In Loving Memory of

Alex Kozeluk

Nov 9, 1935 - Sep 30, 2024

With warm memories, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather. After a recent health complication, Alex died peacefully at dawn as the sun began to rise on a blue-sky autumn day.

Born in a small cabin on a hill on the family homestead, Alex was the youngest of four children, one of whom predeceased his birth (William). Alex was the son of Ukrainian parents who came to Canada as resourceful farmers and settlers, breaking the land of the dense bush in remote northern Alberta's Peace River Country (Belloy/Wanham). Alex remembered being kept safe, warm, and well-fed by his hardworking parents, who grew all the food and made their clothing by hand.

As the children grew, Alex’s dad encouraged them to explore options for making their own living. Alex was determined to get a good education. His parents supported his wish and encouraged him to find work to afford his post-secondary studies. Alex left home to find various jobs near Grande Prairie and was then able to support himself while attending the University of Alberta. Over time, he succeeded in earning three degrees.

At 17, Alex met and began courting a shy, pretty red-haired girl of 14 while living at the remote school dormitory for grades 9-12 students. The two wrote countless love letters while Elaine finished high school, and both of them served in the “Junior Emergency Teaching Program” to resource remote areas for students in northern Alberta. At age 19, Alex lived in a “teacherage” adjoined to a one-room schoolhouse, where he stoked the stove to melt ice off the water barrel before the children of all ages arrived in the morning on foot or by horse. As a result of their service to the Junior E. Program, much of their teaching degrees were accomplished through summer school study.

At 23, Alex married the love of his life, and he and Elaine then taught in Lacombe. Three years later, their only daughter, Lorene, was born. Alex was unexpectedly called upon to fill a position as principal, and his administrative career began. A short while later, Alex and Elaine found jobs in Devon. Soon after, Alex received a Master of Education degree. He then accepted a position as Superintendent of Schools of East Smoky School Division, which provided much fulfilling career growth as well as the opportunity to be closer to the couple’s parents in northern Alberta. The family enjoyed trips to both Ukraine and Scandinavia with their parents, where they visited relatives. Most summers were spent farming and gardening in northern Alberta with family, and visiting Alex’s retired parents, Fred and Anny, and sister Aggie and her family in Vernon.

After many years of Alex and Elaine farming and gardening with their parents, Alex and his brother decided to farm the homestead together when his parents retired. Sadly, Henry became ill soon after. To be closer to his brother, who was to receive medical treatments in Edmonton, Alex accepted the role of school principal, and the family moved back to Devon. Although his beloved brother passed soon after, Alex committed to what became his long-time, well-loved role as principal of Robina Baker Elementary School. For many years, Alex collaborated with a talented team of teachers who created a positive educational environment of academics, sports, and music education. In addition to his work in education, Alex was also a long-time member of the Devon Lions Club.

Alex and Elaine enjoyed a long and happy retirement, traveling extensively to four continents, as well as “kidsitting” their two grandchildren in their early years, and continuing large-scale gardening until recently. Alex was grateful for Elaine’s blessing to go on an African safari with his nephew, Don. He was determined to visit his Australian friend but didn’t quite make it to “the land down under.” He cherished whale-watching with his lifetime sweetheart on several kayaking trips on the BC coast.

Family and friends will forever remember and chuckle about Alex’s offbeat sense of humor, his initiative and determination in his endeavors, and his generosity, caring, and compassion for his family members and community. Alex respected and honored his family roots, and had an undying passion for nature, classical music, fine cuisine, and the joy of flying. He empowered and supported equal opportunities for women and brought a creative, unique approach to almost everything he did. He will be deeply missed and always remembered with a fondness beyond measure.

Alex is survived by his loving wife, Elaine; daughter, Lorene Ryhard (Mladen); grandson, Nathan Ryhard; granddaughter, Taea Ryhard; and five nieces and nephews.

Alex was predeceased by his parents Anny and Fred Kozeluk; sister Agatha deTourdonnet (nee Kozeluk); and brothers, Henry Kozeluk and William Kozeluk.

While there will not be a formal service held at this time, the family welcomes stories and remembrances of Alex from friends, colleagues, and family members through the online website.

Donations in remembrance of Alex can be made to a worthy cause of one’s choice or to HolSome Place Long Term Care in Edmonton.

Arrangements entrusted to Foster & McGarvey St. Albert Funeral Home.