Obituary: Bud “Barreling Bud” Ellefson

January 23, 1931 – January 23, 2026 (age 95)

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It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Bud Ellefson on January 23, 2026, his 95th birthday.

Bud was born on January 23, 1931, in Buchanan, Saskatchewan, the youngest of two boys. As a teenager, his family boarded a train and travelled across the prairies to settle in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where Bud spent the early years of his adult life.

Life & Legacy

Bud was a hardworking young man who made his living on water wells. He enjoyed life fully—playing guitar, stirring up mischief, and embracing the “work hard, play harder” spirit. During this time, he welcomed his first daughter, Candace.

As life settled, Bud met the woman who would become his partner and anchor, Pearl. Together they raised their children Shirley, Bill, Sheri, and Bob, beginning their family life in Manyberries, Alberta.

It was here that Bud’s lifelong passion for chariot and later chuckwagon racing began. Horses, dogs, cats, and chores were constants in the Ellefson home. This love of ranching and racing eventually brought the family to Gull Lake, where Bud worked on the Connick Ranch, stayed close to Pearl’s family and her eldest son Calvin, and later welcomed their youngest daughter, Tannis.

Bud and Pearl quickly became part of the ranching community, often gathering at Grassy Hill, where Bud played guitar and sang with anyone who wanted to join. His happiest place, however, was the racetrack—competing with the South Saskatchewan Pony Chuckwagon and Chariot Association. His fierce, fiery barrel turns earned him the nickname “Barreling Bud.”

Bud also loved hockey, both watching and coaching (mostly to encourage the fights). A regular at Greyhound games, he famously discovered that removing the end of a popcorn container made his voice carry farther when yelling at referees.

Later in life, Bud returned to music. With Lil, he helped start the beloved Friday night jam sessions, drawing musicians and dancers from surrounding communities.

Bud was many things to many people—always ready with a booming laugh, a warm hug, and a willingness to help anyone who needed it. He welcomed everyone into his home and gave freely, never expecting anything in return. He will be deeply missed.

Family

Bud was predeceased by his wife Pearl, his son Bill, and his son‑in‑law Darren.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Calvin, Shirley, Sheri, Candace, Bob, Tannis, and their families.

He is also remembered with love by Lilian Crocker and her family, who embraced him as their own for many years.

Donations & Memorials

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to:

Heart and Stroke Foundation1200–2300 Yonge St., Box 2414Toronto, ONM4P 1E4heartandstroke.ca

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Arrangements entrusted to Warren’s Funeral Home.