In Memory of

Eric

Bernard

Schofield

Obituary for Eric Bernard Schofield

Eric Bernard Schofield

Born: July 12th, 1926
Died: October 4th, 2020

Dad has finally been reunited with his one love, Peggy (Grace Brice), after twenty-six long years without her. He will also be having a great catch up with his brothers, Neville, Geoffrey, and Leslie.

Dad was born in Barnsley, England to Frederick Schofield and Louisa Knowles, but left home early to pursue varied interests and opportunities, ultimately joining the British army and serving in the Burma Campaign of WW2. It was during his service that he began corresponding with a young nurse, who would later become his bride. He married his beloved Peggy in November of 1947. Nine years, later, Janet was born, and they began their plans to emigrate to Calgary, Canada to create a new and wonderful life. Margaret (Maggie) came along once they settled in their new country.

Eric was employed as relief night elevator operator at the Palliser Hotel but gradually worked his way to Assistant Manager, until his retirement in the early 80’s. Ted and MaryAnne were lifelong friends from the hotel, with whom he still spoke regularly.

When Janet was school aged, the family moved to DeWinton, where we were afforded great rural life with horses, cows, cats and dogs, and many other farm creatures. Once retired from the hotel, Mom and Dad moved to Calgary and were always devoted to babysitting their only granddaughter Dyan.

Both Mom and Dad joined the Chinook Artists group and made many friends there, some of whom became like family after Mom’s passing. Dad loved to paint and even when his eyesight rendered artwork impossible for him, he loved to socialize with the group.

Dad loved his family, all animals and possessed a very strong work ethic. He loved punctuality and was always professional and courteous in his service to others. His gregarious nature afforded him many lifelong friends, whom he treasured dearly. His great love for dogs would see him outside regularly walking Bella, Rudi or Cosmo around the neighbourhood of Mount Pleasant. Many neighbours knew exactly what time it was when Dad walked by with one of the dogs.

In 2011, Dad fell while out walking Cosmo and broke a hip, which required a change of living arrangements facilitated by moving into Aspen Lodge. He enjoyed living in that community and made many friends there, too. Cosmo moved in with our dear friend, Janet Bullard, and Dad knew that he was loved and cared for.

When living at Aspen was no longer possible, he moved into the Carewest Colonel Belcher, where he enjoyed a reunion with his lifelong friend, Ted.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Belcher for their compassion and kindness to Eric. We are also grateful to everyone who has supported Dad and our family over the years.

Eric leaves behind his two daughters, Janet Gale and Margaret (Maggie) Schofield and his devoted son-in-law, Mike Gale. His granddaughter Dyan Gale, and great granddaughter Edithe Grayce were treasures to him. The Schofield family in England will also feel his loss, as will surviving members of Peggy’s family.

There will be a private family celebration as per Dad’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the SPCA or a charity of your choice.

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Eric please visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.