Ted Zatorski

Theodore “Ted” William Zatorski passed away peacefully the evening of Thursday, September 4, 2025 at the Drayton Valley Hospital with the love of his family at his side.

Ted was predeceased by his parents and six siblings. He is survived by his wife of 62 years Florence and children Jerald, Brenda (Chris) Christianson, Tom (Carla); grandchildren Brent (Candice), Lindsey (Scott), Ashley, Charles, Brenden (Soliel), Connor; great-grandchildren: Sylus and Prudence, sisters Irene Kroeger and Rose (Paul) Hamel and many nieces and nephews.

Ted was born in 1940 in Edson, AB to Thomas and Julianna Zatorski. He was raised on the family homestead at Mackay and attended school at Log Cabin where he was the “top of his class” of one. Ted would later meet the love of his life and best friend Florence and they were married on June 7, 1963. They raised their three children on the family farm in Mackay and then moved to Evansburg to focus on retirement and a more ‘relaxed’ lifestyle.

Ted was truly a man of many talents. In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, he was a father, friend, pioneer, philosopher, storyteller, logger, farmer, music lover, veterinarian, artist, oilfield worker, and gardener. Toward the end of his life, he even became a head chef and baker. Remarkably, he was self-taught in all these pursuits—an accomplished individual by every measure and the very definition of a true Renaissance man.

Ted was also an avid traveler always eager for opportunities to explore—whether venturing abroad or discovering hidden gems close to home. He embraced each journey with enthusiasm, often sharing stories and laughter to entertain those around him. Yet, he equally cherished the quiet moments, especially the peaceful solitude of fishing at his favorite spot at Joussard.

He also cherished the camaraderie and shared moments within the clubs he participated in. Ted valued the lively conversations and the friendships that grew from them. He especially reveled in the chance to be competitive—whether it was a game of cards or curling.

In his final moments, lying peacefully in bed, Ted asked for the “handle of the frying pan.” Florence gently placed an imaginary handle in his hand. He closed his eyes, and his hands began to move with quiet precision, as if orchestrating a familiar routine. When asked what he was doing, he softly replied, “I’m making pancakes and bacon—company’s coming.”

Though Ted often carried the persona of a ‘tough guy,’ his true, generous spirit shone through until the very end. His warmth, humor, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Drayton Valley Hospital for their understanding and compassion during this time as not only did you make Ted comfortable you also provided comfort to the family during their vigil.

A Celebration of Ted’s life will be held at a future time.

As an expression of sympathy, and in loving memory of Ted, please make any memorial contributions to a charity of your choice.