Edward (Ted) Charles Rowsell

Edward (Ted) Charles Rowsell of Calgary, beloved husband of Myrna (nee Joyce), devoted father of Susan Rowsell and Norene Robinson, and proud grandfather of Everett, Arden, and Devon Robinson passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, in the early morning of August 6, 2026.

Ted was born in Edmonton on April 14, 1940. He was named Edward after his maternal grandfather “Pop”, and Charles after his dad. After spending his early months in Edmonton, his family moved to Penticton and then settled in Calgary when he was 2 years old.  A few years later, he welcomed his little sister Jean (Ashmore).

Ted’s childhood years were spent in a custom home built by his parents in Elboya.  He attended Connaught Elementary School, Elbow Park Junior High, and Central High School. His determination and strong work ethic were evident from an early age and remained defining characteristics throughout his life. Ted got himself to school every day, riding his bike in the summer and walking and then taking the bus in the winter. His industrious nature got him a job as a paper boy for The Calgary Herald, which he continued for 7 years delivering over 150 daily papers. His conscientious and organized approach meant that he was well taken care of with tips and presents at Christmas!

Ted studied electrical engineering at university, first in Calgary and then in Edmonton, graduating in 1962. During this time, he spent summers working for the City of Calgary where he landed a full-time position following graduation. He spent 37 years dedicated to providing reliable electricity to Calgarians as an electrical engineer and eventually serving as General Manager of the Calgary Electric System (now ENMAX). His expertise helped shape roadway lighting standards across the continent through his work with the North American Roadway Lighting Committee for the Illuminating Engineering Society.  

Ted was good-natured, modest and humble…the last one to focus on his accomplishments. In his younger days, he belonged to the Cub and Scout group at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, leading several scout camps and sparking his love for camping and other outdoor pursuits. He contributed to the Rotary Club of Calgary at Stampede Park for the past 49 years as Club Secretary and Director, being granted the Cleven Award for exceptional service. His legacy also includes the Alberta Click-Before-You-Dig utility safety system, for which he was recognized by the Utility Safety Partners in 2024. Ted participated in numerous Iron Ring Ceremonies through Camp 18: The Ritual Calling of the Engineer, with his proudest moment presenting an iron ring to his daughter, Norene. Above all, Ted was devoted to his family and took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of his daughters and grandchildren.

Ted’s greatest joys were his family and sharing outdoor adventures. It was through the Rocky Mountain Ramblers hiking club that he met Myrna in 1969. After their marriage on July 4, 1970, they raised their daughters in the community of Oakridge and built a life grounded in kindness, perseverance, service, and a shared love of the outdoors. Over the years, he organized countless family hiking, backpacking, skiing, and canoeing adventures – the memories of which are carried forward and live on through his wife, daughters, and grandchildren.

Ted was known for his generosity of time for both family and his community. Whether supporting his daughters' band activities, fundraising for Rotary, standing for hours as a ski race gatekeeper, or organizing outdoor adventures for family and friends, Ted generously gave his time and energy to others.

Ted will be remembered for his humility, integrity, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family and community. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the many lives enriched by his example.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Ted’s memory to the Rotary Club of Calgary at Stampede Park here. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Ted’s family on the Tribute Wall.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Willow Park Golf & Country Club (639 Willow Park Drive SE, Calgary, Alberta) on October 2, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. We will be sharing some memories and tributes to Ted at 2:00 pm for anyone who would like to join us. If you aren't able to be there at that time, please feel free to come whenever it works for you.

This obituary has been authorized by the family of Ted Rowsell for posting on the Evan J. Strong Funeral Services website. Reproduction or redistribution without prior consent is prohibited.

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