Obituary of Thelma Rowena McClelland

August 1, 1932 - August 26, 2024

Calgary, Alberta

The family of Thelma Rowena McClelland (nee Tonsaker) sadly announce her passing on Monday, August 26, 2024. Thelma was the beloved wife of sixty-four years to Harold McClelland, who predeceased her on December 26, 2020. She was the proud mother of Marie Gazzard (Doug), Craig McClelland (Angela), Keith McClelland (Kim), grandmother to Kevin Gazzard (Lisa), Janelle Ritchie (Andrew), Curtis Gazzard (Samantha and son Tripp), Alexa and Madison McClelland, Logan and Sophie McClelland, and great-grandmother to Cameron and Noah Ritchie.

Thelma was born on August 1, 1932 to Lars and Martha Tonsaker and raised on their farm near Battrum, SK. The third youngest of nine children, Thelma is survived by siblings Gordon Tonsaker, Lorraine Solheim, sister-in-law Bonnie Tonsaker and many special nieces and nephews.

Thelma’s life journey took her from a young child going to school, playing baseball and living on the family farm to moving to Moose Jaw, SK, where she met her husband, Harold McClelland at a dance. They were married in Swift Current, SK on August 18, 1956.

After living in Medicine Hat, Edmonton and Lethbridge, AB, Thelma and Harold moved to Calgary where their three children, Marie, Craig and Keith were born.

Thelma’s life was devoted to raising her family and enjoying her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her joy of entertaining often brought friends and family together for many memorable holidays and special occasions.

Thelma enjoyed music, good humor, watching hockey and her gregarious laughter was truly a joy to hear. Her resiliency and incredibly kind spirit is an inspiration to those who knew her. She will be dearly missed.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB), on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre immediately thereafter.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mrs. McClelland’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

In lieu of flowers, please take a moment to share your favorite memory and include photos of her and bring them to her service or share and view with Thelma’s family here.

In living memory of Thelma McClelland, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.

Click Here to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Thelma's Service of Remembrance