It is with deep regret that we must announce the passing of Claudette Jean Ophus (née Nash), resident of Sexsmith, AB, formerly of La Glace, AB, and the strongest and kindest woman we have ever known. On Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the age of 78, she passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and holding the hand of her love of 63 years.

Claudette was born in Sexsmith on July 22, 1947, to Kitty and Everett Nash. Claudette loved curling and playing fastball. She took great pride in her squirrel hunting abilities, and there was even a time when she was banned from turkey shoots due to her skill.

One day after curling, she met Dale when he asked to take her out for a pop. From that day forward, they were rarely apart and married in 1965. Four years and two children later, they packed up everything and headed to Granisle, BC. For the next seven years, they made many friends and memories on Babine Lake. They eventually returned to Sexsmith to help on the family farm.

Claudette spent many years working at the Sexsmith post office. After an early retirement, she became the full-time combine driver at the farm. For quite a few years during the winter, they travelled to the States, but she always made sure to keep in touch with her grandbabies. In 2009, they purchased a house and moved back to Granisle, where Claudette soon became skipper of their boat. She loved it when everyone came fishing and would always lead them to the hottest salmon holes. In late 2019, they returned to the Sexsmith area to be closer to her family.

Claudette will be sadly missed by her husband of 61 years, Dale Ophus; her children, Julie (Dean) and Dione (Kevin); grandchildren: Trina (Andrew), Ashley (Kenny), Brittany (Josh), Dalyn, Rylan, Brylee, Destin (Madigan), and Jonah (Hope); and great-grandchildren: Kaysen, Remington, Kale, Gabriel, Colton, Charlie, and Eliana.

She was predeceased by her grandsons, Nash and Kyle.

A celebration of Claudette’s life will be held at a later date.