Miron Croy

Noel Miron Croy was born on February 12, 1947, in Nordegg, Alberta, to Art and Gert (Mason) Croy. He passed away at home, as was his wish, with his family by his side, on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

When the mine in Nordegg shut down in 1953, Art moved the family to Montagneuse Valley. As the oldest of five, Miron took his big brother role very seriously, helping raise and always looking out for his brothers Terry & Mike and little sister Diane. A few years later, in the fall of 1957, the opening of a new pulp mill brought them to Hinton, AB, where the youngest of the siblings, Patty was born. They lived in a logging camp, and it was there that Miron met his lifelong best friend, Bob Scott. He got a job in the camp as a camp flunky, peeling potatoes and washing dishes, for $1.00 an hour. With his very first paycheck, he proudly bought a .30-30 rifle, a horse, and a pair of cowboy boots. From that moment on, Miron knew that working life suited him far better than the classroom.

In June 1966, the family moved to Quesnel, BC. Rodeo was a large part of Miron’s life. After trying many events, he found his event in bareback riding. It was when Miron entered the Quesnel Rodeo that he met Bridget, his partner in life. They were married in September 1968 in Quesnel and began their married life living with Bridget’s parents, Harold and Kitty Hartley. He and Harold shared a love for rodeo and spent nearly every free weekend traveling to rodeos throughout Alberta and British Columbia. Miron and Bridget worked alongside Harold and Kitty at Leo Creek, where they built a sawmill camp and spent 7 years cutting ties for the BC Railway.

In 1974, Miron took a job with Halliburton in Fairview, where Bridget soon joined him and they lived in a trailer in town for about a year. During this time, Miron applied for and was granted a homestead that would become the family’s forever home. While clearing and developing the land, they rented a place in the country from the Boytinks. Miron later purchased a big truck and went trucking, hauling everything from gravel to cattle, and eventually logging in Gold Bridge.

Their daughter, Carri Anne, was born in 1978. Becoming a father brought him great pride and joy. In July of 1981, the family moved onto their homestead, fully embracing ranch life and running cattle. Their son, Lance, was born in 1983, completing their family. Life on the homestead meant that family time and work were often intertwined, creating a close bond that shaped their lives together.

Throughout the years, Miron worked as an equipment operator, an oilfield consultant, and with the Alberta Wheat Pool, among other roles. Without a doubt, some of his fondest memories, however, came from working for Al Olson. Miron worked as a seismic foreman while Bridget worked alongside him as the camp cook. This job allowed them to bring their kids, shaping much of their family story and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Miron valued contributing to his community and standing up for what he thought was right. He served as a Councillor for Clear Hills County, Ward 1, from 2009 to 2021. Over three terms, he was known for his practical approach, straightforward opinions, and common sense. Through years of attending federal and provincial conventions, he became well known and respected, with many recognizing him instantly, and often finding him by “that cowboy hat”.

Miron loved sharing stories, often reminiscing about the past with humor and quick wit. Whether it was something that happened yesterday, something from his childhood or anywhere in between, he had a gift for storytelling that could make anyone listen, laugh, or shake their head in amazement. Some of his happiest moments were simple evenings around a campfire with friends, neighbours and family, drinks in hand, guitars strumming, and stories flowing late into the night. Miron left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was known for being his authentic self, his strong work ethic, his passion for life, and his unwavering loyalty to family and friends.

Miron was predeceased by his son - Lance Croy; parents - Art and Gert Croy; Harold & Kitty Hartley; sister-in-law - Ingrid Croy & Nancy Oakes and nephew - Toby Oakes.

He is lovingly remembered by his Wife - Bridget Croy; Daughter - Carri Anne (Don) Kehler; Grandchildren - Dallas, Tayea, and Reece; Brothers Mike and Terry (Lorelei) Croy; Sisters, Patty (Tim) Cushman and Diane (Butch) Croy; Sisters-in-law - Linda Hartley and Darlene (Ron) Rhode; Brother-in-law - Jim Oakes; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of Miron’s life will be held at a later date at the Ostrem Homestead.

Care entrusted to Peace Valley Funeral Home Fairview (Kristi Heck) 780-835-3306

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