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Nadeau, Emile
Regimental Number: 3213093
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment; 21st Reserve Battalion
Emile was born in St. Malachie, Quebec on May 6, 1895. He was living in Donnelly when he was drafted in 1918 (his land was located at 13-78-21-W5 and 16-79-21-W5). Because he was drafted so near the end of the war, Emile served only in England. Emile married Seraphine Dechambre on February 23, 1925. The couple had one daughter. Emile died on November 7, 1978.
Sources: By the Peavine in the Smoky of the Peace pg. 427
Nairn, William McLaggan
Regimental Number: 8238
Rank: Private
Branch: 2nd Battalion
William was born in Glasgow, Scotland on March 15, 1879. In April of 1914 he filed on a homestead at SE 17-73-10-W6. He enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier in September of 1914. On April 22, 1915, William was killed in action in an attack at St. Julien during the Second Battle of Ypres.
Sources: homestead record
Nakamura, John
John was born in Japan, ca. 1859. He filed on NW 1-78-4-W6 in 1918, indicating that he had served in the military.
Nash, Walter William
Regimental Number: 535471
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: Canadian Army Medical Corps
Walter was born in Consecon, Ontario on January 15, 1876. He was working as a druggist in Ohio when he enlisted in the Canadian Army in January of 1916. Walter served in the Medical Corps for the duration of the war. In 1920, he came to the South Peace and filed on NW 26-77-2-W6 and the southern half of 27-77-2-W6.
Naughton, Henry Thomas
Regimental Number: 506016
Rank: Sapper
Branch: 3rd Canadian Tunnelling Company, Canadian Engineers
Henry was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on August 4, 1887. He filed on homesteads at 5-74-12-W6 and NE 8-78-15-W6 in 1913. He was married to Rachel at the time of his enlistment; they had two sons, Edwin and Thomas, and were living in Grande Prairie. In December of 1917, Henry suffered from a shell abrasion to his right leg; he was mistakenly reported as killed in action. He died on April 9, 1958.
Nease, James Ronald Stuart "Mike"
Regimental Number: 2663586
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
James was born in Hillier, Ontario on June 3, 1896. He came to Grande Prairie in 1915 as a banker. Later he filed on a homestead at NE 4-73-10-W6. James enlisted in the Canadian Army in April of 1918, and served in England. James married Margaret McKinley. He died on February 2, 1956 and was buried in the Spirit River cemetery.
Sources: Pioneers of the Peace p. 176
Nelson, Edward Jay
Regimental Number: 3210321
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Edward was born in Iron River, Wisconsin on June 26, 1897. When he was drafted in 1918, he was farming in Sexsmith.
Nelson, Elver Arthur
Regimental Number:
Sources: Where the Red Willow Grew p. 303
Nelson, Isaac "Ike"
Regimental Number: 101382
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 49 Battalion
Isaac was born in Magnetawan, Ontario on September 28, 1891. He came up to the Peace Country in 1910; his homestead was located at SW 36-71-6-W6. Ike worked for the Selkirk Trading Company until he enlisted in the Canadian Army in 1915. He was an excellent baseball player and put his skill to use in ball games at the front. Ike received gunshot wounds to his right shoulder on August 17, 1918 at Amiens. He was awarded the Military Medal for this action. In December of 1918, he was invalided to Canada. Ike married Lena Walter on January 27, 1920. They had five sons. Ike died in Brentwood, BC on March 6, 1953.
Sources: Lake Saskatoon Reflections p. 64; Pioneers of the Peace p. 189; Edson to Grande Prairie Trail p. 102
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Enlists (Oct. 5, 1915)
- Mention in Jim McDonald's letter (Feb. 13, 1917)
- Newspaper biography (April 24, 1917)
- Ball games at the front (August 21, 1917)
- Receives Military Medal (Nov. 19, 1918)
- Returns home (January 14, 1919)
- Recites at community concert (May 4, 1920)
- Photograph (1912)
- Photograph (1914)
- Photograph (1914)
- Photograph (1915)
- Photograph (1915)
- Grande Prairie Honour Roll
- Boys Who Went Overseas
- Nelson Family Portrait
- Biography (1934)
- Veterans Death Card
Nelson, Mads
Regimental Number: 447865
Rank: Private
Branch: Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry; 1st Canadian Labour Battalion
Mads was born in Nørre Broby, Denmark on August 27, 1871. It is unknown when he came to Canada, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army in Calgary in November of 1915. His wife Marie and their children Kay (13), Svend (7), and Karen (7) were still living in Denmark. According to his service file, Mads had defective vision and deformed teeth as a result of old age. He suffered from gunshot wounds on September 21, 1916 at the Somme. On the same day, a shell exploded near Mads and he suffered from defective hearing as a result. In May of 1918, Mads was invalided to Canada. He was discharged on July 20, 1918, being found medically unfit due to his injuries. Mads and Marie came to the South Peace in 1919 and filed on SW 9-78-20-W5; in 1921 the also filed on SE 33-78-20-W5. Marie died in 1958, and Mads died on May 16, 1960.
Newby, Robert Leland
Branch: American Army
Robert was born in Hesper, Kansas on October 2, 1893. He was living in Grande Prairie in 1917 when he was drafted into the American Army. Robert took the train to Pasadena, California to report for duty. He died on November 10, 1948, and was buried in Mountain View Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.
Newgord, Harry Maurice "Pinky"
Regimental Number: 1251213
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Canadian Garrison Artillery
Harry was born in Ackley, Iowa on March 22, 1885. He was living in Beaverlodge at the time of his enlistment in April of 1917; his homestead was the eastern half of 28-72-10-W6 and NW 28-72-10-W6. After returning from his time overseas, he also filed on NE 32-72-10-W6. At some point, Harry married Alva Matilda Matson. Harry died on October 11, 1938.
Newman, Charles Hutchison
Regimental Number: 339584
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Army Service Corps
Charles was born in Birkenhead, Cheshire, England on March 17, 1893. He and his wife Mary were living in Vancouver at the time of his enlistment in February of 1917. Charles served in Canada. After the war, the Newmans came to the South Peace, where Charles filed on homesteads at SE 1-78-3-W6 and NE 36-77-3-W6, both of which he later canceled.
Sources: Feb. 22 1921 p. 1 c. 4
Newsome, Graham
Graham was born ca. 1880 in Yorkshire, England. In 1918 he filed on NE 14-71-5-W6; his homestead file indicates that he served in the military.
Newton, Henry "Shorty"
Regimental Number: 2380224
Rank: Private
Branch: 8th Battalion
Henry was born in Melling, Lancashire, England on March 13, 1892. He was farming in Manitoba when he was drafted in January of 1918. His brother Thomas also served in the Canadian Army. Henry's foot was wounded in October of 1918. After being discharged in 1919, he filed on the western half of 10-71-5-W6. Henry served in the Reserves during World War II. While overseas, he met a woman from Australia and they were eventually married. Henry died in the mid 1960s.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 228
Newton, Horace William Goodwin
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: The Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert's)
Horace was born 1884 in Avon, Warwickshire, England. He served in the Somerset Light Infantry during World War I. In 1919, Horace filed on SE 31-77-3-W6 and NW 31-77-3-W6.
Sources: Grooming the Grizzly p. 463?
Newton, Thomas Marshall
Regimental Number: 12739
Rank: Private
Branch: 5th Battalion
Thomas was born in Melling, Lancashire, England on August 13, 1885. It is unknown when he came to Canada, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier in September of 1914. His brother Henry also served in the Canadian Army. On June 6, 1916, Thomas received shrapnel wounds to his knee, right arm, left hand, and face at Hill 60. Part of one of his fingers was amputated (it is unclear in his medical notes whether this was a surgical procedure or he lost his finger in battle). Thomas was discharged on November 30, 1917. In 1918, he filed on the western half of 15-71-5-W6. Thomas married Margaret Lily Spalding. In the 1940s they moved to Victoria, where Margaret died in 1955. He later married Ida May Campbell. Thomas died in Victoria on October 31, 1969.
Sources: surname file; Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 229; May 14 1918 p. 1 c. 3; Dec. 3 1918 p. 1 c. 6; Oct. 10 1930 p. 1 c. 3
Neys, Henry Ward
Regimental Number: VR-6140
Rank: Stoker 1st Class
Branch: HMCS "Seagull", Royal Naval Canadian Volunteer Reserve
Henry was born on June 27, 1898. He served in the Royal Naval Canadian Volunteer Reserve during World War I, as did his brother John. His mother, Catherine Neys, was living in Sexsmith, where she had filed on a homestead in Henry's name (SE 7-74-5-W6) in 1918. Henry died in the Halifax Military Hospital of the influenza on December 19, 1918.
Source: homestead record
Neys, John Steve "Jack"
Regimental Number: 3208198; VR-6374
Rank: Private
Branch: Royal Naval Canadian Volunteer Reserve
Jack was born in South Dakota on June 7, 1896. He was living in Sexsmith when he was drafted in April of 1918; his homestead was located at NW 1-76-2-W6 and he later filed on NW 18-74-5-W6 as well. In 1918, Jack was discharged from the army and joined the Navy, where his brother Henry served as well. On October 5, 1927, Jack married Nellie May Warn. Jack had a keen interest in aviation and in 1931 earned his pilot's license. He later owned a plane, and made several mercy flights. Jack died in Washington on January 22, 1973.
Sources: homestead record; Grande Prairie Capitol of the Peace p. 111-112; Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 646, 1148; Buffalo Trails p. 261
- Enlistment Form
- Navy Ledger Sheet
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Photograph (ca. 1930)
- Photograph (ca. 1937)
- Family portrait (1944)
- Marries (November 11, 1927)
- Takes up aviation (October 3, 1930)
- Secures flying license (November 27, 1931)
- Successful first flight (August 4, 1932)
- Owns aeroplane (August 11, 1932)
- Flies from Sexsmith to Grande Prairie (May 4, 1933)
- Flies to Edmonton (May 18, 1933)
- Plane equipped with skis (January 11, 1934)
- Mercy mission to Pine Pass (January 18, 1934)
- Mercy flight (May 21, 1936)
- Blog Post
- Find A Grave
Nichols, Clyde Everett
Regimental Number: 282724
Rank: Private
Branch: 85th Battalion
Clyde was born in Aylesford, Nova Scotia on September 8, 1893. He enlisted in Halifax in March of 1916. In June of 1917, Clyde suffered from trench fever. Two months later, in September, he married Winnifred Warne. Clyde was discharged, having been found medically unfit due to myalgia, on June 26, 1918. He'd already been sent back to Canada in February of that year. In 1919, Clyde filed on the northern half of 21-70-9-W6 and NW 25-70-9-W6. He died on August 22, 1937.
Nicholson, Charles Henry
Regimental Number: 101366
Rank: Private
Branch: 8th Battalion
Charles was born in Cumberland, England on April 10, 1872 (though it is possible that he lied about his age on his attestation paper and was in fact born in 1865). He studied to be a veterinarian in Edinburgh. In 1909, Charles came to the South Peace and filed on homesteads at: S 1/2 5-73-7-W6; SE 6-72-7-W6; N 1/2 32-72-7-W6; 6-72-8-W6. In September of 1915, he enlisted in the Canadian Army at Lake Saskatoon. On September 26, 1916, Charles was killed in action in an attack northwest of Courcelette. His body was not recovered for burial.
Sources: Lake Saskatoon Reflections p. 190
Nicholson, Gustave
Gustave was born in Sweden ca. 1879. He filed on NE 7-74-4-W6 in 1915; his homestead record indicates that he served in the military while proving up. He returned to his homestead after the war. Gus died in Grande Prairie in May of 1969.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 316
Nicholson, William Angus
Regimental Number: 77996
Rank: Private
Branch: 7th Battalion
William was born in Montreal on July 4, 1891. In 1914 he filed on a homestead at SW 12-71-6-W6. He enlisted in Vancouver in March of 1915. William suffered from gunshot wounds to his "lower extremities" (left foot) in April of 1916, for which he went to trial. On page 19 of his service file is a typed transcript of the trial; he was found not guilty. William was killed in action at Mont Sorrel on June 3, 1916 and was buried at Square Wood.
Sources: homestead record
Nicholson, William Jamieson
Regimental Number: 2022324
Rank: Gunner
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, British Columbia Regiment
William was born in Sandwich in the Shetland Islands, Scotland on June 29, 1891. He filed on NE 33-72-11-W6 in 1917. William was drafted into the Canadian Army in March of 1918 and served in Canada for the remainder of the war. In 1923, he married Fanny Guthrie Hill. He died in Kirkland, Washington on May 15, 1959.
Nitaisse/Nitaise/Nitasse, Jules N.
Jules was born ca. 1873 or 1879 in Lan de Calais/Pao-au-Calais, France. He filed on NW 24-72-4-W6 and SW 24-72-4-W6 in 1915; his homestead records indicate that he served in the military while proving up. Jules may have served in either the French or Canadian Army.
Noll, William John
Regimental Number: 2684235
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
William John Noll was born January 15, 1895 in Parkdale, Minnesota. In the spring of 1914, William traveled to the Grande Prairie area over the Edson Trail. He filed on a homestead at SW 21-74-8 W6 on October 30, 1913. William enlisted in the Royal North West Mounted Police in 1918 as a way to get into the Canadian army; he enlisted in Regina on May 3, 1918. William served in Great Britain and was finally discharged on July 16, 1919; he did not return to the South Peace. It appears that he never married. William died on June 11, 1963 and was buried in the Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Sources: Buffalo Trails p. 219, 228, 265; RCMPGraves.com
Norley, George Leslie
Regimental Number: 101344
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
George was born in Petersfield, Hampshire, England on August 23, 1892. He first filed on a homestead in the South Peace in 1912 and eventually owned three quarters at NW 35-70-7-W6, NE 21-71-7-W6, SW 18-70-7-W6. George was in the No. 1 Australian General Hospital in September of 1916. He was discharged in July of 1918 because of 'disordered action of heart,' being nervous and easily excited, and having slight tremors in his hands. According to a January 1919 newspaper, he expected to sell out shortly.
Sources: Pioneers of the Peace p. 221; Along the Wapiti pg. 411
Norman, Homer
Regimental Number: 3207551
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Homer was born in Buchtel, Ohio on May 8, 1887. In 1915 he filed on NE 20-70-12-W6. Homer was drafted into the Canadian Army in March of 1918. He returned to Alberta after the war, but eventually moved to Hamilton, Ontario.
Sources: Beaverlodge Supplement p. 342; July 27, 1915 p. 4 c. 1
North, Roger Lesley
Regimental Number: 100089
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 49th Battalion
Roger was born in London, England on May 20, 1894. It is unknown when he first came to Canada, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army in Edmonton in June of 1915. Roger suffered from shrapnel wounds to his right arm in June 1916 at Ypres; because of this injury and other health concerns, he did not return to active duty. Roger was granted furlough to Canada on February 27, 1918 for "business reasons." In 1918, Roger filed on the eastern half of 22-73-10-W6 and NE 25-73-10-W6; he later canceled all three homesteads. Roger married Ruby Lanctot on May 4, 1927.
Sources: May 9, 1927 p. 1 c. 3
Noskey, Vincent
Regimental Number: 3206301
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Vincent was born in Grouard, Alberta on February 3, 1897. He was living in Spirit River when he was drafted in January of 1918 (his brother Charles was drafted as well). Vincent was killed in action on August 14, 1918 at Parvillers.
Noskey, William
Regimental Number: 4100784
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment; 10th Battalion
William was born in Grouard, Alberta in November of 1893. He was drafted in November of 1917 and served in France during the final months of the war. Following World War I, William returned to Alberta and filed on a homestead at SE 36-79-21-W5. William died on March 8, 1965.
Noskiyah, Charles
Regimental Number: 3206909
Rank: Private
Branch: 50th Battalion
Charles was born in Sturgeon Lake, Alberta on December 25, 1895. He was drafted in January of 1918 (his brother Vincent was drafted as well). Charles returned to Alberta after the war and filed on homesteads further north, at 26-92-23-W5 and SE 16-108-13-W5. Charles died on August 12, 1963 in Keg River.
Nowry, Lorne "Bob"
Regimental Number: 721697
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Bob was born in Palmerston, Ontario on May 30, 1879. He enlisted in Winnipeg in June of 1916. Bob married Annie Belle Heaton in 1902and they had four children; the family lived in St. Catherines, Ontario. Bob was was invalided to Canada in September of 1918 due to nephritis, and was discharged on November 7, 1918. In 1921 the Nowrys came to Grande Prairie and bought a sawmill; Bob also owned land at 4-73-3-W6. After the children were grown, Bob and Annie left the farm and returned to Ontario. Bob died on June 22, 1939.
Sources: Where the Red Willow Grew pg. 303; Bridges to the Past p. 478; Across the Smoky p. 54
Nunan, Noel Daniel
Regimental Number: 904891
Rank: Acting Sergeant; 2nd Lieutenant
Branch: 49th Battalion; Royal Air Force
Noel was born in Blarney, Ireland on December 20, 1877. In March of 1916 he filed on a homestead at NW 4-73-11-W6. About the same time, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. Noel suffered from gunshot wounds to his left leg in April of 1917. He was awarded the Crois de Guerre at some point during his military career. In June of 1918, he joined the RAF. Noel died in Russia on February 24, 1919.
Oatway, Richard McRae
Regimental Number: 3213088
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Richard was born on May 9, 1896 in Perth, Ontario. He came west to the Grande Prairie area in 1917; his homesteads were located at 29-72-5-W6 and 30-72-5-W6. Richard never married. He moved into the Pioneer Lodge in Grande Prairie in 1957, and lived there until his death in June of 1959.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 301
Oblinger, Milo Milton
Regimental Number: 2771295
Rank: Private
Branch: Northern Russia Mobile Force (Dog Detachment)
Milo was born in Arlington, Minnesota on February 16, 1891. He filed on a homestead at SE 33-78-6-W6 in 1913, and for a time managed the Grande Prairie Herald with his brother Verne. When he was drafted in 1918, Milo was married to Margryth and living in Vancouver. He arrived in England in November of 1918 and served in Russia; he was discharged in October of 1919. Milo died on September 27, 1943.
Sources: Grande Prairie Capitol of the Peace p. 50; Pioneers of the Peace p. 293
Oblinger, Vern Harrison
Vern was born on November 9, 1891. In 1913 he filed on a homestead at SW 33-78-6-W6. He and his brother Milo managed the Grande Prairie Herald. Vern left Grande Prairie in November of 1916. On August 9, 1919, Vern married married Irene Blanche Michaud. In 1921, they and their son Joseph were living in Big Valley, Alberta. They left for Montana early in the 1920s. Vern died on January 17, 1960.
Sources: Grande Prairie Capitol of the Peace p. 50; Pioneers of the Peace p. 293
O'Brien, Dr. Lewis James
Rank: Captain
Branch: Canadian Army Medical Corps
Dr. Lewis James O'Brien was born near Toronto on November 28, 1868. He was educated in Toronto, taught for awhile, then received his BA from the University of Toronto. He traveled to Germany where earned his MD from the University of Würzburg. He did clinical work in Germany and Austria for two years before moving back to Ontario to set up his medical practice. In 1903, Lewis married Miss Alice John from Extension, British Columbia.
When World War I started, Dr. O’Brien went overseas with the Canadian Army Medical Corps and served in the tent hospitals of Salonika (No. 5 Canadian General Hospital), France, Egypt and England. The couple came to the Peace Country after the war in 1918, during the Spanish Influenza Epidemic. When he arrived in Grande Prairie there was only a log mission hospital with 18 beds and a staff of one nurse and one ward aid. These two staff were on duty 24 hours a day and responsible for not only for the nursing, but for the cooking, cleaning, and laundry. The operating room equipment consisted of a wooden table and a coal oil lamp. During surgeries Dr. O’Brien acted as both anesthetist and surgeon, and often traveled long distances over undeveloped roads to operate on rural patients.
Dr. O'Brien actively promoted the idea of a community hospital, and slowly it came into being: first a local carpenter built a new operating room in lieu of paying his hospital bill, then the Ladies Hospital Auxiliary purchased the only X-ray machine north of Edmonton. By 1922, Hospital District No. 14 had been formed and the hospital was taken over by the municipality of Grande Prairie. In 1929, the hospital district was expanded and a large, modern, well-equipped new facility constructed immediately east of the pioneer log hospital.
Both Dr. O’Brien and his wife Alice contributed generously to the community of Grande Prairie and were active in civic and volunteer affairs. He served on the school board and was president of the Alberta Medical Association. He was also an MLA for four years during the 1940s.
The O’Briens raised five children and were avid naturalists. O’Brien Provincial Park, on the bank of the Wapiti River, is named after them. Dr. O’Brien passed away on June 14, 1955.
Sources: Pioneers of the Peace p. 147, 159, 162, 200, 203; Lake Saskatoon Reflections p. 218, 252; LaGlace Yesterday and Today p. 169
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- O'Brien family arrives in Grande Prairie (July 9, 1918)
- Dr. O'Brien's first operation in Grande Prairie (July 16, 1918)
- Son attacked by dogs (July 23, 1918)
- Running as an Independent (February 22, 1940)
- Independent Party (April 25, 1940)
- Served with Rev. McDonald (July 11, 1940)
- Speech in Legislative Assembly (February 19, 1942)
- Member of Legislative Assembly (March 26, 1942)
- 75th birthday (December 2, 1943)
- Dr. & Mrs. O'Brien (ca. 1945)
- Opening the Smoky River Bridge (1949)
- Opening a new wing of the hospital (1950)
- Dr. & Mrs. O'Brien (1952)
- Dr. Lewis J. O'Brien fonds
- Find A Grave
O'Brien, Stephen Francis
Regimental Number: 467425
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: Canadian Army Service Corps
Stephen was born in Peterborough, Ontario on December 28, 1892. He filed on SE 31-78-5-W6 and SE 13-79-6-W6 in 1914, and enlisted in the Canadian Army in September of 1915. Stephen died on February 9, 1947.
O'Connor, Daniel Francis
Regimental Number:
homestead: 23-77-25-W5; 5-78-24-W5; 34-77-25-W5
Oder, William Thomas
Regimental Number: 101468
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
William was born in Williamstown, Kentucky on December 1, 1877. He filed on the SE 12-73-5-W6 in 1914. In October of 1915, William enlisted in the Canadian Army. He received shrapnel wounds to his left leg in September of 1916 and rejoined his unit the following month. William was killed on November 14, 1916 when a trench mortar exploded in front of him as he was walking up the trenches northeast of Neuville-St. Vaast.
Ogilvie, George
Regimental Number: 279809
Rank: Private
Branch: 218th Battalion
George was born in Kerrie Muir, Scotland on May 18, 1880 (as he stated on his attestation paper). He filed on a homestead at SW 9-79-6-W6, near Spirit River, in 1916 and enlisted in the Canadian Army only months later. On June 3, 1917 George was discharged - it had been discovered that he had lied about his age and was in fact 49 years old. George died in 1919.
O'Grady, Michael
Regimental Number: 506017
Rank: Sapper
Branch: 12th Battalion, Canadian Engineers
Michael was born in Ontario on December 15, 1891. He was living in High Prairie (NW 32-74-16-W5; 33-74-16-W5) at the time of his enlistment in September of 1916.
Oliver, James Bowes "Jim"
Regimental Number: 3206316
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
Jim was born in Listowel, Ontario February 15, 1888. He came to the Peace River country by car in March 1914 with three friends; Jim filed on land at the following locations: 26-74-4-W6; 4-71-11-W6; 31-71-10-W6; 30-70-6-W6. In 1915, Jim started a furniture store and funeral home. In 1918 he was drafted into the Canadian Army. Although the village council petitioned the military to release him from the service to bury the many who were dying of the influenza back home, Jim did not return to Grande Prairie until June of 1919. On March 26, Jim married Ann Partlow; they had four daughters. Jim died on October 21, 1967 and was buried in the Grande Prairie cemetery.
Sources: Buffalo Trails p. 261; Pioneers of the Peace p. 310-312; surname database
- Enlistment Form
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Enlisted (February 26, 1918)
- Soon leaving for the front (March 19, 1918)
- Recruiting (April 2, 1918)
- Tour through the north country (May 21, 1918)
- Left for Calgary (June 18, 1918)
- Married (March 30, 1920)
- Store destroyed by fire (January 6, 1928)
- Rebuilds store (July 27, 1928)
- Ambulance service available (October 18, 1929)
- Biography (1934)
- Boys Who Went Overseas
- J.B. Oliver Funeral Home fonds
- Find A Grave
Ongman, Olof
Regimental Number: 269384
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Saskatchewan Regiment
Olof was born in Stockholm, Sweden on January 13, 1894. When he was drafted in 1918, Olof was living in Broadview, Saskatchewan. He filed on a homestead at SE 28-69-11-W6 in 1930. At the time of his father's death in 1948, Olof was living in Yellowknife. Olof died in 1977.
Orhan, Joseph Pierre
Joseph was born ca. 1885 in Monteneu, France. In 1914 he filed on NE 7-78-21-W5 and his homestead record indicates that he was serving in the military while proving up.
Orman, Jacob
Regimental Number: 18379
Rank: Acting Corporal
Branch: 9th Battalion; Canadian Forestry Corps
Jacob was born in Libna Molosvitsa, Russia on January 24, 1876. He enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier on September 28, 1914. Jacob served only in England, and in 1917 was attached for duty at the Russian Embassy in London. From July to October 1918, he was transferred to the Canadian Forestry Corps. Around 1929/1930 Jacob came to the South Peace and filed on land at 3-71-25-W5 and 33-70-24-W5.
Sources: Where the Red Willow Grew pg. 303
Orr, Archibald Belmont
Regimental Number: 811481
Rank: Private
Branch: 138th Battalion
Archibald was born in Pointe de Bute, New Brunswick on February 8, 1864; he lied about his age when enlisting and stated that he had been born in 1872. He, his wife Annie Laura, and their eight children were living in Edmonton when he enlisted in December of 1915. Archibald served in England until he was discharged on December 31, 1917, having been found medically unfit and overaged. In 1919, Archibald filed on the northern half of 1-73-3-W6 in 1919. He died in Victoria on August 15, 1931.
Orr, Frank Maitland
Regimental Number: 258284
Rank: Sapper
Branch: 8th Battalion, Canadian Railway Troops
Frank was born in Sydney, Ontario on August 14, 1876. He came to the South Peace in 1913 and filed on land at 27-71-5-W6, 13-72-4-W6, and 2-72-6-W6. Frank enlisted in the Canadian Army in 1916, and went back east around 1920.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 142; Grande Prairie Capitol of the Peace p. 50
Orr, John Montgomery
Rank: Private
Branch: 24th Service Battalion (2nd Sportsman's), Royal Fusiliers
John was born in Ontario ca. 1880. He filed on a homestead at NW/SW 27-73-6-W6 in 1911. In 1915, John joined the British Army and worked in an aircraft factory in 1917/1918.
Sources: Edson to Grande Prairie Trail p. 238
Orr, Nathaniel Murray
Regimental Number: 101466
Rank: Acting Sergeant
Branch: 49th Battalion
Nathaniel was born in Perthshire, Scotland on November 25, 1887. He filed on a homestead at NE 4-72-8-W6 in 1915, and shortly after went overseas to serve in the Canadian Army. Nathaniel was buried, presumably in an explosion, at Courcelette in 1916 and had a contusion on his left ankle; he also suffered from shortness of breath and dizziness afterward. Nathaniel was invalided to Canada in September of 1918. He died on March 29, 1964.
Oshier, Walter Edward
Regimental Number: 2663587
Rank: Driver
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
Walter was born in Waddington, New York on April 26, 1889. He was living in Grande Prairie at the time of his enlistment in 1918. Because he enlisted so near the end of the war, Walter served only in England and never made it to the front lines in France. He married Pearl Daggett in 1923. Walter died in Iowa in October of 1967.
Ouellette, Joseph
Regimental Number: 2383261
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Manitoba Regiment
Joseph was born in Lachine, Quebec on October 7, 1896. When he was drafted in 1918, Joseph was working on farms in Letellier, Manitoba. He served in England, France, and Belgium. In 1919, Joseph had pleurisy and influenza and in May of that year he was invalided to Canada. He was discharged on October 7, 1919. After the war, Joseph returned to the farms in Letellier and met Irene Bruyere, whom he married on January 11, 1926. In 1929, Joseph and Irene moved to Girouxville (NW 36-78-23-5). Joseph died on December 26, 1984.
Sources: Reflections p. 753
Oxley, Reginald Ernest
Regimental Number: 5166
Rank: Acting Sergeant
Branch: Canadian Engineers; Canadian Postal Corps
Reginald was born in London, England on April 8, 1891. It is unknown when he first came to Canada, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier on September 23, 1914. In 1922, Reginald came to the South Peace and filed on NE 14-78-5-W6 and SE 13-78-5-W6. He died at the University Hospital in Edmonton on April 1, 1924.
Sources: Estate Notice, Grande Prairie Herald July 26, 1926 p. 4 c. 2
Ozee, Clifford Robert
Clifford was born in Illinois on June 21, 1889. He filed on 12-73-5-W6 and 30-75-9-W6 in 1917 and his homestead records indicate that he served in the military while proving up. Some time between 1917 and 1929, he married Hettie Juanita. Clifford died in Edmonton on July 5, 1966.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Paige, Fredrick George
Regimental Number: 503407
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
Fred was born in Milton, Ontario on February 28, 1871. He was married to Matilda at the time of his enlistment in January of 1916, and they were living in British Columbia. Fred was discharged in December of 1918, having been found medically unfit due to myalgia and old age. He died in 1958 and was buried in the Grande Prairie cemetery.
Sources: Grande Prairie Cemetery
Paige, William Carol "Bill"
Regimental Number: 2198433
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Bill was born in Merritt, BC on April 3, 1899, though his attestation paper stated that he looked younger than his age and was "not sufficiently developed for full duty." It is possible that Bill lied about his age. He enlisted in March of 1917 and served only in England. In 1924 Bill married Hilda Eleanor Smathers. They lived in East Pouce Coupe (5-79-13-W6). The couple separated in 1940, and Hilda died in 1942. Bill was later remarried to Margaret. He died in Buffalo Creek, British Columbia on September 19, 1952 (see letter on p. 45 and following of service file).
Sources: Homesteaders Heritage p. 88
Palmer, Charles Edmund
Regimental Number: 51270
Rank: Lance Corporal
Branch: Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry
Charles was born in Durham, England on March 17, 1886. At the time of his enlistment in the Canadian Army in November of 1914, he was living in Quebec. In March of 1916, Charles had trouble with his knee, the result of an injury he received in a car accident ca. 1910. From that point on, Charles served in England. He was married during his time overseas. In 1919, Charles filed on SE 9-78-20-W5 and NE 4-78-20-W5. He died in Vancouver on July 26, 1964.
Palmer, Hedley
Regimental Number: 100546
Rank: Private
Branch: Royal Canadian Regiment
Hedley was born in Halifax, Yorkshire, England on March 26, 1894. He filed on LT 25-78-5-W6 in 1913, and enlisted in the Canadian Army in July of 1915. In June of 1916, Hedley received gunshot wounds to his left arm. He died of gunshot wounds to the chest, hands, and legs "in the field, Belgium" on August 18, 1916. Hedley was buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery; his headstone reads "They Will Be Done."
Sources: March 4, 1919 p. 3 c. 3
Palser, Thomas John
Regimental Number: 7462
Rank: Private
Branch: 3rd Battalion, South Wales Borderers
Thomas was born in England in 1881. He married Lilian Ada Ransom on January 20, 1909. In 1910, they and their four month old son emigrated to Canada and settled in Manitoba. A veteran of the Boer War, Thomas once again served in the British Army during World War I; he arrived in France in November of 1914. In 1927, Thomas and Lilian moved to Spirit River (SE 32-77-6-W6) where they raised a family of thirteen. Thomas died in 1946 and was buried in the Spirit River cemetery.
Sources: Memories and Moments p. 126
Pare, Leon Hudor
Regimental Number: 3212581
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Leon was born in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Quebec on January 28, 1884. He was a cook by trade, and served in England as a cook during World War I. After the war, he returned to his homestead on the banks of the Beaverlodge River (NE 19-72-10-W6; NW 13-72-11-W6). He died suddenly on January 3, 1929.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 319; July 26, 1929 p. 5 c. 5; Jan. 11, 1929 p. 1 c. 5; Feb. 8, 1929 p. 5 c. 3
Pariseau, Joseph
Regimental Number: 3213094
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Joseph was born in St. Esprit, Quebec on August 1, 1897. He came to Donnelly with his brother Rodrigue in 1916; his land was located at SW 8-78-20-W5, 25-76-21-W5, and 5-77-19-W5. In 1918, Joseph was drafted. He served only in England. He married Juliette Cote on January 7, 1921; she died only five years later. The couple had four children; their two sons died within two years of their mother. Joseph remarried on September 12, 1928 to Beatrice Nadeau. They had eight children. Joseph died on February 15, 1982.
Sources: By the Peavine in the Smoky of the Peace p. 440
Pariseau, Rodrigue
Regimental Number: 3213070
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Rodrigue was born in St. Esprit, Quebec on May 26, 1895. He came to Donnelly with his brother Joseph in May of 1916; his land was located at SE6-78-20-W5, 16-78-20-W5, 8-78-20-W5, 5-78-20-W5, 24-75-21-W5, and 11-77-20-W5. In 1918, Rodrigue was drafted; he served only in England. His poor health forced Rodrigue to return to Montreal in 1935. He died there in 1956.
Sources: By the Peavine in the Smoky of the Peace p. 441
Parker, Henry James
Henry was born in Brokenhead, England ca. 1886. He filed on NW 7-71-11-W6 in 1917; his homestead records indicate that he served in the military while proving up.
Parks, Mathew Henry
Regimental Number: 291753
Rank: Private
Branch: 7th Canadian Reserve Battalion
Matthew was born in North Bay, Ontario on June 15, 1875. He came west in 1910 and filed on homesteads at 5-78-4-W6; 30-78-4-W6; SE 28-71-6-W6; SW 8-78-4-W6; 20-78-4-W6; SE 7-78-4-W6; 11-79-4-W6. Matthew took the train to Winnipeg to enlist in the Canadian Army in 1915; he lied on his attestation paper, saying that he had been born in 1884. He served only in England, and in May of 1918 was discharged because of myalgia. His brother Oscar also served in the Canadian Army. Mathew died in Grande Prairie on March 8, 1971.
Sources: Edson to Grande Prairie Trail p. 154; Pioneers of the Peace p. 96-98
Parks, Oscar
Oscar was born ca. 1883, possibly in North Bay, Ontario. He came to the South Peace in 1913 and filed on NE 8-78-4-W6, SE 17-78-4-W6, and NW 21-78-4-W6. His homestead records indicate that he served in the military while proving up. Oscar's brother Matthew also served in the Canadian Army. Oscar died in 1973 and was buried in the Spirit River Cemetery.
Sources: March 4, 1932 p5 c5 (birth of daughter)
Parks, Percival John
Regimental Number: 1051473
Rank: Private
Branch: 5th Battalion
Percival was born in North Bay, Ontario on June 16, 1894. He was living in Brock, Saskatchewan at the time of his enlistment in January of 1917. Percival suffered from a gas burn and was buried by a shell in August of 1918. He and his wife, Evelyn Agnes Hettle, were living in Prestville by 1927, and filed on the eastern half of 13-77-5-W6 in 1928. Percival died on March 16, 1976 and was buried in the Spirit River Cemetery.
Sources: May 9 1927 p. 3 c. 3 (birth of daughter)
Parr, Clayton Bowers
Rank: Major
Branch: 24th Battalion
Clayton was born in Ottawa, Ontario on June 23, 1889. He was a graduate of the Royal Military College. On October 1, 1916, Clayton was leading the men in his command across No Man's Land, north of Courcelette. They were near the enemy's trenches when he was hit in the abdomen by a piece of shrapnel. Clayton died of these wounds on October 3, 1916 at No. 49 Casualty Clearing Station at Contay, France.
Parrier, Arthur
Regimental Number:
Parrish, E.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148; Jan. 1 1942 p. 1 c. 7 (?)
Parsons, Arthur Frederick Charles
Regimental Number: 19214
Rank: Private
Branch: 9th Battalion
Arthur was born in Hurstbourne Priors, England on August 6, 1979. He filed on SE 2-73-7-W6 in 1914, and in September of the same year enlisted in the Canadian Army. According to his medical records, he suffered from arthritis in his right hip and was discharged, having been found medically unfit, in March of 1915. Arthur died on November 14, 1918 and was buried in Toronto.
Partlow, Joseph
Regimental Number: 506605
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
Joseph was born in Yorkshire, England on September 22, 1874 (it is likely that he lied about his age and was born in 1872). He came to Canada with his brother-in-law in 1910, and his wife Mary Alice (nee Tissington) and their six children came in 1912. Joseph filed on a homestead at NW 32-71-6-W6. In 1916 Joseph enlisted in the Canadian army. He died on November 1, 1945.
Sources: Centennial Celebration Edson Trail p. 74, 118; Along the Wapiti p. 163
Paternotte, Andre Louis Francois
Regimental Number: 1327
Rank: Soldat
Branch: 47th Regiment (French Army)
Louis was born in L'Epine, Marne, France on December 11, 1893. In August of 1913, he filed on a homestead in the Falher area (SE 20-78-21-W5). When the war started in 1914, Louis went to France to join the army. He died on June 13, 1915 at Écurie.
Sources: By the Peavine in the Smoky of the Peace p. 441
Patrick, Frank Ferguson
Regimental Number: 624767
Rank: Private
Branch: 8th Battalion
Frank was born in Kingston, Ontario on January 31, 1893. The Patrick family moved to Lacombe in 1900, and in 1910 Frank and his brother Arthur came to the South Peace where Frank filed on a homestead at SW 2-73-8-W6. He enlisted in the Canadian army in February of 1916. Frank received gunshot wounds to his left leg on August 15, 1917 at Lens. In October of 1918 he was sent back to Canada, having been weakened by pleurisy. He was discharged on December 12, 1918. According to a document in Frank's service file dated December 1916, he was engaged to Mary Winter Doddington. Frank died in Camrose on July 9, 1969.
Sources: Lake Saskatoon Reflections p. 193; Pioneers of the Peace p. 99; Statement of Death (p. 27 of service file)
Patterson, Charles Alphaeus
Regimental Number: 3213240
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Charles was born in Smith Falls, Ontario on May 31, 1899. He was living in Grande Prairie when he was drafted in June of 1918. In 1919, Charles filed on NW 8-72-5-W6.
Sources: June 11 1918 p.1 c. 3; June 18 1918 p 1 c. 3
Patterson, Donald W.
Regimental Number: 301968
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
Donald was born on March 20, 1888 in Auburn, Ontario. He got his teacher's training in Regina and studied law at the University of Alberta. Donald enlisted in the Canadian army in October of 1915 and arrived in France in July of 1916. He was in the Ypres salient until August 24, then at "Dead Dog Farm" near Kemmel until September or October. From there he moved to the Somme and Arras. On March 8, 1917 Donald arrived at Careney, where supplies were being piled for Vimy Ridge. He had to count 36,000 rounds of ammunition. While at Careney, Donald witnessed the Red Baron take down multiple observation balloons, and the whole battery was strafed by the Red Baron. To his knowledge, no one was killed. In his memoirs, Donald notes that graves were dug for the expected casualties in preparation for Vimy Ridge. On April 6, 1917 Donald got a bullet in the back of his neck; he was sent to a hospital in Manchester. While recovering there, he told a minister - "I wouldn't go across the road to fight for the King. I'm fighting for my country. What has the king ever done?" In September or October of 1917, Donald's regiment was moved from Vimy to Passchendaele. In June of 1918 he was sent back to England to train for his commission and did not return to France. He was sent back to Canada in January of 1919. Donald met a lawyer in Calgary who worked in Grande Prairie and eventually moved here to set up his practice. He also served as Grande Prairie's mayor. Donald filed on the following homesteads: 18-73-7-W6; 11-73-8-W6; 14-72-1-W6; 7-72-26-W5; 19-72-11-W6. In January of 1923, Donald married Rose Devlin. He died on October 27, 1971.
Sources: surname index; see our Family Names database for more clippings; memoir
Patterson, Gerald Henry
Regimental Number: 101349
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Gerald was born in Stratford, Ontario on January 2, 1893. In 1911 he filed on a homestead at SW 14-73-7-W6 in 1911. Gerald enlisted in the Canadian army in September of 1915. On July 15, 1916 he was killed in action of Mont Sorrel.
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Enlists (Oct. 5, 1915)
- Postcard to Jean Lozeron (July 1916)
- Postcard to Jean Lozeron (July 1916)
- Killed in action (Aug. 1, 1916)
- Mention of death in Don Innes's letter (Nov. 1, 1916)
- Grande Prairie Honour Roll
- Circumstances of Death Register
- Reported Location of Grave
- Canadian Virtual War Memorial
- Commonwealth War Graves Commission
- CWGC Register
- CWGC Register
Paul, John
John was born in Edinburgh, Scotland ca. 1889. He filed on NW 3-79-5-W6 in 1917, and NW 26-79-6-W6 in 1930.
Sources: Wheatfields and Wildflowers p 264
Paul, Thomas William Holmes
Regimental Number: 624277
Rank: Private
Branch: 78th Battalion
Thomas was born in Sheffield, England on May 18, 1894. It is uncertain when he first came to Canada. When Thomas was in his early/mid teens, Alexander Forbes asked him to drive a team for him from Fort Saskatchewan up to Grande Prairie, which Thomas was eager to do. He made this trip several more times and eventually filed on land of his own in the Grande Prairie area (11-72-6-W6; SE 23-71-5-W6; NW 2-72-6-W6). Thomas enlisted in the Canadian army in January of 1916. He was wounded twice; a gunshot wound to his head in April of 1917, and to his left foot in September of 1918. Thomas was married to Norah Annie Fish. He died in Grande Prairie on March 24, 1969.
Sources: surname database; Pioneers of the Peace p. 191
Paverly, Fred
Regimental Number: 6018
Rank: Corporal
Branch: Royal Canadian Horse Artillery; 3rd Canadian Divisional Trench Mortar Group; 3rd Canadian Divisional Ammunition Column
Fred was born in Thornton, Yorkshire, England on June 17, 1888. He immigrated to Canada in 1912 and in 1913 settled in the South Peace (25-70-9-W6; 26-70-9-W6). In September of 1914, Fred enlisted in the Canadian army. He attended the school of cookery from December of 1914 through January of 1915. In November of 1917 he received shrapnel wounds to his thigh. In 1921, Fred married Winnifred Thomas in Calgary. He had met her twin brother on his voyage over from England in 1912. In 1928, the Paverly family moved to Wembley. Fred and Winnifred had five children. Fred died on January 18, 1977 and was buried in the Lake Saskatoon cemetery.
Sources: Along the Wapiti p. 50, 411; see newspaper database for clippings about grain prizes
Pearce, Aaron Percy
Regimental Number: 101071
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 49th Battalion
Aaron was born in Peterborough, Ontario on April 2, 1890. In 1912 he filed on a homestead at SW 15-71-8-W6. In July of 1915, Aaron enlisted in the Canadian army. He received shrapnel wounds to his left hip in September of 1916. Aaron died on November 27, 1960.
Sources: Along the Wapiti pg. 407, 411
Pearson, Wilfred "Fred"
Regimental Number: 15224
Rank: Corporal
Branch: Royal Canadian Dragoons
Fred was born in Kirkby Hill, England on May 15, 1890. It is unknown when he first came to Canada, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier in September of 1914. In April of 1918, he suffered gunshot wounds to his left arm. Fred married Mary Smith ca. August 1918. In 1919, he came to the South Peace and filed on SW 12-76-3-W6 and NW 1-76-3-W6. They moved to Vancouver in 1939. Fred died in 1977.
Sources: Grooming the Grizzly p. 488
Peckham, Edwin
Regimental Number: 236205
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Royal Field Artillery
died: Sept 13 1964
Ed was born in England around 1884. He, his wife Elizabeth, and their three daughters came to Canada from Surrey, England in 1928 and settled in Bezanson (22-72-2-W6). After Elizabeth's death in 1959, Ed moved to Powell River, BC. He moved back to Grande Prairie in 1963, and died at the age of seventy-nine on September 13, 1964.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 59; Bridges to the Past p. 61
Peebles, Arthur Perry
Arthur was born to George and Emma Peebles on July 15, 1902 and came to the Peace Country with his parents in 1912. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy. While was training in Vancouver, Arthur contracted the Spanish flu. He was still recovering from his illness when the armistice was declared, and returned to Grande Prairie in February of 1919. Arthur's father George and brother Harold also served in the Canadian Army. Arthur died in 1961.
Source: Pioneers of the Peace p. 193
Peebles, George Perry
Regimental Number: 101386
Rank: Private
Branch: 8th Battalion
George was born in Addington, Ontario on November 16, 1870. He and his wife, Emma Jones Peebles, came to the South Peace in 1912 and filed on land at 21-76-3-W6 and 3-72-6-W6. In 1915, George and his eldest son Harold (only 16 at the time) enlisted in the Canadian Army. In September of 1916 at the Somme, George received shrapnel wounds to his right arm and fractured the radial bone. He was discharged on October 31, 1917, having been found medically unfit due to this wound. During World War II George joined the Home Guards in London at the age of 69. He also served as a member of the British Army Intelligence Force in South Africa. While there, George was wounded and sent home to Victoria, BC. He died on November 29, 1944.
Sources: Edson to Grande Prairie Trail p. 170; Pioneers of the Peace p. 192
Peebles, Harold
Regimental Number: 101383
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Harold was born in Flinton, Ontario on August 14, 1899. He came to the Peace Country with his family in 1912. In 1915, Harold and his father George enlisted in the Canadian Army (his younger brother Arthur enlisted in the Navy near the end of the war). In May of 1918, Harold suffered from the influenza. He was weakened by the illness and discharge was recommended, but it didn't go through. While in England, Harold met and married Emmie David. The couple had four children. Harold filed on land at W 21-76-3-W6 and 17-76-3-W6. He died on May 10, 1961.
Sources: surname database; Pioneers of the Peace p. 193; Grooming the Grizzly p. 492
Peek,
Mr. Peek and his wife Lib were among the soldiers and their families who came to the Beaverlodge area after the war. They stayed only a couple of years.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 471
Peek, Harold Ringer
Regimental Number: 931172
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
Harold was born in Hitchin, England on February 25, 1882. In 1916, he filed on a homestead at SE 22-71-11-W6; in the same year, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. Harold was granted permission to marry Lily Ann in August of 1917. According to a note on page 27, Harold experienced pain in his leg and asked to be excused guard duty and route marches, and rather be assigned to work that did not entail being on his feet for extended periods of time. Harold died on September 10, 1965 in Vancouver.
Peffer, Howard Elliot
Regimental Number: 925723
Rank: Private
Branch: 5th Battalion
Howard was born in Front Royal, Virginia on January 19, 1898. He was married to Ruby, and they owned the N 1/2 of 33-73-3-W6. Howard was wounded in the left arm at Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917, and suffered from shell shock according to a medical report dated May 1917. In 1918 he received gunshot wounds to his left arm, which was fractured (view his service file to see x-rays of this injury). His brother Norman also served during World War I. Howard died on September 16, 1964.
Sources: homestead records; a few news clippings (could be his father, Harry Elliot)
Peffer, Norman Elliot
Regimental Number: 160739; 505605
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Engineers
Norman was born in Front Royal, Virginia on June 11, 1900. He enlisted in the Canadian army in October of 1915, giving a false date of birth as he was underage. In January of 1916 he was discharged, only to enlist again that July, once again with a false date of birth. Norman enlisted in Grande Prairie this time, on July 7, 1916 - one day after he filed on a homestead at SE 15-70-11-W6. His brother Howard served in World War I as well. Norman was killed in action in an attack from Inchy-en-Artois to Marquion on September 27, 1918.
Sources: homestead record
Pegg, Howard
Regimental Number: 256305
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles
Howard was born in Forestville, Ontario on January 16, 1896. He was living in Saskatchewan when he was drafted in January of 1918. According to his service file, Howard received gunshot wounds to his left hand. After the war Howard settled in the Blueberry Mountain area (14-80-8-W6; 12-80-8-W6). He married Sarah Jane Kirkness; the couple had seven children. Howard died on January 21, 1949.
Sources: Chepi Sepe p. 183, 469, 738; The Big Bend p. 86
Pellerin, Raymond Edward
Regimental Number: 154954
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Canadian Pioneer Battalion; 16th Battalion; Canadian Forestry Corps
Ray was born in Leroy, North Dakota on January 9, 1896. He came to the Peace Country with his parents, Napoleon and Lucy, in 1913. Ray filed on homesteads at the following locations: 19-75-2-W6; 36-73-2-W6; 24-75-3-W6; 22-71-5-W6. In 1915, he and a friend built a raft to go down the river to Watino, at that point the end of the railroad, to get the train to Edmonton where they could enlist. The raft was upset in the river and they lost their belongings, so they had to continue on foot. Ray received a gunshot wound to his left hand at Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917. After the war, he returned to his land in the South Peace. Ray married Jean Floener on November 22, 1922. The couple had three sons. Ray died on December 26, 1972 and was buried in the Grande Prairie cemetery.
Sources: Centennial Celebration Edson Trail p. 97, 119; Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 231; Across the Smoky p. 159; Pioneers of the Peace p. 312
Pelletier, Joseph N.
Regimental Number: 3213683
Rank: Private
Branch: 3rd Depot Battalion, 2nd Quebec Regiment
Joseph was born in St. Antonin, Quebec on January 21, 1898. He moved to Nobleford, Alberta around 1915. Because he was drafted in June of 1918, near the end of the war, Joseph served only in England. After the war, he came to the Falher area and filed on land at NW 5-79-21-W5, NE 6-79-21-W5, and SE 7-79-6-W5. In October of 1924 Joseph married Isabella Howie-Owens, a widow with three small children. Joseph and Isabella had three children together. Joseph died in May of 1979 and was buried in the Falher cemetery.
Sources: Reflections p. 780
Percival, Lynn Walker
Regimental Number: 101045
Rank: Driver
Branch: Canadian Army Service Corps
Lynn was born in Boston, Massachusetts on May 14, 1875. He filed on a homestead at NE 16-78-4-W6 in 1915 (he later filed on E 1/2 21-78-4-W6 as well), and that same year enlisted in the Canadian army.
Perdue, Alfred
Regimental Number: 721238
Rank: Private
Branch: Fort Garry Horse
Alfred was born in Lucknow, Ontario on October 15, 1896. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in December of 1915. In April of 1918, Alfred suffered from gunshot wounds to his head and face at Hangard Wood. In November of the same year, gunshot wounds left him with a fractured jaw that required multiple bone grafts. He and his wife Katherine came to the South Peace in 1929 and filed on SE 2-70-10-W6. Alfred died on May 2, 1958 and was buried in Beaverlodge.
Sources: May 9 1958 p. 2 c. 1, p. 12 c. 7 (obituary)
Perkins, Raleigh Jenkins
Regimental Number: 2075
Rank: Private
Branch: 19th Alberta Dragoons
Raleigh was born in Smithland, Kentucky on August 19, 1886. In 1914, he filed on the eastern half of 4-78-21-W5; in September of that year, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. His wife was still living in Kentucky at that time. In 1916, Raleigh suffered from a stomach ulcer. He wanted to return to the front, but was instead sent back to Canada and discharged on July 18, 1916. Raleigh died at the University Hospital in Edmonton on August 14, 1935.
Perraton, Percy Richard
Regimental Number: 117475
Rank: Private
Branch: 2nd Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles
Percy was born in Plympton, Devon, England on April 3, 1894. On December 12, 1911, he filed on a homestead at SW 5-72-7-W6. The following year he abandoned this homestead in favor of his brother Horace. Percy enlisted in the Canadian army in August of 1915.
Perrin, Jules Joseph
Jules was born ca. 1875 in Versaille, France. In 1913, he filed on NW 16-77-20-W5; his homestead record indicates that he served in the military while proving up.
Perry, Frederick Judson "Judd"
Regimental Number: 624970
Rank: Acting Sergeant
Branch: 10th Battalion
Judd was born in Codys, New Brunswick on May 5, 1893. He came west to Alberta as a young man and was working as a teacher in Chauvin when he enlisted in the Canadian army in February of 1916. His brother Rupert also served during World War I. After the war, Judd moved to the Beaverlodge area and filed on land at SW 18-71-9-W6 and SW 14-72-10-W6. He married Isabel Lett McNaught in November of 1938. They had one daughter. Judd died on March 28, 1942.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 66
Perry, George Johnston
Regimental Number: 633809
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 10th Battalion, Canadian Railway Troops
George was born on August 24, 1881 in Cornwall, Ontario. He and his wife Florence were still living in that area when George enlisted in the Canadian Army in March of 1916. In 1919, after being discharged, he came to the Sexsmith area and filed on the eastern half of 10-75-2-W6. George died on February 9, 1933.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Perry, Irving Walker
Regimental Number: 466642
Rank: Private
Branch: 7th Battalion
Irving was born in Benzonia, Michigan on July 3, 1889. He came to the South Peace and filed on SW 12-78-5-W6 in March of 1915. In July of that year he enlisted in the Canadian army. Irving married Edith Merle Aford in 1919. They returned to the South Peace after the war and filed on NW 12-78-5-W6 in 1922. Irving died in Ontario on October 6, 1964.
Perry, Rupert Lee
Regimental Number:
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: 236th Battalion; 21st Battalion
Rupert was born in Codys, New Brunswick on August 28, 1895. He received his commission as a lieutenant in the summer of 1916 (his brother Judd also served in the Canadian army). Rupert was gassed in April or May of 1917 at Vimy Ridge; this resulted in a case of bronchitis. He also had trench fever in June of 1917, and received gunshot wounds to his right shoulder and leg on August 18, 1917. After the war he came to the Beaverlodge area and filed on land at SE 18-71-9-W6 and SW 25-71-10-W6. Rupert died on July 26, 1967, at the age of 72.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 66
Pesteil, Jean Francois
Regimental Number: 868
Branch: French Army
Jean was born in Saint-Cere, France on January 30, 1890. He was living in Saskatchewan in 1914 when the French Army called him up to serve during World War I. In 1920, Jean and his wife came to the South Peace and filed on NW 9-77-20-W5. Jean died on November 7, 1945 and was buried in the McLennan Cemetery.
Peterson, George Rufus
George was born in October of 1871 in Iowa. He and his wife Emma came to the South Peace in NW 32-71-10-W6; the homestead record indicates that George had served in the military. George died on May 18, 1953.
Peterson, Louis
Regimental Number:
Louis, a widower, came to the Eaglesham area in 1928 and filed on SE 26-72-9-W6. He had two sons, Lloyd and Percy, and a daughter Esther. Louis died in 1966.
Sources: Smoky Peace Triangle p. 339
Petteplace, Nelson Henry
Regimental Number: 198746
Rank: Private
Branch: 52nd Battalion; 1st Canadian Tunnelling Company
Nelson was born in Bruce County, Ontario on July 8, 1873. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in January of 1916; his brother Robert also served during the First World War. Nelson was severely wounded at Vimy Ridge on May 21, 1917, having received gunshot wounds to his left buttock. In 1930, he filed on the western half of 13-79-11-W6. At some point after that, he married Ethel. Nelson died on November 5, 1949.
Sources: Homesteaders' Heritage p. 347, 389
Petteplace, Robert Washington
Regimental Number: 820235
Rank: Private
Branch: 44th Battalion
Robert was born in Greenock, Ontario on July 27, 1887. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in February of 1916; his brother Nelson also served during the First World War. In 1930, he came to the South Peace and filed on NE 12-79-11-W6 and SE 13-79-11-W6. Robert died in 1955.
Sources: Homesteaders' Heritage p. 349, 389
Phalen, Frederick James
Regimental Number: 63729
Rank: Private
Branch: 14th Battalion
Frederick was born in Montreal on July 31, 1894. He filed on SE 27-72-4-W6 in 1914, and enlisted in the Canadian Army in November of that year. According to his military service file, Frederick suffered from shell shock and bronchitis in 1915.
Phalen, Roy Walter
Regimental Number: 183524
Rank: Private
Branch: 31st Battalion
Roy was born in Amherst, Nova Scotia on May 2, 1884. He enlisted in the Canadian army in November of 1915. In September of 1916, Roy received gunshot wounds to his right arm at the Somme. He sailed to Canada in June of 1917 because of a problem in his spinal nerve, and was sent to a convalescent home in Calgary. In November of that year he was discharged. In 1928, Roy came to the South Peace and filed on the northern half of 8-70-22-W5. He died on March 3, 1951.
Sources: Where the Red Willow Grew p. 220, 303
Pickard, James Wemyss
Regimental Number: 624287
Rank: Lance Corporal
Branch: 78th Battalion
James was born in Selkirk, Scotland on September 30, 1891. He moved to Canada in 1912, and he and his father were living in Vermilion, Alberta at the time of his enlistment in January of 1916. In March 1918, James suffered from gunshot wounds to his back. He was awarded the Military Medal in 1919. James came to Grande Prairie in 1925 as manager of the Revillon Wholesale Ltd. He later moved to Dawson Creek, and in 1956 on to Lethbridge, where he retired in 1959. James died in 1984.
Source: surname file
Pickard, Joseph
Regimental Number: 2542321
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Joseph was born in Berne, Bohemia, Austria on January 8, 1883. In 1914, he filed on a homestead at NW 31-70-9-W6. In April of 1917, Joseph enlisted in the Canadian Army and served in England. Joseph died on April 3, 1940.
Pickering, Horace Walter
Regimental Number: 3216039
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Horace was born in London, England on May 27, 1884. In April of 1915, he filed on a homestead at SE 9-74-4-W6, near Sexsmith. Horace was drafted in October of 1918 and served only in Canada. He was discharged in December of that year.
Pickering, William/Willis
William was born ca. 1885 in Ontario. In 1925, he filed on NW 2-74-11-W6; his homestead record indicates that he had served in the military.
Pierre, Herve
Regimental Number: 660519
Rank: Private
Branch: 24th Battalion
Herve was born in St. Jacques le Mineur, Quebec on January 23, 1898. He was living in Lacadie, Quebec at the time of his enlistment in March of 1916. Herve received a gunshot wound to the head in June of 1918. In 1928, he came to the South Peace and filed on land at the following locations: SE 17-76-21-W5; SW 20-76-21-W5; SW 17-79-21-W5; NE 10-79-21-W5. Herve died on December 18, 1958 in Edmonton.
Sources: Guy p. 517
Piggott, George
George filed on SW 2-74-13-W6 in 1930.
Source: Pioneer Round Up p. 60
Pike, Jesse Edward
Regimental Number: 2288387
Rank: Corporal
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Jesse was born in Ridgeway, Iowa on June 25, 1892. He came to Alberta in 1916 with his parents and siblings, and while enlisting in Calgary, Jesse and his brother Tabor heard about the Peace country. After being discharged, Jesse filed on homesteads in the Hythe area (NW 15-73-10-W6; SE 10-73-10-W6). Jesse died on June 30, 1952.
Sources: Pioneer Round Up p. 271-273; Aug 7 1941 5 5 (?)
Pike, Tabor Emmit
Regimental Number: 2288388
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Tabor was born in Ridgeway, Iowa on April 8, 1898. He came to Alberta in 1916 with his parents and siblings, and while enlisting in Calgary, Tabor and his brother Jesse heard about the Peace country. While serving overseas, Tabor was frequently ill and spent a significant amount of time in hospital with various illnesses. After being discharged, Tabor filed on homesteads in the Hythe area (SW15-73-10-W6; NE 10-73-10-W6). Tabor married Annie Christina Coates on May 24, 1943. Tabor died on July 16, 1968.
Sources: Pioneer Round Up p. 271-272
Pitman, Charles Henry
Regimental Number: 101080
Rank: Private
Branch: 31st Battalion
Charles was born in Ontario on August 10, 1891. At the time of his enlistment in July of 1915, Charles was living in Grande Prairie, as was his brother Hudson. In 1917 he suffered from "trench fever" and spent many months in hospital. He married Ivy L. in 1917 or 1918. Charles died in September of 1974.
Pitman, Hudson Porter
Regimental Number: 101353
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Hudson was born in Belleville, Ontario on January 15, 1897. In January of 1915, he filed on a homestead at SW 10-73-7-W6. His brother Charles was living in Grande Prairie as well, and both brothers enlisted in the Canadian army. Between September 15 and October 8, 1916, Hudson was reported missing. In September of 1917, he was officially reported killed in action on October 8, 1916 during an attack northwest of Courcelette.
Pivert, Joseph Henri Denis
Regimental Number: 6617; 5071
Rank:
Branch: 31st Infantry Regiment (French Army); 26th Artillery Regiment (French Army)
Joseph was born in Montmorency, France on July 7, 1894. He served in the French army during World War I. In 1927, Joseph and his brother Maurice settled in Grande Prairie. Joseph died in 1991 and was buried in the Grande Prairie cemetery.
Sources: Birth, Marriage, & Death Certificates; Newspaper clippings
Pivert, Maurice Jules Alphonse
Regimental Number: 2751; 4534
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 51st Infantry Regiment (French Army)
Maurice was born in Paris, France on July 11, 1892. He served in the French army during World War I until he was wounded at the Battle of the Marne in 1914. Maurice returned to his home and married Suzanne Seiller. The couple, as well as Maurice's brother Joseph, moved to Grande Prairie in April of 1927. Maurice died on October 23, 1957 was buried in the Grande Prairie cemetery.
Sources: Birth, Marriage, & Death Certificates; Letter written by Maurice
Poilvoorde, Emil
Regimental Number: 1021169
Rank: Private
Branch: 10th Battalion
Emil was born in Hyst (Heist), Belgium on September 21, 1893. He was living in Grande Prairie at the time of his enlistment in July of 1916. Emil received shrapnel wounds to his right hand at Vimy and was in hospital for sixty-four days. His vision was poor and tried to get glasses, but it seems that the army never provided them. In October of 1918, Emil forfeited twenty-five days of pay for a number of offenses, including striking a police officer.
Poitras, Simon
Regimental Number: 101218
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Simon was born in Grand Falls, New Brunswick on November 2, 1889. He filed on a homestead at NW 17-73-7-W6 in 1911. Simon enlisted in the Canadian army in September of 1915. A year later, in September of 1916, he was wounded. Simon was killed in action on June 9, 1917 in the trenches southwest of Avion.
Pollock, George Arthur
Regimental Number: 426890
Rank: Private
Branch: 46th Battlalion; 3rd Battalion
George was born in Broadview, Saskatchewan on November 8, 1895. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in April of 1915. In October of 1916, George received gunshot wounds to his right shoulder. He also suffered from lacerations and a fracture to his right leg in September of 1918. After the war, George settled in Medicine Hat. Here he met Mable Wilton; they were married in January of 1921. In 1922, the couple moved to Goodfare to join Mabel's parents. George filed on the southern half of 15-72-12-W6. In 1928, they moved into Hythe with their three children. George died on October 2, 1971.
Sources: Pioneer Round Up p. 361
Porter, James
Regimental Number: 811334; 279805
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 8th Battalion, Canadian Railway Troops
James was born in Edinburgh, Scotland on April 27, 1877. He was living in Edmonton at the time of enlistment in December of 1915. Do to varicose veins, James was discharged on May 21, 1916. In October of that year, he filed on SW 33-71-9-W6 (he later filed on NW 28-71-9-W6 as well). On November 11, 1916, James reenlisted in the Canadian Army. He injured his leg in March of 1917, and was awarded the Military Medal in 1919. James married Emily ca. 1917/1918. The Porters left the area in 1927. James died in 1937.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 494
Porter, Samuel George
Regimental Number: 467321
Rank: Private
Branch: 63rd Battalion
Samuel was born in Waterloo County, Ontario on July 17, 1888. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in Edmonton in September of 1915. However, Samuel was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis that same year and sent to a sanitarium in Calgary in 1916. He never was sent overseas. In 1918, Samuel came to the South Peace and filed on SW 18-77-20-W5 and SE 13-77-21-W5.
Porter, William Wilbert
Regimental Number: 503273
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
William was born in Ballyduff, Ontario on August 16, 1885. He came west with his parents in 1900. In December of 1915, William enlisted in the Canadian Army in Calgary. In March of 1916, he became seriously ill with pneumonia and measles; he was invalided to Canada in September of 1916 because of rheumatic fever. William also suffered from epileptic fits. He served only in England. William and his wife and son came to Hythe in January of 1929. He died in Hythe on September 25, 1929.
Sources: Oct. 4 1929 p. 3 c. 7, p. 4 c. 3?
Postman, George John
Regimental Number: 3213470
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
George was born in Den Ham, Holland on August 30, 1897. He came to Canada with his family in 1904, and eventually settled in the La Glace area. George was drafted into the Canadian Army in June of 1918, as was his brother Hendrik. He was struck off strength on September 16, 1918, and never actually went overseas. George married Pauline Martha Dewitt on July 14, 1943. George died in Grande Prairie on January 16, 1978.
Sources: La Glace p. 271
Postman, Hendrik Enfield
Regimental Number: 3213508
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Hendrik was born in Den Ham, Holland on September 19, 1896. He came to Canada with his family in 1904, and eventually settled in the La Glace area. His homestead was located at NE 13-74-9-W6. Hendrik was drafted into the Canadian Army in June of 1918, as was his brother George. He was discharged on December 12, 1918 and served only in Canada. In 1953, Hendrik married Ina Scheffer. Hendrik died on March 13, 1966.
Sources: Pioneers of the Peace p. 290; La Glace p. 272
Powell, Albert E.
Regimental Number: 331847
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
Albert was born in Hereford, England on December 3, 1883. He and his wife Jennie and their two sons, George (8) and Albert (2) were living in Lethbridge at the time of his enlistment in 1916. In the early 1920s, the Powell family came to the South Peace; Albert filed on land at NW 2-71-6-W6 and SW 6-71-6-W6. At some point Albert and Jennie moved to British Columbia. They died within a day of each other in Kelowna; Albert on February 19, 1948, and Jennie on February 20, 1948.
Sources: homestead records; surname file; GP Herald Feb. 26 1948 p. 1 c. 3; March 4, 1948 p. 1 c. 7; June 7, 1921 p.1 c. 4; Sept. 23, 1927 p. 6 c. 1
Powell, Hugh
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Powell, Uri
Regimental Number: 63726
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: 4th Battalion
Uri was born in Buckinghamshire, England on April 17, 1889. In 1910 he sailed to Canada; he worked in Edmonton until 1911, when he was asked by Alex MacDonald to help him bring his three teams to the South Peace. Uri came and filed on a homestead at NW 22-72-8-W6 for himself. In November of 1914, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. Uri was awarded the Military Medal in August of 1916. On September 16, 1917, he received gunshot wounds to his left arm at Lens. The wounds were not severe enough to make him permanently unfit for duty, but it did have long term effects. Uri also suffered from a gunshot wound to his back in September of 1918. He came back to his homestead in April of 1919 with his war bride; his wife suddenly died in 1924. In June of 1926, Uri married Ella Richards. They had five children. Uri died on October 3, 1968.
Sources: Centennial Celebration Edson Trail p. 119; La Glace p. 170-171; Pioneers of the Peace p. 195-196; see newspaper database for additional clippings
Powers, Allan Earl
Regimental Number: 455140
Rank: Segeant
Branch: 2nd Battalion
Allan was born in Port Hope, Ontario on November 30, 1894. In August of 1915, he enlisted in the Canadian army. Allan married Margaret Josephine "Rita" McDaid in 1918; the couple had five children. The family settled in Eaglesham in 1933. On June 13, 1943, a fire destroyed the Powers home; Rita and the two youngest daughters died. Allan chose to move to Regina after this tragedy. He later married Marie Donovan. Allan died on January 1, 1988 at the age of 94.
Sources: Smoky Peace Triangle p. 351
Pratt, Delmar Wentworth
Regimental Number: 467208
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: 63rd Battalion; 5th Reserve Battalion; 15th Reserve Battalion
Delmar was born on August 2, 1889 in Carleton County, Ontario. In 1913 he came to the South Peace and filed on NE 12-71-6-W6 (after the war, he also filed on SE 20-71-4-W6). In addition to homesteading, he worked in the Grande Prairie post office. Delmar enlisted in the RNWMP in August 1914. In September of 1915, he enlisted in the Canadian army. Delmar was wounded in action three times. In September of 1916, he received a gunshot wound to the head and a shell wound to his nose. At Vimy Ridge on April 10, 1917, he received gunshot wounds to his right arm and left wrist; there were four or more pieces of metal in his arm. On September 27, 1918 he received shrapnel wounds to the head. Delmar was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous bravery in March of 1919. In December of 1920, Delmar married Mabel Lucille McCordick in his hometown in Ontario. The couple returned to Grande Prairie after the wedding. Delmar died of a heart attack on February 26, 1959.
Sources: Pioneers of the Peace p. 291-292; check database for clippings
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Enlisted in RNWMP (September 11, 1914)
- Photograph (1913)
- Photograph (1914)
- Photograph (1915)
- Enlisted in 63rd Battalion (July 20, 1915)
- Promoted (November 30, 1915)
- Wounded (Oct. 17, 1916)
- First flight (April 25, 1930)
- Biography (1934)
- Boys Who Went Overseas
- Veterans Death Card
- Find A Grave
- Blog Post
Pratt, Frederick William
Regimental Number: 703826
Rank: Private
Branch: 102nd Battalion
Frederick was born in Leeds, England on May 5, 1896. He was living in British Columbia at the time of his enlistment in December of 1915. In October of 1916, Frederick received gunshot wounds to his left thigh. In June of 1917, he received gunshot wounds to his left forearm at Lens. He was gassed in November of 1917, and received gunshot wounds to his right leg and right hand in May of 1918. After this injuries he was seriously ill for some time. In 1919, Frederick came to the South Peace and filed on SE 21-71-11-W6. At some point he married Annie Procaccini. Frederick died in Nelson, British Columbia on December 14, 1985.
Preece, Charles Herbert "Bert"
Branch: British Army
Charles was born in Derbyshire, England around 1895. He served in the British Army during World War I. In the early 1920s, he, his wife, and their two sons came to Canada. They farmed in Manitoba for a time, but it was not successful. Mrs. Preece and the two sons returned to England, and Charles came to the South Peace where he filed on S 1/2 35-73-2-W6 in February of 1929. During World War II, Charles served in the Veterans Guard of Canada, guarding prisoners near Lethbridge. After discharge, he went to Vancouver and was remarried. The Preeces had a daughter named Jennifer. Charles and his wife were killed in a car accident.
Sources: Across the Smoky p. 121
Prevost, Athanase
Regimental Number: 260267
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Saskatchewan Regiment
Athanase was born in St. Andre-Avellin, Quebec on March 20, 1896. He was ranching in Saskatchewan when he was drafted in early 1918. In 1919, Athanase filed on a homestead at SE 36-77-3-W6.
Sources: Feb 20 1923 p.1 c. 6
Pringle, John Percival (Jr.)
Regimental Number: 18461
Rank: Lieutenant
Branch: 2nd Battalion
John was born in Kildonan Parish, Manitoba on December 10, 1884. In 1912, he filed on SW 28-78-6-W6. John traveled to Valcartier to enlist in September of 1914. He wrote a series of fascinating letters to the Grande Prairie Herald detailing his experiences at the front. On April 26, 1916, John received gunshot wounds to the neck. On September 9, 1916, John was killed in action southwest of Courcelette. He charged a German machine gun single-handed and killed the crew with his revolver. John was killed as he reached the parapet. In December of 1916, John was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery. His grave marker is inscribed with "The work of righteousness shall be peace."
Sources: check database for clippings
Books: Canada's Dream Shall Be of Them; Valour Road, by John Nadler (view on Google Books)
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Letter to William Alexander, p.1 (Sept. 12, 1915)
- Letter to William Alexander, p.2 (Sept. 12, 1915)
- Letter (May 20, 1913)
- Letter (Nov. 23, 1915)
- Letter (January 18, 1916)
- Wounded (April 25, 1916)
- Letter (May 2, 1916)
- Letter (May 16, 1916)
- Letter (May 23, 1916)
- Letter (August 29, 1916)
- War Diary
- War Diary (September 9, 1916)
- War Diary (September 9, 1916)
- Reported killed in action (Oct. 3, 1916)
- Lt. Pringle Charges German Machine Gun Single Handed (Oct. 10, 1916)
- Unraveling the Past blog post
- Military Medal
- Circumstances of Death Register
- Canadian Virtual War Memorial
- Commonwealth War Graves Commission
- CWGC Register
- CWGC Register
- Find A Grave
- Blog Post
Probst, Eugene Albert
Regimental Number: 258737
Rank: Sapper
Branch: 8th Battalion, Canadian Railway Troops
Eugene was born in Bienne, Switzerland February 21, 1892. In 1910 he came to Canada, and settled in the South Peace in 1913. Eugene filed on SE 6-71-9-W6 and NW 25-70-10-W6. He was living in Halcourt when he enlisted in August of 1916. Some time after the war, Eugene began corresponding with Edith Ella Lachat in Switzerland, at the recommendation of Mrs. Schaffter, one of his neighbors in Beaverlodge. When Edith came to visit Mrs. Schaffter, she and Eugene became acquainted. Eugene proposed and they were married on July 3, 1930. The Probsts had four children. Eugene died in 1987.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 561; Edson to Grande Prairie Trail p. 190
Proctor, John
Regimental Number: 101239
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
John was born in Teeswater, Ontario on December 12, 1879 (according to his homestead records and a 1934 biography, it seems likely that he lied about his age on his attestation paper and was in fact born in 1869). He came to the South Peace around 1908 or 1909; his land was located at NE and SW 34-73-8-W6. In September of 1915, John enlisted in the Canadian army. On November 28, 1916, he was injured by a falling load of bricks. John returned to the South Peace after the war. In the late 1930s, he sold his land to his nephew and moved into Grande Prairie. John died on July 7, 1942.
Sources: Buffalo Trails p. 211; La Glace p. 297
Prouse, John Edwin
Regimental Number: 3205835
Rank: Private
Branch: 10th Battalion
John was born in Langtree, Devonshire, England on March 15, 1892. He was living in Edmonton when he was drafted in January of 1918. On September 2, 1918 at Arras, John received gunshot wounds to his face and thigh. In January of 1930, he camped out in a box in front of the land office in order to file on a homestead at SW 34-74-3-W6.
Sources: Jan 10 1930 p. 1 c. 5
Prudhomme, Arthur Bryan
Regimental Number: 424207
Rank: Private
Branch: 5th Battalion
Arthur was born in St. Philomene, Quebec on March 28, 1887. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in July of 1915. In November of that year, he forfeited ten days' pay for drunkenness. He was appointed cook in January of 1916. In 1919, Arthur came to the South Peace and filed on NE 13-71-4-W6 and SW 24-71-4-W6 in the Glen Leslie area. According to several articles in the Grande Prairie Herald, Arthur sometimes participated in boxing matches.
Sources: newspaper clippings
Pryke, Herbert William
Regimental Number: 16227
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 7th Battalion
Herbert was born in Fresenfield, Suffolk, England on March 31, 1886. He was already living in Canada when he enlisted in Valcartier in September of 1914. In February of 1917, Herbert was dangerously ill with pneumonia. After being discharged, Herbert came to the South Peace and filed on land at NE 5-71-9-W6 and NW 23-71-9-W6 in 1919. In the late 1920s, Herbert returned to England to visit. On August 1, 1928 he married Ruth Charlotte Spencer of Cambridge, England in Edmonton. They came back to Herbert's farm, where they lived until 1939. At that point, they sold the farm and returned to England. Herbert died in England, having been struck by a motor vehicle while out riding his bicycle.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 462
Ptolemy, Archibald Allen
Regimental Number: 12882
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 5th Battalion
Archibald was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 20, 1889. It is unknown when he first came to Canada, but he enlisted in Valcartier in September of 1914. Archibald married Jenny Elizabeth Hall in Eastbourne, England in October of 1917. In 1920, Archibald and Jenny moved to the Spirit River area and filed on NE 17-76-2-W6 (he later bought the southeast quarter as well). They had six children. Archibald died on March 26, 1943.
Sources: Chepi Sepe p. 183, 764
Purves, Lorney Edgar
Regimental Number: 276466
Rank: Private
Branch: 46th Battalion
Lorney was born in Berkeley, Ontario on March 31, 1892. He was living in Saskatchewan at the time of his enlistment in June of 1916. Later that year, Lorney married Charlotte Jessie Drysdale. Lorney received gunshot wounds to his left elbow on September 3, 1918. He was invalided to Canada on November 26, 1918 because of this wound. In the early 1920s, Lorney and Lottie and their three children came to the South Peace, where Lorney filed on a homestead at SW 12-70-9-W6. Lorney died in the Grande Prairie hospital on August 23, 1967.
Sources: Along the Wapiti p. 381, 411
Purves, William J.
Regimental Number: SE/12080
Rank: Private
Branch: Royal Army Veterinary Corps
William was born in Scotland ca. 1888. His first wife died during World War I, while William was serving at the front as a blacksmith or farrier, leaving him with two young sons. William married Sarah Devina Lynch McSorely on December 19, 1919. They came to Canada in 1926 and William filed on NW 1-75-13-W6. In 1945, William and Sarah moved to Edmonton. William died in Edmonton on May 13, 1956.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 144
Quevillon, Eugene
Regimental Number: 10196; 86298
Rank: Driver
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
Eugene was born in Oka, Quebec on March 1, 1887. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in Winnipeg in June of 1915. Eugene claimed to have fallen off a wagon while in France, causing an injury to his back, but the doctor who made this note on Eugene's file could find no record of this injury. It is uncertain whether the doctor believed this story. Eugene did walk with a limp, and was eventually discharged for being medically unfit, though his records are vague concerning the reason for his discharge. In November of 1917, Eugene married an Englishwoman named Alice de F. He was invalided to Canada in December of 1917, and discharged on January 29, 1918. Later that year, he filed on the western half of 28-78-20-W5 and SW 33-78-20-W5. Eugene died on December 27, 1964.
Quick, Frederick William
Regimental Number: 803207
Rank: Private
Branch: 3rd Battalion
Frederick was born in Strathroy, Ontario on February 17, 1898. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in May of 1916. In February of 1918, Frederick was gassed and spent a month in hospital. He filed on the western half of 2-80-13-W6 in 1928. Frederick married Alma in 1940; they had three children. He died on November 23, 1946.
Sources: Homesteaders' Heritage p. 296
Raby, Ludger
Regimental Number: 3207496
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Ludger was born in Thurso, Quebec on February 18, 1888. He came west in 1910 and worked for the Athabasca River Lumber company. Ludger was drafted in November of 1917; the war ended before he made it overseas. On June 24, 1922, Ludger married Eugenie Guenette. In 1934, they settled on NW 4 (2?)-79-21-W5. The Rabys had six children. Ludger died on August 3, 1954.
Sources: Reflections p. 794
Radbourne, Henry George
Regimental Number: 2771159
Rank: Private
Branch: 260th Battalion
Henry was born in London, England on March 26, 1899. When he was drafted in October of 1918, he was living in Victoria, BC. Henry served for a time in Siberia. He married a woman named Bertha Grace. Henry died in 1966 and was buried in the Grande Prairie Cemetery.
Sources: Grande Prairie Cemetery
Radley, William James
Regimental Number: 838382
Rank: Private
Branch: 4th Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles
William was born in Osprey, Ontario on May 12, 1898. He enlisted in the Canadian army in December of 1915. William suffered from trench foot multiple times, and according to a note in his file dated March of 1918, he experienced deafness in his left ear. After the war, Bill married Cora Viola May Davis in Toronto. In the late 1920s he came to the South Peace with his family and filed on land at SE 34-79-13-W6 and NE 27-79-13-W6. William died in Chilliwack, British Columbia on May 27, 1983.
Sources: Homesteaders Heritage p. 299
Rae, Charles Morley
Regimental Number: 3213234
Rank: Private
Branch: 1st Depot Battalion, Alberta Regiment
Charles was born in Milton, Manitoba on May 15, 1899. He filed on SE 7-71-9-W6 in 1917. In 1918, Charles was drafted into the Canadian Army. Because it was so near the end of the war, he served only in England. His brother James also served during World War I. Charles was discharged on October 15, 1919. After the war he, James, and their mother moved to Vancouver.
Rae, James Hope
Regimental Number: 147574
Rank: Private
Branch: 78th Battalion
James was born in Hilton, Manitoba on October 31, 1892. In 1915, his brother Elmer filed on a homestead at NW 7-71-10-W6 on his behalf. According to the land records, he also filed on NE 25-70-10-W6 in 1917. James enlisted in the Canadian Army in July of 1915; his brother Charles also served during the First World War. James received shrapnel wounds to his right arm in March of 1917, and was awarded the Military Medal in March of 1918. He was knocked down by an explosion in May of 1918 and in August of that year, it was observed that he suffered from shell shock. At some point after the war James, Charles, and their mother moved to Vancouver. James died in Vancouver on October 29, 1984.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 562
Rae, Merlin Hamilton
Regimental Number: 101357
Rank: Private
Branch: 31st Battalion
Merlin was born in Grand Forks, British Columbia on April 27, 1901. In September of 1915, he enlisted in the Canadian Army, giving his date of birth 1899. This would still have been considered underage, but he was accepted. Merlin was killed in action at Courcelette on September 24, 1916. According to Bill Hannigan, he "died like the man that he was." He was severely wounded in the leg and thigh at 11:00 AM, making him unable to walk. At 4:00 that afternoon a shell landed near Merlin and he died from the concussion.
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Canadian Great War Project profile
- Enlists (Oct. 5, 1915)
- Mention in F. Longair's letter (Aug. 8, 1916)
- Mention in Bill Hannigan's letter (Nov. 1, 1916)
- Killed in action (Oct. 17, 1916)
- Letter (Oct. 24, 1916)
- Letter written by Bill Hannigan (Nov. 7, 1916)
- Mention of death in A. Brotherston's letter (Jan 9, 1917)
- Grande Prairie Honour Roll
- Circumstances of Death Register
- Reported Location of Grave
- Canadian Virtual War Memorial
- Commonwealth War Graves Commission
- CWGC Register
- CWGC Register
- Blog Post
Raison, William John
Regimental Number: 2020412
Rank: Private
Branch: 7th Battalion
William was born in Devonport, England on January 25, 1884. He filed on NE 36-72-3-W6 in 1917 and was drafted in November of that year. In February of 1918, William was granted permission to marry F.C. On August 8, 1918, William was seriously wounded at Amiens. He received machine gun bullets to his head and neck; the bullet entered the right side of his head and came out the left side of his neck, causing complete paralysis of his left vocal cord. William died in Vancouver on July 22, 1963.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 378
Ramsden, Wilhelm Henry
Regimental Number: 931173
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 225th Battalion
Wilhelm was born in Dunton Green, England on October 2, 1889. He filed on SW 22-71-11-W6 in 1916 and enlisted in the Canadian Army in February of that same year. Wilhelm had been accidentally shot at Lemon Creek, British Columbia in September of 1914 and he was discharged from the army on August 9, 1917 because of this injury.
Rankin, William
Regimental Number: 505308
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Engineers
William was born in Parish Lyne, Scotland on November 28, 1883. He was living in Winnipeg at the time of his enlistment in March of 1916. In 1919, William suffered from influenza, He presumably remained in Europe after the war, as a present address card dated 1921 states that he was living in Scotland. In 1930, William filed on NE 22-78-7-W6. He died in Vancouver on December 21, 1959.
Rathwell, Walter Edward
Regimental Number: 2288435
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps; Canadian Garrison Artillery
Walter was born in Clinton, Ontario on January 28, 1881. In 1913, he came to the Peace Country and filed on a homestead at SE 35-73-5-W6; the following year he filed on NE 14-73-5-W6 as well. Walter enlisted in the Canadian Army in April of 1917 and served in France for several months toward the end of the war. On May 19, 1943, Walter married Ethel Elliott Mercer, the widow of Ted Mercer. Walter died in 1949.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 127; Centennial Celebration Edson Trail p. 120; Pioneers of the Peace p. 185
Ray, Arthur
Arthur filed on the eastern half of 19-75-2-W6 in 1928; his homestead record indicates that he had served in the military.
Ray, Isaac
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 64, 1148
Rayburn, Garfield Joseph
Regimental Number: 663421
Rank: Private
Branch: 21st Battalion
Garfield was born in Caledon, Ontario on March 15, 1894. In February of 1916, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. In August of 1918, he received gunshot wounds to his right foot; as a result he was invalided to Canada on November 9, 1918, just two days before Armistice. In 1920, Garfield filed on the northern half of 22-80-8-W6. He died on August 31, 1956.
Reade, George Bookey Swan
Regimental Number: 446167
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
George was born in County Wexford, Ireland on December 31, 1887. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in Calgary in April of 1915. According to his service file, he was granted permission to marry Nellie in May of 1918. This information conflicts with the community book, which states that he was married to Alice Cloak. George received gunshot wounds to his neck and fractured his jaw in 1917. In the mid 1920s, George came to homestead and set up a home in southern Alberta for his wife and infant daughter Marie, who was born in Ireland in 1923. Later, in 1930, he filed on a homestead at SE 6-75-22-W5, near Falher. His wife and their five children came up in 1934. The Reade cabin was Whitemud Creek's first post office, and George the first postmaster. George died on November 28, 1950 and was buried in the McLennan Cemetery.
Sources: Guy p. 647
Reakes, John T. "Jack"
Branch: British Army
Jack was born in Somerset, England around 1896. During World War I he served in the British Army. Jack was married to an American woman named Ida. In the 1920s, he filed on land at NE 15-78-24-W5 and NW 17-78-23-W5. Jack died in 1967.
Sources: Smoky Peace Triangle p. 359
Reaume, Charley
Charley was born in Ontario ca. 1903 and filed on NW 25-73-9-W6 in 1922. According to his homestead record, he had served in the military.
Reavley, Ethelbert
Rank: Captain
Branch: No. 43 Ambulance Train, Royal Army Medical Corps
Ethelbert was born in Port Robinson, Ontario in 1861. He attended university in Ann Arbor, Michigan and completed his medical degree at McGill University in Montreal. Ethelbert married Mary Jane Goulding; they had five children. During World War I, he served in the Royal Army Medical Corps, arriving in France in April of 1918. In 1927, Ethelbert came to Spirit River to set up a practice. He died on April 28, 1940.
Sources: Grande Prairie Cemetery; Chepi Sepe p. 444; 777-778; Burnt Embers p. 58
Redcliff, Tom
Tom filed on the northern half of 19-73-22-W5 in 1949. He died in High Prairie in 1959 and was buried in Edmonton.
Sources: Where the Red Willow Grew p. 460
Redmond, John Joseph
Regimental Number: 101361
Rank: Private
Branch: 66th Battalion
John was born in Liverpool, England on March 1, 1885. In 1910 he immigrated to Canada, and in 1912 he filed on a homestead at SW 28-71-7-W6. John took over the management of the Royal Hotel in August of 1915, but two months later left to enlist in the Canadian Army. He was sent overseas, but only made it as far as England. In April of 1917, John was declared medically unfit and sent back to Canada. He had defective vision (blindness in the right eye), the right side of his face was paralyzed, his hearing was impaired, and he had trouble eating - all this due to having been shot in the neck as a child, around 1889. He also had some sort of disability in his left leg, and had had multiple surgeries as a child. Upon returning to Grande Prairie, he was appointed assistant to Land Agent Clarke. In November of 1929, John married Molly Higginson. They had one son John. When Land Agent Clarke was transferred to Peace River and Grande Prairie's office was relegated to a sub-agency, John was left in charge. In 1943 (six years after the death of his wife) John was transferred to Edmonton. He died there in January of 1962.
Sources: Lake Saskatoon Reflections p. 31, 196; Pioneers of the Peace p. 256
- Attestation Paper
- Lives of the First World War profile
- Enlists (Oct. 5, 1915)
- Took over management of hotel (August 3, 1915)
- Tendered supper (November 22, 1929)
- Given farewell (September 10, 1942)
- Transferred (September 10, 1942)
- Retires (April 6, 1950)
- Grande Prairie Honour Roll
- Boys Who Went Overseas
- Find A Grave
Redwood, Douglas Ivan
Branch: British Cavalry
Douglas was born around 1898 in Somerset, England. He joined the Cavalry in England while still underage and served in World War I. He served in Mesopotamia, and after the war spent two years in India. In 1921, Douglas came to Canada and joined his brother William, who had homesteaded in the area in 1912. Douglas's land was located at SE 13-74-6-W6 and SW 3-75-5-W6. He married Edith Ward in the early 1920s. They had six children. Douglas also served in World War II, but was discharged in 1944 due to a weak heart and high blood pressure. Douglas died in Grande Prairie on June 12, 1946.
Sources: Buffalo Trail 196, 261; Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Redwood, William Leyson
Regimental Number: 154867
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Railway Troops
William was born in Bristol, Somerset, England on September 2, 1890. He came to Canada in 1912, and in 1913 filed on a homestead at SE 16-74-6-W6 (he later filed on NE 21-79-5-W6 and SW 26-74-6-W6 as well). In October of 1915, William enlisted in the Canadian Army and was sent to serve overseas. He suffered from shrapnel wounds to both legs at Ypres in June of 1916, (see page 59 of his service file for an xray). On September 18, 1917, he was awarded the Military Medal. In 1921, his brother Douglas came to Canada and filed on land near William's. William died in Grande Prairie on August 22, 1958.
Sources: Buffalo Trails 196, 261; Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Reed, Newton Isaac
Regimental Number: 513027; 316118
Rank: Acting Sergeant; Flight Cadet
Branch: Canadian Army Service Corps; Royal Air Force
Newton was born in Lindsay, Ontario on July 9, 1891. On August 6, 1916 he filed on SW 3-71-8-W6; two months later, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. He was struck off strength on October 25, 1918 in order to become a flight cadet in the Royal Air Force. Newton proved up and received the title for his land in 1922.
Sources: Along the Wapiti p. 407
Reeves, Herman
Regimental Number: 101378
Rank: Private
Branch: 66th Battalion
Herman was born in Edmonton, Alberta on April 6, 1892. In 1912/1913, he filed on SW 21-71-5-W6. Herman enlisted in the Canadian Army in October of 1915, but on January 24, 1916 he was "found by Board of Inquiry to be a deserter as from January 19, 1916." On May 31, 1916 he was struck off strength, as he was "not likely to become an efficient soldier."
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 233
Regan, William
Regimental Number: 812177
Rank: Private
Branch: 138th Battalion
William was born in London, England on December 26, 1870, though he stated 1872 on his attestation paper. He came to Canada in 1907 and was living in Grande Prairie when he enlisted in April of 1916. In August of 1917, William was given permission to marry Deborah. He served in England for a time but was discharged in 1918 as he was overage. In 1920, William and Deborah came to the South Peace and filed on SW 21-74-4-W6. William died at the University Hospital in Edmonton on December 7, 1947.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 326; July 23 1942 p. 2 c. 1
Reid, David
Regimental Number: K34014
Rank: Stoker (Class 2)
Branch: Royal Navy
David was born on March 31, 1898 in Scotstown, Lanarkshire, Scotland. He joined the Royal Navy in June of 1916. In 1928, David filed on a homestead at NW 17-75-2-W6. He died on July 17, 1963.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1148
Reid, Harold Albert
Regimental Number: 1045758
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Railway Troops
Harold was born in Victoria, British Columbia on October 26, 1893. He was living in Chicago when he enlisted in the Canadian Army in March of 1917; he stated on his attestation paper that he had served for five years in the American army. While at Whitley Camp in February of 1918, Harold slipped while drilling and injured his knee. In 1919, he filed on SE 8-76-3-W6. Harold died on May 9, 1978 and was buried in Los Angeles County, California.
Reid, John David
Regimental Number: 13274
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 5th Battalion; Canadian Machine Gun Corps
John was born in Campbell's Bay, Quebec on January 24, 1889. He enlisted in the Canadian Army at Valcartier in September of 1914. John filed on the northern half of 30-70-7-W6; one quarter was filed on by proxy in 1918 while he was still in London, the other John filed on in person in 1919. He received his discharge papers in Grande Prairie in 1919, and a present address card dated 1921 indicates that he was still living in Grande Prairie at that time.
Remillard, George Aime
Regimental Number: 2005600
Rank: Sapper
Branch: 2nd Battalion, Canadian Engineers
George was born in Quebec on February 28, 1890. He filed on a homestead at NE 3-79-6-W6 in 1914. In February of 1917, he enlisted in the Canadian Army. George died on August 29, 1931.
Rennie, Frederick Alexander
Regimental Number: 258722
Rank: Gunner
Branch: Canadian Field Artillery
Frederick was born in Truro, Nova Scotia on May 31, 1893. In 1915, he filed on a homestead at NE 36-77-20-W5, near McLennan. Frederick enlisted in the Canadian Army in Edmonton in August of 1916. He was badly gassed on July 28, 1917. A note dated August 1918 states that Frederick's right hand was swollen from the wrist down. This happened at Lens, though there is no information explaining the cause of the swelling. Frederick's hand was permanently deformed after this. Frederick died in Rimbey, Alberta on August 15, 1980.
Renninger, William Rosecrans
William was born in Pennsylvania on June 6, 1879. He filed on NE 13-70-12-W6 in 1921. His wife's name was Rose Cook. William died in British Columbia on September 28, 1959.
Restall, Harold
Regimental Number: 222
Rank: Sapper
Branch: Canadian Overseas Railway Construction Corps
Harold was born Patricroft (an area of Eccles), Greater Manchester, England on February 17, 1888. In 1909 he came to Canada and worked on farms and in lumber camps in Saskatchewan. Harold enlisted in the Canadian Army in 1915. While in the trenches in France, he met a man from the Peace Country and decided to come here after the war. In 1919, Harold settled in Guy (his land was located at NW 1-76-21-W5, NW 3-76-21-W5, and SE 10-76-21-W5). In 1970/71, Harold moved into the nursing home in McLennan. He died of cancer in October of 1975.
Sources: Guy p. 521
Reynolds, Arthur Edward Kenrick "Ted"
Regimental Number: 294487
Rank: Private
Branch: 107th Battalion; 12th Battalion, Canadian Engineers
Ted was born in Llandudno, Wales on February 20, 1898. In 1914, he came to Canada and worked on farms in Saskatchewan for the summer. After the harvest, he went to Regina to enlist in the Canadian Army, but he was turned away because of his age. Two years later, in June of 1916, Ted was successful in enlisting in the Canadian Army. In May of 1918, Ted injured his right foot but recovered and was sent back to the front. After being discharged, Ted came to the Peace Country and filed on land at NE 22-74-4-W6, NE 26-74-4-W6, and NW 23-74-4-W6. On December 6, 1927, Ted married Sarah Moore. They had five children. Ted died in August of 1997 and was the last known World War I veteran in the South Peace.
Sources: surname database; Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 1105, 1148
Reynolds, Franklin James
Regimental Number: 101214
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Frank was born in Princeton, Illinois on June 20, 1892. In 1913 he came to the Beaverlodge area and filed on land at NW 3-72-10-W6 (after the war he also filed on SE 9-73-10-W6). Frank enlisted in the Canadian Army in September of 1915. He received gunshot wounds to his right thigh on October 9, 1916. Frank was with Chip Kerr in the engagement where Chip was awarded the Victoria Cross; he may have been one of the men who helped Chip escort the prisoners behind lines. After the war Frank returned to Beaverlodge and continued farming. He married Alma Pack in May of 1921; in 1923 they left for Oklahoma with their two young sons.
Sources: Beaverlodge to the Rockies p. 226; May 17, 1921 p. 1 c. 4; Jan. 14, 1919 p. 1 c. 1
Rice, Thomas Woodom
Regimental Number: 2288437
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Forestry Corps
Thomas was born on March 29, 1893 in International Falls, Minnesota. He came to Canada with his parents as a young boy, living first in Ontario and eventually coming to Alberta, where he was living at the time of his enlistment in April of 1917. Thomas went absent without leave from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on October 16, 1917 and forfeited 24 days of pay as a result. On December 11, 1917, Thomas was injured accidentally. According to his service file, he was injured "while replacing the dogger on the carriage, Pte. Rice slipped, owing to the ice on the oak skids, and he foot was jammed between the log and the carriage and the skidway." In April of 1918 Thomas was AWL overnight, and on June 3, 1918 he was AWL for two hours. While overseas, Thomas met Suzanne Chabau. They were married after the war, though Thomas spoke no French and Suzanne, a Frenchwoman, spoke no English. They came to the South Peace after the war and filed on the southern half of 2-73-3-W6 in 1919. They sold the homestead after thirty years and moved to Goldfields, Saskatchewan. Four years later they moved back to Edmonton. During World War II, Thomas was sent to work in a plant in Ontario. His family joined him once he got settled. Thomas died in Hamilton, Ontario on January 5, 1974.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 177
Richards, Frederick Gladstone
Fred was born in 1891. He came from Regina to visit his brother John and purchased SW 15-73-8-W6 from Norman Anderson. In 1924, he came up with his belongings to settle on his homestead. His fiancee, Ethelwyn Marshall, came to the area from Regina and they were married on May 2, 1924. They had one son named Marshall. Fred later bought NE 27-73-8-W6 from William Origer. Fred died in 1940 and was buried in the Scenic Heights Cemetery near La Glace.
Sources: La Glace Yesterday and Today p. 172, 313
Richards, Judson Stanley
Rank: Major
Branch: 137th Battalion; 21st Reserve Battalion; Canadian Forestry Corps
Judson was born on July 2, 1875 (1876?) in Kenilworth, Ontario. In 1907, he married Jennie Adeline McNaughton. They moved to Calgary in 1908. Judson served in England during the war. Judson and Jennie came to the Sexsmith area in 1920; Judson was in a partnership with his brother-in-law in the general store. He filed on SE 33-74-3-W6 in 1930. Judson died on April 14, 1948.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown over pg. 949, 1148
Richardson, Ernest "Dick"
Service Number: M/56288
Branch: Veterans Guard of Canada
Ernest was born ca. 1895. Hefiled on the eastern half of 17-70-8-W6 in 1927 or 1928, indicating on his homestead record that he had served in the First World War. Ernest also served in the Veterans Guard during the Second World War. His wife Clara was living in Dawson Creek during that time. Ernest died on December 15, 1945 and was buried in the Grande Prairie Cemetery.
Sources: Along the Wapiti p. 411 (listed as Richard Richardson, likely a misunderstanding as he went by Dick, commonly a nickname for Richard)
Richardson, George Arthur
Regimental Number: 823309
Rank: Sergeant
Branch: 4th Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles
George was born in Ingersoll, Ontario on January 27, 1896. He enlisted in the Canadian Army in December of 1915. In 1920, he filed on NW 13-70-11-W6 and SE 13-70-11-W6. George died on December 19, 1978.
Sources: see newspaper index
Richardson, J.
Regimental Number:
Richardson, William James
Regimental Number: 426263
Rank: Private
Branch: 10th Battalion
William was born in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, England on January 11, 1889. He first filed on a homestead at NE 30-79-14-W6 in 1913. In later years he also purchased the following: NE 10-70-11-W6; E 1/2 24-74-13-W6; NW 32-75-13-W6. In January of 1915, William enlisted in the Canadian Army. He received gunshot wounds to his right shoulder and sprained his back in August of 1917. On Armistice Day (November 11, 1918), William married Beatrice in England and the two came back to the South Peace. They had a daughter named Ruby.
Sources: Pioneer Round-up p. 47; April 29, 1919 p. 1 c. 3
Richter, Rubin Mier
Regimental Number: 100230
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
Rubin was born in Neamtz, Romania on July 12, 1888. On May 5, 1914, he filed on a homestead at SW 8-74-4-W6. In July of 1915, Rubin enlisted in the Canadian Army. However, he sailed for Canada on December 15, 1916, having been found mentally unfit. Rubin had claimed that before he was shipped overseas, he saw someone killing his father; he also said he served with the RNWMP and secret service (found to be untrue). Rubin said he was married and that his wife 'kicked the bucket a few nights ago' and was confused about why he was in the hospital. He feared he would be crucified at the front because they thought he was a spy. Shortly before being sent back to Canada he became clearer and more contented shortly before he was shipped out; it is uncertain how much of his attestation paper is actually true. According to his medical record, Rubin was "excitable, incoherent and irrelevant, memory poor, hasn't any insight into his condition. He hears voices and has many delusions of persecution. Thinks every person he has been associated with for the past two years is trying to get him out of the way. At time his conduct is violent." On August 3, 1917 he was discharged. Rubin spent the latter part of his life in hospital in eastern Canada and would not sell his land. He died on December 2, 1955.
Sources: Wagon Trails Grown Over p. 326
Riding, John
John was born in Blackburn, Lancashire, England in 1896. He served in the British Army during the First World War. John married Edith Slater on September 10, 1921 in Darwin, Lancashire, England. They came to Canada in 1924, settling first in Saskatchewan and later coming to the South Peace and filing on SE 3-72-1-W6 and NW 34-71-1-W6 in 1929. In 1941, John joined the army once again and served as an orderly at the military hospital in Grande Prairie. He died at the Grande Prairie Hospital on December 12, 1971.
Sources: surname file; Across the Smoky p. 61; Bridges to the Past p. 203
Ridley, William Ernest
Regimental Number: 74205
Rank: Acting Corporal
Branch: 28th Battalion
William was born in Charleswood, England on May 13, 1891. He filed on a homestead at LT 57-77-5-W6 in 1914. In January of 1915, William enlisted in the Canadian Army. He spent a significant amount of time in hospital due to myalgia. In May of 1918, William was granted permission to marry Miss C. Turner. It is unknown whether William returned to the South Peace. A present address card in his service file states that he was living in Grandview, Manitoba in 1922. William died on November 14, 1963 in British Columbia.
Riggs, William Nels
Regimental Number: 812203
Rank: Private
Branch: 10th Battalion
William was born in Seattle, Washington on March 12, 1881. In 1914, he filed on a homestead at NW 15-78-5-W6. William enlisted in the Canadian Army in May of 1916. He died of influenza on February 6, 1919 at the No. 55 Casualty Clearing Station at Charleroi, Belgium.
Sources: homestead record
Riley, James Philip
Regimental Number: 432983
Rank: Private
Branch: 49th Battalion
James was born in Belmond, Iowa on August 22, 1886. It is unknown when he first came to Alberta, but he enlisted in the Canadian Army in Grouard on January 28, 1915. James received shrapnel wounds to his back on June 8, 1917, and was awarded the Military Medal for bravery in the field in August of 1917. On August 17, 1917, he participated in a Battalion Sports Day. James received gunshot wounds to his right thigh on November 2, 1917. After the war, he came to the South Peace and filed on the southern half of 24-74-4-W6; he canceled both quarters, though he was still living in Grande Prairie in 1922. James died on July 12, 1952 in Vernon, British Columbia.
Rillie, John
Regimental Number: 101409
Rank: Private
Branch: 66th Battalion; Canadian Forestry Corps
John was born in Barrie, Ontario on October 8, 1877 (it is possible that he lied about his age on his attestation paper, as his homestead record states that he was 42 in 1914). In 1914, he filed on a homestead at SE 32-78-14-W6. John enlisted in the Canadian Army in September of 1915. He served only in England; he may have been assigned here because of his age. John died on June 6, 1943.
Ritchie, William George "Scottie"
Regimental Number: 18826
Rank: Corporal
Branch: 2nd Battalion; Canadian Army Medical Corps
William was born in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, Scotland on December 22, 1878. In February of 1914, he filed on a homestead at SE 6-72-3-W6; he traveled to Valcartier to enlist in the Canadian Army in September of that year. In spring of 1917, William was given the option of returning to Canada, being medically unfit. Instead, he was transferred to the Canadian Army Medical Corps and worked first in a hospital and then as a clerk in London. In June of 1918, William was seriously ill with appendicitis. He had also suffered from rheumatism before the war, and it worsened under the conditions of service. His brother was killed in France. William married an Englishwoman named Violet Rose during the war, probably in 1918 or 1919. It is uncertain when Violet died. In 1930, William married Bessie Nerstad; they had six children. William died on May 26, 1964.
Sources: Smoky River to Grande Prairie p. 105, 448
Rivard, Edward George
Regimental Number: 2115805
Rank: Private
Branch: Canadian Army Service Corps; 8th Battalion
Edward was born in Yamachiche, Quebec on July 19, 1891. He was living in St. Paul, Minnesota at the time of his enlistment in November of 1917, and traveled to Winnipeg to join the Canadian Army. According to his medical records, Edward suffered from defective hearing due to being blown up by a shell and suffering from a concussion. In 1919, he filed on the northern half of 5-73-3-W6. He died on March 17, 1961.