Friday, April 18, 2025 at 12:00 a.m.
Brad Ellingson
It is with profound sadness and deep love that we share the passing of BRAD ELLINGSON, who left us on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the age of 71.
It is with profound sadness and deep love that we share the passing of BRAD ELLINGSON, who left us on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the age of 71.
Born and raised in Lethbridge, Brad was known for his outgoing nature, infectious charisma, and a gift for storytelling that could make strangers feel like lifelong friends. He had a heart for people and a mind full of wisdom, always ready with sound advice and a joke tucked up his sleeve.
In August 1973, he married the love of his life, Lois (née Crawford), and together they built a life filled with laughter, love, family and a lot of hockey games.
Brad tried his hand at many jobs in his younger years, but found his passion behind the wheel of a truck. He drove for Cascade Carriers and later Kunsman Transport, where he truly found his place hauling livestock for local ranchers across Western Canada and the US.
In October 1978, Brad was involved in a tractor-trailer accident that left him paralyzed. But that never stopped him — if anything, it only fueled his determination. He became a fierce advocate for disability rights, lobbying, protesting, and working with organizations like Disabled on the Move and the Coalition of Provincial Organizations of the Handicapped (now CCD). He was appointed twice to the Board of Directors for WCB-Alberta, where he helped shape policies that made a difference in countless lives.
In retirement, Brad channeled his creativity into woodworking and was rarely seen without a project on the go. His family meant everything to him, and he loved nothing more than spending time teaching, laughing, and sharing stories with them. His daughter, son in law and grandsons were the light of his life.
Brad also had a love of sports and played wheelchair basketball with the Lethbridge Strong Arms and later the Steamers. He and Lois were devoted hockey fans and were regulars in the stands, cheering on their teams side by side.
He was predeceased by his parents, Hans and Mary (née Pozzebon), and by his beloved wife, Lois.
Brad leaves behind a legacy of resilience, kindness, and determination. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Kirsty (Nathan), and his grandsons Arik and Tyler, along with many extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
A family Graveside Service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Spinal Cord Injury Alberta (www.sci-ab.ca) — an organization close to Brad’s heart.
Guestbook (9)
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My condolences to your family. Brad was a one of a kind man with amazing stories. He will be missed.
Condolences to family. Remembering Bradley as a wonderful, passionate, energetic person. May you rest in peace!
KIRSTY and family.. I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad and a good friend. I sorry that we didn't seem to get the chance to see Brad enough in the last few years, but often thought of Brad and the others that we played basketball with together. Your Dad will certainly be missed. Terry and Connie Waddle
On behalf of everyone at Spinal Cord Injury Alberta, please accept our condolences on the passing of Brad. We are deeply sorry for your loss and want you to know that our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. We have received several donations made in Brad’s memory, and we are truly grateful. These contributions are a touching tribute to his life and legacy. They will go directly toward supporting individuals living with spinal cord injuries across Alberta, helping to provide vital resources, peer support, and opportunities for greater independence. Brad’s memory is now part of something truly meaningful. His impact will continue to be felt in the lives of those who benefit from these services. Thank you to you and all those who chose to honor Brad in this way.
I'm so sorry to hear of Brad's passing. Although I hadn't seen him very much in many years, I was so pleased to see him at WCH's reunion a couple of years ago. I very much enjoyed catching up and to see his usual happy self. He was so proud of those he loved. He really is an inspiration and I have no doubt will be missed by many. RIP, Brad.
First time I met Brad was when he tried his hand at house painting. Later years after he had his accident when we bumped into each other we always said hi and remembered each other. Rest in peace my friend.
My condolences to the family to the family, Brad was an inspiration to many for what he did for disabled community. He will missed but not forgotten ....
Brad I'll never forgot all the wonderful memories we experienced as cousins with the best family ever, we were very fortunate to be part of such a loving and close knit family! I'll always remember our vists at the General Hospital when you were undergoing your therapy after the truck accident...love you Brad lots of wonderful memories xoxo My condolenses to you Kirsty and your family xo
My condolences on the loss of Brad. I have tried to keep in contact as I have known him since grade 2. A good friend that didn't get a fair shake from life because of his disability but he seldomly complained.