Conrad John Aden was born to Regina and Frank Aden on March 13, 1933 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan on his mother’s birthday. His mother always said he was her best gift. Dad was the oldest of four children and the only son.
Conrad’s family moved to Tisdale when he was a young child and he took his schooling here. As a young adult Dad worked for Magnus Construction where he worked on the highways, and he worked in a number of other jobs during his life including trucking, farming and caretaking at Tisdale Public School. Conrad was well liked by the students at TPS and even after he retired, kids that had grown up still recognized him as “Mr. Aden” and took the time to say hello. Dad enjoyed spending time with his brothers-in-law at the farm at Zenon Park helping with whatever needed to be done.
Conrad met his life partner, Therese Bernatchez in 1958 and they were married in Tisdale on December 28, 1959. From that union four daughters were born, Christine, Rosanne, Anne and Nadine.
Dad loved reading novels – particularly western novels, horror novels and a good mystery. Dad also was a huge fan of the history channel on television where he would enjoy anything to do with war history. He was also a big fan of the tv show Hawaii 5-0 – the original version. It was tough for Dad when he started losing his vision as he was no longer able to read beloved books, but he would still listen to his favorite programs on television.
Dad always had a soft spot for animals, bringing home many different strays to join the family. As kids, we had dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a chinchilla.
Dad’s sense of humour was enjoyed by anyone who sat and visited with him. He loved a good joke and liked to play practical jokes. He used to frustrate mom when she wanted him to be serious, and he could only find the funny side of the situation. Dad’s grandchildren also learned to appreciate his sense of humour and would refer to his jokes and sayings as “Grandpa-isms”.
Conrad began his battle with cancer eight years ago. He managed to stay well up until January of this year when things began to change for him. It was difficult watching dad go through this challenge, but we are relieved he is at peace.
Conrad was predeceased by his parents, Regina and Frank Aden, his sisters Mary Gray and Francis Shimei, and his granddaughter, Sarah Jane Minhinnhick. He was also predeceased by his mother and father-in-law Omer and Alice Bernatchez and many beloved brothers-in-law on both sides of his family.
Conrad is survived by his wife of 56 years, Therese (Bernatchez) Aden, his daughters Christine (Brian) Minhinnick, Rosanne Isberg (Cosimo Carone), Anne (Brian) Slade and Nadine Aden (Harold Cox). He is also survived by grandchildren, Dallas Minhinnick (Kim Ferguson), Emily Minhinnick (Blake Cholodniuk), Eric Isberg, Katherine (Jono) Moroz, Amanda (Kevin) Stevens, Nicole Slade and great grandchildren, Ty Minhinnick and Baylee Stevens.
Donations may be made to the
North East SPCA
Box 189 Melfort, Saskatchewan S0E 1A0
as a token of remembrance