Obituary of Dick Woods

Richard (Dick) Woods, affectionately known to his family as Grandpa Jellybean or Papa bean,
passed away at the Big Country Hospital in Oyen on January 4, 2024, at the age of 97.
Dick was born on Oct. 8, 1926, in the Alsask hospital, to George and Fern Woods. He was joined
by brothers Bill and Robin and the family spent their time on the farm north of Sibbald.
Dick rode to school on his horses Laddie and Ginger to attend studies at Vernon, Hudson Heights
and Highland Park schools. After grade 12, Dick enlisted in the Army and then worked for a few
farmers in the area. In 1949, dad purchased the Gilbert Crisford farm where he began his lifelong
career of doing what he loved.
Dick married Therese Padberg on December 23, 1950. Together they raised 5 children: Gary,
Murray, Gloria, Randy and Jim.
Dick was a natural athlete and over the years he enjoyed baseball, bowling, skating, floor curling,
discing and golfing. He handcrafted many beautiful pieces of furniture and wooden toys, and
also enjoyed photography and paint by number pictures. Dick and Therese took many trips within
Canada and around the world, and they also enjoyed square dancing.
Dick and Therese moved from the farm to Oyen in 1993. In town, Dick set up a shop where he
spent many hours. Still his greatest pleasure in retirement was going out to the farm. He
continued to do this until he was 90. Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren provided much
entertainment with sports, 4-H and other events. Dick loved rodeo. He even attended the
rodeo in Oyen, 4 days prior to his passing. He told us that he had the best seat in the house,
which was the very top row of the bleachers!
Dick will be lovingly remembered by his sons Gary (Barb) of Oyen, Murray (Wendy) of Linden,
Randy (Heather) of Grande Prairie, Jim (Sheila) of Oyen and daughter Gloria (Bryon) of Red
Deer. Dick thoroughly enjoyed his 14 Grandchildren and 17 Great Grandchildren. He is also
survived by brother Robin (Pat) and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Dr. Muller and all the staff at the Big Country Hospital, Oyen
Lodge and Homecare who provided such loving care for Dad. Many thanks to friends and
neighbors for helping Dad in his later years.