Obituary of Roy Stanley Groves

Roy Groves, 80 years old, of Carseland, Alberta passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, April 15, 2021. 

Roy was born on October 11, 1940, the fourth of five children born to Jim and Mabel Groves from Carseland, Alberta. He farmed with his dad and then later moved to the “Groves Homestead” north of Carseland and farmed there for many years. He also worked at C.I.L. and Alberta Transportation. Roy's farm was a popular gathering spot for many, regardless of the season. In the summer, cowboys would practice at his arena and neighbours and friends would come to go tubing down the canal or rafting down the river. In the winter up to forty snowmobiles would start and finish the tour at the farm. Roy Boy would lead the pack with a bottle of "Ripple Nipple" Schnapps to be shared along the way. In the fall, the garage became a hub for all of the hunters that came from near and far. Roy spent any spare time training horses, building boats, welding, woodworking, fishing, playing cards, and building his famous willow chairs. Many people across the country have indulged in the delicious pork from Roy’s famous pig roasts. Of course, he would always find time to pop into the Blue Saloon any chance he got. Many weekends for years Roy would head down the road from rodeo to rodeo. Three Groves girls and any young steer riders that needed a lift stuffed into the small camper and Donna navigated the way. He participated in hockey, slow pitch, fast ball, and curling. He loved spending time with his grandkids; fishing, watching hockey games, and teaching them how to make his famous Roy Boy ribs.

Roy was involved in several organizations throughout his life. He was an active member of the Foothills Cowboys Association, Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, Carseland Lions, and the Cairnhill Community. Roy has touched many lives in his eighty years. He has been described by so many as a “Legend”, a “Hero”, a “Storyteller”.  He was loved for his smile, good humour, kind and generous heart, bear hugs, nicknames (Fart Cart, Blonde Bomber. Partner), and his ability to make every minute of every day fun. 

Anyone who knew Roy Boy knew they were always welcome to stop in “rest your bones” and have a “short shot” in a Tupperware glass. We smile knowing Roy Boy will be joining many great buddies and raising a little hell in heaven. We are forever grateful to his extended families from the Carseland area, rodeo world, Hutterite colonies, and Siksika Nation.  

Roy will be greatly missed by his family, Deanne (Bill Rommens), Amber, Brooke (Edgar Diuga), Brandon (Sarah); Joy (Kevin Muenchrath), Rylan (Claire), Reid (Morgan), Lucas, Leah; Shelley (Murray Williams), Laura, Christopher; his sister, Joyce (Curt Hvingelby) and brother in law, Alfred Johansen. He also had many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Apart from his parents, Roy was predeceased by his older siblings, Jimmy (Jeep), Edna Harriman, Marje Johansen, and his great grandson, Remy Rommens. 

The family requests that instead of flowers and donations, do it Roy Boy style and “pay it forward”. Buy a stranger a drink, make a new friend, and welcome them into your family. 

We hope to have a celebration of life at a later date.