This page is a tribute to Deacon Hyland, who served our parish faithfully as a permanent Deacon from 2014-2021. On this page you can watch the video of Archbishop Smith’s homily from the funeral, and read the text of Deacon Hyland’s Obituary (at the bottom of the page). In his honour, we have also collected the following:

• Deacon Hyland Fraser modelled a life of service, charity and justice (Grandin Media article)
• (Video) Deacon Hyland’s Homily from November 15, 2020
• (Video) Deacon Hyland’s Homily from May 2, 2020
• (Video) Deacon Hyland speaks on the Divine Mercy Novena (Lent 2020)

With heavy hearts, the family of Deacon Hyland Fraser regretfully announces his passing on February 5th, 2021 after a battle with ALS. Surrounded by his loved ones as they prayed his favorite prayer of the Divine Mercy, with the words “I love you” on his lips, Hyland went to Jesus. A beautiful end to a beautiful life on this earth. Hyland is survived by his wife, soulmate and love of his life, Harriet. He is also survived by his 12 children: Dean (Brandy), Darren (Jude), Hyland Jr. (Rachel), Trina (Troy), Tammie, Nicole (Charles), Sheri (Bryan), Jacquelyn (Claude), Matthew (Meghan), Amanda, Todd (Julie), and Shannon. He also leaves behind 29 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, brothers and sisters and a wealth of extended family and friends who loved him.

The oldest child of 8, Hyland was born and raised in Antigonish, Nova Scotia to his beloved parents, John D and Kaye Fraser. It was also there where he met and married his one true love, Harriet, and where they brought their 12 children into the world. Besides having their own children, Hyland and Harriet opened their home to foster children, giving them the love and acceptance they needed. Hyland spent many years working the family farm and contributing to his community through public service and his work with the church. Hyland’s world revolved around his love of Jesus and the church, and around his family. He loved with conviction and he loved completely. In his family Hyland was always a pillar of strength, the “go to” guy, the leader of the pack. His children continually went to him for guidance and advice in all facets of their lives, no matter their age.

In 2010, Hyland answered God’s call to join the deaconate and began his studies. After 4 years of hard work and dedication, and with Harriet by his side, he was ordained as a Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church on May 31, 2014 to continue God’s work at Holy Trinity Church in Spruce Grove, AB. During his time as a Deacon, he became loved and trusted by the people in his care. He guided his people with courage and grace, respect and love, patience and understanding, and always remained humble and kind. Hyland filled his days doing what he loved in the name of the Lord. He spent time visiting the sick in hospitals and in their homes, nursing homes, youth offender centers, homeless shelters and was a great advocate for all those in need. Hyland was on the Canadian Board of Directors for Mary’s Meals, a charity close to his and Harriet’s hearts as it works to feed hungry children. Hyland and Harriet set aside time daily to pray the rosary together, strengthening their bond with each other and with God.

Hyland was a true gentleman and a man whom we are sure made God proud. We take great comfort knowing that Hyland made the world a better place as he deeply touched the hearts of so many. His love and devotion to God, to his wife of 51 years, to his children and their families is something we will be forever grateful for. His fast, beautiful smile will be missed and we take comfort that he is at peace with our Lord. Hyland will be forever missed and forever loved. Rest in peace, Dad.

(Originally posted at Dignity Memorial.)