January 1, 1925 – May 23, 2012. Lyall Sundberg passed away peacefully at The Gardens in Qualicum Beach, BC, on May 23 at the age of 87. Weeks later, in his home, we found a newspaper clipping from the July 25, 1957 Albertan, titled “City’s ‘Mystery Runner’ Didn’t Expect to Win.” It seems that he had entered the Canadian Track and Field Championships, and having no team affiliation (he worked for Canadian General Electric Co.), had listed himself as “of Calgary.” When he won the six mile race, even a picture in the paper failed to turn up anyone who knew who the “mystery runner” was.

Born in Innisfail, AB, he was raised in central Alberta with his brother Quentin (Marion) and sister Corrine. He was adventurous as a young man, had a stint the Military Police during WWII, hitched rides on trains across Canada, and ran for a number of track teams, including UBC Track and Field. Lyall was happiest when he was telling stories of those days. In the 1950s, Lyall met Jeanne, recently widowed, they married and he quickly assumed the role of father to three young girls.

Lyall was pre-deceased by Jeanne in 2008 and is survived by a large family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were all lucky to have known him.

Lyall’s family wishes to thank the staff of the third floor of The Gardens for their care.