DAINES, Franklin Roland

1947~ 2026

In loving memory we share the peaceful passing of Franklin Roland Daines, on February 10, 2026 at the age of 78 years. His final week was spent with family by his side, the Superbowl in the background, and loud laughter as we reminisced about the incredible life he led.

Born on November 11, 1947, Franklin was the sixth of seven sons to parents, Snowden and Ethel Daines. From a young age he loved the rodeo. He won the Boys’ Steer Riding at the Calgary Stampede in 1962 and went on to become a great calf roper. His nephews were taught how to rope by Franklin and the many quality horses he brought up from Texas. He was a huge part of the Daines Rodeo, running the gate, the liquor booth and ensuring everyone was having a good time.

Franklin married the love of his life, Shirley Dial, on February 17, 1967. Their first daughter, Dixie Lee, arrived that same year.

With no room left on the farm, Franklin set out to find his own way. He started his sales career in life insurance before he worked at Simpson Sear’s in downtown Red Deer. He was a natural-born salesman, selling everything from vacuums to tires. If you needed a washer and dryer installed, Franklin was your man! Although talented, his passions were not fulfilled, and he partnered with his brothers Ivan and Glen selling western wear in the Auction Mart (1971). In 1972 their second daughter, Stacey Lynn, arrived. Shortly after, Franklin was approached to move their store to the newly built Parkland Mall. At this time the Daines Western Shop franchise was founded and quickly spread across Western Canada with close to thirty stores.

Continuing as an entrepreneur, Franklin decided to dabble in the bar business. The Silver Buckle soon became the hottest nightclub in town, but was short lived, and he returned to retail. In 1983, Snowdon Adam, his third child and only son was born.

Franklin could no longer suppress his real true passion. In 1997, Franklin and Shirley partnered with Kenny and Darlene Oxtoby and opened Jackpot Casino. With Franklin at the helm, it was an instant success and quickly outgrew its original location and moved to the corner of Ross Street on 47th Avenue, where it had over 300 slot machines and 15 table games. Franklin left his mark all over the gaming industry, with one of his greatest accomplishments being the creation of the Blackjack side bet, Lucky Lucky. It can be played all over North America, in casinos and online. Franklin was the ultimate businessman, promoter, and visionary. He not only came up with many ideas, he followed through and brought them to life.

At the heart of everything he built in business and in life, was his family. He never left a grandchild empty-handed, whether that be with Sees candies, a silver dollar, stuffed animal, or “walking around” money. Family gatherings were never complete without him at the center of the table dealing cards and organizing games.

Franklin will forever be missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Shirley; his children, Dixie (Guy) Ouellette and Adam (Karolyn) Daines; his son-in-law, Richard Greig; his grandchildren, Chance (Calan) Ouellette, Madison (Mitch) Froehler, Jace Ouellette, Jamie, Ryan, Zackery and Ashlyn Greig; his great grandchildren, Rory, Zeke, Tatum, Teighan and Tori; his brothers, Ivan and Danny (Dusty) Daines; his brothers-in-law, Lennie and Robbie (Ada) Dial; his sisters-in-law, Marilyn, Audrey, Donna, Kay Daines; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Franklin was predeceased by his brothers, Jim, Jack, Norman, and Glen Daines, his daughter, Stacey Greig, and his nephew Darcy Daines.

We would like to thank the wonderful staff of Villa Marie for their compassionate care in Franklin’s final years. Our family extends a heartfelt thanks to all who have reached out with condolences and support as we remember and celebrate his life.

A Funeral Service was held at St. Marks Anglican Church,  4915 – 52 Street, Innisfail on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. The Reception followed at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch # 104, Innisfail, Alberta following the service.

If your are unable to attend the Funeral Service for Franklin, please go to www.heartlandfuneralservices just prior to 2:00 p.m. and click the livestream on the right side of the home page. Within 24 hours it will be placed on Franklin’s page. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to Parkinson Association of Alberta at parkinsonassociation.ca, the Multiple Sclerosis Society at mssociety.ca or to the St. Marks Anglican Church, 4915 – 52 Street, Innisfail, Alberta, T4G 1S8. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta. Phone: 403.227.0006

GO FOR THE GOLD

• Date : 2026-02-22
• Location : Heartland Funeral Services (Innisfail) www.heartlandfuneralservices.com 403.227.0006