Shanks – William (Bill) Charles Shanks of Brooks, AB passed away on March 16, 2024, at the age of 92, after a sudden decline in health. He is survived by sons Doug (Bente) and Dale (Heather); four grandchildren, Darcy (Amanda), Nicole (Trent), Ryan and Darryl. Twelve great-grandchildren as well as many special nieces, nephews and cousins. Bill was predeceased by his loving wife Ruth of 72 years, parents Melrose and Alexander Shanks, 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Bill was born May 20, 1931, and lived in Bracken, SK until 1940. He then spent a year in Medicine Hat, before moving to Rolling Hills, in the spring of 1941. This is where he grew up and where Bill and Ruth met. They were married on August 26, 1951. They farmed in Rolling Hills until 1957, when they moved to Tilley and bought their cattle farm in 1960. Bill rode lease for the Tilley and Rolling Hills Grazing association for ten years. He then went to work for the Eastern Irrigation District in Brooks in 1966 as a Grazing Lease Manager. He retired to the farm full time in 1989. Bill and Ruth spent many winters at their second home in Apache Junction, AZ. They retired from the farm in 2015 to Newbrook Lodge in Brooks, AB. Bill was a cowboy and rodeo fan. You could often find him at a cattle auction or travelling to watch community rodeos. In earlier years he enjoyed horse riding, golfing and playing pool. Bill recently took to running bingos and crib tournaments at Newbrook and enjoyed staying active. He had a lot of great stories and enjoyed sharing them. Bill and Ruth enjoyed live music, socializing and playing cards with their many wonderful friends over the years. He was kind and funny and made friends wherever he went. He loved his family with all his heart and will be missed dearly. A special thank you to staff at Newbrook Lodge, and to the medical staff at the Brooks Health Centre. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 27 at 11:00 AM from the Brooks United Church. Rev George Edmonds officiating. Interment to follow at Brooks Cemetery.
Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at
Smith Funeral Home Ltd., Brooks
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD.
BROOKS, ALBERTA
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