It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carl Oscar Bleiken, (90), of North Battleford, Saskatchewan, on September 24, 2023.

Carl is survived by his loving wife Unita (Alm) and four devoted children, Jeff, Greg, Alan (Fern), Ann Ard (Brian), seven grand children and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Allan Bleiken (Kay), sister Joan Miller, brother-in law Jack Alm, and siter-in-law Betty Haddow. Carl also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Carl was born in Saskatoon on October 14, 1932. Carl relocated to the Bjelde Creek district south of the Battlefords and worked as a farm hand in his teens. He found his passion for mechanics while working for farm equipment dealers, International Harvester and Gillien Equipment. He gained his mechanics certification through correspondence and honing his skills at local garages in North Battleford – White Rose and Holtet’s. He partnered to open Sportsman Service which was a successful business for over 25 years. Carl retired from the business in 1982 and then took on the position as the Co-op Gas Station Manager for 13 years before permanently retiring.

Beyond the joy he took as a businessman, Carl also enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, gardening, wine making and travelling. He was a strong and resourceful man who like to build. From boats to basements, Carl was a hard worker with a hidden artistic flair. He enjoyed hosting friends and family on the back deck which was covered in grape vines. He took pride in growing the vines from seedlings and maintaining them through cold Saskatchewan winters. Carl also enjoyed numerous golf trips with couple friends, baking Cowboy Cookies for his grandkids, and spending time with family. He and Unita ventured to live in Osoyoos, BC for eight years during his eighties where he was the president of the condo association in which he lived. His greatest joy came from the close connections he maintained with his immediate and extended family. From an early age Carl learned the value of strength, perseverance, resourcefulness and maintaining strong family connections. Although he and his siblings were separated from one another at an early age, Carl maintained close connections with his many brothers and sisters and always made family a priority.

The family would like to thank the staff at Harwood Manor for their compassionate care during Carl’s last weeks. As per Carl’s request, a private family funeral service will be held at a later date.

Condolences for the family can be made at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium – Elle Dell Funeral Director.

 

• Date : 2023-09-26
• Location : North Battleford, SK