SYDNEY “SYD” SLEN

1920 ~ 2017

Sydney Bernard Slen was born on August 25, 1920 in Mahnomen, Minnesota, USA and he passed away peacefully in Lethbridge on Sunday, December 31, 2017 at the age 97 years.

Syd was raised in Lloydminster and Edmonton, Alberta, and received his degree of Agriculture at University of Alberta, followed by a PhD at University of Wyoming.

In 1939, the love of his life, Evelyn, skated into his heart and they were married August, 1943 in Victoria, BC. Following three years of service in the army, he accepted a position at Lethbridge Research Station where he worked until his retirement in 1975. The following day he began his dream career as a “cowboy” at the McIntyre Ranch in position of General Manager. In 1987 he traded in his horse for a pair of skis but his heart never left the Ranch.

Syd was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hiking, fishing and golfing in Waterton for many years. As a 50 year old, he and Ev took up skiing and spent many years enjoying the sport with their family and friends. In 1993 Syd said goodbye to his darling Ev after spending a wonderful 50 years building a beautiful life and family.

Syd is survived by his sons Rick (Gail) of Calgary, Randy (Joanne) of Wrentham; daughters-in-law Christiane and Gail; grandchildren Sarah (Justin), Scott, Stephen (Brittany), Justin (Lauren), Jeffrey, Julie; great-granddaughter Sydney Ayla; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, their families and his special friends in Whitefish.

Besides his loving wife Evelyn, Syd was predeceased by his sons Craig and Garth, his sister Olive, and brother Norman.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, January 8, 2018 at FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 1614 – 5 Ave., S., Lethbridge, Alberta, with Dr. Bruce Martin, officiating.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Syd’s name may be made to the Canadian Red Cross, 335 Columbia Blvd. West, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K 5Y8 or to a charity of your choice.