Loyd Ben Wilfred Sperling died Jan. 25, 2011. He was born Dec. 20, 1948 in Matsqui, B.C. to Walter and Albertine Sperling. His beginnings were in the loft of a relative’s barn during logging, but the family soon returned to the 1917 farmhouse north of Dalmeny, Sask. As a teen, Loyd taught himself guitar. His passions were hockey, cross-country skiing, birdwatching, hiking, and biking. After a year at Bethany Bible College, Hepburn, Sask., Loyd’s interests led him to the Renewable Resources program at Lethbridge (Alta.) Community College. He met a Calgary girl, Maralin Johanson, who was on a tree planting crew and had never heard of a Mennonite, but enjoying hiking with him. They were married Oct. 11, 1975, in Dalmeny. Loyd and Mara settled into the farm. Loyd was a nurturing father, involving his children in farming, exploring nature, sports, and music, and participating at Dalmeny Community Church. Loyd eased out of farming but continued driving school bus. In 2007, Loyd was diagnosed with a rare cancer. Throughout surgical and medical interventions, his gracious nature and concern for others never left him. Loyd is mourned by Mara; children Brita (Brad) Danielson, Camille, Leif, Jarret; 8 siblings.
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