Obituary of Gilbert Gerald Engerdahl

September 7, 1943 – Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan

February 29, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Gilbert Engerdahl, beloved husband of Faith Engerdahl (nee Livingstone) since December 1, 1962, of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the age of 80 years.

Gilbert grew up in the Grande Centre and Cold Lake area and moved to Calgary in 1968. He graduated from the University of Life with a degree in being a “Stubborn Norwegian” and accomplished much throughout his life. He was particularly proud of building his landscaping business, Engerdahl Excavating, which he ran for 36 years.

As a lover of the outdoors, when he wasn't working hard on his Bobcat, you could often find Gilbert out fishing with his brothers and grandchildren, gardening in his backyard, or tinkering on his many projects in his garage.

Gilbert’s most memorable tradition was gathering his growing family and friends together every December to make Lefsa — a traditional Norwegian holiday food. The door was always open to all, and Gilbert could be found smiling and laughing while being covered in flour from rolling, cooking, or teaching others how to master the making of the potato flatbread. His memory will be carried on through the continuation of this cherished family tradition.

Gilbert will be most remembered for his big personality, including his many stories, jokes, and tall tales of chasing the Sasquatch throughout the forest.

Besides his loving wife, Gilbert is survived by his sister, Bernice, and brothers Lloyd (Elaine), Brian, and Melvin; daughters, Lorna (Bradley), Shelley (Kevin), and Tina (Joe); and twelve grandchildren, Rachil (Dan), Matthew (Emilie), Josh, Sara (Evan), Sam, Bev, Blair, Chelsea (Maxwell), Sadie (Darren), Roderick (Mackenzie), Joesph James, and Jacob. He is also survived by his three great-grandchildren, Maxxon, Ezra, and Mazelyn; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Gilbert was predeceased by his parents Vernon and Augot, and his siblings Gilmar, Agnes, Earl, Veryl, Ralph, and Dale.

Gilbert’s family invites all to the Celebration of Gilbert’s Life at the Glenmore Gardens Social Room (9121 19 St SW, Calgary, AB, T2V 1R3)  on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Please join us in remembering Gilbert's love and joy. This will be a time to share stories, laugh at his old jokes, and support each other during this wonderful time of memorial.

If you wish to attend, please let the family know by adding your RSVP here: Celebration of Gilbert’s Life.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gilbert’s family here.

In living memory of Gilbert Engerdahl, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.