Obituaries

A life of service, kindness, and community.

It is with great sadness that the family of Isak Skjaveland announce his passing on September 26, 2025, in Sexsmith, Alberta, at the age of 92.

Born January 1, 1933, in Sandnes, Norway, to Johann and Tora (Møller) Skjaveland, Isak came to Canada in 1951 to visit his uncle Igvald Møller. What began as a family visit soon became a new beginning, and Isak chose to immigrate and remain in Canada, settling in Sexsmith, where he built his life, raised his family, and contributed deeply to the community he came to love. He established a successful sand and gravel business that provided employment for others and supported the growth of the region. He took great pride in the reputation he built, known for his fairness, integrity, and tireless work ethic.

Isak is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Hedy; daughters Lynn (Bob) Rycroft, Terri Skjaveland (David Cassidy), and Debbie Skjaveland (Spencer Kiernan); grandchildren Maison and Jordan Rycroft; and great-grandson Kyvar Rycroft. He is also survived by family in Norway, including his brother Jan and sister Ingfrid (Jan Evan), along with numerous nieces and nephews. In Canada, he is lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law Ona (McQuitty) Trydal and her husband, Ted Trydal, as well as their children, Darren, Shari, and Curtis, and their families.

A dedicated public servant, Isak served as a councillor for the Town of Sexsmith for 17 years, guiding the community through years of growth and change with steady leadership and unwavering commitment. His devotion to the town was recognized in 2016, when he was named Citizen of the Year—an honour that reflected the admiration and respect he earned from those around him.

Beyond his role on council, Isak gave generously of his time and energy to countless organizations. He was a long-time member of both the Elks and the Royal Canadian Legion, where he worked to preserve traditions and support local initiatives. In 2006, he founded the Citizens on Patrol (COPS) program in Sexsmith, a volunteer initiative he remained active in for nearly two decades, still recruiting members and participating in patrols into his nineties. His decades of community service were further honoured in 2022, when the main hall at the Sexsmith Civic Centre was renamed Isak Skjaveland Hall in recognition of his years of dedication. In 2025, he was also recognized with a Communities in Bloom “Nominate Your Neighbour” award for his efforts in beautifying and supporting the town he cherished.

Outside of public life, Isak found joy in simple but meaningful pursuits. He loved tending his vegetable garden, and at Christmastime, his home became one of the brightest and most festive in Sexsmith, a beacon of warmth and cheer for neighbours and friends. He also enjoyed cooking for his family, with specialties that reflected both his Norwegian heritage and his creativity—Scandinavian-style waffles and cream cakes were among his favourites to prepare and share.

Isak will be remembered as a hardworking, ethical, and generous man, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, service, and civic pride that will live on in his family and community.

A celebration of life for Isak’s many friends and family will take place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Sexsmith Civic Centre – Isak Skjaveland Hall. Those who knew him are invited to share stories and enjoy a traditional “Kaffe, Kake og Smørbrød” lunch together. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal funeral.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to friends and neighbours for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sexsmith Elks, Legion, or Sexsmith Meals for Seniors.