April 15, 1931 – March 24, 2023
Eldor Thomas, a truly remarkable husband and father, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2023 at the age of 91.
Eldor will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Marjorie; children Don (Barb Fedun), Valerie (Jerry Kristoff), Garth (Lella Soutar) and Carolynn (Peter Karwatski); grandchildren Marshall, Margaret (Jackson Dahn) and Jill Karwatski; great-grandchild Fiona Dahn; brother-in-law Bill Burch; nieces, nephews and many friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Martha, and sister Shirley Burch.
Eldor grew up in northeast Edmonton attending Eastwood School. He was a man of many talents including athletics and music. In his child and teen years, he enjoyed spending time with his Schultz cousins at their farm in the Bruderheim area and later helping his Grandpa Hatelt and his father farm their own land in the Josephburg area. Eldor was a talented pianist who achieved a high level of proficiency through Royal Conservatory. During these years he also immersed himself in hockey, often playing for several teams at the same time. In his early 20s Eldor played professional hockey for the Edmonton Flyers. Eventually Eldor found his true calling as a chiropractor. He attended Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa and upon graduation returned to Edmonton. Eldor dedicated himself to his family and built successful practices in St. Albert and Ponoka where over 40 years he helped many patients enjoy healthier lives.
Eldor met his true love, Marjorie, in 1953 and they were married in 1955 in Edmonton. In 1962, they settled in St. Albert and built a beautiful life together with their four children. The family enjoyed annual trips to Jasper, snowmobiling and many gatherings for special occasions that included Marjorie’s sisters, Mardie and Gwen.
After Eldor’s retirement in 1997, he and Marjorie spent extra time with family, many hours playing golf and cards, and did some travelling with their long-time friends. With new-found free time, Eldor renewed his interest in music, making piano recordings which he shared with friends and family, as well as giving live performances to the delight of many.
A gathering by invitation of family and friends will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made online to the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, or a charity of one’s choice.
