April 6, 1941 - May 9, 2025
It is with great sadness that the family of the late Wilfred Rumbolt announces his peaceful passing on May 9th, 2025 at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s surrounded by his loving family.
Wilfred was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. Wilfred enjoyed the simple things in life; gardening, putting up his fish, smoking salmon, and was a great conversationalist, telling stories with some truth and some lies. He was a very active member of the Anglican Church in every community in which he lived. When his time drew near, he was certainly ready to go be with his Heavenly Father.
Wilfred was born in Port Hope Simpson Labrador, on April 6th, 1941 to Thomas and Eliza Rumbolt (nee Burden). Through his early years he continued residing in Labrador in various communities. At 17, he moved to St. Anthony to complete his high school education and subsequently attended Memorial University to pursue his passion for teaching and graduated in 1989 with a Master of Education. He spent 31 years as a school teacher and principal and then another year completing contract work for Grenfell Health. After his retirement in 1993, Wilfred continued his love of teaching and opened a driving school in St. Anthony, which he continued until the age of 75. He received many accolades over the years, due to the many lives that he touched throughout his teaching.
On May 4th, 1965 Wilfred joined hands in marriage with his forever love, Ethel. Together they raised four children and in later years thoroughly enjoyed their grandchildren and great grandchildren. They enjoyed many adventures together as best friends and confidants, always displaying their love for each other. They enjoyed countless vacations together with their children and extended families. Ethel was his “momma” and his rock.
Wilfred leaves to mourn, his living wife of 60 years Ethel (nee Poole). Sons: Wade (Michelle) and Tony; Daughters: Ruth George (Tom) and Diane Carlson (Edward); Grandchildren: Luke Carlson (Lacey), Katie Rumbolt (Patrick), Andrew Rumbolt (Bre), Sarah Rumbolt (Wayne), Nicholas Rumbolt (Linda), Alexandra Rumbolt (Colin), Bethany MacDonald (Ian) and Brianna George (Evan); Great Grandchildren: Archer, Emmett, Eleena, Aubrey, Lachlan, and welcoming baby MacDonald fall 2025. Additional family members include a very large circle of nieces and nephews.
Wilfred’s family would like to thank the numerous hospital staff at Charles Curtis Memorial and Health Science Centre. With heartfelt gratitude, we extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Samuel and the dedicated ICU nurses. A special thank you also goes out to all family and friends who extended words of encouragement, love and respect for Wilfred.
Visitations are scheduled to take place at Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Tuesday May 13, from 2-5 pm. A celebration of life will take place at the St. Mary’s Anglican Church on Wednesday, May 14, at 2:00PM, with Rev. Art Kinsella officiating. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Heart and Stroke foundation is greatly appreciated.
“Love, be kind, and respect each other”