Skip to content

September 30, 1929 – December 9, 2021  

It is with heavy hearts that we share with you that Grace Duff passed away unexpectedly at the age of 92.

Born in Olds, Grace was raised on the farm and attended school in Harmattan and Waterside. As a child she was very musically inclined and learned to play the piano, violin, saxophone, sign and tap dance. With her parents, sister and friends they had a band that performed around Olds.

On May 30, 1949 she married John Duff and they farmed together west of Olds for 42 years. Grace loved entertaining whether it was singing; playing the piano, saxophone or violin. She enjoyed sharing her musical talents with everyone and passed that on to her children. Grace was very active in the Glamis Women’s Institute and she and John enjoyed square dancing, traveling to visit family and friends. Grace also enjoyed gardening, baking, living on the farm, entertaining for friends and family and her beautiful mountain view.

Grace will be lovingly remembered by her sister Luella Martin; daughters Deanna (Marv) Mattson and Joyce (Bob) Emms; grandchildren Craig Mattson, Heather (Mark) Howell, Kirk (Jennifer) Mattson, Denver Mattson, Alison Duff, Andrea (Alex) Jackson, Rebecca Emms and Jennie Emms; great grandchildren Parker, Jordy, Aliviah, and Isla Mattson; Vera and Miles Howell; Eli, Aaron, Issac and Gianna Jackson;  and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and the staff of Inglewood, Revera who cared for and about her.

Grace was predeceased by her parents Jennie and Alfred Johnsrud, her husband John, son Douglas and brother-in-law Alva Martin. A private service will be held in Olds with a celebration of Grace’s life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Olds and District Kiwanis Music Festival. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds entrusted with arrangements. 403-507-8610   Condolences may be made or viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com

push icon
Be the first to read breaking stories. Enable push notifications on your device. Disable anytime.
No thanks