Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 12:00 a.m.
Jorgen Grondahl
Jørgen was born in Denmark and was always a proud Dane. His heritage and respect of that up-bringing were a constant in his life. The early years on a small farm in Denmark with a close family instilled many aspects in him that continued and that he carried long into his fruitful life. Being raised on a small farm initiated how he carried himself, characteristically with a strong will and a strong back.
Jørgen was born in Denmark and was always a proud Dane. His heritage and respect of that up-bringing were a constant in his life. The early years on a small farm in Denmark with a close family instilled many aspects in him that continued and that he carried long into his fruitful life. Being raised on a small farm initiated how he carried himself, characteristically with a strong will and a strong back.
In his young adult life, he moved to Canada. In Alberta, he found a fondness for life on the prairies. It was a connection to the land that presented inspiration and enjoyment for him. Here he found a place to homestead, live, and raise a family.
Jørgen spent his life in the utmost way, helping others. Gracious and caring are words that hardly pay justice to his efforts and passion. From his days on the road servicing remote customers in Southern Alberta, to his days at the counter as a partsman, then later as a service writer, Jørgen made certain that each person was looked after. He made many friends and touched many lives through his work.
After his formal years of work, Jørgen continued working in the community as a handyman. His diverse skills, developed over many years, came to use in these endeavours. The most prevalent attributes being an eye for detail, and a determination to finish the job fully and correctly. It is difficult to think that there will be anyone else that can match his level.
He also worked as a contractor for SACLA. For many years he supported the agency in small and big repairs. He also supported many people in adapting their homes to be more accessible. He had wonderful relationships with staff and people they support, going above and beyond where he could.
Jørgen was predeceased by his mother, Gurli, his father, Arne, his brother Frede and brother-in-law, Neils, all of Denmark.
He is survived by his wife, Liz Grøndahl, son, Shane Groendahl (Jacki) of Lacombe, daughter Stacey (Tayte) McRae of Bridgewater, son Patrick (Carolanne) O’Hara of Lethbridge, son Darren (Cassandra) O’Hara of Lethbridge, daughter Genavieve (Lyon) Mackay of Lethbridge, sister Aase Grøndahl of Denmark, and brother Erik (Ingelise) Grøndahl of Denmark, and grandchildren, Ezra McRae, Kinsley Bear-O’Hara and Brooke Blakely-Mackay as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
As per Jørgen’s wishes, there will not be a formal funeral but a Celebration of Life and Open House will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 3:00 P.M., in the backyard he loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Southern Alberta Community Living Association (sacla.ca) of Lethbridge in his memory.
Guestbook (8)
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We were so very sorrow to hear of Jorgen’s passing. We will certainly miss seeing him puttering about in the neighborhood. Our deepest sympathy to his family.
With fondest memories...
My husband and I have never met such a kind person. Jorgen was a hard worker and he like to do it right . He had a good sense of humour too .He will be deeply missed.RIP
Jorgen was such a great person, from the day I met him in one of SACLA's residence when he came to do some handy work. We immediately clicked and set off to be a support for me and later my son. Jorgen was like a father to me and a grandfather to my boy. Always there to support us in which ever way he could guiding me through the process of purchasing my first home to baby sitting my son when I had a busy day. He was such a kind and wonderful person and he will surely be missed. I am just forever grateful that I got the chance to meet this gem of a person in my life. I must mention that what stood out the most to me was his dedication to hard work, his impeccably beautiful back yard, green thumb, and his love and support towards others. He had a hugh heart and has left a dent in the lives of all those he came in encounter with. Matthew and I loves you and will surely miss you. Rest well Jorgen.
My heartfelt condolences to Jorgen's family on his sudden passing. I first met Jorgen at Silver Automotive. He was always to kind and helpful and always with a witty comment. I'd seen and chatted with him recently at the sports medicine clinic we both attend. I will miss him. Blessings to his family.
We will daily miss our dear friend Jorgen. His caring attention to our needs and the needs of others will never be forgotten. Farewell dear friend! RIP
Although I only met Jorgen a few weeks ago, I was immediately struck by Jorgen’s immense positive pride. Proud of his Danish heritage with his signature red suspenders and white shirts. Proud of his children (I had the distinct pleasure of sampling his son’s excellent beer with Jorgen). Proud of what he could accomplish and share from his handiwork whether it be fresh produce from his garden or things he built. He definitely left a lasting impression on those around him.
Jorgen, oh how you will be missed. You were the core of the little 9th Av A community and a dear friend to my parents, Jo and Sam. Even though I live on the other side of the country, you made my life a little easier knowing you were always there for my mom and dad. Whenever I came to visit and there was something new in the house or garden, they would proudly say “Oh, Jorgen did that for us”. You leave so many fond memories at our house, and I am so happy you were able to share one of your son’s beers with my dad on his recent birthday. Farvel. Farewell. Godspeed.