Boys Scouts Canada and served as the Flatlands District President for three years. He was a proud and active Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Taber Branch #20 where he served on the executive, accepting any positions that he was nominated for. Milton continued to volunteer his time for numerous clubs, organizations and committees to numerous to mention. One of his favourite pastimes was relaxing in the outdoors near a babbling brook with his wife and children. He would spend hours trying to and successfully coaxing wildlife to come nearer. Milton and Jean enjoyed spending time together in their trailer, traveling between the Rockies, Manitoba and Ontario to spend time with their children and grandchildren. Milton enjoyed tinkering in his garage, gardening, home renovations and assisting his boys with any home electrical concerns they may have had. Those that knew Milton will miss his wonderful gift which enabled him to talk and give advice to his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends as well as complete strangers.
Milton is survived by his son Dale (Janice) Waddle of Pratt, Manitoba and their sons Trevor (Leanne), Brent (Christina) & Ben (Judy Mauthe); his son Terry (Connie) Waddle of Calgary and their children Sarah (Ryan) Trew (their son Griffin), Elizabeth, Amanda (Bob Tootle) and Matthew; Milton's son Neil Waddle of Taber. He is also survived by his brother Harlan (Pat) Waddle; in-laws Myrna Waddle, Edward & Brenda Postoloski, Kathie & Ron Friesen, Kate Postoloski as well as numerous nephews and nieces.
He was predeceased by his wife Jean; brother Ken Waddle; in-laws Pete and Gladys Forchuk and Fred Postoloski.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, November 9, 2009 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Sandra Riddell officiating. A private family burial will follow at the Taber Memorial Garden.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Milton's name may be made directly to the charitable cause of one's personal choosing.