John Albert Vavrek, resident of Sexsmith, AB, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in Beaverlodge, AB, at the age of 96 years.

John was born in Blairmore, AB, on December 3, 1929. In the spring of 1930, their family relocated to Sexsmith. John was raised on the farm, and it became his true passion. He devoted his life to farming.

He loved a good party and was always quick to ensure everyone had a drink or two in hand at all times. John was a gifted musician. He played multiple instruments: the banjo, accordion, violin, mandolin, and some piano as well as guitar, all self-taught by ear. John was very active in the church and was a significant contributor as a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus member.

John will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Mary; his seven children, Barb (Larry Gaultier), Vince (Tracey), Tom (Noreen), Mary (Loren, deceased), John (Karen), Rob (Nadine), and Cathy (Geoff, deceased); his grandchildren, Terrence (Andrea), Nicole (Deavan), Bryan (Lisa), Melissa, Ryan, Justin, Stefen (Tennille), Rachele, Nicholas (Carly), Colin (Raluca), Austin (Lauren), Danielle, Mary (Ben), Katrina, Kasia, Brendan, Damon, Madison, and Sam; and his great-grandchildren, Kristen, Mykenzi, Bryli, Chloe, Willow, Laz, Wyatt, Isla, Leila, Georgia, Olivia, Brandt, Ivar, and Nora.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Verna, Mike, and Joe.

The funeral mass will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grande Prairie (10404 102 St), preceded by a brief viewing. Following the mass, a luncheon will be served in Tranquille Hall at the church. At approximately 5:30 p.m., interment will take place at the Grande Prairie Cemetery (84 Ave and 112 St).

For those who cannot attend in person, the mass will be livestreamed. The link will be available 5 minutes prior to the service.

The family would like to thank the staff at Pearson Place, Beaverlodge Home Care, and Beaverlodge Hospital, as well as Dr. Duta, Dr. Van Tonder, Dr. Scrutton, and Dr. Prada.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made by cheque to Hythe Pioneer Assisted Living Partnership (Box 440, Hythe, AB T0H 2C0).

While every effort is made to ensure a smooth livestream, technical or broadcast issues may occasionally occur beyond the control of Oliver’s Funeral Home.