Obituary of Wesley Sipma

Wesley Edward Sipma was born on Tuesday, May 17, 1921 in Woodberry Slope County, North Dakota, USA to Charles and Magdalene Sipma. The fourth of seven children. He graduated High School in 1939 and worked many odd jobs; mostly farming and ranching related, shoveling sand and coal. Anything for a dollar, he always told us that he probably worked harder than we do today, for much less money. Wes was even a School teacher at one time, he bragged that he taught 3 grades at once, but then there was only 3 children in his class. He left North Dakota around 1960 with his boyhood friends, Arne and Harry Nordby. They travelled around the US for a short time then ventured to Alaska. In 1962 Dad purchased a farm in Gundy from Charles Taylor, the uncle of his future wife. Wes married Leona Lefferson on April 27, 1963, they have 4 children, Brad, Jim, Wade and Bev. The kids were all raised on the farm in Gundy, where Leona resides today. Dad worked at Patterson's Auction Mart for 20 years or so, over the years he made many acquaintances and lifelong friends. Sometimes the sales were long but Dad and the others always seemed to find time for socializing and a game of crib after the sale. Wes eventually got out of cattle, he left that to Brad and Jim, but he would be always more than happy to help out around the farm, but he was kind of known for running into things, so his driving tasks were kept to a minimum. We shared many family gatherings over the years, playing cards, horseshoe and baseball, there was always lots of laughter and joking. We're very blessed that his personality and sense of humor has been passed down to us and his grandchildren. Wes spent his last few years in the Hythe Care Home. The staff were all super with Dad and we appreciate the care and understanding that they showed him. Dad loved to laugh, and to make other people laugh. So please remember the stories and jokes. We will always Love and Miss Him. Memories presented by Wes' Children; Bev and Brad. Wesley Sipma, a long time resident of Gundy, Alberta passed away on Monday, October 10, 2011 in Hythe, Alberta at the age of 90 years. A celebration of Wes' life was held on Tuesday, October 18, at 1:00 pm at the Gundy Community Hall, Pauline Haycock officiated. Interment followed in the Gundy Cemetery. Wes was predeceased by his Parents; Charles and Magdalene, Brothers; Bud, Donald, John, Sisters; Peg and Marjorie, Sister In Law; Bernadine, Brother In Laws; Marvin, Willis and Richard. Wes is survived by his loving Wife; Leona of 48 years, Sons; Brad, Jim (Karen), Wade (Jennifer),Daughter; Bev (Danny),Grandchildren; Alyson, Carmen, Meagan, Adam, Dylan, Colby, Amy, Autumn, Morgan, Braden, Emily, Sister; Ruby Sands, and many friends. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Wes to the Gundy Community Hall Box 12 Gundy, Alberta T0H 4C0 Very Respectfully Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium