Theodore Stanley, known as Ted, was born in Clairmont, Alberta on May 17, 1929 and passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026 in Thunder Bay.
In 1953, Ted married his soulmate, Virginia (nee Mazurkewich), and together they would have celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary this August.
Ted was a proud father to Caroline (Kim Hutch), Greg (Dawn Leavitt), Catherine (Michael Drew), and Mark. He adored his six grandchildren: Grahame and Michael Wolnairski, Jarred Hutch, Stephen Wolnairski, Nicole Mueller (nee Wolnairski) Grayden Drew. Recently he celebrated becoming a great-grandfather to Finnegan Hutch.
Ted had many skills and as a craftsman made beautiful furniture along with his home at Surprise Lake where family and friends often gathered. He could fix everything from small appliances to vehicles and enjoyed working with his hands. He loved the years spent at the lake while savoring good scotch and fine red wine. His interests included cheering for the Blue Jays, Edmonton Eskimos, the Packers, hunting, and fishing.
Dad took joy in watching his sons play sports and even completed a ten-mile road race. He was an enthusiastic reader who loved history and often watched the History Channel. Animals had a special place in his heart-except when they took over his neatly kept lawn.
Ted and Virginia traveled extensively around the world embracing new cultures and cuisines along the way.
In 1957, Ted proudly joined the Fort William Fire department. After serving for 38 years, he retired in 1989. Before that role, he worked as a wheelman on a “laker” navigating through the stunning Great Lakes.
He is predeceased by his parents, sisters, and brother.
A celebration of life will take place later this spring. The family kindly asks that expressions of condolence be directed to Thunder Bay Professional Firefighters Toys for Tots. Online condolences can be left at www. sargentandson. com.
