In Memory Of

Marvin James Wiedrick

Mar 27, 1943 - Jan 1, 2026

Service

Saturday, January 10, 2026
1:00 pm
A Service of Remembrance and Celebration will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church Rocky Mountain House on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

Obituary

Marvin James Wiedrick
1943 - 2026

Marvin was born March 27, 1943, the second of three children to Hilda and Arnold Wiedrick of Pickardville, Alberta. He grew up on the family farm, a tall red headed boy with his brother Keith and sister Myrna. In part fuelled by his own academic challenges, he pursued his education degree at the University of Alberta and then taught initially at the Pickardville school where he would connect again with the love of his life Diane Parsons. After marrying, they ventured north to Fort Vermillion and La Crete before settling in Grimshaw where he would be the principal of Kennedy Elementary for over thirty years while they raised their three children. Marvin’s heart and passion was always for children, and he had a special affection for special education and those with learning disabilities. He paired this with his love of music, teaching in both areas while also being an active administrator. He enjoyed gardening immensely and his farming love never left him either and when he and Diane eventually moved to Rocky Mountain House, he enjoyed dabbling in both again. His love for education and children would have him sub for ten more years after retirement. He loved travel, especially to northern geography and his final bucket list trip was to Antarctica. Marvin was a loving caregiver to Diane for many years with her health trials and cherished his vows of “in sickness and health” visiting her daily for five years while she was in long term care. Marvin endured his own health trials for his last two years but his heart and spirit and his love for the Lord were unwavering.
Marvin was predeceased by his parents and sister Myrna and leaves a legacy of love through his children Jim (Teresa), John (Tanys) and Janelle (Edward); grandchildren: Kierstin, Arieanna, Hannah, Madelyn, Rachel and Zachary as well as many cherished friends and former students.
A Service of Remembrance and Celebration will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church Rocky Mountain House on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1:00 PM.
Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.

Condolences

Kathy Murch:

Janelle, Ed and family, your father will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I got to know Marvin well when he would sub for us at Lochearn. His infectious smile and fun loving energy made him a favorite. The kids always had a good day whenever he came in. I hope that the lovely memories that you all have of him bring you peace. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Colleen Benedictson :

My Sincere Condolences Janelle and all of your family. I had the pleasure of meeting your dad at Clearwater - I had so much admiration for him for walking down to the Centre every day to spend time with your mom - such a dedicated caring husband. May precious memories of a wide array help to comfort you now and in the days and years ahead.

Sincerely,
Colleen

Elaine Schachtschneider (nee Semler):

I have fond memories of being in Mr. Wiedrick’s class, as he was known to us students. He was my Grade 4 teacher at Westlock Elementary School many years ago. He knew how to make his students feel special and made learning fun! He was still a single man at the time, but was going to be married in the summer at the end of our school year. That summer, much to my surprise and delight, I received a small box in the mail addressed to me in his impeccable handwriting. Inside was a piece of wedding cake! He had not forgotten his students! I treasured that little gift and now, 56 years later, I still have that box, addressed to me in his handwriting, along with the 5-cent stamp on it! A treasured keepsake from my favourite teacher ever! He left a positive impression on me as a young girl. Mr. Wiedrick was truly a gifted teacher!

Nadja Neukom :

Rest in Peace Marvin.
Condolences to family and friends.

Brenda Stuckey:

Sincere condolences Janelle and family. He was a great neighbour and a lovely man.

Jodi Schroeder :

So many wonderful memories are scrolling in my mind...such a unique, joyful man. His laugh was easily recognized - his whole body bent in half with hands in the air, eyes twinkling! And his colorful bowties,plaid pants, clogs...and huge grin...he lit up every room he entered.He often told me we were 'kindred spirits' and constantly encouraged and supported The Challenge Program that I taught at Kennedy School for several years in the mid 80's. Such a kind, caring, gentleman who truly loved children and was a role model for every person under his watch. Condolences to Jim, John, Janelle and your families.
He was so proud of all of you.

Morley and Linda Messner:

Jim, John, Janelle and families,
Our sincere condolences to you on the loss of your dad. We first got to know your family when we kept Mikka one summer. That was the beginning of a wonderful friendship. We have such good memories of wiener roasts on the hills, suppers at your house and the many kindnesses both your parents showed us over the years. We really missed them when they moved to Rocky but always enjoyed your dad's "Rumblings from Rocky" and the visits we had. Hugs to you all.

Michael and Mary Mofford :

Janelle and family , our sincere condolences with the loss of your Dad. We were so blessed to have met him and your mom through the friendship they had with LeeRoy Leppke .

Greg Debogorski :

Mr.Wiedrick was a very kind person that made my early days school experience alot better. He was always smiling with words of encouragement. One of those individuals you always appreciate and remember fondly.

Rest in peace good Sir. May the good Lord bless his family and friends during this time off loss. Love, blessings and hugs to all.

Joyce Donald:

So grateful to have known Marvin even though it was in the latter years. “Kind” is the first word that comes to mind when thinking of him. He was a substitute teacher for many of our children and he had the capability to see good in everyone and shared that with them, building confidence and character. He was a dedicated husband and loved his family completely. He did cause some grief however as he was always a tough contender when it came to curling, even then his kindness and joy would shine through. He will be lovingly remembered for a life time. Peace strength and comfort wished for the whole family♥️

Jeannette & Ken Bowman:

So sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was a kind and good person to know. I enjoyed many sweets and tea in your parents kitchen. Your parents were very good to our family as they were to everyone they met. Condolences to Jim, John and Janelle and your families.

Wendy von Hollen:

I had the pleasure of working with Marvin when he subbed at Rocky Elementary School. When I needed a sub, my students always asked if I could get him. He was a wonderful educator and friend. Rest in peace Marvin.

Kyle, Jill, Wyatt & Landen Wright:

Sorry to hear the passing of Mr. W. The boys loved having him as a substitute teacher and especially enjoyed his peppermints. He also asked how Wyatt's curling adventures were going. He was a great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Jodi Raworth:

I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Marvin when I was young teacher at Holy Family School on Grimshaw. Marvin's knowledge, wisdom, and experience were shared both professionally and personally. He was always a mentor to us young teachers and always lots of fun. He and Diane were so good to me and my young family, especially since I was so far away from my own family. It was an honor to know him. Rest in peace, Marvin. You have left an amazing legacy, both professionally and personally. My condolences to his family at this time.

Gail McNabb:

My condolences to Marvin’s family. As a new teacher, I was lucky to have Marvin as a principal when I taught at Kennedy in the mid 80s. His strong work ethic and genuine concern for student academic and personal growth made a strong impression and were an example to follow. He certainly left his mark on the students he led over the years.

Amanda Pollard (Mundt):

Mr Wiedrick was one of those rare educators that stays with you through your life. I hadn’t seen him in over 20 years but each year I speak of him at Christmas. It is heart-warming to read that so many others share the same fond memories of singing Christmas carols accompanied by his piano playing at Kennedy Elementary. He was truly a kind, decent and caring person. My condolences to his loved ones.

Jenn Labrecque (Doyle):

Sending heartfelt condolences to all who were blessed to have Mr. Wiedrick in their lives. His passion for his students is a great legacy.
I hold many fond memories as far back as grade one when we learned not to be ‘glue bombers’. Christmas was always special with carols at the end of every school day accompanied by his piano playing. I can still hear him in the bus lines getting everyone organized and home safely. Kennedy Elementary was lucky to have him as the administrator for so many wonderful years.
He will be missed and remembered.

Trevor Kinakin:

Sorry to hear of Marvin's passing. He was definitely a staple of Grimshaw and im sure as well as Rocky Mt House. My condolences to all of the family, sorry for your loss.

Janice Hery Rondeau:

My condolences to the family, Mr Wiedrick was my principal in Kennedy elementary, and he went on to teach my son in Holy Family. His dedication to teaching was clearly his passion. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family

Dianna Aspeslet :

My deepest sympathies to John, Jim, Janelle and families. Your dad was a very special person. He made a very big impact on a lot of young people as Principal of Kennedy Elementary. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Michael Reyda:

Mr. Wiedrick was a great man and amazing principle. He treated every student like we were his kids. And I will always remember playing the piano for our assemblies especially at Christmas singing all the carols with us. My greatest sympathies go out to the Wiedrick family, thank you for sharing Mr. Wiedrick with all of us for so many years.

Lori Coleman:

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. Wiedrick. He was such a huge part of my childhood. Every Christmas I am reminded of one of my favourite memories: singing carols in the gymnasium. He will be remembered fondly. Rest in peace, Mr. Wiedrick.

Loren Frederickson:

Blessed are our teachers. RIP Mr. Weidrick.
He made a difference in so so many lives! Condolences to the family

Gord&Heather Konowalyk :

we are extending Our Heartfelt Sympathy to the Wierdrick Family .Marvin was a true educator and Kind human being. Hold his memories close to your heart.

Scott Randall:

Deepest condolences. Marvin was a well-respected educator in Grimshaw (my first interview was with him, and I remember he made me sit in a very small chair, teaching me to always see things from the child’s point of view). His years of dedicated service made a huge difference to the communities he lived in.

Charlene Brightwell:

His humour and voice will echo through the halls of our memories. His love of music was evident as he sat on a small desk with a ukulele propped on his knees while he share wit( us how to play. He was a big (tall) man who made the world fit with his care and humour.
Our hearts with the family, he was a wonderful person the world will miss.

Tony and Janine Laliberte :

Sending our sincere condolences to Janelle, Jim and John and their families. We were very saddened to hear of Marvin‘s passing. He was a great friend, neighbour and teacher. You will be sadly missed by all. I knew him. We all have very fond memories of Marvin And Diane. We have many fond memories of Diane and Marvin and their family. They were great neighbours always joking playing tricks on us putting fish in our fish pond hoping that we never find out it was Marvin but we knew it was Marvin always playing joke on us. He had a good laugh about those fish. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this very sad time. Love and prayers to all.

Lorraine and Jim Lewis :

Our sincerest condolences to the Wiedrick family.

Helen Sorensen:

My deepest sympathies to Jim, John and Janelle and families. Marvin has some very special memories with me. I said to him I really wanted to try to have kids read to my dog. He thought that would work so that started my weekly trips to Grimshaw with my dog, Crystal. He would stand back and smile and watch as his students would read to Crystal. They didn't worry anyone was judging them.

Lynne Gair:

Condolences to the family, I was saddened to hear of Marvin’s passing. I have many fond memories of your dad and mom. My prayers are with you all.

Dominique Espetveidt:

My favorite memory of Mr. Wiedrick was always when we would gather in the gymnasium to sing christmas carols. There is nothing quite like 300 children belting out songs while Mr. Wiedrick absolutely rocked out on upright piano. It was magically and has stuck with me. I was just telling a story about that during Christmas Dinner this year.

Janet Driedger:

I’m so sorry to hear of Marvin’s passing. He was such a great teacher and a very good principal. I’m thankful that he took the time to ensure my son could read.
Condolences and prayers to his family.

Sandi Mann:

Condolences to all of the families. Marvin was such a wonderful and caring man. It was a pleasure knowing him and Dianne.

Olivia Duncan:

Condolences to the family. My heart goes out to you. He was one of the best people I have met. He was my principal in elementary school and truly went above and beyond for all his students. He will be missed and remembered dearly.

Amy Bailey:

I attended all of my elementary grades at Kennedy Elementary School where Mr. Wiedrick was the principal the whole time I was there I do believe. I have many fond memories of him and still to this day embrace the Christmas Caroling we all did in the gym with him playing on the piano. Probably my favorite memory of being in school. He was a great man and so good with kids and was an amazing principal!

Stewart Stephanson:

I first became acquainted with Marvin and Diane some years ago. ( recall working at elections with both, old hardware store east side of Main Street ( north of CIBC )
Also at the Legion in town, first time down stairs and later in hall on south side up stairs.
Most often , Marvin and I would visit while waiting at Doctors Office.
We both enjoyed those opportunities.
I wish ( after reading the obituary ) that the subject of Fort Vermilion and La Crete had come up, ( from August of 1966 to April of
1967 ) I was a assistant Forest Ranger at Fort Vermilion. The community of La Crete was a place I often passed through ( and stopped )
Four corners , school, housing for teachers, a bulk fuel business ( operated by a Jack Brock )
and a grocery store .
Would been very possible he was involved with the school during the time .
Mostly, Marvin and I would just enjoy visiting for a while.
( I was aware of Diane’s Heath, and tried to support Marvin during the time )
A fine couple, I was happy and proud to call friends .
Sincerely
Stewart

Barb Allen:

My sincerest condolences to your families. To this day I still hold memories of “Mr.Wiedrick” in the highest regard from my years in elementary school and beyond. May he rest in peace.

Betty Paul:

My deepest sympathies to Jim, John and Janelle on the loss of Mr. Wiedrick. He was the principal at Kennedy all through both my girls elementary schooling and they adored him. He was a busy man in our Grimshaw Community and he was sorely missed when he and Diane moved to Rocky. Go rest old friend. You certainly did more than your share on earth.

Kimberly Testawich:

I’m so sorry to hear, He was truly the best and my heart and prayers are with his family. He was always there for me in school in holy family. Thank you for everything you will always be missed.

Geraldine Deibert :

So so sorry to hear about your Dad. He and your Mom (&family) spent so many years here in the north. People in Grimshaw appreciated his many years of teaching. Prayers and hugs to all the family
Geraldine.

Brenda (Speechley) Ostaszewski :

My sincere condolences to the family.

De’Anna Chmielewski :

With sympathy and condolences to my elementary school PrinciPal’s family.

Corry Woods:

I had the privilege of working with Marvin in many of the classrooms he subbed in here in Rocky. He was an educator and teacher in every sense. His humour and compassion made for some wonderful work days!
My condolences to his family and friends , another star in the sky.

Arden Orosz:

Jim, John, Janelle & Families;

My heart goes out to you on the passing of your dad... He was truly the best mentor & principal in Grimshaw... He will be sorry missed by all of us... My thoughts & prayers go out to you at this difficult time...

Barb McNair and Valerie McNair:

We did not know Marvin for very long, but we were privileged and honoured to have met him and that we had a chance to get to know him for the past few months. Such a kind and sweet man. Conversations were always varied and interesting. Marvin’s sense of humour and beautiful smile always left us feeling blessed. Please accept our very deep condolences to the family.
We will sure miss Marvin a lot.

Jackie Janes:

Janelle and family, my deepest condolences to you and your family. Mom and I always enjoyed visiting with your mom and dad. May your memories of them bring you peace and light.

JOEY AND BRIAN WILLIAMSON :

Janelle , Edward and family,, we are so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. he will be missed seen walking around town always doing his errands and I’ll never forget Janelle you and your dad walking down rainbow Ford Road.. hold tight to your memories sending hugs.

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