With heavy hearts, the family of Wilfred “Bill” Ernest Toone of Claresholm announce his passing on April 8, 2026, at the age of 79.
Bill was born on November 21, 1946, in Claresholm, Alberta, to Gwendolyn Gibbie and Henri Toone. He was the second oldest of four children and was raised on the family farm five miles east of town, where his grandparents and parents had lived and farmed.
Like many young men of his generation, Bill began working on the farm as a child and continued farming until the age of 77, when he was no longer physically able to continue. Farming was not just his livelihood but his passion. He was highly skilled in his work and well respected by fellow farmers and neighbours. Although he could no longer actively farm in his later years, his love for the land never faded and remained a frequent topic in his daily conversations with anyone willing to listen.
Bill married the love of his life, Rita, on July 19, 1972, in the Cardston Alberta Temple. Together they made their home on the farm east of Claresholm, where they raised their family.
As a young man, Bill enjoyed sports, playing basketball and even trying baseball for a season. His love of sports continued throughout his life. He enjoyed cheering on his favourite teams, including the Edmonton Oilers and the Toronto Blue Jays, and attending local high school basketball and football games. His greatest joy, however, was watching his grandchildren play. At their games, Bill was often known as the loudest and most enthusiastic fan in the stands, much to the delight of fellow spectators.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Rita; his children Telesa (Benjamin) Bullock of Medicine Hat, Joseph (Natalie) Toone of Claresholm, Angela (Andrew) Svenson of White City, SK, Mark (Megan) Toone of Cardston, and Ashley (Ray) Journoud of Taber; nineteen grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his sisters, Marie Toone and Betty Morgan of Calgary. Bill was predeceased by his parents and his younger brother, Blaine.
Throughout his life, Bill was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many callings. In his early twenties he served a mission in South Africa, and later he and Rita served two additional missions together in Arizona. Bill loved being a missionary and was always eager to share his faith in Jesus Christ with those around him.
Unconditional love best describes Bill’s feelings for his family. His deep pride and affection were evident in his relationships with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Bill was a social person who loved serving others and often invited friends, neighbours, or anyone he felt might appreciate a warm meal to join his family for Sunday dinners or Christmas gatherings. He took great care to ensure everyone felt welcomed, well fed, and included in good conversation.
In the final years of his life, Bill faced physical and memory challenges with courage and a smile. He remained steadfast as he completed his journey home.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Willow Creek Continuing Care Facility, as well as the doctors and nurses at the Calgary South Health Campus Hospital, for their compassion and support.
A funeral service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Claresholm on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to meet with the family prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m.