Bradley Rene Belva

Bradley Rene John Belva, (Uncle Brad) a devoted soul who touched countless lives during his time on this earth, passed away on October 24, 2023. Born on September 3, 1958, in Ponoka, Brad grew up and lived most of his life in Rocky Rapids, before moving to Drayton Valley.

Leaving behind a legacy filled with love and compassion, Brad is survived by his brother, Glenn (Catherine) Belva and Brother-in-Law, Terry (Rita) Dingwall. He also leaves behind several beloved nieces and nephews: Anita (Mike) Belva, Erin (Kyle) Belva, Marcy (Kyle) Belva, Candace (Rob) Mulligan, Kent (Samantha) Dingwall, Jana (Kyle) Chase, Lindsey (Garnett) White. In addition to his nieces and nephews are his great nieces and nephews whose lives he enriched: Carsen, Konnor, Macey, Tailer, Coal, Bella, Kenzie, Ryder, Alexander, and Bernice. Brad is predeceased by his parents Rene and Eileen Belva (Lindskoog) and sister Laurel Dingwall.

Brad accomplished many achievements; including graduating from NAIT’s Culinary Arts Program, feeding the Queen in 1978, traveling throughout North America, Europe and Central America, building a house and acreage, caring for his parents and establishing himself in the Community. One of Brad’s proudest achievements was the relationships he built with family and friends. Brad built lifelong families with his friends at the Hospital, the Church of God and Word of Life Church.

Brad's journey was marked by selfless dedication and a passion for helping others. From an early age, Brad was instilled with the values of perseverance and excellence. This commitment to excellence led him to discover his true calling when he started volunteering and later joined the staff at the Drayton Valley Continuing Care Centre over twenty years ago.

Within the walls of Drayton Valley Continuing Care Centre, Bradley demonstrated unwavering compassion and love towards those under his care. His genuine warmth and empathy were beacons of light that brightened the lives of both patients and their families. Brad found a family with his colleagues at the Hospital, who touched his life in so many ways.

Outside the realms of his caregiving career, Brad found solace in nature. Brad loved to garden and loved to talk about growing flowers and potatoes (especially with his brother Glenn). Brad was always up for a chat about what everyone was canning in the fall. Brad was also an expert bun baker and made a good pot of cowboy beans.

One of Brad's favorite retreats was his beloved cabin, where he sought refuge from the demands of everyday life. But it was not only nature that brought him fulfillment; it was also the company of his family and friends with whom he shared joyful memories. Uncle Brad loved attending family get-togethers, especially when he got the chance to celebrate with great nieces and nephews. Their presence brought an effervescent energy into his life that was always cherished.

On November 4, 2023, a Funeral Service in celebration of Brad's remarkable life will take place at 1:00 PM at Whitby Hall, 6523 Township Road 502, Rocky Rapids. Let us come together to pay our respects and remember the incredible person that Brad was.

Brad's departure from this world is undoubtedly a loss felt deeply across the community.  As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul who brightened our lives with his kindness and compassion, may we find solace in knowing that his spirit continues to guide us on our own journeys.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of the Drayton Valley Hospital and Continuing Care for their extraordinary care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Drayton Valley Health Foundation. Long Term Care, 4550 Madsen Ave. Drayton Valley, AB. T7A 1N8

 Arrangements in care of Colleen Sekura and Mike McCrae at Drayton Memorial Cremation and Funeral Services.