February 19, 1943 ~ September 3, 2026
It is with great sadness and broken hearts, the family of Maurice Gerard Bilsborrow, announce his passing on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at the age of 83 years.
Growing up, Maurice worked on his family’s farm east of Leduc, where his love of the countryside and a strong work ethic took root
On June 4, 1965, he married Betty-Anne, and together they moved to Gibbons and built a life and family. Maurice worked hard to provide for those he loved. Over the years, he co-owned a hauling company, drove tow truck, installed siding and soffit, and eventually found the work he enjoyed most—operating tower and mobile cranes throughout the Edmonton area.
Maurice helped shape Edmonton’s skyline, working on many buildings in the downtown core, including the Hotel Macdonald. He even made the news for decorating his cranes with Christmas trees and lights, bringing a little joy high above the city. His skill and care as an operator did not go unnoticed. On one occasion, a woman cleaning windows on a neighbouring building thanked him for the care and attention he showed while safely manoeuvring his crane around her as she dangled high above the ground.
After his childhood family farm was sold, Maurice deeply missed the peace and quiet of country life. He and Betty-Anne eventually purchased a piece of land six miles north of Redwater. It became their home away from home—a place filled with family gatherings, laughter, memories, and enough potatoes, it seemed, to nourish half of Alberta.
Maurice was, above all, a devoted family man. There was little he wouldn’t do for his children, Mark and Jody, and their families, as well as for the countless friends and relatives who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.
He loved camping, the great outdoors, and fishing with his many friends—although, as the years went by, some of those fishing tales became exactly that… “stories.”
Maurice loved to joke, tease and play pranks on his family and friends. But more than anything, he treasured simply spending time with the people who mattered most to him.
The final ten years of Maurice’s life brought many challenges, which he faced with remarkable strength and determination. To his family, he will forever remain their hero—not only for all that he endured throughout his life, but for the lessons, strength and love he continued to give, right until the very end.
Even when words became difficult, Maurice still found ways to let us know he was there—with that little grin, a blink, or the unmistakable raise of an eyebrow.
Those small gestures said so much.
They reminded us that through every challenge, he was still Dad. Still Maurice. Still the man we knew and loved.
Maurice, at the age of 7, lost his beloved Mother, Diana Hinse (born in Ste. Julie, Quebec), then his Father, Edward Bilsborrow (born in Kirkham, England) in 1974. Maurice is predeceased by his sisters Dolores and Bernice, as well as many other dear friends and relatives. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Betty-Anne Myrna (nee Diewert) Bilsborrow, and their two fur babies Bam Bam and Pebbles. Betty-Anne and their loving family were by his side throughout Maurice’s final days: son, Mark & wife Tania (Becker) Bilsborrow; Amber, Travis, Aria, & Violet; Cordel, Debbie, & Ivy; Breanne & Reese; MJ & Darienn; daughter, Jody & husband Jim Morrison; Brandyn, Danielle, Grayson, & Oliver; Dakota; Jesse, & Marina.
His hands helped build a city.
His hard work built a life.
His humour gave us countless stories.
And his love built a family.
That will be his greatest legacy.
Celebration of Life
Friday, September 11, 2026
at 2:00 pm
Sturgeon Memorial Funeral Chapel
5016 47 Avenue
Bon Accord, Alberta
