In Memory Of

Charles "Lawrence" Pengelly

Oct 19, 1931 - Aug 8, 2024

Service

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
2:00 pm
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
2:00pm at the Caroline Hub,
Caroline, Alberta

Notice

If you'd like to share a story or memorywith the family please send to:lawrencepengellymemories@gmail.com

Obituary

Charles “Lawrence” Pengelly was born on October 19th, 1931, in Rocky Mountain House. He passed away at 92 years of age on August 8, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was the second of 5 children born to Almer and Annie Pengelly, who were ranching West of Caroline at their Homestead.
In 1939, the family moved to the Springvale district East of Red Deer, where Almer took over his uncle's farm.
Lawrence grew up working with horses, a lifelong love he inherited from his father. The Pengelly family kept their Homestead for summer pasture at Caroline. Lawrence would tell stories of trailing about 50 head of cattle from Springvale out to Caroline in the Spring, and then back east with the cows and their calves in the fall. One spring, Almer gave the go ahead for Lawrence, at 13 years old and his brother Clarence, at 14 years old, to take on this responsibility. Those were the words that he had been longing to hear! And that was the start of his passion of being a cowboy. It took around 5 days on the trail to make the 72-mile trip out West. They would stay with family friends along the route, often sleeping in barns with their horses. This continued twice a year for 12 years or more, with his brother's Clarence, Donnie, and Bobby.
One story Lawrence recalled involved him and his brother Clarence being hired by the department of forestry. There had been a fire the previous spring in the Burnstick area. They were to ride the burned areas after dark from Burnstick Lake to the Raven River, in search of glowing embers easily visible in the dark. They would then extinguish and report them. This took about 3 weeks to accomplish, and it wasn’t long before they found neighbors along the trail who became friends. It also didn't take them long to figure out when to stop by certain homes… It would just so happen to be at mealtimes, and they’d be invited in to eat!
As he got older, he took every chance he could to saddle up and get adventurous, riding in different directions until he knew his way around the surrounding country. He spent as much time as possible out West riding and working the land with his father, brothers, and their bachelor neighbours.
In his early days, when Lawrence was a bachelor he worked as a Wrangler, traveling to Jasper, Hinton, and The Willmore Wilderness with surveying crews and hunting outfits. He was also working with his brother, Clarence, looking after their cattle and skidding logs.
In 1954, he was asked by Art Johnson to supply roping calves and cows to the Bighorn Stampede. In 1956 he picked-up alongside Dewey Browning and continued to do so with others for about 10 years.
In 1957, he married Joyce Bugbee from Ricinus, and they moved to a small cabin on his brother Clarence's place while their barn and house were being built.
In 1959, Lawrence and Joyce had their first son, Darryl, followed shortly by Dean, Brian, Keith and Kelly.
The early family years were spent building up a cow calf operation and clearing land for hay and pasture.
In 1967, Lawrence was hired by Joe Bardgett and started to pick up regularly with Slim, Mac Senior, and Mac Junior Leask, along with others for several years. He eventually became a stock contractor with the Foothills Cowboy Association. This took him and his family to rodeos all over Alberta and into British Columbia. Over time, Lawrence earned a reputation for raising high quality bucking stock. Some of his horses and bulls became quite famous. For example, two saddle bronc horses named Zipper and Hanger made it to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, after they were purchased from the C6 by Harry Vold.

Lawrence had many friends in the rodeo business, and with the help of sons Dean and Keith he continued to take stock to rodeos into his 80s.
In 1990 Lawrence was honored by the Foothills Cowboys Association as Cowboy of the Year. This was one of several different accolades he received over the decades. He also worked for and won many awards such as halters, buckles and saddles.
This recognition was very meaningful to him, but we are sure this paled in comparison to the many friendships fostered throughout the years of his rodeo career.
We know one of his favourite moments would be when the last few lines of the cowboy prayer were spoken, and the first bareback rider climbed over the chutes, settled down on his horse and got ready to nod his head.
It was an honour to Lawrence to have each and every cowboy get on one of his bulls or horses. It didn’t matter if the rider was getting on for the first time at their local rodeo, or if it was a competitor slowly working their way up through the ranks to eventually get to the NFR. He knew that both animals and riders needed a foundation to learn and grow, to learn how to buck, and how to ride.
Acquaintances that started as friends became like family, coming from all levels of rodeo; from other stock contractors to committee members, pick-up men to bullfighters, announcers, and judges. There were also countless riders who asked for advice after they made a good ride or had a hard buck off. They could always come back to him to talk about it…whether they had a smile on their face or not.
It all had such a huge impact on his life. We know this because as the passing of time stole his eyesight, all you had to do was ask him about a certain horse or bull or rider, and off he would go, telling the story of when and where the ride was, how the horse bucked and how the cowboy rode.
This was a blessing because for a few moments you knew that he was, indeed, seeing the ride down to the last detail.
That was the gift that rodeo, and all its people, gave Lawrence. We as a family are so grateful for that.
Lawrence was nothing if not a socialite. He never missed an opportunity to make an appearance. Whether it be a community event, family reunion, branding, or a horse and cattle sale at the auction mart, he'd be there. These were the times to tell old stories and make new ones with long time friends and family. And it wasn't hard, because he was always ready for a visit. All he had to do was sit down and people would come by to say hello. He liked nothing better than hearing a good story.
Lawrence is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Joyce. And sons:
Darryl & his wife Eleanor,
Dean & Wonda:
their daughter Chantelle & Rick, and their children, McKenna, Jaxin, Maddix and Kaiya.
Daughter: Denelle & Dave, and their children, Bowen, Griffin and Reya.
and son: Devin & Jessica, and their children: Maci, Maddison and Maverick.
Brian & Sue, and their son, Jacob.
Keith & Donna, and their daughters Rachel, Jenna & Ryan, and son Blain.
Kelly & Michele, and their daughter Lacey.
His sister, Margaret Harder, & in-law's: Edna Pengelly, Dorothy Pengelly, Karen and Bob Johnston, & John and Ilene Bugbee. He was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Lawrence was predeceased by his parent’s Almer and Annie Pengelly, and in-law's George and Sally Bugbee. Brothers: Clarence, Donny and Bob Pengelly. Brother-in-laws John Harder and Lee Pittendreigh. Sister-in-law Rose Pengelly, nephew Eddie Pengelly and 2 infant children.

As a Grandpa, Lawrence loved his family.
If you wanted to spend time with him, you were coming along for the ride! Moving cows, branding, rodeos, you name it, he always enjoyed having an extra hand or 2. We didn’t mind going because we got the opportunity to work alongside him, and experience first hand the kind of man he was. After our time working together, he was always quick to give a hug, especially to his grandkids.
We can’t remember a time leaving his house, without hearing his classic
“love you honey” send off.
We loved him too.
Lawrence will be fondly remembered as a gentleman, horseman, a true cowboy, and a good friend to everyone who knew him. He will be dearly missed, but I can only imagine all the things he’s finally getting to see again and the tales he’s telling after all these years. Rest easy. We love you.

If you’d like to share and story or memory with the family please email to: lawrencepengellymemories@gmail.com

Condolences

Charles and Mary Pearn:

We weren't able to be at Lawrence's Memorial but we want to send our thoughts and prayers to Joyce and the famiy. We never met Lawrence but, living here in Ricinus area, one can feel his spirit in the beautiful fields and woodlands where he lived. We thank him and Joyce and all their generation for all they have done to build our great Caroline community.

Ed Chapin & the Chapin family's:

It is with deep regret to hear of Lawrence’s passing, no truer friend of our family and my father Tom Chapin. Joyce my sincere condolences. I extend that to all your family. I apologize to all for not being there for his services and extending my condolences personally.

Janet (Brown) Penrose:

There was a twinkle in Lawrence's eye, that let you know just how much spark was in him. My childhood memories take me to the delight of watching Joyce and Lawrence strut their stuff on the dance floor. Our great uncle Bob Miller was a lifelong friend to this father and all the family, and when a bunch of us kids talked Bob into taking us up into the mountains on horseback for over a week, it was Lawrence who supplied us with horses, saddles, bridles and other gear... without hesitation. He always thought of others, and made the community a happier, better place. Condolences from Oz.

Geraldine Haney:

My deeest condolences to Joyce and all the families. Lawrence and had many visits over the years. We shared the same birthday but quite a few years apart. As.an impressionable girl of six or so I got to go to a dance with Mom and Dad. Joyce and Lawrence were dating then. Then the wedding where they looked so handsome and lovely in love. After all of these years I have always been happy to see them. This old school gentleman had all the right attributes. Gentleness Charm personality kindness along with a big heart and common sense. Don’t see that in a bundle often as Adults he always found time to stop and talk each time we met during my life. I really valued that in adults So family speak of him each day that helps ease the pain. Tell the good stories. Have a good laugh. God Bless You All

Diane Ross:

Although I knew Lawrence for a brief short time, I feel blessed for that time. I enjoyed listening to him tell stories and share a bit of history about his life with me. What a beautiful, kind man. He has left his family with an everlasting legacy of kindness and love. Rest in peace, Lawrence.

Velda and Jim McQuiston:

One of our favourite neighbours for sure. Our most deepest condolences for Joyce and the family.

Al and Jeanne Sprague:

Sending sincere condolences to all who loved him. A life well lived and a legacy that will last. What more could a person ask for.

Pete & Myrna McLellan:

Lawrence was such a great guy. He will be remembered by all of us lucky enough to have known him. Thinking of you all.

Sanford Barker:

My friend, my neighbor, a "Prince among men" who I grew up next to on a small ranch near Caroline Alberta. Lawrence and his family lived about five miles from us, but always had time to stop by for a cup of coffee, or just to see how we were doing as we lost our father when I was age fourteen and I had cattle to feed and fence to fix. After my pa passed away, Lawrence would stop by and pick me and my brother Joe up and give us a job picking roots, or rocks from his fields, stacking hay and sometimes helping at branding time. Sometimes it was hard work, but he paid us well for our efforts and come lunch time Joyce would always have a tasty hot meal of maybe roast beef, or a nice Moose meat roast and all the trimmin's. Lawrence epitomized the "Cowboy way", a humble soul with a heart of Gold, never faltering in the face of adversity, always up to the challenge, one who anyone could look up to as a shining example of a real man. That would have been nigh on 64 years ago as I remember it, bein' about age 15 at the time, but the legacy that Lawrence left will remain in my heart and soul 'til I pass. Though I moved many miles away to the US, and competed in rodeos there, whenever I returned to Canada for a visit I would stop by some of the local rodeos and sometimes climb over the stock pens and visit with my old friend, last time I remember was Bowden Rodeo in about 2015 when he looked up and said "Sanford, it's been a long time, how you doin'" and shook my hand with a grip of steel. Those kind of memories don't fade away, a friendship like that is better'n money in the bank and it don't get no better'n that. May you rest in peace ol' son!

Patrick and Patricia Alexander:

Our most sincere and heartfelt sympathy go to all the Pengelly families. He was a wonderful person who will be missed but forever remembered.

Jody Saarela:

Lawrence was such a kind and wonderful soul, our deepest sympathies to all of his family.

Jane Bruce:

…one of the greats and a true gentleman through and through…he will be sorely missed, my condolences to the entire family.

Jim Scott and family. :

Lawrence was a great man and a great leader in building cowboys in the stock he provided for the High School and all the others. He has always been an outstanding man in my heart and soul and helped out two generations of my family. Rest in peace my friend.

Shelli Orava :

My deepest condolences to you all. May your cherished memories give you peace and solace. Keeping you in my heart and thoughts.

Bill, Sheryl & Blayde Melaney:

Our sincere condolences go out to Joyce and all the Pengelly family. Lawrence was a true cowboy and a genuine friend to many people. He was a pioneer in the building of rodeos in central Alberta. His kindness and sweet smile will be missed. Hugs to all the family.

Joe.W.Betlamimi:

Lawrence was and always will be a pillar of the FCA rodeo community and the west,that a lot of us grew up in.forever grateful. Happy Trails

Dave Richards :

Sincere Condolences to the family, Lawrence was one of the Best always enjoyed our visits at horse sales and rodeos will be missed for sure.

Jeff and Sandy Resch:

Lawrence was such a respected and well liked man. Our sincere condolences to the Pengelly family.

Judy Jones:

My condolences to Joyce and family. May all your memories help carry you through your loss.

Jody Finnigan:

Such a amazing man, first bull I ever got on was his and he took the time to show me how to set my rope while setting the flank strap. He would always smile and say don't stress you'll ride him, I know this bull like he knew every animal in his string, and he memorized the riders techniques as well. Used to hunt out at his ranch, always friendly offer coffee, a tractor if you need it. Just a kind sole that will be missed.

Kynan Vine:

In 2006 Lawrence called me to see if I would come fight bulls for him at a CARA Rodeo in Bowden. I’d already been fight bulls at pro rodeos and PBRs for a couple of years but I didn’t hesitate to say yes. Several people wondered why I would go and do a CARA rodeo at that point in my career and right in the middle of summer. Well, because Lawrence was one of the first people to ever hire me as a young bull fighter. He and Doug Richards gave me opportunities when they had no reason to. I will be forever grateful to Lawrence for what he did for me and so many others. I would have done whatever he needed whenever or where ever it was. He was such an honourable, kind and humble man. He will be missed.

Bonnie Perreault:

My deepest condolences to the whole Pengelly family! Offering prayers to all.

Gordon Emms:

Been around Lawrence at rodeos many years back and and always enjoyed being around Lawrence. He a was always good guy to be around .

Mike and Tammy Chamberlain :

Sorry for your loss.

Joe and Dolly Stannard :

Lawrence was one of the good guys ... he will be missed by many . Condolences to Joyce and family .

Scott Bresee:

Lawrence was a great cowboy. Got to know him through high school rodeo, then FCA, then the great broncs he brought to the pro’s. Always a great person and willing to talk. Always a kind heart and willing to help anyone. Be at peace and know you will always be in my story’s.

Cam Thacker:

RIP Lawrence, you were a really fine man and great person. I remember you would always help us young kids out whenever you could and give us great advice when we asked. My condolences to all your family.

Rhonda Hodgson:

Sorry to read of Lawrence’s passing. Enjoyed visiting with him and Joyce when we lived near Caroline. Happy trails and memories

Guy Kelley:

Thoughts and prayers to the family. Lawrence was a great man always had time to talk to you.

Tom Towers:

It was always a pleasure visiting with a legend. He never forgot a name of a neighbour or friend.
He covered more miles horseback than any ten people today. I wish a book had been written.
He will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

George Hogeland :

Deepest condolences to all the family. Lawrence will be deeply missed. Such a class act really enjoyed working with him at Bowden and all our visits on the rodeo circuit

:

My Condolences to the family and the many friends that Lawrence had made over the years. He was always a pleasure to visit with and made everyone whose lives he touched always a bit brighter. A soft spoken, kind man with such soulful eyes and a wisdom of all things western. All that knew him loved him and had great respect for him, he will be dearly missed, the world needs more men like he was, RIP Cowboy

Lynnette Schellenberg:

Sending the entire family our deepest sympathies.
Rod & Lynnette Schellenberg

Larry Watmough:

Sorry for your loss. Lawrence was well respected and a class act. He will be truly missed by many.

Annette Gray:

Sending my condolences, Joyce, to you and your great family. God bless!

Joe Messina:

I came to Canada from Australia in 2004, and have had both the pleasure to ride a bunch of Lawrences bulls as well as contract his services for bull ridings I hosted. A true honorable gentleman, who always greeted me with a smile and a firm handshake. A man of great character, that i will always remember and be grateful, that we got to cross paths from a world away in this lifetime. My condolences to the Pengelly family and RIP "old mate" till we meet again.

Lorelei Berry:

All the lives he touched wow what an amazing gentleman! Heaven has gained a true Angel May he Rest In Peace. My condolences to the entire Pengelley Family.

Bonnie Pearce:

My first rodeo was in Millarville. I was lucky to sit beside him in the announcers booth. His knowledge of every piece of stock was incredible. He passed on his enthusiasm to me. Such a kind man, sharing and educating others.
He will be missed.

Leland and Bernadine Visotto:

He was a wonderful person for sure and will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

Wendy Christoffersen:

So sorry for your loss. So many memories. To many to count. Lost a great man.

Tammy and Brent Blake:

Sending our condolences to all the family, he was a great man and will be missed

Mark Meredith:

First rodeo i did in Canada was Caroline and first stock contractor i met was Lawrence , he was a true gentleman . Ever since that meeting he has always been a pleasure to visit with , i may have had to remind him who i was only because of his eyesight but enjoyed every chance i got to visit with him, he will be missed immensely. Im honored to have known him. Condolences to his family , all who carry his gentleman trait

Liz Adolf:

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Pengelly at the Millarville Rodeo some years ago when I was timing there. His knowledge of the stock and his enjoyment of being at the rodeo(s) was such a joy to witness. My sincere condolences to the family. He'll be smiling down, watching the rodeo from the best seat in the house.

Barb Branson:

So sorry for your loss Lawrence was a true gentleman - a very kind soul

Vern White:

My condolences may his legend live on in the heart's of the rodeo world and family .

Tim Smith :

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. He was one of the nicest men I ever met and was always there to give us young guys a hand or some good advice he will be greatly missed, and the rodeo world has lost a legend Godspeed.

Don and Pat Hager:

So very sorry for your loss, it was a privilege and an honor to know this great man! Condolences to your whole family.

Jory Vine:

I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know such a great man. It was always a pleasure to draw one of his bulls and to fight bulls for him. He was truly one of the good ones.

Lyle and Ruth Edge:

Our sincere condolences to Joyce and all the family. So many great memories of a great man. Lawrence will be missed.

Angela Henderson :

So sorry to hear of Lawrence’s passing. Sending my thoughts and prayers to you all. I truly felt blessed to have met Lawrence and Joyce and other members of the Pengelly family. Lawrence was such a kind man. I remember my son bull riding and Lawrence one timing say ‘I’m half blind and I can see that should’ve been a reride.’ lol. It still makes me chuckle.

Robert Ghostkeeper ( Stan ):

Condolences to Family, Great Fella, enjoyed his Company, Thanks

Ron and Deb Ward :

Sending our condolences to the entire Pengelly family on the loss of Lawrence. What a wonderful man who brought joy and smiles to so many of us in rural Alberta. A legacy who will be dearly missed! Ron n Deb and families.

Kathy Corr:

Lawrence was a great man and condolences and prayers to the family .

Teresa and Bryan Schmidt:

Our sincere condolences to Joyce and the family. Lawrence was such a kind man and will be missed by all. He was a legend RIP sweet man

Glenn and Valerie McNair and Barb McNair:

We feel honoured to have known Lawrence for the short time that we did. Dad enjoyed sharing a table with him and it was such a pleasure to hear some of the stories of his long and full life. Blessings to all of you at this time. We will miss him too.

Darrell and Judy Sailer:

Our thoughts and prayers are with Joyce and the family. His memory will be cherished by many.

Doug & Linda Bancroft:

Our most sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Joyce and all the family . May all your good memories help you all through this sad time.

Lesley Roberton and John Sharpe:

We are very sorry so see that Lawrence has passed. It truly is the end of an era! Our condolences to all his family and friends.

Ken & Ellen MacKenzie:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of loss

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