In Memory Of

Francis John Little

May 18, 1932 - Nov 7, 2024

Service

Monday, November 18, 2024
2:00 pm
Leslieville Community Center
210 2 Ave
Leslieville, Alberta

Obituary

John Little, born on May 18, 1932, in Winchester, Hampshire, England, passed away peacefully in Rocky Mountain House, surrounded by family. John’s early years were marked by a sense of adventure, growing up on a farm during WWII. With characteristic curiosity, he once explored discarded ammunition, an escapade that cost him the tip of his finger and left a lasting mark on the family kitchen table.
In his youth, John took a bold step, in March 1955 immigrated to Canada with $30 and a ticket to Saskatoon.
He disembarked, then immediately boarded a train bound for a ranch in Saskatchewan, drawn by the promise of wide-open spaces. However, upon arrival, he realized that his C.N. guaranteed job was less than and he soon sought new opportunities at Chris Sutter Polled Hereford Ranch in Redvers, Sask.
John eventually found himself in Alberta, where he worked as a Manager at the legendary EP Ranch in the southern part of the province until its sale in 1962. In 1962-1963, worked for Poole Construction building Brazeau Dam. Finally in 1964 he settled his own homestead, a rugged, undeveloped piece of land that he transformed into a working farm over decades of dedicated effort. His life’s work was often divided between farming and shifts on oil rigs, and he would go to great lengths to support his new venture. One Christmas, he volunteered for a grueling 24-hour shift, thinking he’d be rewarded with double overtime – only to find out the clock reset at midnight. It remained a sore point yet became one of his signature stories.
John was instrumental in helping newcomers adjust to life in the area and had a hand in documenting the region’s history through the "Hoofprints to Highways" history books. His appreciation for history and antiques became a beloved family pastime, especially with his sons. Whether visiting auction sales, attending community events, or spending time with his nephews and their friends from the British Army, John forged lasting connections wherever he went.
John’s life was one of resilience, humor, and generosity. He is deeply missed by his wife, Nancy; daughters, Maureen (Thomas) Lagrelle and Valerie (Mike) Zsinka; sons, Thomas (Jackie) Little and Russell (Natalie) Little; as well as his grandchildren Ashley, Cecily, Ashton, Chelsey, Aleigha, Cayden, Adyah, Cy, Linden, Peyton, Anthony, Quentin, Dakota, and Maverick; great-grandchildren Adalynn, Ajay, David, Carston, Coden, Hendrix, Bennett, Braysin, and Everlie; and all those fortunate to have known him.

A memorial will be held at Leslieville Community Center November 18th 2024, starting at 2 p.m.
Condolences may be forwarded to www.rockyfuneralhome.ca.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.

Condolences

Jocelyne Pakosz-Buchwald:

I have many fond childhood memories of visits to the farm, but one that will forever stand out is being pulled on sleds in the winter by Uncle John on the tractor. He had a terrific laugh and always showed me kindness. Rest easy Uncle John.

Doug BECK:

I spent many days visiting John at his farm as he had several oil wells on his property when I worked for Texaco Explorations. He bought his first new truck from my dad and he helped me put a roof on my house in Rocky. He was a great friend and he will be missed, condolences to his family.

Carl and Sheri-Lynn Black:

Sending our deepest condolences. I'm sure he and Grandpa George have reunited and are having a great visit and will be checking for rain this spring.

Dawn & Donn Mason / Meryl & Ernest Campbell:

Heartfelt condolences to all of John's family. We always enjoyed our visits and admired his vast knowledge of the community which he so proudly represented through his dedication to its history. He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him...

Don and Darlene Jackson :

John was such a nice gentleman. A man who no doubt whatsoever made this world a better place. He will be missed greatly. Our sincere condolences to all his family members, colleagues and friends.

Todd Knull:

RIP John it was an honor to have known you.

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