04/09/2026
💔💔💔💔
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Valerie Findlay — a woman whose legacy is deeply woven into the heart of the Edson Friendship Centre and the community she loved so dearly.
For more than two decades as Executive Director, Val dedicated her life to strengthening community, creating opportunities, and building brighter futures for Indigenous people. Her vision helped shape not only the Edson Friendship Centre as we know it today, but also the countless lives touched within its walls.
Val’s journey began when the organization was still the Métis Local, long before it became the Edson Friendship Centre. Through her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment, she played a vital role in developing the Friendship Centre into a place of belonging, support, healing, and hope. The foundation she helped build continues to guide our work each and every day.
Even after retirement, Val’s dedication to community never wavered. She continued to serve on the Executive Committee for the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association and remained an important voice on our own Board of Directors. Her wisdom, guidance, and leadership continued to shape decisions, inspire growth, and remind us of the importance of staying connected to community.
Val believed deeply in people.
She believed in second chances — and sometimes third or fourth chances too.
She believed in seeing potential where others may not.
She believed in fostering relationships, mentoring youth, supporting Elders, and creating pathways for the next generation to thrive.
She had a rare gift for making people feel seen and heard. No matter how busy life became, Val always had time to sit, listen, and offer guidance. She mentored with patience, led with compassion, and loved with her whole heart.
Above all else, Val lived for her family and for her community. Her impact reaches far beyond programs, buildings, or titles. It lives on in the people she encouraged, the futures she helped shape, and the love she poured into those around her.
Her absence will be felt deeply, but her legacy will continue to live on through every life she touched.
We extend our deepest condolences to Val’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
Thank you, Val, for your leadership, your kindness, your belief in people, and your lifetime of service.
You will be greatly missed, forever remembered and always honoured.
Family, friends, and community members are invited to come together to honour and celebrate Val’s life.
A wake will be held at the Edson Friendship Centre Hall
#13, 5023 3rd Avenue
Monday, April 13
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Funeral Mass will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Edson
Tuesday, April 14
11:00 AM
All who knew and loved Val are welcome to join in remembering a life so beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue to touch our community for generations to come.
