Graham Layland
1950-2020
Graham William Layland, dearly beloved husband, father, granddad, brother and uncle passed away peacefully at the Canmore Hospital with his wife, Donna, by his side.
Graham was born 5 August, 1950 in Quinton, Birmingham, England to Ronald and Ada Layland. He and his older brother, Wilfred, both attended Quinton Church of England School. Graham completed his schooling at Halesowen Grammar School. At the young age of 16, he entered an apprenticeship in Engineering. He spent much of his career as a Quality Engineer in Metals and Purchasing.
Graham was passionate about his many pursuits. He loved fishing, starting at a young age and entering many competitions. He even gave ice fishing a go here in Canada! Music was always front and centre in his life. He played guitar and on weekends would play in the pubs for a few bob and a pint or two. He especially loved Celtic music and was in his element at Folk Festivals. Let’s not forget his favourite band, Alabama! Ten pin bowling was another passion. His team, The Pheasant Pluckers, travelled by coach to play throughout England. He was proud of the many trophies they won. Graham and Wilf were diehard football fans of the West Bromwich Albion, attending as many matches as they could. When Graham moved to Canada, he would look forward to a phone call from Wilf to discuss the latest Baggies game. One of Graham’s favourite haunts was the ‘Old Bear’, his neighbourhood pub in Kidderminster. He made many life-long friends there downing a pint and playing dominoes. Boating was also a huge part of Graham’s life. He went from being a novice to being Commodore at the Stourport Marina. Many happy times were had onboard ‘Sunshine Girl’. Graham felt extremely lucky to have travelled so much in his life. It started with a Scout Jamboree in Switzerland – a trip his parents must have saved for very hard in order to send him. Since then, he has travelled throughout the UK, Europe, Middle East, Asia, USA, and Canada – coast to coast! Loving it all, especially Ireland!
Graham and his former wife, Jenny, deserve full credit for the commendable job they did opening their home and hearts to over 130 foster children over many years. Many, now adults, still keep in touch.
In his forties, Graham, never one to keep still, entered University in Birmingham to earn a Law Degree. He did this after long days at work, over the course of four years. What an achievement!
Whatever Graham got involved in, he went ‘whole hog’. We certainly saw that at the Legion. He started with poker night, grew into Entertainment Director, and then became Vice President. He was so appreciated for all he did for Canmore Legion, Branch #3. He made many marvellous friends there.
Two proud events stood out in our lives. First, when we got married by the banks of the Bow in 2012 and secondly, when Graham became a Canadian Citizen, just 3 years ago. We loved our life together!
Though broken hearted, we all have so many happy memories to look upon and hold onto as we grieve. We will lovingly remember his bright smile, his humour, his warm hugs and loving heart. Rest easy, Darling.
Predeceased by his loving parents, Ronald and Ada, and sister-in-law, Margaret Layland, Graham is lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna Barry, children Nicci Layland and Mike Layland (Vicki), grandchildren Kyle, Molly, and Elly Wilkinson, and Rosa Layland, brother Wilf Layland, nieces Marianne Powley-Lynch, Amanda Layland and great niece, Shanice Layland and her family. Thank you to our many friends for your support, love, and kind words.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Legion, at a later date.
