With incredible sadness, we announce the passing of Gordon Craig Reade. Craig passed away on August 26th, 2022, at 68 years old.
Craig is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Linda Reade (Rasmussen), his son Todd Reade and daughter Kirsty (Christopher Ripley) Reade, grandchildren Kaydence and Carter, his brother Ian (Wendy) Reade and family, brothers-in-law Gary (Jody) Rasmussen and family and Bruce (Val) Rasmussen.
He was predeceased by his parents, Royston Reade, Gladys Leppky, stepfather Isaac Leppky, and his father and mother-in-law, Harry and Cathy Rasmussen.
Craig was born in Carrot River, SASK, on December 15th, 1953. He spent his early years in Saskatchewan. After the early passing of his father, Craig, along with his mother and brother, spent many summers with his aunt and uncle Olah on their farm. It didn’t take long for the two of them, along with their children, Jerry (Inger) Olah and Sharon (Moe) Kaminecki, to become his second family.
As an adult, Craig made his way to Jasper to apprentice as a mechanic. Jasper is where he met his future wife, Linda, at the curling rink. In 1975 they wed, and after giving birth to their son in 1979, they decided to move back to Olds to raise their family. Craig spent years working at the Ford Dealership and Harmattan gas plant before branching out to start his automotive repair business, Olds Auto Clinic. The operation started small, but as it grew, he built a new shop and moved the company to the building next to UFA Cardlock.
Craig was an active member of the Olds Grizzlys AJHL Organization from 1980-1992 as the team trainer, and at one point, he was also the bus driver. Craig and Linda spent many years as billets to the players, many of whom remain in close contact.
Craig started with the Olds Fire Department in 1980 and was honoured to support his community and eventually took on the role of training officer. Through all these avenues, Craig became well known throughout the community. Anyone that knew him knew he lived life under his terms. Those who spent time with him knew he said things how he saw them (often with very little censorship), along with a humorous remark. His wit and one-liners will be missed.
In keeping with Craig’s wishes, private family interment will be held on Saturday, October 1st, 2022, at the Olds Cemetery. Following the family service, a come-and-go celebration will be held at the Olds Evergreens Hall from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. In place of food or flowers, donations may be made directly to KidSport Alberta (https://kidsportcanada.ca/alberta/) or a charity of your choice.
