Francis John Trace

Francis is survived by his sisters Lucille Vold and Audrey Lucas; sisters-in-law Esther Trace, Elizabeth Russell and Lynn Trace; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Lorne & Flossie Trace; his wife Mary Trace (nee Kearns); both brothers Harvey Trace and Donald Trace; and both brothers-in-law Bill Vold and Jack Lucas.

Francis was born in Elnora, Alberta and will be interred there with Mary and his parents. He had an interest in hunting from a young age, bringing home meat regularly. He became interested in competitive shooting in the early 50’s and never looked back. He competed in everything from turkey shoots to the National Championships and the Western Canada Games, and was even a member of the Gold winning team at the First Canada Winter Games in Quebec as well as winning the Gold Individual award. His shooting accomplishments are too many to list but include many National Championships in Fullbore, Handgun, Sporting Rifle (prone & 3 position), International Match Rifle (prone & 3 position), Air Rifle and Metallic Silhouette.

Francis was a carpenter all of his life, working across western Canada. He built everything from private houses to bridges and water sewage treatment plants. When that was done, he got interested in photography. Again, he excelled and won many trophies for his wildlife photos taken on their annual trip to Hyder, Alaska.

Francis was the oldest male ever in the Trace lineage, as he was fond of telling us. He was extremely active, still walking 6 blocks a day in January 2025, and taking his scooter to the store for groceries weekly.

Although Francis had no children of his own, he loved spending time with his nieces and nephews and in later years, with their spouses too. They always brought him joy, especially when they would share his love of target shooting or photography. Francis loved to find a good deal in the grocery store, Costco or in London Drugs (possibly his favourite place to shop). He would share information about his find with anyone who would listen. He was a good cook and would always bring lunch to the ladies who came to the house to sew with Mary.

Francis was an excellent storyteller. No detail would be left out when he recounted an experience he wanted to share with you. His slow- cadenced style of speech set him apart from anyone else we ever knew. His 97 years provided a vast treasure trove of memories and experiences that ranged through construction, rodeo, shooting, hunting, photography and travel. He was a man of meticulous detail which served him well in his carpentry career, his competitive life and his hobbies. He was a doting husband and caring uncle. His mind remained sharp and clear to the very end.

A Memorial Service will be held during Spring 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity or organization that is your passion, whatever it may be, to pass along the enthusiasm that Francis felt for life, animals and the world around us.