Ronald Edwin Espey

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald “Ron” Edwin Espey on May 11th, 2026. He passed away peacefully in his home in St. Albert, Alberta, at the age of 85, lying beside the love of his life and wife of 64 years.

Ron was born on August 23rd, 1940, in Hamiota, Manitoba to Roy and Lil, where he began a life defined by hard work, kindness, and an ability to make everyone feel welcome. He moved to Winnipeg and started his career in the trucking industry where he met, and married, his loving wife, Emily. They welcomed daughters, Kim (1963) and Deb (1968) before moving to Edmonton, Alberta. Ron and Emily became snowbirds in 2006, spending many warm winters, and meeting lifelong friends, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Above all else, he was proud of his family and treasured his role as a father and grandfather. He never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren in their school and athletic events, traveling throughout North America to do so.

Ron leaves behind his wife; Emily, two daughters; Deb and Kim, 6 grandchildren; Ryan, Cory, Danielle, Alyssa, Liam, and Emmy as well as 7 great grandchildren. He will be greeted, in Heaven, into the loving arms of his parents, family and friends.

He will be remembered for his stories and his sense of humor. Ron’s family takes comfort in knowing that his life was full of love, friendship, and the family he cherished so deeply. They know that Heaven will have an endless supply of revel ice cream bars, waiting to be shared with Harley.

Ron’s family would like to extend a special thank you to his caregivers, Diana and Arshpreet, who loved and cared for him with unwarily devotion.