Obituary of John Ham

John “Babe” Ham est. 1936

Sadly we announce that dad’s sunset ride concluded December 22, 2024 at the age of 88.

With his mother Julia’s passing, he was orphaned at the age of 82. When he was 9 his father Herbert passed away. He was also predeceased by stepfather Alvin, one adult brother Roy, four brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law and his wife Joyce.

Born in Frontier Municipal Hospital he was delivered by Dr. O’Brien the "Saddlebag Surgeon" and thus began his life in the farming and ranching community. He loved riding and breaking horses, perhaps starting a bit too young in the breaking of them from stories we heard from Gramma. Schooling commenced at Oak Plain in Loomis, followed by Antelope Valley, Echo Valley and then back to finish at Oak Plain. Growing up he worked for his great Uncle Bernie on his farm. After finishing school at the age of nearly 15, he worked for him permanently until finally becoming a farmer and rancher on his own, living in what was Bernie’s yard. Outside of people, the farm was dad’s greatest love, the only place he wanted to live and that was his residence until the day he no longer required one. So many memories for his children and grandchildren were created there.

He served on the Municipal council for 19 years, the Loomis Hall Board and the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool. Along with his wife and others, he helped initially set up the Loomis Hall Museum at the Sports Grounds at Frontier. He enjoyed playing baseball, curling and bowling at the rec centre. He liked watching hockey games of all ages at the rink. Calgary Bull Sale was an event he looked forward to year after year for a long time. He was known to drive to most of the local rodeos and seen the Calgary Stampede finals many times as well. Although he enjoyed watching and playing sports, his favourite pastime would be visiting. He loved a good visit, much like his mother, and his eyes would light up when he would see you.

He leaves to mourn so many friends and family but none more than his three children, Rhonda (Edge), Daryl (Pam), Maurina (Peter), 8 grandchildren and one great grand child.

Services to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in his honour to the Frontier Rec Centre, Frontier Senior Centre or Frontier United Church would be appreciated.