In loving memory of Wilfred “Dale” Thelland, 80 years old who passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Health Sciences North with his loving wife by his side. Beloved husband of Laura (Chapman). Loving father of Cheryle (predeceased), Rick (predeceased), Steve (Louanne), and Stephanie (Greg). Cherished grandfather of Christopher (Mercedes), Tyler (Meghan) and Alexandra. Loving great-grandfather of Nova, Everett and Oaklynn. Son of Cecilia and Ulric (both predeceased). Survived by his sister Heather (David), sister-in-law Linda and 3 nieces. Dad was retired from INCO where he spent 30 years. He began his career as a Crane Operator then became a Millwright.
Mom was the love of his life. He loved to make her smile. After 59 years of marriage, he would still show up with small gifts or flowers “just because.”
As a father, we could never have asked for better. He loved us all unconditionally and there was not a thing he wouldn’t do for us. Dad was always there for us, to celebrate us, to guide, encourage and listen to us, offer a hand, to pick us up when we stumbled or fell. How blessed we all were to have a dad we could also call a friend.
When the grandkids were growing up, dad was always their biggest fan. Hours were spent at baseball fields and in hockey arenas, often with a Timmy’s in hand and Werther’s in his pocket. As they became adults dad was so proud of each of them.
His granddaughter was his princess. He adored her sugar and spice personality. Dad was so proud of her hardwork, drive, and independence. He often spoke of his grandsons and how proud he was of the fathers they became. It was more important to him than any job or title they could have. The way their children looked at them held the greatest value to dad.
Dad was a kind, giving, quiet man who never complained. He always had a “dad joke” ready to go- right up until his final days, trying to get a smile from his family and nurses. He found happiness in simple things. In the warmer months he enjoyed taking his breakfast to the backyard, listening as the birds sang their good morning song, watching as the rabbits nibbled on clover and smiling as the chipmunks and squirrels chased each other. Dad enjoyed working on his garden, curling up with a book in the afternoon sun, family barbecues and backyard games of ladder ball and croquet. Dads favourite moments of all were spending time with his family. He especially loved to watch the great grandchildren explore the backyard.
His chair may be empty, our hearts heavy, but his love and memory will live on in each of us. Dad, you will always be my hero and I will always be your little girl.
In keeping with dads wishes, there will be no visitation or service.
A very heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses, and personal support workers at HSN for the care, kindness and compassion given to dad.