William James Tanner

WILLIAM  TANNER  Sr.

(1949-2020)

   It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William James Tanner Sr, beloved husband of Gloria Tanner, recently of Coleman, Alberta.  Bill succumbed to cancer on April 13, 2020 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre at the age of 70 years.  He fought a valiant fight and his determination will forever be admired.

   Bill was born on May 15, 1949 in Cranbrook, BC to proud parents, Lewis and Mary Anne Tanner.  He was raised with an appreciation for family, faith, hard work and a calm demeanour.  His aptitude for mechanics and operating equipment allowed him to gain an apprenticeship in mechanics in Nelson, BC but that was not meant to be as his first day at work never occurred due to the shop burning down.  He found employment in the logging industry felling trees and driving truck.  Bill worked in the bush in the East Kootenays and Crowsnest Pass and drove truck throughout North America.  He operated many types of heavy equipment and portable sawmills; he was a hard-working man everyone could depend on.  He was burdened with health issues from an early age but it never hampered his positive attitude or determination.

   Bill captured the heart of a lovely and graceful young lady, Gloria Needham, who was his high school sweetheart and they were married on November 4, 1967.  They were further blessed with three children whom they raised with unconditional love and affection.

   When Bill wasn’t working, he enjoyed the outdoors collecting firewood, hunting, fishing, breaking and riding horses in the backwoods and into the occasional pub for a laugh.  His greatest joy was found with this family – precious moments with his beloved wife, cherished sons and grandchildren.  He will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.

   Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life include his devoted wife, Gloria Tanner of the Crowsnest Pass; his sons, Willy (Jessica Goodwin) Tanner Jr, Dennis Tanner and Keith (Crystal Chapman) Tanner; his grandkids, Kyle, Kody, Casey, Mary, Blake and Nicole; his brothers, Ron, Larry (Gayle) and Tim; his sisters, Lois, Carol and Debbie; as well as his extended family and many friends.  He was predeceased by his parents, Lewis and Mary; his brother, Patrick; his step-mom, Lorretta; his sisters-in-law, Patty and Cathy and brother-in-law, Tim Willey.

   Due to the pandemic, memorial services will be postponed until a later date.  Doantions in memory of the late William Tanner Sr, may be made to the CNP Health Fdn, Box 455, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0.  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. 

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.

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