Jan 5, 1940 - Feb 18, 2018
It is with great sadness, the family of Theodore "Ted" Gerald Winsor Swendson announces his passing on February 18, 2018 at the age of 78.
Ted will be lovingly remembered by Yvette, his beloved wife of 48 years; his brother Bernie and sister Susan; daughters Mary and Ruby; grandchildren David, Amanda, Ty, Nena, Michael and Shawn; great granddaughters Robyn and Madison; as well as many nieces and nephews plus his springer spaniels, Bess and Porgy. Ted was predeceased by his son Trygve.
Ted was born January 5th, 1940 in the city of Nelson, B.C. He grew up there and played his upright bass in school functions and dances in his father's orchestra. He later became an auctioneer and gained extensive knowledge of antiques. Upon moving to Calgary, he worked at Shaw GMC and then opened STAY sales Ltd. He worked up until his passing.
As a collector, who had a passion for carriages and driving, Ted became a Director of the Carriage Association of America, as well as one of the founding members of the Fjord Horse Association of Alberta and High Country Carriage Driving Club, where he was instrumental in designing and building its competition courses, promoting the sport and mentoring other drivers.
He and Yvette regularly drove their carriages at the Stampede and in the Stampede Parade and (where they) won many awards. He was also active in the Alberta Carriage Driving Association and the Canadian Fjord Horse Association.Travelling to Eastern Canada and the Eastern and Eastern and Midwestern United States with their English coach and with other antique carriages, was sheer delight for Ted.
He showed the outfits at invitationals and other shows. Music was another passion Ted will be remembered for, having played the base fiddle accompanied by Yvette on the piano at their annual Christmas celebration in their home; an event they held for 47 years. We will miss his kindness, humility, passion and love.
A Celebration of Life was held at Southview Alliance Church, 20200 Walden Blvd. SE, Calgary on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, a tribute in Ted's name may be donated to Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation (Oncology), 2888 Shaganappi Trail N.W. Calgary, AB T2B 6A8.