Elsie Herold

Elsie Herold, born December 31, 1926, in Bentley, Alberta, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to family and community. She was the second oldest of twelve children and, from a young age, stepped naturally into the role of caregiver. She was a surrogate mother to her younger siblings and later a grandmother figure to many of their children. Caring for others wasn’t just something she did — it was who she was. In 1956, Elsie and her husband Ben Herold moved to Drayton Valley with their six children in search of new opportunities during the town’s booming years. They managed the Western Trailer Court and welcomed boarders into their lives and home. Ben worked tirelessly at various jobs during the day and at the bar at night, while Elsie devoted herself to raising their children and creating a home filled with warmth and stability. In 1958, they built the E&B Trailer Court, which became more than just a place to live — it was a true community. Elsie’s door was always open to renters, neighbors, and her children’s friends. No matter how limited the space or resources, there was always room at her table and in her heart. E&B Trailer Court was known as a friendly, family-oriented place, largely because of her welcoming spirit. She continued raising her children there until they were grown, and in later years, she played a significant role in raising many of her grandchildren. During retirement, Elsie enjoyed traveling to Arizona for the winters, creating more memories and friendships along the way. For the last 25 years, she rarely missed a family gathering. Her presence was a constant — her infectious laugh, mischievous smile, and the warmest heart brought joy wherever she went. When Elsie loved someone, she loved them for life, and she would go out of her way to help anyone in need. She leaves behind a family deeply shaped by her kindness, resilience, and endless love. She will be missed beyond words and remembered in every shared meal, every family story, and every act of generosity done in her spirit.

Elsie is survived by her children, Douglas (Eileen) Herold, Barbara Herold, Debra Herold (Roger Sullivan), Faith Herold and her siblings, Richard Hankins, Bonnie Westenburger, and George Hankins. She will be missed by Grandchildren that have been actively part of her life; Tod Church, Aaron Herold, Heather Herold, Trina Christensen, Melina Cameron, Tania Bouchard, Gavin Mikkelsen, plus 6 other grandchildren. Elsie will also be missed by Great Grandchildren that have been actively part of her life, Hailey-Jo Cameron, Jessie Cameron, Landon Bouchard, Stephen Bouchard, Ariana Schmitt, Serena Dutkewich, plus 9 other Great Grandchildren and 11 Great-Great- Grandchildren.She was predeceased by the father of her children, Ben Herold (2003), and her daughter, Vickie Herold (1991) and son, Stephen Herold (1988), her granddaughter Aleda Church (2020), her parents, Erastus & Lily Hankins, brothers: James (Jim), Charles (Chuck), Robert (Bob), Albert (Bert) and sisters, Jean Myers, Mrytle Hankins, Irene Hankins, and Janet Singh.

Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Shangri Lodge for welcoming her over the last two years and making her feel at home. They also wish to thank Drayton Valley Home Care, especially Janelle, Ashley, and Shelly, for their incredible support during the last few weeks, which allowed Elsie to remain at home during her final days. A special thank you as well to Breanna from Health at Home for helping ease Elsie’s suffering with such compassion and care. The family is also grateful to the pharmacy staff at Value Drug Mart for their support and kindness.

Arrangements in care of Colleen Sekura. Drayton Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services, 587 673-1688

It is a great honor for us to be entrusted with Elsie's care and service arrangements. As always, our thoughts and love remain with all of Elsie's family members as well as all of Elsie's many friends, during this extremely difficult time.