It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laurence “Loopy” Maloff, who passed away peacefully at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital on the morning of April 10, 2026, at the age of 78.

Loopy was born in Pincher Creek, AB to Mary and Bill Maloff, and lived in Cowley, AB on the family farm until the mid 1950’s when Bill and Mary purchased a dairy farm in Hillcrest, AB.

He went to school in Hillcrest where among other things he learned to speak English as Russian was his first language.  Loopy learned a lot about farming from his grandparents and parents which may have been the incentive for him to further his career in agriculture.

Even at a young age and through his teens, he loved taking things apart to see how they worked.  He loved cars, motorcycles, music and of course teasing the girls.  And yes, he has always loved to be around people, have a great time laughing and telling stories.  You could recognize Loopy from a distance by his dark brush-cut, big white smile, tight jeans and shiny boots.

As a young adult he explored many areas of work including, music (drummer in the Twilight’s Captives), logging and retail, as well as bouncing in several night clubs. In his early 20’s he moved to Milk River, AB to start his lifelong career in Agriculture with the Alberta Wheat Pool.  It was here that he met and married Carleen Ellert and started a family – Jim and Sonya really did not know what they were in for, but they found out fast that this was going to be a fun ride. His career took him to many areas in Alberta and BC.

Loopy was truly one of a kind.  There was never a dull moment with him – he had a larger-than-life presence, a sharp wit and a sense of humour that could catch you off guard and leave you laughing.  He loved to sing and was always ready with a tune or a story, often both at once, and always delivered in his own unforgettable way.

He had a deep passion for old cars, outdoor adventures (skiing, hunting and guiding, 4-wheeling), motorcycles (dirt and street), and snowmobiles to name a few.  If something was broken, Loopy could fix it – and if he didn’t have the part he would hunt it down or make one.  He was incredibly resourceful, endlessly capable, and took pride in figuring things out his way.

Loopy was also a collector of fascinating things.  He developed a love for collecting coins and old bills and spent his retirement in his favourite place, Tie Lake, BC.  There, he fully embraced the life he loved, tinkering, helping others, and becoming a well-known and cherished member of the community.  He was the kind of man people turned to, whether they needed a hand, a tool, history lesson, or just a good story.

Loopy is survived by his son Jim (Lisa) Maloff; daughter Sonya (Rob) Gardner; and his sisters Kathy Kelm and Christine (Karl) McConnell Shumka; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Mary Maloff.

Loopy lived life on his own terms, and his presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.  His will be greatly missed by many, near and far – but never forgotten

Loopy did not want a large funeral but a party, so respecting his wishes a small family service will be held at the United Doukhobors of Alberta Cemetery, Lundbreck, AB, and a Celebration of Life will be held on Loopy’s property at Tie Lake, BC on September 5, 2026 at 1:00pm.  Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Sand Creek Lions Club (General Delivery, Jaffray, BC V0B 1T0).  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555

• Date : 2026-04-10
• Location : Jaffray, BC