ADRIEN STENSRUD

1928 - 2010

Adrien Everett Stensrud, much loved husband of Shirley Stensrud and adored father of Brian, Wayne & Sharla, passed away peacefully at the Bow Island Health Centre on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at the age of 82 years.
Adrien is survived by his wife of 53 years, Shirley and their children, Brian (Darla) Stensrud of Burdett, Wayne Stensrud of Lethbridge and Sharla (Mike) Herauf of Lethbridge; grandchildren, Courtney, Tanner, Tristan, Drew, Alli, Dawson and Ty. He is also survived by his sister, Naomi (Albert) Spaulding; brothers-in-law Larry (Mavis) Weatherhead and Earl (Marilyn) Weatherhead; sisters-in-law Jean (Ivan) Eriksen, Arlene Poole, Carol Weatherhead, Sherry (Don) Drake, Gertie (Bob) Pierson, Zelda Stensrud as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Henry and Helga Stensrud; brothers Elmer and Marvin; sister Doris Lockhart; brothers-in-law Sam Lockhart, Dale Weatherhead and Ross Poole as well as father and mother-in-law, Clarence & May Weatherhead.
Adrien was born February 21, 1928 in Ryley, Alberta to Henry & Helga Stensrud. In 1950, he moved south to the Bow Island/Burdett area to work for Paul Joss and then Harry and Walter Strom. In 1955, he began farming rented land with Joe Bjerkseth which lasted until 1961 when he and Shirley began their own grain and cattle farming operation. Adrien and Shirley were married in 1956 and were blessed with three children and seven grandchildren. The early farming years were a challenge with raising a family, low income and many hailed-out years. It was Adrien’s immense desire to be a farmer and hard work ethic that helped them succeed.
He loved life and enjoyed many activities including curling, hunting, golfing, skiing and helping with the kids’ sports teams. Many cherished friendships were made through these activities as well as at “coffee row”. Adrien and Shirley travelled to many places but their favorite place in recent years was spending winter months in Arizona with good friends. Adrien had a passion and talent for music and spent many hours playing the guitar and singing. Many fun times were had at the “Palm Breeze Hotel” making music with Jim Wutzke and Walter Cleland. He enjoyed singing in the church choir for several years and sang at numerous weddings, funerals and events over the years. The grandchildren will always remember singing “You are my Sunshine” with Grandpa. Adrien will be truly missed by his family and friends but we are comforted by many cherished memories.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at St. Andrew’s United Church, 139 - 2 Avenue West, Bow Island on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 139 - 2 Avenue West, Bow Island on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Sheila McLeod officiating.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Adrien’s name may be made directly to the St. Andrew's United Church Memorial Fund, Box 36, Bow Island, Alberta T0K 0G0 or to the charity of your personal choosing.