WALLMAN – Celebrate Cameron (Cam) Wallman!
Enveloped in the love, care and compassion of his family and friends, Cam Wallman passed away on June 20th, 2023. Born in Foremost, Alberta, on May 22nd, 1955, Cam was the eldest son, and first child, of Irene (Phay) and Roy Wallman. A year after his birth, Cam became the brother to Roxanne (Roxy) Schmidt. Proudly, Cam taught Roxy how to ride his bike, albeit Roxy claims Cam knew he would receive a new bike if he did so– Cam’s passion for cycling started at a young age (he would later become a member of The Alpenland Racing Team in Lethbridge, AB). Cam and Roxy were joined by the birth of their sister Kimball (Kim) Poapst and brother Timothy Wallman (deceased, 1963). The trio (Cam, Roxy and Kim) formed a family swim team with their Father (Roy) competing in swim meets across Alberta—Cam forever claimed to be the anchor of the family relay!
In 1974, Cam met his wife Nancy while hitching-hiking under the hot, Albertan sun. Neither Nancy nor Cam knew their ride would last nearly 50 years. They married on November 5th, 1977, in Lethbridge, Alberta. Before having children, Cam and Nancy spent their time traversing outdoors (e.g., cycling, camping and skiing). Also known as “Scouter Cam,” he impacted the lives of many young adults—to whom he impressed his outdoor zeal- by planning and leading Scout Jamborees (to Australia!), Banff adventures and weekend camping trips. Cam’s continued reverence and passion for the environment led to a 35-year career in restoring Alberta ecosystems through his employment at Fish and Wildlife Services.
After starting his career, Cam became the Father of two 80s babies: Melissa (Missy) Wallman and Heather Wallman. Cam devoted much of his time fostering his children’s love for outdoor activities, especially skiing. While Cam and Missy bonded over their black-diamond talents, he learned quickly that Heather preferred reading in the lodge with a hot chocolate. Cam never waivered on his dedication to being Dad. This was exemplified through his earnest acceptance of their interests, passions and life goals. Cam was always present and proud.
Although being Dad was a mix of fun and honour (not to mention challenging at times!), Cam embraced and embodied the title of “Uncle Cam.” He was eager to show his love in many ways: giving advice (sometimes unsolicited!), watching sports, sharing a game of golf, building a contraption from things-in-the garage or telling a story from the past. He loved being Uncle Cam.
After retiring in 2013, Cam reignited his love for woodworking. He could always be found in the garage cutting wood to loud blues music, a site that would grab the attention of passersby. When Cam wasn’t in his garage cutting wood, he was on the golf course (in a brightly coordinated outfit) with his best friend Allen, and golfing buddies Kenny and Rod. If Cam could be found inside, it was in front of the television sharing an NFL game with Steph (Heather’s partner) via text. In the fall of 2022, Steph and Cam (and some less enthusiastic family members) attended an NFL game in Seattle—a lifelong desire for Cam.
As a devout Christian, Cam continued to be a lay reader and warden at St. Alban’s Anglican Church during retirement. He dedicated 25 years of his life to Anglican service. Folks will remember Cam’s charismatic sermons and hearty laugh that made his presence known.
Over the past two years, Cam and his family have experienced different forms of support. It would be remiss not to mention these folks:
Thank you to the ALS Society of Alberta for providing guidance and resources to access health care services for increasing the quality of Cam’s life. Your drive for researching medical solutions to better support families, now and in the future, is commendable.
To Dr. Vince Elgersma, thank you for the steadfast medical and spiritual support you have given to Cam over 25 years, building mutual respect and trust.
To Thea Trottier, your style of nursing filled Nancy and Cam’s home with calmness, levity and matter-of-fact storytelling. Your dedication to patients makes it evident that being a nurse is not just a job; you have an innate ability to hold space for others during times of duress.
To Pastor Esther, thank you for your compassion and theological acumen that underscores your style of pastoral care. Cam’s experience could have been vastly different hadn’t you entered his life.
Thank you to the supportive friends and neighbours of Cam and Nancy Wallman: Allen and Wendy Lutes; Merle and Ron Howard; Helen and Bill Schmidt; and Kathleen and Grant Jensen.
Most importantly, Cam had the formidable love of his wife Nancy for nearly 50 years, which was exemplified over the past two years. Their love, encompassed with laughter, honesty and communication, is a testament to partnership.
Whether you knew Cam as a cyclist, lay reader, well-dressed golfer and/or that-guy-always-chopping-wood-in-his-garage, the family invites you to celebrate Cam’s life on June 29th at The United Church, Brooks at 2pm. In honour of Cam, the family encourages folks to jettison black attire for their brightest colours, if comfortable. In lieu of flowers and other gestures, we encourage folks to donate to the ALS Society of Alberta.
