2009 Obituaries

Tommy was the much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather to many. He died suddenly on January 15, 2009 at his home.

Tommy is survived by his wife, June; her two sons, Bernie and Doug; his daughters, Marilyn (Barry) Killing- beck and Bev (Eli) Hellard; his grandsons, Rob (Andrea), Troy (Dannielle) Tyler and Ryan (Stephie). He had four great grandchildren who called him “GG” as it was easier to say than “Great Grandpa”. They are McKenzie, Kohl, Logan and Samara.

Tommy was the youngest of five children born to Robert and Helen Mitchell on the family farm near the tiny hamlet of Kirriemuir, Alberta. His career in the oilpatch spanned forty-four years and took him to northern B.C. (where he met his first wife, Hazel), coastal B.C., New Zealand and all over Alberta. Tommy retired in 1983 and moved to Vernon, B.C. with Hazel. Here he became very active in skiing at Silver Star and golfing at Spillamcheen. After Hazel’s death, he was very fortunate to meet June Ivanco. They married and were able to do a lot of traveling, going to Europe, Australia, the USA and the Caribbean. They also became involved in dancing and spent many happy hours whirling and twirling. Tommy loved to be an “angel” by helping the new dancers learn their steps. Golfing continued to be a passion and they went to many tournaments and made many friends. He shot under his age when he was eighty-nine; he scored an eighty-seven. Tommy retired his skis at the age of eighty-nine, but continued to dance right up until his death. He was already planning his next round of golf.

We will all miss his zest for life and his love and compassion for his family and friends. He lived life on his terms and left it on his terms.

The celebration of Tommy’s life was held on Thursday, January 22, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, Vernon, B.C.

Tommy never forgot his years spent on the farm at Kirriemuir and came back for the Homecomings whenever he was able. Johnny and Faye Kloberdanz own the original Robert (Bob) Mitchell homestead.

(Thanks to Margaret Mitchell for providing the above obituary.)

Linda Grace Olsen
(Feb. 14, 1950 – Feb. 3, 2009)

Linda Grace Olsen (Code) passed away peacefully on February 3, 2009 in Edmonton with her family by her side.

Linda was born to Charlie and Doris Code on February 14, 1950 in Oyen. She grew up on the family farm near New Brigden, where she attended school from grades 1-11. She attended grade 12 in Hanna.

Linda met Larry Olsen in 1967 on the dance floor in New Brigden. They married on July 26, 1969. Together they started to build their life on the farm, north of Cereal. She worked as an administrator of the Cereal Hospital for 22 years, as well as at the Cereal Auction Market for many years. When not at work, she would most likely be at home in the garden, the field or barnyard. Milking Jenny was where she found peace and quiet from the bustle of everyday.

Linda was active in the community, participating in sporting events, 4-H clubs and volunteering within many organizations. At home she was a jack-of-all-trades. Cooking, baking, sewing, gardening, electrician, carpentry, and bookkeeping, just to name a few of her many talents.

Linda could operate and often repair any of the farm machinery and was happy to come home from a long days work at the hospital and head straight to the summer fallow, rock picking, swathing or combining. She found great pride in the harvest every year.

Linda was active in her children’s lives and took great pride in her grandchildren’s antics and accomplishments. Grandma always had cookies, licorice and chiclets for the kids before they headed out the door.

Linda was predeceased by her father Charlie Code, February 2000; mother Doris Code (Krick), December 2000; and father-in-law Chester Olsen, May 2006.

Linda will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her husband Larry; daughters Laurel (Burnell) Martin and Vicki (Tim) Marr; son Leonard (Jody) Olsen; five grandchildren, Skylar and Treyle Martin and Griffin, Reed and Kelton Marr; siblings Peggy (Dave) Forrester, Allan (Laurie) Code and Lorne Code; mother-in-law Eileen Olsen; brother-in-law Greg (Terry-Dale) Olsen; sister-in-law Rosanne (Bryan) Pederson; and many nieces and nephews.

A family funeral service was held Saturday, February 7, at the Cereal United Church in Cereal, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Rev. Roger Kett and a eulogy was given by Lorne Code. Marvel Jorgenson was the organist and Ralph Jorgenson was the soloist. Hymns were “In the Garden” and “Old Rugged Cross.”

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Alberta Lung Association, P.O. Box 4500, Station South, Edmonton, Alberta, T6E 6K2; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the family funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Cereal United Church Women in the Cereal Community Hall.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

Alice Ilene Nelson
(July 13, 1924 – Feb. 10, 2009)

Alice Ilene Nelson was born July 13, 1924 at Consort, Alberta, and passed away February 10, 2009 at the age of 84 years at the Grey Nuns Hospital in Edmonton.

Alice was born to Samuel and Permilla McAllister and was the ninth child of twelve children. She took her schooling at the Birdsview School. Alice worked for several schoolteachers in the area and also was employed at the Consort Hospital.

She met and married Carl Nelson on October 27, 1946 and they lived on the farm south of Veteran where their three children were born: Darlene, Dianne and Dennis. They moved to Stettler in 1959 where she resided until her passing.

Alice enjoyed drawing wildlife, writing poems, playing bingo, fishing and camping with the family. She also enjoyed time spent with her seven grandchildren. She once said there was nothing like a hug from her grandchildren and becoming a great grandma to Sage and Casey. She especially enjoyed the once a year overnight stay and trip to the casino on our “Mom and Kids” weekend. She always enjoyed visits from her nieces and nephews and her special sister-in-law Joan.

Alice was predeceased by her husband Carl in 1989; son-in-law Harry in 2008; her parents; six brothers; and five sisters. She is survived by her daughter Darlene (Al) Campbell of Three Hills, grandchildren, Heather (Kevin), Darren (Jessica), and Chris (Allison); daughter Dianne Gonda of Halkirk, grandchildren, Brian (Sandra), Dale (Mandy) and great grandchildren Sage and Casey; son Dennis Nelson (Charleen Smith) of Stettler, grandchildren, Chad, Chelsey, Amanda Smith (Wayne) & Angela Smith (Tom); brother-in-law Ivor (Helen) Nelson of Veteran; sisters-in-law Nancy McAllister of Red Deer, Joan Cornelssen of Stettler, Linnea Conway of Consort and Olive Nelson of Consort; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and good friends.

Funeral Service took place on Friday, February 13, 2009 at the Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home Ltd. with Rev. Barbara Zimmer-man officiating. Interment took place at the Lake View Cemetery, Stettler, with granddaughters Heather and Chelsey, as well as “the residents of Paragon Place” acting as Honorary Pallbearers. Active Pallbearers were Darren Campbell, Chris Campbell, Brian Gonda, Dale Gonda, Chad Smith and Kevin McAllister.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation or the charity of choice c/o Stettler Funeral Home.

Ethel Noble
(March 9, 1913 – Feb.15, 2009)

The death of Ethel Matilda Elizabeth Noble (Johnson), aged 95, of Kerrobert, occurred at Kerrobert Union Hospital on February 15, 2009.

She was born March 9, 1913, on NE 4-24-32-29 W3 and married James Noble on November 3, 1945. They lived and farmed five miles north of Loverna until they moved to the Kerrobert Integrated Care Facility six years ago.

Ethel was predeceased by her husband, James on December 10, 2008; parents, Victor and Olive (Ryberg) Johnson; brother, Elmer Johnson; sister, Mabel; and brother-in-law, Ross Nichol.

She is survived by sister-in-law, Annie Johnson; nephews: Roger Johnson and family and Gordon Johnson and family; nieces: Linda Day and family and Gail Taylor and family.

Ethel will be loving remembered and sadly missed by sons: Layne (Adrienne) Noble of Ottawa, Barry (Kerri) Noble of Compeer, Dennis (Darlene) Noble of Moose Jaw; granddaughters: Tanya (Keith) Moore, Ottawa, Danielle (Dave) Pirnak, St. Albert, Paige Noble, Moose Jaw; grandsons: Ryan Noble (Crystal), St. Albert, Jesse Noble, Moose Jaw, Mark Charette, Ottawa; great grandsons: Liam and Brennan Moore of Ottawa, Ryder Pirnak, St. Albert; great granddaughters: Brooklynn Pirnak, St. Albert and Faith Noble, St. Albert.

Funeral service was held at the Kerrobert United Church on February 28th, 2009, at 11 a.m. with Bill Thomson and Marg Mack officiating. Active Pallbearers were Jesse Noble, Ryan Noble, Len Day, Dave Taylor, Doug Noble and Alan Cornell. Honorary Pallbearers were Roger Johnson and Dave Pirnak. Ushers were Gordon Gramlich and Gordon Dommett. Organist was Marlene Thomson.

Interment took place at the Loverna Cemetery, Loverna, SK.

John Joseph Quinlan
(June 18, 1935-March 8, 2009)

John Joseph (Joe) Quinlan aged 73 years passed away suddenly on March 8, 2009.

Beloved husband of Eileen of Claresholm, dear father and father-in-law to Dennis (Kathy), Bill (Betty), Lisa (Steve), John (Jodi), Joanne (Matthew), Angela (Scott) Maryann and Kathleen and loving grandfather to Keith, Mark, Jennifer, Corey, Kaitlin, Nicole, Quinn and Wells. He is also survived by a brother Jim (Claire), two sisters Frances (George) Terry and Catherine Rennich.

Joe was born in Consort, Alberta and attended school there and completed his high school in Castor.

Joe and Eileen were married July 25, 1959 in Consort, Alberta. He worked for Alberta Pacific Grain Company for eight years and then relocated to the Ponoka area. After receiving his power engineering he then worked for the Alberta Government for 26 years in Ponoka, Claresholm and Devon.

During his retirement Joe always found the need to keep very busy at various jobs. Dad “Grampy” “Papa” “Joe” will be missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.

Funeral Mass was celebrated at Christ the King Catholic Church, Claresholm on Thursday, March 12, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Ben Marino Presiding. Interment to follow at Claresholm Cemetery.

If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made in Joe’s name to the charity of one’s choice.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
Arrangements entrusted to Leyden’s Funeral Home, 4079 – 1 Street West, Claresholm, Alberta T0L 0T0.

Ethel Noble
(March 9, 1913 – Feb.15, 2009)

The death of Ethel Matilda Elizabeth Noble (Johnson), aged 95, of Kerrobert, occurred at Kerrobert Union Hospital on February 15, 2009.

She was born March 9, 1913, on NE 4-24-32-29 W3 and married James Noble on November 3, 1945. They lived and farmed five miles north of Loverna until they moved to the Kerrobert Integrated Care Facility six years ago.

Ethel was predeceased by her husband, James on December 10, 2008; parents, Victor and Olive (Ryberg) Johnson; brother, Elmer Johnson; sister, Mabel; and brother-in-law, Ross Nichol.

She is survived by sister-in-law, Annie Johnson; nephews: Roger Johnson and family and Gordon Johnson and family; nieces: Linda Day and family and Gail Taylor and family.

Ethel will be loving remembered and sadly missed by sons: Layne (Adrienne) Noble of Ottawa, Barry (Kerri) Noble of Compeer, Dennis (Darlene) Noble of Moose Jaw; granddaughters: Tanya (Keith) Moore, Ottawa, Danielle (Dave) Pirnak, St. Albert, Paige Noble, Moose Jaw; grandsons: Ryan Noble (Crystal), St. Albert, Jesse Noble, Moose Jaw, Mark Charette, Ottawa; great grandsons: Liam and Brennan Moore of Ottawa, Ryder Pirnak, St. Albert; great granddaughters: Brooklynn Pirnak, St. Albert and Faith Noble, St. Albert.

Funeral service was held at the Kerrobert United Church on February 28th, 2009, at 11 a.m. with Bill Thomson and Marg Mack officiating. Active Pallbearers were Jesse Noble, Ryan Noble, Len Day, Dave Taylor, Doug Noble and Alan Cornell. Honorary Pallbearers were Roger Johnson and Dave Pirnak. Ushers were Gordon Gramlich and Gordon Dommett. Organist was Marlene Thomson.

Interment took place at the Loverna Cemetery, Loverna, SK.

Mable Hedley
(April 12, 1919 – March 9, 2009)

Mable Pauline (Reierstad) Hedley passed away peacefully on Monday, March 9 at the age of 91 years. She was born to loving parents, John and Liva Reierstad on April 12, 1917 at Glen Banner, AB, the second of four children.

Mable leaves to cherish her memory one son Bob (Leona) Hedley, children Kristen, Kelsey, and Kennan; and one daughter Ann (Don) Benkie, children Kevin (Leah Graham), James (Jenny), Lorie (Blaine) Ham and one great granddaughter Ruth Anne Benkie. She is survived by two sisters Minnie Prouty of Armstrong, B.C. and Florence Brower of Medicine Hat, AB; sister-in-law Irene Reierstad, as well as six very special and dear nieces, nephews and their spouses. She was predeceased by her loving husband Maddison in 1991, infant daughter Lillian, her parents John and Liva Reierstad, in-laws Ralph and Alice Hedley, brother Clifford, brothers-in-law Ernest Prouty and Lynn Brower.

Mable took most of her schooling at Delayed School, one year at Montreal Street School, and one year at St. Theresa College, Medicine Hat. She took a Secretarial-Bookkeeping Course at Garbutts, Medicine Hat, worked at Cowley, and the Conquerville District before going to work in the Courtney Store, Manyberries in April 1939. She remained there until May 1947, where after many years of long distance courtship married the love of her life Robert Maddison “Matt” Hedley in July, 1947. She moved to Consort and remained there for 56 years. Due to failing health she moved to the Stettler Heritage House until her passing.

Mable loved her garden and it was a place of solace for her. She took an active part in community organizations such as Manyberries WI, Rebekah Lodge, Consort Community Club and was a devoted member of the Anglican Church. A homemaker she was, and loved to do handiwork, to dance and play cards, especially bridge. And dance she did, right up until a couple of years ago. She found great joy in her grandchildren, and celebrated their achievements. A very private person and always saw the positive side of everything. She was an exemplary mother who guided by example.

Mable enjoyed traveling and had great memories of trips to Norway, England, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, Figi, Singapore, Europe, California, Arizona, and an Alaskan Cruise, Panama Cruise and many more.

Her failing health due in part to Alzheimer’s and mini strokes made her life more difficult but through it all Mable always had a happy, grateful heart. She once said, “I don’t know what people do without the Lord!” and “I don’t know how people get along without family!” She had both, and considered herself rich indeed. Her kind, gentle spirit and serving heart were a blessing to all who knew her and she will be greatly missed.

There are moments in life when you miss someone so much that you just want to pick them from your dream and hug them. We will forever miss you. Rest in Peace.

What It Was, That She Was, To Us
A Person Remains A Person Until the End
Even the last day of her life,
We could look into her eyes,
The window to her soul, And see who was really there.
The mother, the Grandma, the woman
That she had previously been.
The life, the love, the laughter
That she had shared with us
A long time ago. Before Alzheimer’s Disease Slowly stole her from us, Made her less than she was.
Life goes on for others; Years and years pass by Losing more abilities and conscious thoughts.
She may not have recognized her children,
Yet responded to their voice.
But she still remembered LOVE.
We mourned her passing,
Bit by bit, over many years.
She was not the woman we once knew,
Yet a person still remained.
We loved her,
remembering the past,
And pay tribute to her now.
We remember her now,
For the way that she once was;
A wise and caring person
Who liked to have some fun.
She liked to listen, she gave of herself.
And that is why,
we remember her now.
For we remember, each of us,
With individual and private thoughts,
What it was,
That she was..,
To us.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 14, 2009 in the St. George’s Anglican Church, Stettler with Rev. Jack Schulze officiating. Tributes were given by Kristen Hedley and James Benkie. Musical tributes were performed by the Happy Gang 2 accompanied by Elaine Hennel. Pallbearers were: grandsons, Kennan Hedley, Kevin Benkie, James Benkie and nephews, Barry Prouty, Roy Brouwer and Raymond Reierstad. Honorary Pallbearers were “All the special family and friends who walked into her life and never left her heart.” Interment will take place at Lakeroad Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Lakeroad Cemetery c/o Parkview Funeral Chapels (1985) Ltd., Box 186, Castor, Alberta T0C 0X0.
Sympathies may be forwarded to the family by signing the guestbook at www.parkviewfuneral home.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Tribute by Kristen Hedley

Over this past week, Kevin Jamie, Lorie, Kelsey, Kennan, and I have been honoured to listen to stories conveyed by our neighbours, friends, and families about the inner strength and grace our Grandma Hedley embodied. As her grandchildren, we are honoured to be the descendants of such a well-respected and highly-esteemed individual. For in a world where you don’t get to choose the family you are born into, we all feel blessed to have won the “Grandmother Lottery.” Because our Grandma Mable was the self-less, neighbourly, and community-minded woman she was, I am proud to walk into my classroom each day bearing the title of “Miss Hedley”. We are honoured that in our community, the Hedley surname is associated with making the world a better place – one smile, laugh, and helping hand at a time. Joan Bousquet, a life-long family friend, said it best, “Mabel was one of my favorite ‘Mums’ when we were kids! Was she ever cross? Ever without a smile and a warm, sincere laugh just ready to be shared? Did she ever say no when a neighbor, the church, or a friend needed a helping hand – not to my recollection. Mabel was a kind, warm, willing, cheerful, and generous of spirit, beautiful lady – to me as a young girl, teenager, then adult, and to everyone she met. She was a quiet angel among us.”

Because Kelsey, Kennan, and I are younger than the Benkie-trio, our memories of a healthy Grandma Hedley are vague. Still, she loved to spoil all six of us, and we’ll always associate an endless supply of Ginger-Ale and Ruffles cookies with Grandma and Grandpa Hedley. It was a rare occasion you could catch Grandma cooking in the kitchen. without hearing a tune happily being hummed. We all love to dance (some better than others) and Grandma would be so proud of the rhythm and music that runs through her “little scampies” veins. Our Grandma Hedley was the type of lady that exemplified the phrase, “If I had known Grandkids were this much fun, I would have had them first.” (And after some of the tales we’ve been told of her “little Bobby” and “little Annie”, it’s definitely understand-able!j) With all the memories that have been recently passed along, we’ve come to appreciate our Grandma Mable in a new light. She no doubt was a beautiful lady, “And Grandma, if you’re listening, I hope you know us Grandkids would have liked to come first too. Then we could have better known you as the strong and spirited lady your friends and neighbours will remember you as.

Tribute by James Benkie

It is an honour to be able to stand before you today to give tribute to an extraordinary woman. The honour though is twofold:

1.) The first honour hinges around memories of Grandma and what Kristen referred to her as “a quiet angel among us”. Grandma Hedley was one who was after Gods own heart showing unbelievable inner strength and inner peace, and:

2.) To honour Grandma’s legacy. Her legacy runs deep in our family. To stand beside another strong Hedley woman, who shares grandma’s inner strength, is extremely comforting to me. More importantly though here today, in the event that I start crying and get weak in the knees, I know Kristen will catch me just as Grandma would have… she was always there to care for us grandkids. Grandma has a special place in all of our hearts. Grandma’s passion for life flourishes in all of us.

Grandma was never the centre of the attention… that is what she married Grandpa for!!!! She was extremely modest and often just sat back with her infectious smile and listened to what everyone had to say. She was also usually busy in the kitchen baking and cooking or out in her garden picking vegetables for dinner that evening.

Many of the memories of Grandma Hedley include experiences on the Hedley Farm, her unbelievable cooking and baking, her handiwork, and most of all her passion for the garden.

We took many trips to the Hedley farm. A lot of those trips were during harvest and of course Christmas! Christmas time was the best because it involved grandma’s cooking and baking and of course getting spoiled with presents and candy. We will always remember many wonderful meals out in the field during harvest. After we were done playing in the “gigantic” swathes we were delighted when it was dinner time as we could not believe the first class service that Grandma provided. We could not have eaten better at the best restaurants in the country. It was truly the full meal deal.

Grandma loved to cook and bake and she was a great host at all times. Even when she moved into the lodge where she had no kitchen, she was always ready to offer and cater to our every need. Grandma also loved to can everything from saskatoons to crabapples. We remember times when she would come to visit and she would bake and cook until all the freezers were full!

We also remember times when our friends from school would ask us when our grandma was coming to visit because they had never been treated to so much baking and awesome cooking! One of Kevin’s friends was invited over for dinner one time when grandma and grandpa were visiting, and when his friend was finished eating his steak Grandma politely offered him another… to which his friend stated “Can I???” as if he had never been allowed or even offered another steak before in his life. Grandma was always so generous.

Grandma loved coconut! She put coconut in everything! Perhaps that is why I am not too fond of it today.

Special Moments

Looking back at all the memories we have shared with grandma, brought us to a few very special moments. In particular…

Grandma would laugh so hard that she would have tears in her eyes…

Being spoiled with gifts every time grandma and grandpa came home from a trip… especially when we saw that it was a wallet because that typically meant that there would be MONEY in it!

Humming…
One special trait that we saw within Grandma was her ability to Humm when she was busy or if she became upset over something……. although now that I think of it the humming may have got louder and longer when Mum was around Grandma!…..but, truthfully, we never, ever heard a harsh word!!!! The humming was NEVER apparent when it was time to leave… as Grandma had the ability to let it go!!!!

When health conditions started to impact Grandma, we understood the best way to get Grandma to say a couple of her more common replies….”I SURE DID”, and “IS THAT RIGHT”, was to tell her information on what was happening. Things like “Its raining, or snowing”……”the little calves are running around”……”there are lots of flowers now”, or even “You used to ride a horse to school”…….and the precious thing was the response was always accompanied with her infectious smile…..
Grandma’s Legacy
Grandma’s legacy and inner strength will be carried forward to the generations to come. Currently, there are four generations – her children Bob and Ann, grandchildren Kevin, James, Lorie, Kristen, Kelsey, and Kennan, and now her great granddaughter Ruth and soon to be great grandchild of Lorie and Blaine.

Grandma’s legacy will also be remembered by her faith in God. She was extremely committed to her relationship with God and her endless prayer for her family. Because of this, I would like to finish with a verse from one of Grandma’s favorite scriptures:
Psalm 103:17
But the mercy and loving-kindness of the Lord are from everlasting to everlasting upon those who reverently and worshipfully fear Him, and His righteousness is to their children’s children

Thank you Grandma for all your endless prayer and thank you for all of your love and support. Thank you for being you!

Siama Lucille (Pat) Schetzsle
(October 22, 1918 – March 16, 2009)

Siama Lucille (Pat) Schetzsle was born to Aliina and Andrew Mattson on October 22, 1918 in Three Hills, Alberta. She passed away peacefully on March 16, 2009 at the Continuing Care Unit in the Coronation Hospital & Care Center, Coronation, Alberta.

Pat is survived by her sons Terry (Linda) of Veteran, Alberta and Jim (Susan) of Edmonton, Alberta, daughters Sandra (Harvey) Johnstone of Veteran, Alberta and Colleen Harris (Henry Chartier) of Coronation, Alberta, son-in-law Larry Wilson of New Brigden, Alberta, 12 grandchildren; Randy (Debbie) Johnstone, Julie (Greg) Schroeder, Candy (Cameron) Brown, Patricia (Kelly) Shaw, Tracy (Glen) Anhorn, Greg (Kim) Wilson, Sandy (Steve) Kohm, Paula (Travis) Galenzoski, Nancy (Kurt) Ashbough, Graham (Jennifer) Schetzsle, Rhonda (Wade) Grunow and Ryan Schetzsle, 23 great-grandchildren, her sister-in-law Lois Mattson of Edmonton, Alberta, sisters-in-law Loretta Healy of Coronation, Alberta, Agnes (Ken) Rumohr of Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Delia (Hal) Sorenson of Innisfail, Alberta, brother-in-law Gordon (Bernice) Schetzsle of Consort, Alberta, nieces, nephews and many friends. She was predeceased by her husband Francis (1986), son Danny (1962), daughter Sharon Wilson (2007), her parents Andrew and Aliina Mattson, her mother and father-in-law Mary and James Schetzsle, her sisters Nora Mattson, Esther McNeill, Seiri Cook, Evelyn Mattson, her brothers Andy Mattson, Gusty Mattson, half-sister Annie Tapio, and sisters-in-law Celesta Evans and Helen Kelts.

The funeral mass, officiated by Father Arlan Parenteau, was held Friday March 20, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Veteran United Church (the building was formerly St. Patrick’s Catholic Church) in Veteran, Alberta.

The prelude music was played by Linda Schetzsle. Organist, Marilyn Long played the music for the mass, “Shall We Gather At The River”, “Here I Am Lord”, “Prayer of St. Francis”, and “On Eagle’s Wings”. A tribute to Pat was given by Terry Schetzsle and Elsie Nydokus with readings by Susan Schetzsle and Gordon Schetzsle. Special music that was pre-recorded by granddaughters, Julie Schroeder, Candy Brown and Patricia Shaw was, “Go Rest High On That Mountain” and “I’ll Fly Away”.

Active Pallbearers were Pat’s grandchildren and first great-grandchild, Randy Johnstone, Graham Schetz-sle, Ryan Schetzsle, Jordan Schroeder, Julie Schroeder and Paula Galenzoski. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Pat’s Fellow Teachers, Friends and Neighbors”. Interment followed the funeral mass at the Veteran Cemetery. A beautiful luncheon, prepared and served by the Veteran United Church Ladies and surrounding Community Ladies was held at the Veteran Community Hall.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Pat’s memory would be welcome by the Veteran Municipal Library, Box 650, Veteran, Alberta T0C 2SO, Alzheimer Society of Alberta, 10531 Kingsway Ave., Edmonton, Alberta T5H 4K1, or the charity of one’s choice.

Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Words of Remembrance
by Elsie Nydokus

I am very honoured to have been asked to say a few words in remembrance of Pat, who has been a very close and special friend for many years.

I first met Pat and Francis when we returned to Veteran in April of 1964. She had been Nester’s teacher for part of a school year in Hemaruka. I did some substituting at the school for a year or two before taking a permanent position. Pat was an excellent principal and was always very helpful and encouraging with pupils and staff alike.

Our school secretary, Shirley Vetter, Pat, and I always looked forward to the Teacher’s Convention every spring. At that time of the year everyone was starting to suffer from cabin fever. We followed the exact same trail every year, always stopping for a delicious Chinese feed in Lacombe. The first thing we would do when we arrived at the Chateau Lacombe in Edmonton was to visit the gift shop where we would purchase all kinds of goodies to munch on in our rooms. For the rest of the year we were always dieting, but at the Convention we threw all caution to the wind and thoroughly enjoyed “Pigging Out.” Pat and I had to do a lot of walking back and forth between our acreages to undo the damage.

We always enjoyed getting with a few others and taxiing across town to a movie. While in Edmonton, one such excursion always stuck in our minds. After the movie was over, Pat went to phone a taxi. There were 10 – 12 little open telephone booths in a semi-circle in the entrance to the theatre. After calling for the taxi, Pat began pulling things out of her purse looking for her address book as there was someone else she wanted to phone. All at once, she called to an usher “Excuse me, but could you please tell me where I could find a phone?” Just as soon as the words were out of her mouth, she realized what she had said. Of course, the rest of us were in hysterics, really adding to her embarrassment. Elbe Anderson was with us as well that night. When the taxi arrived, we were all just weak from laughing so hard. We had to go up a huge flight of stairs to get to the street. We all helped to carry Shirley in her wheelchair. We would climb a few steps and then would double over once more, trying desperately to gain control. I’m convinced that if the taxi driver hadn’t been there to help us we would have dropped Shirley and her chair! He was probably thinking that these silly old women must have seen a hilarious movie! We nicknamed Pat the “Absent minded Professor” after that. Often Shirley and I would remind her about it in the office after school and would begin to laugh almost as hard as we had that night. Pat would say, “Shut up, you two, or I’ll shoot you both in the big toe!” Often she said, “How come you two have time for this old lady?” We’d say “What old lady?” Pat was always so much fun and young at heart that we never felt there was any age difference.

Sadly, we lost Shirley in March of 1988. A few years ago, Nester and I took Pat with us to the Casino in Medicine Hat. Nester always teased her and she really seemed to enjoy it giving back as good as she got. Every meal, they would argue over the bill. He finally told her that she could buy our breakfast on the way home. Then he teased her that he was going to order steak and eggs.

Pat was a dedicated walker in the Terry Fox Run for many years. She was the oldest person in the walk and was certainly an inspiration to many others. When the time came that she was unable to do it any longer, she would always phone me with her pledge.

Pat will be sorely missed by her multitude of friends and her family.

Good-bye, dear friend! Rest in peace.

Alfred Aizzier
(March 26, 1923-Feb. 2, 2009)

Alfred David Aizzier was born on March 26, 1923, to Eugene and Ada (nee Woodman) Aizzier in Altario, Alberta.

Alfred’s mother passed away when he was 12 years old. Alfred, along with his three older siblings, was raised in the Kirriemuir area on their farm, homesteaded by his dad Eugene, and attended the Kirriemuir School. At the age of sixteen, he left home to work on a sheep ranch in the area.

On June 10, 1947, Alf married Ruby Ward and they remained on the Aizzier farm. They had three children Loralie, Trevor and Susan. In 1949, Alf and Ruby purchased a store in Pemukan, which they ran for one year. In 1950, they moved to Calgary where Alf worked in a Box Factory. In 1956, they were asked to join as staff at the Prairie Bible Institute where they resided and worked on staff for 9 1/2 years. Alf was very competent as a welder, farmer and trucker so he was able to fulfill many rolls at PBI.

In 1965, Alf, Ruby and family returned to Kirriemuir to again run the family farm where they remained until 1982. At that time, their son Trevor took over the running of the farm and Alf and Ruby retired to Three Hills. They remained in their home in Three Hills until 2006 when they moved into the Robertson Manor to enjoy having many friends close by and not having to maintain a large home, shovel snow and cut grass!

Alf’s greatest joy was in helping and encouraging others. He was a mechanic, welder, well driller and farmer and would help anyone, anytime. He taught many young people how to drive and obtain their drivers license. He served on the Manitou Lake Bible Camp Board and helped construct several camp projects. He served on the Altario School Board and drove school bus for many years. When they moved to Three Hills, Alf worked with the Achievers and the Citizens on Patrol. Many times, Alf would drop his own work or project to help someone else. Alf was also always there to help his family and make sure they had all the things that mattered.

Anyone who knew Alf, knew his wonderful sense of humour. He always had a joke or bit of humour to put a smile on everyone’s face. His generosity and kindness in helping those around him were appreciated by all. He loved his Lord and enjoyed serving him in anyway he could.

On January 21, 2009, Alf went into the Three Hills hospital and the Lord took him peacefully to his home in heaven on February 4, 2009. Alf is predeceased by his mother Ada, father Eugene, sister Violet and brother Elmer. He is survived by his wife Ruby, children Loralie, Trevor (Sharon) and Sue (Roger); grandchildren Sorina (Roger), Danielle and Sean and great-grandchildren Nikita and Juliana; sister Ardell MacDonald as well as nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held on Friday, February 6, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Mount Olive Evangelical Free Church, Three Hills with Pastor Rod Masterson and Pastor Norm Koop officiating. Interment was held at the Three Hills Cemetery.

Memorial tributes may be made directly to the Gideons, CEF or Three Hills Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds, Alberta entrusted with arrangements.

Shirley Rose Caseley (Healy)
(Jan. 15, 1939 – March 23, 2009)

Shirley Rose Caseley (Healy) passed away in the early morning of Monday, March 23, 2009 in the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre at the age of 70 years, after a lengthy battle with diabetes and complications from the disease.

Shirley was born January 15, 1939 to George and Lucy Healy. They resided on the family farm at Kirkpatrick Lake until they moved to the farm at Veteran when Shirley was 9. Shirley enjoyed her years at Veteran School with her good friends Jacqueline Mogck and Donna Wenger and she often talked about the fun they had.

Shirley met and married Jack Caseley on November 6, 1959. In the early years they enjoyed travelling to dances every Saturday evening to visit with friends and dance the night away, especially when the Caseley family band was playing. To this union two sons were born, Marty in November of 1962 followed by Garth in January of 1966. Jack, Shirley and boys enjoyed working together on the family farm, visiting with friends, curling, fishing, and camping with family. Jack and Shirley enjoyed many trips over the years to Las Vegas, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and a cruise to Jamaica.

When Jack and Shirley were first married they made a living by selling eggs and milking cows. Over the years Shirley increased her egg business and she had 600 chickens. Marty and Garth fondly remember the days of collecting eggs, washing them, and taking mother to town to deliver them. Shirley was very proud of her chickens and took care of them very well. The eggs were always collected morning and night regardless of whatever else was going on. The boys were especially excited when Shirley bought the satellite dish with the egg money; maybe all the hard work wasn’t so bad!

Shirley was very active with various groups in Veteran including the WI and the United Church. She was always willing to give if someone needed something. Most of the weddings in the local communities had their cakes made by Shirley. She always took a cake with her whenever she went to any function like bingos, church suppers, birthday parties, wedding or baby showers.

Shirley loved to play bingo; she and Gram would drive every week to the local bingos in Coronation and Consort. Shirley was very close with Gram and truly lost her best friend when Gram passed away, as they went everywhere together.

Shirley was also an avid quilter. She very much enjoyed going to Brownfield to join the local ladies making quilts for the homeless and woman shelters. Most of all the local graduates from Veteran were given a quilt by Shirley as well as all the new babies being born into the community.

Shirley enjoyed gardening and she loved her flowers, especially her red geraniums and marigolds. The front of the house was always a sea of red and orange. She always had a large garden and anyone stopping in would leave with a bag full of vegetables.

Shirley was always willing to give and she did give to a lot of people. In the last few years when her health was failing she found it very hard to accept the giving coming back to her. We can all take solace in the fact that Shirley is now as active as ever and is with her beloved Gram again. She will be sadly missed by all. Shirley was predeceased by her parents George and Lucy. She leaves to mourn her passing her husband of 49 years Jack, son Marty (Tracey) with their children Jonathon, Allysa, and Chris Dyck; son Garth (Tracey) with their daughters Abree and Aimee; as well as Jack’s sisters and brothers and their spouses; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A Tribute to Shirley
By Sadie Caseley

I was very honoured when I was asked by the family to pay a tribute to Shirley.

Shirley was a very caring, hard working and straight forward person. If something wasn’t right she would let you know. She was always there with fresh buns, cakes or a full meal in a time of need. I would hate to guess how many dozens of buns she made to give to families, or take to community functions.

She also made many cakes and decorated them for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions.

Her home and family were her first priority.

To Shirley there was not four seasons it was like this:

Planting the seeds in the greenhouse, cleaning the hedges out and piling the dry wood for the fireplace, painting the farm buildings and fences, camping, fishing, haying, silage time, camping again, harvest, camping before freeze up, then it was sewing and quilting time, and watching Jack and the boys at the rink.

We went on many family holidays with Jack and Shirley. Some of our vacations destinations were Disneyland, Reno, camping at Czar Lake, Muriel Lake, Lac Des Iles, Blood Indian and Capt Ayre Lake. You never had to worry if you forgot something because Shirley always had extra. There was never any shortage of food.

At Czar Lake we could park 6 campers in a spot that most people put 2 or 3, we never thought that we were crowded. Jack would get the boat in the water and the boys would get ready to ski. Marty, Garth and Craig couldn’t wait to get Jack on the skis. They wanted to dump him in the water. Jack would put the skis on at the beach, light a cigarette and off they would go around the lake, came back Jack with the cigarette still in his mouth. Shirl would say “Look at that showman, they didn’t dump him this time.” She was so proud of her family.

In winter we had toboggan and skiing parties; everybody went, kids, parents, grandparents and neighbours. Shirl would phone and tell me to bring buns, wieners and the big coffee pot that we used on the campfire. We melted snow to make the coffee and hot chocolate.

Heather, Craig and I were reminiscing the other night about camping trips with Jack and Shirley. We remember the time Shirl made bannock and Heather didn’t know what it was and she wanted to try it. The instructions were to put the dough around the wiener stick, cook it, pull it off the stick and put butter and jam inside, she was having trouble so Shirl did it for her. She took one bite and she had butter and jam all over her chin, we all had a good laugh. Heather said, “Shirl I thought you said a little butter and jam.”

Shirley loved to bake and cook. Her fried chicken, milk gravy and mashed potatoes were the best. Did you ever have her potato salad?

Shirley had her faults just like you and I. Over the past few years we found it hard to watch her struggle with her failing health. And we’ve missed her smile and that twinkle in her eye. We should all be at peace to know that she has no pain and that twinkle shines brighter than ever now.

The service to commemorate Shirley’s life took place at the Veteran Community Hall, Veteran, Alberta on Sunday, March 29 at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Sadie Caseley presented the eulogy which was written by the family; Sadie also shared many of her memories. Soloist, Bob McAllister sang “Beyond The Sunset” accompanied by Lorea Gilmer. Margaret Evans and Barbie Evans played for the congregational hymn, “Amazing Grace”. Honorary pallbearers were Rhoda Garstad, Alice Beebe, Heather Healy, Marilyn Polege, Connie Larson and Sadie Caseley. The Urn Bearers were Shirley’s long time friends Jo and Wally Ball. A private family interment followed the service at the Veteran Cemetery. Following the funeral service family and friends remained at the Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A beautiful lunch was prepared and served by the Veteran United Church Ladies and the community. In Shirley’s honor, memorial contributions may be made to the Coronation Hospital Foundation, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, Alberta, T0C 1C0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

DAVE JOHN MUNRO WILSON
(March 7, 1919 – March 26, 2009)

Dave Wilson was born March 7, 1919 near Veteran and grew up on a farm near Consort. They later moved into Consort. He passed away March 26, 2009 in Calgary and the funeral was held Friday, April 3 from St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Calgary.

He was the loving husband for 60 years of Joan, who he met in England and they married in 1948. He also leaves sons John and Andrew and grandchildren Luke and Page. Also surviving are sisters Mary and Madge of Edmonton and Jane of Red Deer, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Frances.

During World War II he served with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signallers.

Consort friends extend sympathy to the survivors.

William Claude Thornton
(June 15, 1916 – April 1, 2009)

W. Claude Thornton died peacefully in the Long Term Care facility in Consort, Alberta on Wednesday, April 1, 2009. He was born and raised in the Sedalia/Consort area. His schooling was in the Sedalia area, getting to grade 8 before he quit to go to work. During the depression, he left home at an early age and went to work on the neighboring farms, usually working for room and board.

He raised collie (Lassie) dogs, and had a great love for animals.

During the war, he worked as a cook’s helper in the Columbia ice fields before returning home. His belief in hard work and love of God was his mantra and tried to live as honestly as he could.

He was always doing someone a good turn, and he always had a smile on his face and loved a good joke.

He married Helen Kroeger and resided in the town of Consort, before moving up to the Lodge. Upon Helen’s passing, he continued to live at the Lodge before going to the Long Term Care Facility in Consort.

He is predeceased by his wife Helen, parents John (Jack) and Eleanor Thornton, brother John Phillip, brothers-in-law, George Cook, Leonard Down & Clifford Johnson. He is survived by brothers: Joe (Effie) Thornton, Gerald (Myra) Norndon, Keith (Anne) Thornton, sisters: Fern Cook, Ivy Down, Iris Johnstone, and Myrtle (Laverne) Wallace & numerous nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services were held on Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at 2 p.m. in Knox United Church, Consort, with Rev. Sandy Macpherson officiating. John and Daniel McCormack read scriptures and Jody McCormack gave a loving tribute. Linda Osetsky played the piano for the congregational hymns led in song by the Knox United Church Choir. Active Pallbearers were Gerald, Daniel and John McCormack, Ernest Thorn-ton, Dave Browne and Wayne Bamber. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Claude’s Family and Friends”. The interment followed in Lakeroad Cemetery Consort, Alberta. Family and friends then gathered together in the basement of the church for a time of sharing and luncheon prepared by the Knox United Church Women.

Should friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the Ladies Auxiliary at the Consort Hospital in Claude’s name.

Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium ‘Families Serving Families’ were entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Eulogy
by Jody McCormack

William Claude Thornton was born on the farm in Sedalia on June 15, 1916 to John (Jack) and Elanore Thornton. He would be the first of 9 siblings all born on the farm except the last three, John, Keith and Myrt. He was close to Gramma, helping her with the farm chores while Grampa tended the fields. He often remarked at what a hard worker Gramma was and was determined not to see his own wife toil as hard.

He told us of a few stories from his childhood, recalling how he had to tend the schoolhouse each morning before the students arrived. One day, he put all the kids up in the loft, saying to the Teacher, I guess they aren’t coming, but you might hear a rooster. Immediately one of the kids started to crow. This went on, his naming animals, the kids making a rackett, and the teacher wondering where all the animals were hidden. I kind of wonder how that teacher ever made it through Uncle Claudes schooling years! She made the mistake once of complaining in the wintertime she was cold. Well, you guessed it, Uncle Claude arrived early and put so much wood into the wood stove it made it too hot to sit near. I don’t think she ever complained about being cold again!

It was Uncle Earl (I think) who offered the kids 5 cents a gopher tail, as they were a nuisance and he in turn gave them to the local pest control man. The kids got wise and started to just pull their tails off, and much to their delight, they were still paid the going rate. It worked pretty good too until Uncle Earl caught sight of a bare tailed gopher! That was the end of that!

Uncle Claude was a person with a great sense of responsibility, and at the tender age of 15 left the family home to make his way in the world. When I asked him about leaving home at such an early age, he simply said, there was not a lot of money to be had, and there were other mouths to feed. He worked out on neighboring farms for room and board and enjoyed working with animals. His favorite were the big teams of horses and when the tractors came on the scene, he stuck to his team. He told Gerald and I many times of how he would do chores when it was bitter cold out and then help the neighbors as their tractors wouldn’t start. I think he had a private chuckle to himself: progress!

He had a great love for the Lord and had read the Bible many times. I think he could give most people a run for their money when it came to remembering passages and interpretation of the Good Word. I asked him a couple of times if he would like me to get him a subscription to Reader’s Digest or something like that, and he said No, I just read the Bible. I think it was a great comfort to him when he was so very far from home.

During the war, Uncle Claude made his way to the Columbia Ice fields to work in a concentration camp as a cook’s helper. It was there that he first saw the mountains, and it became a favorite memory for him. He said that the area was breathtaking and the wildlife was amazing. He stayed there for a while and was asked to stay on, but home called him back and he arrived in Consort shortly after the war. He worked again for other people, Kroeger Brothers being one. He always enjoyed working with engines and would have liked to pursue that trade, but money again was a problem.

He married Aunt Helen May 27, 1967 and was able to make a home for her in Consort. Unfortunately, they didn’t have children, which was too bad as Uncle Claude was so great with kids. My favorite memories of visiting Consort was playing with Uncle Claude. In those days, kids had to play outside while the adults visited. I think he liked kids because they were so honest. Honesty was very important to Uncle Claude. They lived in town before moving to the Lodge in Consort, and resided there for a good many years. When Aunt Helen passed, Uncle Claude continued to live at the Lodge, still helping the local people with whatever job needed to be done. He was still shoveling walks, mowing grass, or whatever needed doing until he was moved into Long Term Care at the hospital.

We had the very great joy of getting to know Uncle Claude as adults over the last few years. My husband and I, or my Dad John and I would visit with him and recall the good old days. When Dad passed on, Gerald and I continued to come and see Uncle Claude. We had a good many laughs and I will cherish the memories he passed on to me and my family. It is hard to put into words how someone has touched your life, as he has mine. He was such a hoot, he had a great sense of humor and was always happy to see us arrive. We were the lucky ones really.

Uncle Claude passed quietly in his sleep on April 1, 2009. He was cheery up to the end, and when asked, he was just fine, or not too bad. He wasn’t a complainer and I know that he is with the Lord. He missed Aunt Helen a great deal, and he is now reunited with her.

FRED PETER BEGORAY
(Dec. 6, 1923 – April 5, 2009)

Funeral services were held Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. from Glenwood Funeral Home in Sherwood Park, for Fred Peter Begoray, who passed away April 5th in Edmonton at the age of 86.

Although he has not lived here for some years, he is well remembered in the Consort and Veteran areas as a favored school teacher.

He was born on December 6, 1923 at Redwater, Alberta and was the last survivor of his family being predeceased by his parents, John and Anastasia Begoray, three brothers, four sisters and two half-sisters. His mother passed away when he was two years of age and he was raised by various aunts and other family members.

He entered Normal School as a teen and had some training before joining the Air Force in World War II, where his teaching knowledge was put to good use . Upon discharge he returned to University to get his degree and his first school was Consort. During his years here and also teaching in Veteran, he met and married Evelyn Hogue. Patrick, John and Noreen were born before they left this area for Cluny and later Vegreville where Kathy and David were born. From there they went to Edson where he filled the position of Associate Superintendent and later went to Athabasca where he was Superintendent for the County. He loved his vocation in life and enjoyed meeting former pupils and leaning how his teachings had gone towards their later successes in life.

Upon retirement, Fred and Evelyn moved to Vancouver Island where he did a little freelancing and a they did lots of travel. They moved back to Edmonton about 1988 to be nearer their children and grandchildren.

Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife, Evelyn, all his children, Patrick, John, Noreen, Kathy and David; also seven grandchildren and one great granddaughter, Talia Hemphill.

Officiating at the Memorial Service was the Reverend John Burrill with Dr. Gisele Rouleau, Organist. The Honorary Pallbearers were Fred’s grandchildren: Jalyn, Evan and Fredrick Begoray, Ryan, Richard, Benjamin and Jonathan Hemphill.

The Urn Interment took place at the Nature Walk, Glenwood Memorial Gardens and following that friends joined with the family for a time of shared memories and light refreshments in Glenwood’s Reception Area.

William (Bill) Kary
July 27, 1922 ~ April 9, 2009

William (Bill) Kary passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2009 in the Coronation Hospital after a brief battle with cancer; his family by his side. Bill was born July 27, 1922 on the family farm at Zetland, Alberta. Bill was the second child of Jacob and Pauline Kary. A family of eight children included, Helen, Bill, Linda, Edna, Herb, Bennie, Richard, and Harriet.

In 1936, Bill lost his mother Pauline suddenly. Being the eldest son this brought new responsibilities for a young man. Bill learned the value of a hard days work for his family. With all the work on the family farm and school, Bill still had time to learn to play the guitar, harmonica, and banjo. You would often see Bill on stage at local dances tapping his toes and playing both instruments, while most were twirling on the dance floor.

In 1953 Bill married Lilly Beck and started their life together on the Henry Kary homestead west of Hemaruka. Shortly after they brought the first of many children into the world. After many years of ups and downs and the odd tool being thrown into a water hole to see the water splash, Bill relocated the family closer to Veteran.

Along the road Bill was blessed with eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. As they grew up they were able to experience Bill and his ways. Each was lucky enough to have their own moment with Papa, whether it was feeding the cows, building oil shacks or just sitting a while listening to his colorful stories of his youth.

Bill spent his life providing for his family and serving the local community. He built many homes and garages in the surrounding area. And sent many a critter to the big pasture in the sky for friends and neighbors. Bill was also well known for his homemade sausages.

Some of Bill’s community services included local politics as a DRO. Special Areas committee member, and REA member. Most memorable was driving snowplow for the local snowplow club in the Hemaruka area.

Bill’s life was filled with family, community, music, reading, watching Stampede Wrestling on the odd Saturday afternoon, and various card and board games. To this day he is still the family undefeated champion in checkers.

Life was always interesting around the Kary table with five boys and three girls. Bill was a true farmer but will always be remembered as a proud father with few words a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. Bill never really retired he just knocked it back a gear. As he was told by a family friend. It’s not getting older its just more horsepower.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Lilly, of Veteran; children Bruce (Crystal) Kary of Airdrie, Brent (Nonavee) Kary of Veteran, Dale (Debbie) Kary of Alix, Sylvia (Larry) Stewart of Calgary, Douglas Kary of Calgary, Teresa Kary and Dan Shute of Irricana, Maxine Kary and Alan Graham of Denver, Colorado and Jayme Kary (Lindsay) of Coronation; grandchildren Scott Kary, Ellyse (Mark) Pilgrim, Blake Kary, Logan Kary, Megan Kary, Darcie Kary, Jake Kary, Shelby Stewart, Kimberly Stewart, Ethan Graham and Griffin Graham; great- grandchild Natalie Pilgrim; sisters Helen Lennox of Calgary, Edna Caseley of Barrhead and Harriet Peters of Kamloops; brothers Herb (Laura) Kary of Coronation, Richard (Noreen) Kary of Calgary and Bennie (Shirley) Kary of Veteran; brother-in-law Gordon (Doreen) Beck of Calgary; sister in law Ruth (Bob) Stewart of Ma-Me-O Beach as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Bill was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Pauline Kary; sister Linda Wallace; father-in-law and mother-in-law Max and Elsie Beck; brothers-in-law Edgar Butler, Robert Lennox and Ben Peters; nephew Lyle Caseley, great-niece Patricia Bye, niece Susan Kary Bye and nephew Myles Butler.

Funeral Services were held at the Veteran United Church, Veteran, Alberta on Monday, April 20, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Stephen Shantz officiating. Linda Osetsky played for the congregational hymns “In The Bulb There Is A Flower”, and “Mansion Over The Hilltop”. Russell Rogers shared the eulogy written by the family. Active Pallbearers were Bill’s grandsons, Scott Kary, Blake Kary, Logan Kary, Jake Kary, Ethan Graham and Griffin Graham. Honorary Pallbearers were “Everyone Who Has Shared In Bill’s Life”. Following the funeral service family and friends gathered at the Veteran Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A wonderful lunch was prepared and served by the Veteran United Church Ladies. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the to Veteran United Church, Veteran, AB, T0C 2S0, Coronation Hospital Foundation, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

VERN STRAND
(April 17, 1916-April 27, 2009)

Herbert Luvern (Vern) Strand passed away in Consort, Alberta on Monday, April 27, 2009 at the age of 93 years. Vern was born in the house on the farm near Veteran, Alberta. He married Frances Hurlbut in June of 1940 and to this union 3 children were born; Richard, Karen and Linda. Vern and Frances lived on the farm south of Veteran all of their married life. After Frances’ passing on September 14, 1988, Vern continued to live on the farm until he moved to the Consort Lodge and then to the Consort Extended Care.

Vern was predeceased by his parents Henry and Jossie; his wife, Frances and sister Miranda. He leaves to mourn his passing his son; Richard (Gail) Strand, his daughters Karen (Wayne) Rich and Linda (Pete) Sippola; six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and his sister, Min Strand.

Tribute by Dale Strand

Today we gather to celebrate Vern’s life and reflect the years of knowing Vern and to give support to the members of the family. We’ll always think of Vern as a gentle person, sensitive, honest as they come, a good sense of humor, loved a good story, told a good story and rarely ever showing anger towards his fellow man. However, I would never have wanted to back him into a corner because of his stature.

Are there tears of sadness? Sure there are! Never be ashamed to shed them because where there’s love you’ll always find tears.

Vern enjoyed a good game of cards and could spend many an hour at it. It sometimes required a little time though as he studied his options of play. I must tell you of an incident that occurred while Richard, Min and Vern motored to Minnesota to visit relatives. Seems some days before their departure there had been an earthquake of some magnitude in the Seattle area, anything big was huge in Vern’s estimation. After a long days drive and checking in to a motel, Vern was very tired and hit the sack early. Richard (bless his heart) caught Min’s attention. It was a coin operated vibrating bed to release one’s tension, in goes the coin – hit the button as deep breathing began and pandemonium occurred. “My God it’s another earthquake, let’s get out here.” Out the door he went in his P.J.’s and took the first exit that said “Swimming Pool”. He couldn’t swim but maybe he could as he was in it. You should have heard Vern’s version.

Last year when I visited Vern he was having a good day and I asked him if he’d like to go for a drive – “Yes, I’d like that”. So we drove to Monitor – watched some geese and drove the main street, he surprised me as he mentioned Elmer Johnson’s General Store, etc. It was a good outing.

I’m going to leave you with this, the lyrics to a piece of music flashed through my mind, written by the late Irving Berlin. I’m sure if the words had been sung or spoken to Vern in the recent past he would have said “I like that”. I wish my old quartet was here to sing it.

“When I Leave The World Behind”
I know a millionaire who’s burdened down with care;
A load is on his mind.
He’s thinking of the day when he must pass away
and leave his wealth behind.
I haven’t any gold to leave when I grow old,
somehow it passed me by.
I’m very poor but still I’ll leave a precious will
when I must say goodbye.
I’ll leave the sunshine to the flowers;
I’ll leave the spring-time to the trees;
And to the old folks I’ll leave the mem’ries
of a baby upon their knees.
I’ll leave the night-time to the dreamers;
I’ll leave the song-birds to the blind;
I’ll leave the moon above to those in love,
when I leave the world behind.

A celebration of Vern’s life was held in the Veteran United Church, Veteran, Alberta on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. Officiating was Reverend Stephen Shantz. Pianist was Linda Osetsky, congregational hymn was “How Great Thou Art” Bob McAllister sang “Just A Closer Walk With Thee”. A special recorded song “Grandpa” was played during the service. Dale Strand gave the eulogy and the tribute. Active Pallbearers were Ken Strand, Clinton Sippola, Kevin Rich, Justin Kshyk, Rocky Beebe and Derek Kshyk. Honorary Pallbearers were “Everyone Who Shared In Vern’s Life”. The interment followed the funeral service at the Veteran Cemetery, Veteran, Alberta. A beautiful luncheon was held at the church which was prepared and served by the Veteran United Church Ladies.

Memorial donations may be made in Vern’s memory to the Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home Ltd. entrusted with arrangements. “Knowledge, Experience and Professionalism With A Personal Touch”

Curt Allen Roth
(Feb. 22, 1941 – April 19, 2009)

Curt Allen (Sonny) Roth of Calgary passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 19, 2009 at the age of 68 years.

Al was born in Consort on February 22, 1941 and was one of four children. He loved traveling and helping others. He spent many hours on the phone or in person trying to help others with their problems. He always thought of others before himself. He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends. We will always love you, Dad.

Al is survived by his three children, Timothy Curt (Jackie), Anthony Allen (Paula) and Corinne Wilma; three grandchildren, Justin, Bronwyn and Isabelle; great-granddaughter Ebany; two brothers and a sister, Wayne Hauer (Joyce), Louise Mactavish (Paul) and Lynn Hauer (Ann); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Al was predeceased by the love of his life, Wilma in 2001, father Allen F. Roth in 1944, mother Clara Elizabeth (Hazel) in 2001.

The funeral was held at Bergthal Mennonite Church, R.R. 2, Didsbury on Friday, April 24 at 1:00 p.m. with a graveside service following at Bergthal Cemetery.

If friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to Foothills Mennonite Church, 2115 Urbana Road N.W., Calgary, AB. T2N 4B9. A tree will be planted in Al’s memory at Fish Creek Provincial Park.

NOTE – After Al’s father, Allen was killed in the Second World War, his mother Hazel, supported herself and family by operating a hair dressing shop in Consort. She later married Wilmer Hauer.

Kathleen (Kaye) Rose Scott
(Nov. 4, 1918-May 17, 2009)

Kathleen was born at the farm in Quill Lake, Sask-atchewan, and lived a very happy and busy life working with her parents and her brother on the farm. She was predeceased by her parents, Bridget (Craig) and Jeremiah McConnell who came from Ireland. Very sadly her youngest daughter Lorraine Anne passed away eleven years ago. Also predeceasing her was her infant grandson Adam Daniel Lewsaw, her brother Daniel McConnell and her nephew Gregory McConnell.

Kathleen leaves to mourn her loss her cherished family: daughters Sharon, Gail (Bob) Lehman, Jackie (Arthur) Chin, Janice (Larry) Lewsaw, and son Greg (Shirley); granddaughters Lindsay, Meghan, and Allison; grandsons Landon (Jackie), Jeremy, Nolan (Anika), Graham and Jordan; as well as great-grandsons Jacob and Levon. Kathleen also leaves two sisters-in-law, Freda McConnell of Quill Lake and Mary Readman of Consort. She also has left behind one nephew and several nieces and their families.

After training as a registered nurse at St. Paul’s School of Nursing in Saskatoon, Kathleen worked as a nurse in Wadena, Camrose, Calgary and Consort. Kathleen contracted polio in 1953, which put her in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. In spite of this she raised her children with her very strong faith and sense of humour. When her children had reached high school and beyond she moved her family to Edmonton in 1968 where she attended NAIT and graduated with a Medical Records Librarian diploma. She then started what was to be a career with the provincial government from 1970 until her retirement in 1983. In her retirement years, Kathleen volunteered at several organizations including the Society for the Retired and Semi-Retired, Allen Grey Auxiliary Hospital, Swinging Spokes Boutique, and Grey Cup Ticket sales for Paralympic Sports. These activities kept her actively involved in the community where she could give back to society which was extremely important to her.

Wheelchair square dancing took Kathleen on travels throughout Canada and the U.S. Her ceramics are now family heirlooms and each of her children has a set of gorgeous Christmas figurines. Her knitting kept her busy while riding DATS to all of her activities. Not only her children and grandchildren benefited from the mitts, scarves and doll clothes she knit in her travels, as Mom generously donated these items to anyone who needed them. She loved to travel with fondest trips being with family on the houseboats in the Shuswap. Other trips took her to Hawaii and to Ireland to visit her cousins. Many summer weekends were spent surrounded by her family at the lake.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Old Consort Hospital Restoration Society, Box 339, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0, or the Royal Canadian Legion, Poppy Fund, 10720-101 Street, Edmonton, AB, T5H 2S3.

The funeral service was held on Friday, May 22, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Howard & McBride Westlawn Chapel, 16310 Stony Plain Road, Edmonton. Father John Hesse officiated and organist was Monica Rist. Eulogies and tributes were given by Larry Lewsaw (son-in-law), Landon Lewsaw (grandson), Meghan and Lindsay Scott and Allison Chin (granddaughters). Musical selections included Amazing Grace, How Great Thou Art and When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. Interment was at Westlawn Memorial Gardens. Following the service, family and friends gathered for fellowship and refreshments in the Westlawn Reception Centre.

Tribute by Son-in-law,
Larry Lewsaw

Where does one begin? How do you put in a few words a tribute to a person who touched the lives of so many, a person whose self-less existence brightened the lives of everyone around her? Having known this remarkable lady for over 40 years myself, I know that any thoughts I share today will be a feeble representation of what hundreds of others would like to say. I am honoured, however, to have been asked by the family to do this, and am happy to try.

Her life contained many challenges, and she met them all head-on. From growing up on a Saskatchewan farm during the “dirty thirties,” to completing her high school and nurses training in a time when both required considerable sacrifice, her indomitable spirit showed itself early in life. Then a young woman she was struck with polio and left wheelchair bound for life, with six small children and almost no means of support. At this point a lesser person might have thrown in the towel. Not Kaye. With the help of a caring community, and unwavering love and determination, she raised her family, and raised them all to be loving, caring people. After moving to Edmonton in 1968 to accept yet another challenge and re-train herself, she continued to be a rock to her family, and also had the opportunity to touch the lives of many more people.

As a son-in-law, she always made me feel a part of her family, and I loved her just as I had loved my own mother. I never doubted her love, either, as it was constantly demonstrated, and in recent years, often spoken.

She was a large part of the lives of me and my family, a wonderful mother, grandmother to our boys, and great-grandmother to little Jacob and Levon. We feel a deep sense of loss.

Janice and I will miss our visits with Mom. We would often play games, like Scrabble or Skip-Bo with her, and she loved it. She had a bright spirit and enjoyed life and wanted most of all for those she loved to be happy and enjoying life.

As Jeremy said upon hearing the news of his grandmother’s death, “the most beautiful person in the world just left.”

I want to share with you now the reminiscences and tributes from her family.

Tribute to Mom by Sharon

Our mother, our angel, our hero, our friend has left her fingerprints on our lives in so many ways and left so many memories with us to cherish forever.
Mom touched the lives of many and was tireless in her giving of herself to others. She cared for all.
She was a pillar of strength for all that knew her and was always there when we needed her the most.
She was a spiritual person of great faith who was grateful for each and every day and wasted none of them.
Mom saw life as a gift and lived it to the fullest.
Mom was a special gift to us all and will forever be with us in our hearts and our thoughts. The lessons she taught us will carry us through and give us strength in the difficult days ahead.
When you lose someone you love you gain an angel you know.
Nite, nite Mom – God bless – Love you forever,

Sharon

Tribute to Mom by Gail

Mom’s determination showed up in everything she did. Nothing was going to stop her from doing things and getting places. Mom took in ironing to help make money. She went out and babysat both in Consort and Edmonton. She was determined to get up the steps in the old church in Consort, and got out of her chair at the bottom, and climbed up on all fours to the top of a very long and steep set of stairs. She came to all our activities – like our basketball games where again, she had to get out of her chair and climb steps up to the stage where the audience sat. But she wasn’t going to miss that!!! We’re glad we actually won a few games!!!

Her attitude was “Never Quit.” If we started something, we had to see it through. She helped us do our school homework, and study for exams. We knew she was so proud when we did well in school and we wanted to do well for her. If we joined a club or group, we had to see it through. She herself continued learning and retrained in Edmonton when the family moved.

Many of our summers were spent in Saskatchewan – where mom could relax a bit and recharge. We were all so busy and happy playing and working with our cousins, mom got a bit of a break. Mom’s brother Danny, and our Aunt Freda were wonderful to us and taught us many things about the farm, about gardening, and about just playing outside and relaxing.

How mom managed to keep our little, old house going from a wheel chair with six small children was amazing. In those days, we still burned coal in the furnace. Of course, every evening in the winter, someone had to go down to build up the fire for the night. Mom got out of her chair, down on the floor, and slid down to the basement steps to get across to the furnace. Gail, being paranoid of fires, went with her to help. But she didn’t want mom to put too much coal on the fire in case it got out of hand. Mom would reassure her that if there was smoke coming out of the chimney outside, the fire was burning fine and we had nothing to worry about. So up went Gail to check and see if the smoke was coming out of the chimney. While she was gone, mom put more coal in the furnace so it would last all night and we wouldn’t freeze.

How did mom manage to get our Christmas presents taken care of every year???? We were the ones who picked up the mail. But it seemed somehow, she got our gifts from the Eatons or Sears catalogue and got them under the tree on Christmas Eve. Jackie says she told the dray men who brought house deliveries not to bring the parcels until the night or two before. Somehow, she managed.

Mom was our sense of security. As long as mom was there, we would be okay. For extra security, we had the knife in the door, but mom was still our first line of defence.

Mom was our sense of direction. We knew just what we were to do and how – it was always “Full Steam Ahead” even if we were short of money, that wasn’t going to stop us. Gail remembers being in Red Deer to upgrade her grade 12, and being very short on food in the one room she rented. She called mom to tell her. Mom asked her if she had any money. Gail said, “About 25 cents” Mom said, “Go buy a chocolate bar – it will give you energy – until I can send some potatoes down on the bus.”

One of the songs today is “Angels Among Us”. Our family always knew that with our mom, we had our angel with us every step of the way.

While mom was not too strict a task master, there were some rules. If, for example, we were too sick to go to Sunday school, we also were too sick to play outside the rest of Sunday afternoon. Surprisingly, we stayed pretty healthy on Sundays!!!! If we didn’t do our homework, there was no playing outside.

Tribute to Mom by Janice

Many people told us over the years that our mother was a saint and they were right. Mom was the most loving and kind person we will likely ever know in our life time. She had a genuine goodness about her. She took great joy in the successes of others and always hoped the very best for all. She had unbelievable compassion and would always extend a hand and a kind word to anyone in need. She cared for others and showed an endless concern for their well being.

Mom had faith in humanity. She looked for the best in everyone she met, and in doing so she drew people to her, by her accepting, non-judgmental, and loving ways. She attracted people with her endless kindness, and so we grew up exposed to a great variety of people from all walks of life. We grew up being encouraged to bring friends home and our little house in Consort was often busting at the seams with six kids and their friends. We had a warm and loving upbringing and our friends always felt welcome. She never wanted anyone to be excluded.

Mom was a selfless person. She cared nothing for possessions and things; she cared about people. How others were feeling, whether they were sad, afraid, lonely, or happy, was always first and foremost with Mom. Many a conversation was held over a pot of tea at our old kitchen table in Consort where Mom listened and comforted a neighbour or friend on whatever issue they were struggling with. She had a patient and soothing way about her that helped others see beyond their problems.

Family was everything to Mom. She loved all of us equally and unconditionally. It was the best gift a parent can give their children and she was the best mother we could have hoped for. We always knew she was there for us, waiting at home after school, anxious to hear about our day. Her love made us stronger people, confident that we could accomplish anything we wanted to do. We had great fun growing up together in Consort, even though times were often very tight. Laughter and humour got us through many difficult times. Mom, after getting polio, had unbelievable courage and strength to keep us together, facing tremendous adversity and challenges. She was somehow able to rise above those tough times and keep going, always optimistic that things would get better. It took incredible bravery and determination to get through the challenges life threw her way.

Having grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought much joy to Mom. She loved being with her kids and hearing all about their lives and adventures. She was happiest when surrounded by her family.

Mom loved being a nurse. It was her passion, and her kindness and compassion made her a natural. We’ve heard many stories from her patients from her nursing days who described her as being “a ray of sunshine whenever she walked into the room.” She was matron at Consort Hospital and in her time there helped to deliver babies whenever Doctor Day couldn’t make it. We’ve been told by several Consort women that they’ll always remember Mom sitting with them through their labour and sometimes even helping with their delivery, and how comforted they were by her presence.

Education was very important to Mom. She encouraged us to work hard at school and never miss unless we absolutely had to. One year the entire family had perfect attendance at school and I know Mom was so proud of that. She encouraged all of us to get a post-secondary education or training of some sort and it brought her great joy to see us succeed at whatever path we chose and continue to learn as adults.

Mom had a strong work ethic and she passed it on to us. She had a quiet way of pushing us. We were encouraged to never miss work, always be there on time, and to work hard at whatever we were doing. She had high expectations and we knew it. This instruction came early in our lives. I remember when leaving for a babysitting job being encouraged to do the dishes and tidy up (without being asked), just to help out. When we headed out on a housecleaning job, she would remind us to make sure to “get into the corners” when we scrubbed the floors.

I am honoured to be one of your children. You will always be with us. We love you, Mom.

To My Mother
My eyes can no longer see your smile,
Yet my heart still feels its warmth
My ears can no longer hear your voice,
Yet your words of wisdom are etched into every day
I can no longer hold your hand,
Yet it still guides my every step
What we see, hear, touch is only temporary
What we feel and learn and love is eternal…
You are always with me.

Tribute to Mom by Greg

The strongest memory I have and that I will carry with me about Mom is that she didn’t talk about goodness, she just lived it – in as honest and genuine a way as I’ve ever seen in any human being. There are thousands of books and seminars on leadership and personal development, what it takes to become a better person, but having Mom as a role model beat them all.

True inspiration has come to me from watching her constantly rise above the many challenges life presented to her, without becoming bitter or angry but rather embracing life in the most positive way she could. She truly lived by the motto “Bloom where you are planted”.

As I try to come to terms with losing her, I find comfort in knowing that the healing hands of time will work their magic. In a song by that name sung by Willie Nelson, we hear these words:

They’re working while I’m missing you, those healing hands of time.
They’ll lead me safely through the night, and I’ll follow as if blind.
They let me close my eyes just then, those healing hands of time.
Soon they’ll let me sleep again, those healing hands of time.”

The words to another song come to my mind now, written by Eric Clapton after he had lost a young son in a tragic accident: “Would you know my name, if I saw you in Heaven?” Mom loved and treated everyone equally so Yes, she will know everyone’s name when they see her in Heaven.

OVE DAHL
(1919 – 2009)

Ove Dahl passed away peacefully on May 21, 2009 at the age of 89 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Joan (Ted) Lloyd and grandson, James Lloyd. He was predeceased by his wife, Jean and by nine siblings. He is remembered by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ove was born near Compeer, Alberta. His family moved to near Court, Sask., in 1923. He farmed until joining the military in 1941 and served with the Winnipeg Rifles in England, Holland, Belgium, Germany and Canada until 1946. He farmed and then worked for the CNR until 1953. Ove married Jean McKernan in Edmonton in 1951 and worked for Edmonton Telephones until retiring in 1984. He moved to Calgary in 1989.

The funeral was held at Leyden’s Chapel of Remembrance on Friday, May 29th at 11:00 a.m. with interment following in Eden Brook Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethany Care Society, 1001 – 17 St. N.W., Calgary, AB. T2N 2E5.

Ted Deagle
(March 29, 1925-May 27, 2009)

Joseph Edwin Deagle, always known as Ted, was born to Catherine and Henry Deagle on March 29, 1925 in Consort, Alberta. He attended Silvercrest School to grade nine when he left in response to the call for men to help farmers during the war years. Ted and his brother Maurice went into farming partnership in 1946.

On January 17, 1947 he married his soul mate Jean Kelts and to this union seven children were born; Diane, Judy, Connie, Ted, Deb, Bill and Robert. Ted was a honest, gentle, caring man, always putting everyone’s needs ahead of his own. His love and greatest joy was his family.

He was a devoted and caring husband, Jean always the priority. He doted on his children and grandchildren following their lives with great interest. Many, many hours were spent traveling all over for grandchildren’s activities, sports events and graduations. And in recent years following great grandchildren. Even in his hospital bed he commented, “I could use more grandchildren”. Our annual family campout on August Long Weekend and every Christmas when we gathered were very special times and when Ted was happiest. Gramma and Grandpa would travel 60 miles on Christmas morning to watch as many of his grandchildren as he could open their gifts.

Through the years he participated in many sports; playing hockey, ball, horseshoes, golf, curling, hunting, fishing and bowling, excelling in all of them – maybe not fishing. Playing cards every chance he got brought many hours of enjoyment. He had a great love for animals especially horses; competing in many Sports Day races and using them to haul feed to the cattle with team and sleigh. Team and sleigh were used to travel back and forth to town for mail, groceries and coal when roads were impassible for vehicles. Many fond memories were made traveling around the countryside in the cutter with prancing team and sleigh bells ringing, visiting neighbors and family.

Ted’s eighteen year school bus career began with the car when Diane started school in 1954. Soon he was provided with a school bus as children in the area became of school age. He was a favorite driver for the many trips to neighboring towns for sports events plus to the city for field trips and other functions.

He moved his family to his sister’s house in Consort in 1967. Three years later he suffered a heart attack bringing his farming and school bus driving careers to a halt. The following spring he was accepted in the maintenance department at the Consort Hospital. After receiving the necessary training he became a certified Steam Engineer. When the new hospital was completed in 1984 he continued in the same department. He was required to advance his training in order to operate the new heating and cooling technology. He retired in 1990.

Before and after his retirement he enjoyed many years camping with family and friends. After purchasing a new motorhome they took many winter excursions in convoy with friends to warmer locations. Ted was a faithful member of the church and Lions for many years.

With his family by his bedside Ted passed away in Consort Hospital early May 27, 2009.

Ted is survived by Jean, his loving wife of 62 years, and his children: Diane (Claud) Zinger, Judy (Bill) Gould, Connie (Peter) Tyliszczak, Ted (Deb) Deagle, Deb (Grant) Carl, Bill (Stacy) Deagle and Robert (Rhonda) Deagle; 21 grandchildren; 18 8/9ths great-grandchildren making a total family of 80. He also leaves to mourn his sisters Helen Barber and Mae (Vern) Dempsey; sisters-in-law Bernice Deagle, Muriel Isaman, Eileen (Bob) Hobbs, Lorna (Gil) Roth; brothers-in-law Arley (Avonne) Kelts and Bud (Irene) Kelts; many nieces, nephew, cousins and friends.

Ted was predeceased by his father, Henry, his mother Catherine, infant sister, brother Maurice, brothers-in-law Chuck Barber, Loyal Schooler, Lester Isaman and Donald Kelts; sisters-in-law Viola Schooler, Dot Kelts and Rosemary Kelts; niece Debbie Kelts; nephews Lee Dempsey, Bill Kelts, Don Schooler and Ernie Kropinske.

A Memorial Vigil Service was held at the Consort Sportex Hall on Monday, June 1, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Celebrant was Father John Hesse. The musicians were Claud Zinger, Heidi Zinger, and Allan Zinger, playing for the hymns “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art”. Patricia Wiechnik, Marilynn Deagle, Marilyn Long and Peter Tyliszczak sang “You Are Near”. Readers were Peter Tyliszczak and Diane Zinger. Tributes were given by the grandchildren and Bud Kelts. Intercessor was Trevor Deagle. Immediately following the Vigil Service at the Sportex a luncheon was prepared and served by the Catholic Church Ladies. The Mass of Christian Burial was held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2009 at the Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Consort, Alberta, with Celebrant Father John Hesse officiating. Playing for the songs “Here I Am Lord”, “On Eagle’s Wings” “Our Daily Bread” and “Rest In Peace” was Patricia Wiechnik. Cantors were Marilynn Deagle and Marilyn Long. Words of Remembrance were given by Robert Deagle. The Adult Server was Rick Deagle and the Intercessor was Pam Deagle. Readers were Deb Carl and Rhonda Deagle. Responsorial Psalm was shared by Peter Tyliszczak. The Gift Bearers were Judy Gould and Connie Tyliszczak. The interment followed at the Catholic Cemetery, Consort, Alberta.

If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made in Ted’s memory to The Consort Hospital Foundation, (Designate to The Family Room) Box 310, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to the Corpus Christi Catholic Church Building Fund, Box 541, Consort, AB, T0C 1C0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Words of Remembrance
by Darren Zinger
(Diane’s son)

My name is Darren Zinger, the oldest son of Claud and Diane Zinger, Grandma and Grandpa Deagle’s oldest daughter.

My sister Denise’s fondest memories of Grandpa growing up as a young child were travelling to visit him, finding him sitting in his favorite chair in the kitchen. He would call me over and he’d bounce me and tickle me and giggle in my ear. I also remember his fix it shop in the basement where he’d let me help him glue or hammer something. It was a great place for hide and seek – he probably never knew that at the time – but uncle Robert said it was okay.

I always remember Grandpa’s soft voice and love and devotion for his family. I am so honored and blessed to have had him in my life for the past 40 years. I asked my children what they remembered most about Grandpa and they said the same thing as me. They liked it when he bounced them, tickled them, and giggled in their ears.

My (Darren’s) fondest memories of Grandpa were meeting him and Grandma for lunch every time I was in Consort for business. Over approximately ten years I was able to spend a lot of time with them that I wouldn’t have been able to had I not had the job I did. We always enjoyed a good meal, and conversation. I also enjoyed the odd game of golf in the summer with Grandpa (he always won). He was always positive and looked for the good in people. He was a joy to be around. I’m going to miss him.

My brother Dan’s best memory of Grandpa revolves around the annual Deagle family Christmas get together. I remember as a little boy laughing hysterically as grandpa would chase me around whoever’s house we were at and if he caught me he would tickle me with his whiskers! I remember being half terrified that his face tickled so much, but also laughing uncontrollably as he would tickle me.

My brother Dwayne’s special memories of Grandpa were that he was always there at special events for the grandchildren. Even small events, like coming to watch me skate just last summer in Sylvan Lake. He was warm and inviting, and instantly made you feel welcome. You could see how much he loved family, and he gave everyone, one of his greatest assets, time! My wife Erica is always amazed at how, because of two people, so many of us (the family) are all here. Even with such a large family, he still found the time. If I could, I would thank him for the values he demonstrated, and for giving so much of himself to all the family. We will miss him dearly!!

A poem from the great grandchildren to Grandpa:

If tears could build a stairway
And memories were a lane
We’d walk right up to heaven to bring you home again
No farewell words were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why
Our hearts still ache in sadness and secret tears still flow
What it meant to lose you, no one will ever know
You are with the angels around God’s happy throne
We would have held you closer if we had known

Tribute from Cory Gould
(Judy’s son)

We tend to take for granted that which is most important, dangling in front of our eyes, not fully understanding or appreciating how special that something might be. There was a time in my life when I took for granted those closest to me; family. It is amazing that a family as large and geographically diverse as ours remains as close as it is. For reasons unexplained, I placed other circumstances in my life above the importance of this unique situation we are all so blessed to be a part of. It was Grandpa that finally showed me the light, convincing me to re-prioritize, although I’m not sure he ever knew the role that he played in it.

I’m sure I can speak on behalf of my siblings, Kim and Tracy, when I say that our most memorable moments would have to be the annual Christmas gathering. I remember one Christmas above all others. I was sitting at a table, when I noticed Grandpa clear across the room, panning the room, most likely wishing that this exact moment would never come to an end. He had a grin from ear to ear as he joyfully watched what he and Grandma had accomplished. I imagine I watched him for 20 minutes or so. He didn’t speak a word nor did his smile fade. He simply sat in pure enjoyment, frolicking in the moment, undoubtedly fully appreciative of what he was so blessed to be a part of. It was at that moment I realized what I so foolishly had taken for granted for so many years.

Grandpa, as you look down on us from time to time, you can do so with a smile. You’ve done an incredible job and I thank you for opening my eyes. We love you and will miss you.

A Tribute to Grandpa
by Chris Wiechnik
(Connie’s son)

Grandpa was a man of few words, but there was never any doubt at all that he loved us very, very much. As we look back at our lives with grandpa we are overwhelmed by his dedication to this family and to the grandchildren. Some of our favorite memories include the annual Christmas celebration.

We remember the years when we would go to the Zingers, then for many years to the Legion hall in Consort, and now back to Zinger’s again, where we can celebrate in the music barn. We will always remember the excitement of the gift from grandma and grandpa, and I have always been touched by observing the pure joy that he seemed to receive from giving to his family. I remember the smells coming from the kitchen on those Christmases and grandpa standing and carving the turkey. If you walked up to ask him if it was almost ready you could count on catching him in the act of “testing” the meat.

We remember the camping years. Getting together with the family at the lake. I remember the motor home. I remember the early years when the lawn darts were flying around… and some time later when grandpa introduced us to the bean bag game; I have no clue how many hours we spent playing those bean bags with grandpa or with him watching. I remember fondly when just the two of us went golfing together one day and grandpa shot a 41, but true to his form there was no boasting, instead he focused on affirming me on a game well played.

We often think of Grandpa at the house up on the hill, sitting in his chair in the dining room underneath the Lion’s calendar with his glasses sitting on the puppy dog holder, waiting patiently for one of us kids to venture too close so that he could scoop us up and tickle us until we could barely stand it. I remember him always going for that spot just above the knee cap, and making that “tickle sound” that drove as all crazy. But once done he would make his way back to the chair, quickly slick his hair back into place with that black comb, and nestle in and simple enjoy the family.

We remember going to visit grandpa and he would be sitting in the laundry room watching baseball or the Price is Right. Tammy remembers the pen and paper that he kept near so that he could write down the price of items and then participate in the Showcase Showdown. And no matter when you stopped by, grandpa was always nicely dressed, complete with a hint of cologne.

We will always be grateful for the hours and hours and hours of card games. (and grandma’s snacks!) How did grandpa remember all of the rules to all of those games? He was always such a warm and comforting grandpa and host.

One especially fond memory that Tammy holds near to her heart is that of the slumber party that Grandpa and Grandma held at their house with Tammy’s five bridesmaids the night before Tammy and Trevor’s wedding. The wonderful hospitality will be remembered forever, and in fact she can still hear the sound of the hot air popper going upstairs that night!

In more recent years Brendan remembers grandpa in his chair, twirling his thumbs with his nails clicking. And whistling, we remember the whistling, not too high, not too low, but just the right pitch.

And beyond the memories we are so grateful for grandpa’s commitment. He followed his grandchildren everywhere. From the arena in the winter to the ball diamonds in the summer, even ball provincials in the 80 degree heat didn’t keep him away! From the Christmas concerts to the dance recitals… Tammy can still hear him answering the request of his presence at the recitals…”sure, second row in the middle, please!”

I remember having the updates from Calgary sent to me in Saskatoon when Auntie Debbie was battling cancer. Grandpa and grandma were not content to visit Auntie Debbie, they moved to Calgary with her in order to be a constant presence and support. This is just one example but it illustrates the underlying principles that have governed his life.

Family was always so important to grandpa. A few weeks ago when we were in the hospital the priest stopped by to say some words and to offer a blessing on Grandpa. But Grandpa interrupted him to make sure he knew that there were over 75 descendents that would be carrying on the legacy.

Through all of life I have never heard him complain. He has suffered through heart attacks and bypasses, aneurysms and degenerative knees, macular degeneration and cancer. And through all of it he has remained faithful, tender, humble, gentle, loyal, and gracious. The Bible teaches in Titus 1 that “a man should… promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching. Teach the men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience.” The writer of the book goes on to say, “And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.”

June 1st is a special day for me. I will be forever grateful on this day for the example that I will have to look toward in Grandpa’s life. You see, when I think of Grandpa, I have only ever thought of Grandpa and Grandma. The scripture teaches that when man and woman come together in marriage, the two become one. This has indeed been the case. What a wonderfully tender example your life has been of unconditional love, deep commitment, and steadfast loyalty.

Grandpa we respect you dearly and we chose to honor you today and forever for your servant heart and for a job well done.

We will love you forever.
Read by Jennifer Deagle
(Ted’s daughter)

My Last Visit
© Alexis Abraham
It’s time.
to say goodbye.
I’m so upset,
my mouth has gone dry.
Slowly I bend over,
and give you a kiss.
your brown eyes filled with sadness,
the time we spent together I will miss.
When I pull away, with this pain in my heart. I don’t want you to leave me, I don’t want to be apart.
Sadly I know,
this goodbye means forever, we have so many memories, that I will always remember.
The drive back home, was the saddest I ever had. I cried so hard, I felt so bad.
I prayed that God, would let you stay. But eventually He took you, far away.
It’s all for the best,
I learned to face.
you are free from pain,
and in a better place.
your memory is alive, to this day.
I love you so much papa even though your far away.
I know you look down on me,
and still love me with all your heart,
a bond so strong,
it will never break apart.

Tribute by Richelle Romaniuk
(Deb’s daughter)

Grandpa loved kids as you could probably tell; he had seven of his own, although I do think babies were his favorite. One of my memories is actually a story told to me often over the years by my mom. As a baby I was always colicky in the evening. Gramma and Grampa would come over every night and Grampa would take a shift walking the floor with me. Try as they might no one could get me to settle like Grampa could. He had the magic touch.

I was so grateful that Grampa made it to our wedding last summer. It meant so much to us that such a great role model in unconditional love and devotion could be there on our special day, to watch our journey into marriage begin.

Jason remembers Grampa’s devotion to everything he was involved in, including coming to all his sporting events. They even travelled to Manitoba for Westerns. This past April Grampa was sitting front and center, splitting his sides at the play Jason and Dad were performing in.

Grampa loved presents – you didn’t give him his present unless it was his turn to open. Gramma would be sitting there waiting patiently for the kids to open their gifts and Grampa would be halfway into his.

Brittany’s memory is of Gramma and Grampa packing up and moving to Calgary for four months when mom was sick. They didn’t think twice about dropping everything here to be there for mom and our family. They packed up their motorhome and had it out back of the house we were renting and us kids were able to sneak out there to get away from it all. Brittany remembers Grampa coming out there with us, watching us play video games or just hang out.

Grampa we love you so much and are going to miss you tremendously everyday.

Memories of Grandpa
by Darcy Deagle
(Bill’s son)

Dustin and I have a few good memories of Grandpa.

Grandma and grandpa followed us around the country and watched us play baseball for many years. They sat and watched us even when the weather was bad. And in Alberta that’s quite often. They were always there to support us for all our different sports.

They took us golfing when we were younger.

Grandpa came ice fishing with us a couple years ago at Blood Indian.

When we went camping I always remembered playing bean bags with grandpa. Everyone always enjoyed playing.

When I was younger I remember grandpa helping me with a school project. He showed me how to use a hot glue gun. It was some sort of structure out of Popsicle sticks that we were building. I still have a scar to this day, but we “got err done”.

I always liked playing cards with grandpa and grandma and always learning new games.

Grandpa tied both mine and Dustin’s ties for grad, we had no clue how.

We used to watch the best cartoons in their basement.

We always helped with yard work, putting up Christmas lights etc. We will continue to help as much as we can.

These are some of our memories. Grandpa was a great man and we will miss him very much.

Tribute by Nicole Deagle
(Robert’s daughter)

When I think about Grandpa the thing that strikes me most is not so much the things he did but the feeling of being in his presence. Grandpa had an air about him that made you feel safe and loved, even if there weren’t many words exchanged. He was a man of dignity and humiity, and he seemed to carry a joyfulness and contentment with him wherever he went. To me this was expressed through his cheerful whistling.

When I was reflecting on what Grandpa meant to me the words of 1 Cor. 13:4-7 came to mind: “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”

I’m also going to read some thoughts from my sister, Melissa (from Cross Lake, Man.):

Hello everyone, I’ m sorry that I can’t be with you all to celebrate Grampa’s life and commemorate his death. I will be praying that God’s peace comforts you as you mourn. My favorite memories of Grampa include lots of games of cards and going for rides on his golf cart as a kid. When I reflect on his life I am amazed and blessed by his faithfulness to Gramma throughout over 60 years of marriage. He set an incredible example for all of us of the power of sacrificial love and commitment. I also see a healthy balance between work and rest in his life and a good reminder that one should overindulge neither in toil nor in leisure. Though it is impossible to fully measure the effect of one’s life on the world, we can see part of Grampa’s legacy in the love he demonstrated to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I thank God that I am one of them and that He gave me the Grampa he did. Love, Melissa

A Tribute to Ted
by Bud Kelts

I was asked to make a tribute to a man I have the greatest respect and admiration for.

A man who was my brother-in-law who was also the best man at my own wedding.

To a man who was my friend, whom I worked with and played with.

Should be easy, so here are a few things and stories I personally remember about Ted.

When I was 10-11 we had a hockey game in town and Ted was our spectator. You couldn’t miss him, he had a fancy leather jacket on and he was rooting for me. Skate, Bud, Skate, he was yelling, I was very impressed. But 65 years later I’m thinking he was trying to impress my siblings.

Seems he was taking a shine to one of my sisters. We all know how that turned out. Diane, Judy, Connie, Teddie, Debbie, Bill and Robert.

I remember Ted was helping Donald one year and like now we had a water shortage. The two of them undertook the job of digging out an old spring hoping to get water. Ted was digging one afternoon by himself but when he wanted to leave, found he was unable to get out of the hole he had dug himself into.

He had to wait for Donald to come back and help him out. You know, Ted was the only thing we got out of that hole.

Ted took me on my first coyote hunt. He had a set of hounds and a fine team of horses and I will never forget that day, we even caught a couple coyotes.

Ted loved his horses and he had some dandies. Had a driving team call Shorty and Babe, they could almost fly. You nearly broke your neck watching them go by. He also had another team of blacks named Dot and Bell; these were heavy duty, but a great team of horses. He also had several good saddle horses.

Ted was always willing to move cattle or help brand, he was good help.

Ted and Jean helped us harvest for several years, by then they had so many kids, we didn’t have enough beds to go around.

I was fortunate to spend a lot of time, with Ted – besides working we played on the same hockey and baseball teams. We did a fair bit of hunting together and later when I took up golf we spent many afternoons with Ted and the group of old boys. Ted was an above average golfer and horse shoe pitcher.

Ted’s ball and hockey playing came to a sudden end while he was up on the roof fixing a leak. He slipped and twisted his knee badly and broke his knee cap. He never played ball or hockey again. So, the moral of this story is never fix your roof.

One time when I was needing a haircut desperately for some urgent occasion and not a barber in sight, Ted graciously offered to cut my hair for me, but Jean intervened saying Ted, you’ve never cut anybodies hair. Ted truthfully admitted well, no, but I’ve trimmed a lot of horses tails.

When asked to do this Jean suggested I not say anything bad about Ted, well I am now at that part and this is what I came up with.

Ted didn’t cuss or swear, I used to hear him say, well Judas Priest.

I never heard him talk about people or run them down.

I never saw Ted loose his temper, annoyed, yes, but temper no.

But I’m sure he did, he had 7 good reasons.

Ted never complained and didn’t want to put folks out.

Ted was faithful to his church, and his friends. But most of all to his family.

We will all miss this man.

In my eyes he was a living example.

Tribute given at the Church
by son, Robert Deagle

Good afternoon. Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity as a family member to thank all of you on behalf of Mom and us kids for being with us today, thank you for your support, prayers and kind words, they have been much appreciated.

What I would like to do today is bring a small tribute to honor my dad, and share with you some of his attributes and character, and he was quite a character. He had a tremendous sense of humor and loved to bring a laugh and smile to those he was with. I recall many stories of the antics he would pull on the nurses while he was still working at the hospital or a story around a campfire with friends. I remember getting pretty upset one day when I was younger as I searched the house high and low for my rubber alligator, Dad realizing I wasn’t going to give up finally suggested I look in the cloths hamper… and sure enough there it lie in wait for wash day. Yes, a great sense of humor and mischievous as well, right from his preschool days when we hear the story that while playing with his sister Mae he stuffed her into a cream can. She went in without much trouble but getting her out was another story.

If you knew dad as a kind, gentle man, he was, and that is something that didn’t change when he got home. He had endless patience to see his way through any situation or task. Nothing ever seemed to frustrate him to the point of uttering a foul word. It was to mom’s frustration though that this quiet disposition and laid back personality made him very poor at arguing, or even worse, she would get upset with one of the kids and he wouldn’t say a thing, and she’d get more upset. Through all of our storytelling in the past few days, I have discovered that the girls must have been his favorite as they say they really had never seen him mad, each of us boys on the other hand confessed had at one point found the line that one does not cross. Ted crossed it one day when he was more interested in driving around than helping out with his chores, Bill got a life lesson in grade eight after a public display of unsportsmanship at the curling rink. I… got a good solid cuff on the side of the head after giving him some fourteen year old attitude. Can you imagine my shock to find out I was the only one to have received one of those cuffs on the head…well my theory is he could see what a handful those other two boys became and in his wisdom knew he better do something different with the third.

Dad was a very humble man and didn’t relish being in the spotlight. And modest to the point that even while there was just the two of them living at home he would still close the bathroom door when he got up in the middle of the night.

When asked, “What was the favorite time period in your life?” His quick response was the years on the farm. Even in these last couple of weeks his stories reflected his passion for the horses. He would never miss an opportunity to go on one of Brother Ted’s wagon rides. He would shuffle his way to the wagon with cane in hand then spring up into the seat like he was a teenager. He just loved those times, but the highlight I’m sure was the year he went to the mountains with Ted and Deb. He was nearly seventy, it had been well over 20 years since he had ridden a horse and he handled those 25 mile days as well as the younger Ted.

Dad had a tremendous memory, and I think we all loved to get him going telling stories of the days of thrashing crews and hunting with hounds. A few years back I took dad on an afternoon tour of the old farm sites he grew up on and the land he had farmed. He shared story upon story full of details, of who lived where and when, I intended the tour to be for my benefit not necessarily his but he returned home as excited as a kid coming from a birthday party.

These valuable attributes of gentleness, kindness, patience, acceptance of one’s circumstances, humor and laughter as a medicine, his demonstration of how to treat your spouse and above all his faith and the value of family are not things that he sat each of us down to teach us, these are the characteristics and virtues he displayed each day of his life, this is who dad was.

Thanks Dad, through your gentle ways you have left an everlasting impression on three generations of your family. We love you, and we are as proud of you, as you were of us.

Gordon Campbell
(August 6, 1921 – May 28, 2009)

It is with great sadness that the family of Gordon Campbell announces his passing on Thursday, May 28, 2009. He leaves to mourn his loss, his beloved wife, Florence, his son Robert (Peggy) Campbell, daughters Joan Engel, Heather (Abraham) van der Breggen, his grandchildren Jonathon Campbell, Stephanie (Sean) Parkinson and son Mannix, Rickee-Lee (Jeremie) Webster and Zachary Engel.

Gordon was born in Trochu, Alberta on August 6, 1921 to Robert (Bert) Campbell and Jean Campbell, and spent his early years on a homestead farm at Ghost Pine Creek, Alberta. In July 1931 plane rides were offered in nearby Three Hills for one cent per pound and Gordon, than a ten year old was able to cover the cost of a ride with one dollar. He spoke often about the thrill of that first ride and how it led to his lifelong love of flying.

It was not until he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 that he became a pilot. Later in life he continued to fly as a hobby and for many years he couldn’t drive past an airport without stopping.

He met the love of his life, Florence when she became a teacher at Sarcee Butte School. The vivacious, talkative Florence captured his heart and held it until the day he passed. They were married in 1942 in Yorkton, Sask.

Gordon joined the Alberta Wheat Pool in 1946 in Three Hills, Alberta and served as an elevator agent and field representative in various places throughout Alberta, including Sedalia, Consort, Castor, and Grande Prairie. Gordon continued to work for the Pool until retiring from the Calgary office in 1983. During retirement he volunteered at the Aerospace Museum and the Grain Museum, and met monthly with a current events group where there was vigorous discussion about a variety of topics. In recent years he spent many hours in the library reading newspapers from around the world, and researching topics of interest on the internet. Five years ago, Gordon and Florence moved to Weyburn, Saskatchewan, to be closer to family members. They were warmly embraced by the community and Gordon’s life was full of activity and friends. In the weeks prior to his passing, he had purchased a tractor and spent many happy hours working on it to ensure that it would be in top working condition. He was looking forward to flying the remote controlled plane that he had received the previous week.

Gordon loved each of his family unconditionally and their memories of him will be cherished. He was a “gentle” man and will be greatly missed. A memorial service was held for Gordon on June 4, 2009 at RD Funeral Home in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. Donations in his memory can be made to the Weyburn Humane Society.

Joseph Franklin Thornton
(July 14, 1917 – June 10, 2009)

Joseph (Joe) Franklin Thornton was born on July 14, 1917 at the family farmstead, 7 miles north of Sedalia to John (Jack) and Eleanor Thornton.

At age 16 he worked alongside Doc Spooner to learn the veterinary trade which he utilized for many years in assisting the community cattlemen during spring time calving.

On September 9, 1948 Joe married Effie May Johnstone at Canwood, Sask. Joe and Effie settled in the Sedalia area and had four children – Joe, Jim, Sharon and Wayne.

Joe was actively involved in the community and in his church. He served on several boards and felt most fulfilled when he was helping someone. Together Joe and Effie ran the Sedalia Post Office for 42 years.

In 2008 Joe’s health deteriorated and he moved to the Hanna Long Term Care facility. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 10, 2009 at the age of 91.

Joe is predeceased by his father John (Jack), his mother Eleanor; his brothers, Claude (Helen) and Philip (Carol); brothers-in-law George Cook, Leonard Down and Cliff Johnstone; grandson Christopher.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Effie; sons Joe, Jim, Wayne (Noelle) and daughter Sharon (Bruce); Grandchildren Sabrina, Ashley (Josh), Natasha (Andrew), Aileen, Daniel, Megan & Erin; Great grandchildren, Madison, Peyton, India & Jackson; Brothers Jerry (Myra) Thornton and Keith (Anne) Thornton; Sisters Fern Cook, Iris Johnstone, Ivy Down and Linda (Verne) Wallace.

The funeral service to commemorate Joe’s life took place at the Sedalia Full Gospel Church, Sedalia, Alberta on Monday, June 15, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. with Don Metz and Bill Thornton officiating. Joe’s children; Joe, Sharon and Wayne gave tributes, sharing many memories. Soloist Peter Thornton sang “When He Was On The Cross”. Soloist Lillian (Jarrett) Warren sang “The Love of God”. Julie Senkiw and Carol Ness played for the congregational hymns, “What A Day That Will Be”, “The Beautiful Garden Of Prayer” and “Wonderful Peace”. Active Pallbearers were Alex Johnstone, Phil Schwindt, Ed Thornton, Peter Thornton, Daniel Thornton, Ralph Thornton Jr., Randy Hayworth and Lloyd Hayworth. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Joe’s Friends”. Following the service family and friends gathered at the Sedalia Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A beautiful lunch was prepared and served by the Sedalia Community Club. Following the lunch the interment took place at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, AB. In Joe’s honour, memorial contributions may be made to The Hanna Long Term Care, Box 730, Hanna, AB, T0J 1P0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

HENRY JOSEPH DEAGLE
(March 28, 1918 – June 12, 2009)

Henry (Harry) Joseph Deagle was born in Consort on March 28, 1918 and passed away peacefully in Langley, B.C. on June 12, 2009 at the age of 91 years. He was the son of Joe and Mary Deagle

He was predeceased by his wife, Esther, of forty-eight years; also four brothers, Bernard, Frank, Russel and Ernie.

Harry is survived by his daughter, Mary Ann (Rob), son Alan (Irene), grandchildren Kathryn (Trevor), Russell (Brenda) and his sister, Muriel Lepine in St. Albert, Alberta; also nieces and nephews, cousins and sisters-in-laws.

He grew up on the family farm at Consort and moved to Surrey, B.C. in 1950 and then to Cloverdale to raise his family. He worked at the Canfor plywood mill in New West- minster for 33 years.

Prior to his hospitalization in February, he spent the last four years happily at Magnolia Gardens in Langley.

The family would like to thank the staff at Marrwood and Magnolia Gardens, Dr. J. Lau, and Darlene and Ray Poitras..

Visitation Thursday, June 18th, 5 to 6 p.m. at Hen- derson’s in Langley. Prayers on Thursday, June 18 at 7:00 p.m. with a funeral mass on Friday, June 19 at 10:30 a.m., both at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Langley. The Celebrant was Father Salvador Reyes and pallbearers were Rob Egan, Trevor Murray, Gary Lepine, Russell Egan, Raymond Poitras and Jim Baker. Music by Jan and Jim Baker.

Family and friends gathered in the church hall for a reception following the mass.

Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.

Murray Adams
(July 22, 1933-June 24, 2009)

George Murray Adams passed away at Coronation Hospital on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at the age of 75 years.

Murray was born on July 22, 1933 at home on the farm. He attended Stella School and worked on the farm. At the age of 17, Murray moved to Calgary and worked for CP Rail shovelling coal into train cars. Murray met Jean in 1960 and they were married on November 23, 1962. They lived on the family farm and were blessed with three children: Kathleen Ann born September 21, 1963, Cynthia Marie on June 10, 1968 and Curtis Murray on February 13, 1974.

Murray had a great love for his family and always made sure everyone was well looked after. He loved to have a family game of cards and was known to occasionally cheat so his grandchildren could beat him. Growing up, the family went on lots of fishing and camping trips and in later years Murray and Jean got to go to B.C. where he was thrilled to catch a 45 pound salmon.

Murray was very meticulous about looking after things on the farm and if something needed tending to, it was looked after right now… unless there were grandkids around. He was never too busy to stop for a quick tickle, chase or wrestle.

Murray was predeceased by his cherished son Curtis; his sisters: Lucielle, Myrtle, May, Doreen, Adele; brothers Lorne and Kenny. He is survived by his loving wife Jean of Veteran; daughter Kathy (Greg) Wakefield; daughter Cindy (Chris) Eamer; grandchildren Jennifer (Ashley) Ellis, Trevor Wakefield, Brendon Wakefield, Amanda Eamer, Megan Eamer, Blake Eamer and Brielle Eamer; brothers Hughie (Sylvia) Adams, Vern (Ella) Adams; sisters Wilda (Glen) McKay and Carol Carl; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alberta on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 with Pastor Darrell Durksen officiating. Musicians Pat Durksen and Carolyn Devereux played for the congregational hymns. Cindy Eamer and Hughie Adams gave loving tributes to Murray. Marilyn Long sang “Could I Have This Dance.” Interment took place at Veteran Cemetery with Pallbearers being Davey Vetter, Floyd Vetter, Terry Schetzsle, Mel Heistad, Cliff Eckman and George Glasier. A time of fellowship and a light luncheon was served at the Veteran Community Hall by the Veteran Full Gospel Ladies.

Memorial donations may be made to Coronation Health Care Foundation – Home Away From Home Room, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Tribute
by Cindy Eamer

I am self proclaimed “Daddy’s Girl” so I’m probably going to come across sounding like a kid on the playground, “My Dad can do anything!”, but I truly think he could. Countless times Mom would decide she wanted a room built on here or a wall pushed out there and Dad would just do it. Uncle Hughie would say, “You didn’t have blueprints or plans?” but Dad would just figure it out in his head and build it. Cupboards for Kathy, a lazy susan for me, bunk beds, headboards, a Quonset, it didn’t matter, Dad could do it. When something needed done, it got done now. Dad never did anything halfway. It was done right and done right the first time. We always joked that he spoiled his cows so much that instead of “mooing”, they said “Muuuray”. And it didn’t only apply to his farm or his animals. It was the way he loved his wife, his kids and his grandkids. Long past the time most couples had settled into a “comfortable routine” my parents were still embarrassing us kids with public displays of affection. I remember bringing my friend home from college and walking in on Mom and Dad kissing in the kitchen. A typical teenager I was mortified, “Oh gross! Mom! Dad! Could you NOT do that!”, but my friend Suzy was amazed, “Wow! Your Mom and Dad still kiss!”

Dad was never too busy for us kids or his grandkids. I remember one winter I had stopped at home in the morning for a visit. Dad was out doing chores, and it was very cold out, so he had many clothes on for the weather. He had come in to get cat food or something from Mom and before you knew it he was down on the floor with Blake, wrestling, tickling, and chasing in his full winter gear. By the time he got back up to finish the chores, he was drenched! But it didn’t matter, he was laughing just as hard as the kids were.

Dad loved to laugh and joke. A simple chore like doing dishes could turn into a full blown water fight. Only you never wanted to say “You wouldn’t dare” to Dad. That pretty much meant you were guaranteed a trip into the horse trough”..I think both Vonnie and Ruby had experiences with that. One time we were camping with my Grandma and Grandpa in the mountains. Somehow Dad and I started fooling around and before you knew it I ended up in a very frigid mountain stream. As if that wasn’t bad enough” Grandpa said, “Oh darn, I wanted a picture of that”. So’.Dad picked me up kicking and screaming, and in I went again.

One of the things we used to love to do as kids was ride behind the feed tractor in the winter on our toboggans. Dad would hook a rope onto the back of the tractor and pull us from the house, down the road to the stack yard. Then when Dad was feeding cows, Kathy, Curtis and I would climb on top of the big stacks of hay, jumping from stack to stack. It wasn’t until I was older I learned that it’s not exactly good for the stacks if you do that. It causes snow to settle in the hollow spots we created when we jumped, but Dad let us do it anyways.

When Mom was working for Cliff, Dad babysat Megan for me when Amanda was at school. Megan is a bit of a fussy eater even now, and at the time she was four and going through a phase where the only thing she would eat without complaint was Pogo Sticks and Kraft Dinner. Now Dad doesn’t like hot dogs’ but every day he kept Megan, he ate Pogo Sticks and Kraft Dinner for lunch.

He always thought of us first, right until the end. Dad was worrying about Mom, and us kids, and his grandkids, even in the hospital. He loved us all and we love him.We’ll miss you Dad.

A Tribute to My Brother
by Hugh Adams

Shortly after Murray’s passing, Kathy, Cindy and her family asked if I would like to say anything on behalf of my brother. I would like to thank them for this honour, for Murray was far more than just a brother to me.

My first recollection of Murray, since there was twelve years of age separating us, is in early childhood when he used to read to me. This was just the start of the many things he would teach me throughout the years. Shortly after I started school, I can remember working with Murray on the farm. I would be driving the old farmall tractor pulling the binder, which Murray was riding on, and he would holler for me to stop the tractor. If it was on an uphill slope, I did not have the strength to hold both the clutch and the brake in so I had to shut the tractor off real quick just to hold it.

I was about 10 or 11 when Murray came back from the city to take over the farm. At that point we were the only ones home to get the farming done since both Ken and Lorne were in the air force. We had a lot of fun times doing the haying with just horses in those days and milking cows by hand.

Murray taught me to drive at a very early age, but he had a motive. I think he got tired of driving me to basketball practice. I know it was long before I could even apply for a license; he would let me take the pick-up to town by myself. At that time there was a town policeman called Dave Lindermann, who just happened to be our brother-in-law. I said, “What will I do if he sees me?” Murray said, “Don’t worry, I’ll talk to him.”

After I turned 14, I got my learner’s license and I think I was still doing a lot of driving. It was at this point when I saw a big change in Murray”s life for he met a girl called Jean Conway. I remember probably one of my first dates we double dated at this dance in Loyalist and I couldn’t believe it – I ended up driving again since he had to tell Jean something in the back seat. I don’t know what you all said that night but it must have been good since about a year later you asked me to stand up for you as best man at your wedding. You must have whispered a few more good things in her ear over the next forty-eight years since she kept by your bedside for the last 2 months asking for a miracle.

All jokes aside, I can definitely see why she would want to keep you around for as long as possible. Murray, you always did everything in your power to make things good for everyone around you. I would especially like to thank you for leaving Jean with two loving caring daughters, Kathy and Cindy, two great son-in-laws, and seven incredible grandchildren as well as fond memories of a very special son.

In closing I would only change one thing in our lifetime, Murray. It seemed you made me do a lot of driving over the years. Even when you would come to the city you asked me drive you and Jean around. I remembered once you received a ticket in the mail for speeding in the city. I probably should have paid that fifty-dollar ticket.

You were always there for me Murray; no matter what age I was – even in my late teens. I can remember waking you up late at night and asking about something. I only hope I was there when you needed me even when it didn’t mean driving. And by the way, I loved doing the driving. Not only did it mean I got to spend time with you, but it was the least I could do to thank you for being a great brother and a great friend.

DONNA MAY PEARCE
(July 29, 1939 – June 26, 2009)

Donna May Pearce (nee Wraight) passed away on Friday, June 26, 2009 at Ab- botsford, B.C. at the age of 69 years.

She was born at Consort July 29, 1939.

She leaves her three girls, Cindy (Doug), Marcy (Dave) and Stacey and the shining lights in her life, her grandchildren, Jeffrey, Christopher, Cory, Cody, Deana. Loren and Nicklaus. Donna also leaves her sisters, Leona, Linda, May, Doris, Phyllis and Margaret; her brothers, Tom in B.C. and Tom in Alberta, her brother-in-law, Don and her sister-in-law Maureen at Veteran, nieces and nephews as well as many close friends and neighbors. She was predeceased by her parents, Walter and Alice Wraight.

There was no service by request. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

James (Jim) Quinlan
(February 21, 1928 – July 8, 2009)

James (Jim) Quinlan of Calgary passed away on July 8, 2009 at the age of 81 years.

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife Claire, his son Pat (Renae) Quinlan, grandchildren: Alyx, Zachary, Joshua, Patrick, and Jacob. He will also be remembered by his two sisters; Francis (George) Terry, Kay Rennich, his sister-in-law Eileen Quinlan, and his many nieces, nephews, in-laws and outlaws. He was predeceased by his father and mother Ed and Margaret Quinlan, brother Joe Quinlan, step-son Denis Michaud, and granddaughter Sara Michaud.

Prayers and tributes were given at St. Luke’s Catholic Church (corner of Northmount Drive and Northland Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta) on Monday, July 13, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Luke’s Catholic Church on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. with the Rev. Alfredo Pereira, Presider.

Condolences may be forwarded to the family through www.commemorative services.ca.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Children’s Hospital, 2888 Shaganappi Trail N.W., Calgary, Alberta,T3B 6A8 (Telephone 1-403-955-7211).

Alice Mary Robbins

(Dec. 6, 1925 – June 30, 2009)

Mary Robbins was born to Alice and George Brown at Altario, Alberta on December 6th, 1925. Mary passed away at Boyle hospital on June 30, 2009 after a lengthy illness.

Mary and Allen spent many years in the Kirriemuir/Altario area. In 1967, Mary, Allen and family moved to their farm near Flatbush, Alberta. They resided there until ill health made it necessary for them to move to the lodge in Boyle, Alberta.

Mary was predeceased by Allen in 2006, son Tom in 1969 and grandson Justin in 2003.

She leaves to mourn her loss, daughter June (Ed) Beier of Stettler, daughter Debra (Wayne) Sieben of Flatbush, son Delver (Trina) of Flatbush along with her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Also left to mourn are numerous nieces, nephews, sister-in-law Bernece Mouly and many friends.

Cremation has taken place as Mary requested and a private family service will be held at a later date.

Mary Alice Barrack

(Nov. 24, 1918-July 7, 2009)

Mary Alice (Doolan) Barrack, 90, died July 7, 2009.

Born in Castor, Alberta on November 24, 1918, Mary was the eldest daughter of Jack and Bessie Doolan. She grew up on a farm west of New Brigden with many fond memories of attending the country school. Mary fondly remembered playing softball and tennis in her youth. She often pointed out her broken fingers as proof of her skill at softball when telling stories of her younger days to family.

In 1938, Mary worked side by side with her Uncle Jim at the Naco store and Post Office, making many lifelong friends. Two years later, in 1940, Mary attended Olds Agricultural School taking courses in Home Economics.

Mary spoke often of attending box socials, with a full dance card and a line-up of the young men in the community. She was always fond of dancing, loved the music, and always had a partner waiting to spin her around the floor.

In 1944, Mary married Lewis Barrack of Cereal, Alberta. They settled on the Barrack family farm, which was her home for over 60 years. Mary’s caring personality and generous spirit made her a welcome addition to the Barrack family. She was always available and happy to help whenever she was called upon.

Mary’s hospitality was second to none. Family, friends, goose hunters, and even salesman were always welcomed in her home. Many chocolate cakes were whipped up at a moment’s notice for company or grandchildren’s birthdays. Mary was also famous with her family for her delicious pies, fresh buns, and fried chicken. Often people wondered how she could butcher chickens all morning and fry them up for lunch, but she claimed it only made sense as it was the easiest thing to prepare quickly for her large family.

Mary and Lewis had seven children born to them, unfortunately they lost two boys as infants. Sadly, Lewis passed away in 1968.

Mary and George Barrack married in 1971. Mary often commented how lucky she was to marry someone she considered her best friend, first Lewis, and then George.

Over the years, the family had many gatherings for birthdays, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, New Year’s and any other occasion that called for a get-together! Mary always enjoyed having the whole family together at her home and was happiest when we were all together and she was hosting a big dinner.

As the grandchildren started to arrive, Mary was a much loved Grandma, baking johnnycake and cookies for the kids, and always available for a heart to heart chat as they grew up. Mary was kept busy loving her ten grandchildren, and they all have many cherished memories. Mary was also thrilled to be able to spend time with her fourteen great-grandchildren and they loved their Great-Grandma!

Mary made friends easily and one of her gifts was keeping in touch with friends no matter where life took them. Her children remember that no matter where Mary went, it was not unusual for her to run into an old friend and stop to chat on the street or in the stores. She always had time for people, and was blessed to see the best in people. She felt gossip was a waste of time and she instilled this value in her family.

Through the ups and downs of life, Mary’s positive attitude remained strong and true. With her belief in the Lord, she pushed forward when faced with difficulties and gained comfort and strength from helping others. She often said that things happen for a reason and the good Lord only deals out what He thinks you can handle. She also believed that all the little dents in the road throughout our life only make us stronger.

Mary has been a caregiver her entire life. She always gave of herself, helping whoever and whenever it was needed. Her selflessness made her a treasured parent, partner, and friend.

Mary and George moved off the farm to their condo in Oyen in 2002. They enjoyed having family and friends stop by for a coffee or a visit. Mary enjoyed her years at the condo, and particularly cherished the large family gatherings that Mary continued to host with skill and pride.

Just one year ago Mary moved into the Lodge and immediately became a part of the family group there. She was pleased to have the opportunity to make new friends and rekindle old friendships. Mary had nothing but praise for all the staff and was so appreciative of their kindness and care. She often spoke of how wonderful it was to have her brother Bill residing down the hall. They have always shared a special closeness as brother and sister, and were often seen together, uptown, at the Farmers Market, and just last week at the Canada Day celebration.

Mary enjoyed a visit with her sister Pat & brother-in-law Ted, her lifelong friend Olive, and a night with her three girls at Marylou and Grant’s house in Calgary just last weekend. She was full of energy and in great spirits all weekend, making more wonderful memories with her daughters, sister and friend.

Mary was a wonderful lady, she loved her friends, her family meant everything to her, and in return she meant everything to her family. She will be missed.

Mary was predeceased by her parents John and Bessie; husband Lewis, 1968; husband George, 2005; brother Jim, 1986; infant son James Lewis, 1945; infant son Stuart Duncan, 1955.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving family: children Linda Morrison, Randy (Sharon) Barrack, Bill (Joanne) Barrack, Allison (Dale) Stammers, and Marylou (Grant) Marshall; brother Bill Doolan; sister Pat (Ted) Bailie; sister-in-law Eleanor Doolan; grandchildren Kim (Greg) Wilson, Karma (Scott) Snell, Ryan (Carmen) Barrack, Chandra (Kevin) Vig, Jennifer Barrack, Tricia (Troy) Anderson, Jeff (Krista) Stammers, Andrea (Garret) Thornton, Kyle Stammers and Kelsey Stammers; and 14 great grandchildren and one more on the way.

Prayer Vigil Service was held Monday, July 13, and Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, July 14, at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church. Delores Skappak and Bonnie Burke officiated at the Prayer Vigil Service, with Doreen Holdsworth as pianist. Officiating Clergy at the Mass was Rev. Fr. Ian Gagne with Gerry Getz as organist. A tribute was given by Andrea Thornton and Chandra Vig. Readers were Tricia Andersen and Jennifer Barrack. Pallbearers were Mary’s grandchildren: Kim Wilson, Karma Snell, Ryan Barrack, Chandra Vig, Jennifer Barrack, Tricia Andersen, Andrea Thornton, Jeff Stammers, Kyle Stammers, and Kelsey Stammers.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Cereal, Oyen & Sedalia Community Clubs in the Oyen Royal Canadian Legion Hall.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation, Box 150, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

Joseph & Loretta Laycock

Nov.15, 1921 – July 5, 2009 – Jan. 19, 1924 – April 14, 2005

Joe passed away July 5, 2009 at the Oyen Hospital Extended Care with his grandson at his bedside.

Joe was born at home near Esther, Alberta, the youngest of six children. He attended St. Julian School except for a couple of years during the thirties when the Laycock family moved to Bluffton, Alberta. The family moved back to the homestead about one and a half miles north east of St. Julian in 1936. Sadly, in 1936 Joe’s father died of pneumonia and at the age of fifteen, he was forced to take over the task of farming the family farm.

Loretta was born on January 19, 1924 near Leader, Saskatchewan, the oldest of 13 children in her family, and passed away on April 14, 2005. In 1929, her family moved from Leader to south of Alsask and she started school at Lloyd George. In 1936 they moved north west of Sibbald. She then attended the University School.

Joe met Loretta Wenzel at a Christmas Concert at the University School in 1941. They were married February 18, 1943 and their only child, Allen was born February 19, 1944.

Together for more than 62 years, they lived their married life on the farm; first on the Laycock homestead one and a half miles northeast of St. Julien School, and since 1943, three quarters of a mile south of St. Julien. During that time they worked together raising their son, developing and expanding their land holdings and raising purebred Hereford cattle. They were both very active in community affairs, curling and in more recent years, disking.

In the 1950’s they were active supporters in the building of a curling rink and a new community hall in Esther. Loretta was one of the founding members of the Esther Ladies Community Club and Joe became in involved in the leadership of the local 4-H club. He was actively involved in the 4-H in one form or another for about 40 years. In 2009 it was the first year in many decades that he was not an order buyer at the local district 4-H sale.

During their lives together they were generous supporters of various community projects and charities, in particular with the Alberta Children’s Hospital to support and develop children’s play therapy. Also, a scholarship fund was set up for post secondary education for Hanna District 4-H members.

Together, Joe and Loretta traveled in their motor home throughout most of North America, from the Gulf Coast of Texas and Southern California to the south, to Inuvik, Northwest Territories and Alaska in the north, as well as from Indiana to the east, and to Vancouver in the west. From the mid 1960’s to 2004 they made annual winter excursions to Nevada and Arizona.

Throughout their lives together, friends and family were always a big part of Joe and Loretta’s life. They always enjoyed taking time to celebrate and play, but, when it was time to work, they put forth all their energy towards the successful results of that work. They lived their lives as they believed, and succeeded.

Joe is survived by son Allen (Marguerite); grandchildren Tanya Schnell, Vaughn (Kathy) Laycock; great grandchildren Darian Schnell and Ila, Anna and Carter Laycock.

Joe was predeceased by beloved wife Loretta; his parents Harry and Emile Laycock; brother Charles; and sisters Mary, Ellen, Ada and Hilda.

Funeral Service was held Monday, July 13, at the Oyen Seniors Recreation Center in Oyen, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke with Marvel Jorgenson as organist. Allen Laycock, Vaughn Laycock, and Maxine Westerlund were the eulogists. Ralph Jorgenson sang “One Day at a Time” and Robbie Shields sang “Poor Poor Farmer.” Special music was provided by Michael & Marie Kulyk. The hymn was Amazing Grace.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Alberta Children’s Hospital, #300 – 1021, 10th Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta, T2R 0B7.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Esther Community Club in the Oyen Seniors Recreation Center.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

Mary Arthur

(Oct. 16, 1926 – July 15, 2009)

LIFE HISTORY OF MARIA (MARY) LILLIAN ARTHUR

Mary was born October 16, 1926 at Naco, Alberta, daughter of Andrew and Minnie Smith. After finishing school Mary went to work in Olds. On October 30, 1949 Mary married George Arthur and they resided on a ranch north of Consort. Mary was a busy housewife, with gardening, baking, canning, feeding chickens, and taking care of her cats and a dog named Buttons.

In 1976 Mary and George retired to Consort and spent some time traveling to North Dakota, Mexico and Ontario visiting friends and relatives.

Mary loved to have family and friends over to her house, the door was always open. She loved to play cards and treat her opponents to her homemade goodies. Mary kept a very clean house with never a dirty dish left in the sink at bedtime. She would spend hours in her garden tending to her favorite flower, the geranium. She was one of the special people who loved to weed. She canned, preserved fruit and made the very best pies. Her pie rack was always full. She loved to can pickles and she said a meal was never complete without a pickle. When you ate a meal at her house she would tell you, “Clean your plate and it will be a nice day tomorrow.” She loved her peppermints and favorite treats. Ice cream was one of her favorite treats. She could always be seen at the trailer window tending to geraniums and house plants, and greeting you with her big smile and her shinning eyes. Her coffee pot was always full and she always drank out of a special cup with her name on it.

Mary loved music, singing and dancing. Old country and gospel were her favorite tunes. She attended the Knox United Church services and functions on a regular basis. She love to quilt, mend clothes and embroidery. She would recycle polyester and pants to create a design on a frame, made by her brother Art. She loved to mend everyone’s clothes, sewing on buttons and patching blue jeans, always a busy lady. She crocheted so many afghans that we lost count. She loved to go to bingo, farmers markets and community events. Mary never came home empty handed as she loved to shop. She always had a camera in hand and was a real shutterbug.

In 1976 grandchildren started to arrive, first was Melinda and then came Tom, Amanda, Angela and Lance. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren and spoil them with love and special baked goodies.

Mary lived quite a few years at the Consort Senior Lodge, and loved to visit her friends and family. When musical entertainment was performed she would get up and dance. She played many games of cards, attended church services, and loved to go on the senior’s bus for day trips. She continued to grow and take care of flowers at the lodge. She was always calling her friends on the phone and wrote many letters and cards, keeping in touch with everyone.

On February 3, 2004, Mary moved to the Vegreville Manor to be closer to family. She made many new friends and continued to take care of her flowers, go to bingos, bus trips and shopping. She was a crafty lady and would spend hours in the craft room. She enjoyed scrap booking, cutting jokes and recipes out of newspapers and magazines. Mary enjoyed having her family to the manor for special family events.

She enjoyed watching Oiler hockey games, Toronto Blue Jays baseball and curling. She watched the World Junior Hockey tournament, Sweden against Canada and could never decide which team to cheer for, but somehow her team always won.

Her greatest wish was fulfilled last year when her first two great grandchildren were born, Ethan and Brody. Her eyes just lit up when she saw them, arms open wide when they visited her. She said she was finally a GG (great-grandmother).

During her final days, Mary was still doing her word searches, listening to her country music and playing cards with her family. Her heart may have been weak, but her spirit was very willing.

Mary Arthur passed away peacefully at the St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville with family present on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at the age of 82 years. In heaven God has a new tender of his garden. We know that the flowers will bloom more beautiful under her care – “No weeds in Heaven.” Her final words were “love you” and “hallelujah” as she went to sleep.

Predeceased by her parents Andrew and Minnie, husband George, infant daughter Alice, one sister Annie, four brothers Art, Louie, Gus, Herbert. Mary is survived by one daughter, Sylvia (Albert) Deacon, two sons Bill (Louise) Arthur, Ken (Lila) Arthur, six grandchildren Melinda, Amanda, Lance (Cherie), Tom (Meghan), Angela (Steve) and Frank, two great grandchildren Ethan Deacon and Brody Arthur, one brother Lennart, sisters-in-law Evelyn Smith and Evelyn Robinson, brother-in-law Clayton Houseworth as well as numerous nieces, nephews.

Funeral services were held at Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Monday, July 20, 2009 with Rev. Stephen Shantz officiating. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns as the Knox United Church Choir led the singing. Bonnie Sansregret gave the tribute. Mary was laid to rest at Lakeroad Cemetery with members of her loving family serving as pallbearers.

Family and friends gathered at the lower hall of the church for a time of fellowship and refreshments prepared and served by the Knox U.C.W. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Parkview Funeral Chapels and Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Tribute

by Bonnie Sansregret

I’d like to thank Mary’s family for giving me the privilege and honour to read the eulogy they have complied. But first I’d like to add a few words.

Mary grew up 3 miles south of where I live so I’ve known her all my life.

Mary started her school years across from her parents place at Bennett school in 1933. (The Bennett schools were bunkhouses moved in then named after RB Bennett the PM during most of the depression). This school later was moved and another school moved in called Sounding Valley. In those days there were lots of unexpected blizzards and pupils and the teacher would all have to stay at Marys parents until the blizzard blew over. That must have been a houseful indeed and lots of fun. Mary continued her studies at Sounding Valley until 1943 when the school closed and she went to school in Consort. My mother taught Mary for 5 years in Sounding Valley and they began a wonderful friendship that lasted all their lives. The things that stand out in my mind about Mary was of course her love of cards (which I’m sure she learned at Pa Smith’s knee), her dislike of heights, her beautiful handwriting, her jolly and quick sense of humour and especially her endearing care and concern for all her old friends.

(The eulogy is included in the life history.)

Elizabeth Anne (Betty) Wiechnik

(Aug. 7, 1947 – Aug. 10, 2009)

Elizabeth Anne Wiechnik was born in Consort, Alberta on August 7, 1947, the daughter of Ed and Catherine Wiechnik.

She lived at home on the farm south of Monitor. She was the big sister to Jim, Brenda and Rob. When she was little, Betty loved to get dressed up and have her hair curled. When Mom would make her a new dress she would try it on and show Dad, twirling around the room and happily exclaiming, “Pretty! Pretty!”

She always loved to listen to music and her favourite song was, “You Are My Sunshine”. Together with Mom, she would sing, “On Top of Old Smoky”, each of them doing a line of the song in turn. When someone sang to her, it would make her so happy that tears would roll down her cheeks.

She loved to go for rides in the car. The air conditioning in those days was the roll-down-your-window type which made it very convenient for her to throw out the things she didn’t like, especially her shoes. How she hated wearing shoes!

She was not able to attend school as there were no programs for Downs Syndrome children at that time. However, when she was thirteen years old, she went to live at the Mitchner Centre in Red Deer. While she was there, she did have the benefit of programs for handicapped children. Betty never liked being in large groups of people.

On February 4, 1992, she became part of another loving family when she moved to the Youngstown Home. She was happy to have her own room and enjoyed many outings with the staff at the Home. She loved them dearly.

Betty’s family would like to thank the staff for all the kindnesses they showed to her while she was in Youngstown. They truly treated her like a family member. We appreciate Linda and Sharon for their vigil at the hospital, and to those who visited her during her short stay there. Thanks to Champ and Wyatt for singing to Betty, as she has always loved small children. Thank you to Linda, Marie and Sarah for the numerous times you brought Betty to visit.

Betty was predeceased by her father Ed; her brothers Donnie and Robbie; and her infant niece Amy Elizabeth.

She will be missed by her mother Catherine; her brother Jim (Patricia) along with their children Kristy, Stephanie, Danica and Mark. She will also be missed by her sister Brenda (Rick) and their children Nick, Megan and Jon.

Funeral Service was held Friday, August 14, at the Youngstown Home Chapel in Youngstown, Alberta with Robbie Shields officiating. Sandra Ford was the organist. Brenda Deleff, Linda Laughlin, and Sarah Verbeek gave a eulogy. Soloist was Robbie Shields and special music was “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLaughlin. Hymns were “Beyond the Sunset”, “This Little Light of Mine” and “You Are My Sunshine.” Honorary Pallbearers were all the Staff at the Youngstown Home and especially Linda Laughlin, Sarah Verbeek, Sharon Prost and Sam Laughlin.

Memorials tributes may be directed to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Youngstown Home Staff in the Youngstown Home Cafeteria.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

Rose Barbra Baier

(Aug. 19, 1918 ~ Aug. 16, 2009)

Rose Baier of Stettler, Alberta passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2009 at the age of 90 years.

Rose was born at Fusilier, Saskatchewan to Katherine and Jacob Zieger the ninth of twelve children. On November 8, 1938 Rose married George Baier at Mount Carmel, Alberta (Altario). During the forty two years of farming together four miles north of Compeer, they also raised eleven children.

Rose and George retired to Stettler in 1980 where Rose continued to reside until her passing while a resident at the Heritage House Care Centre.

Rose is survived by her 8 sons: Victor (Shona) of Spirit River, Leonard (Claudia) of Compeer, Dennis (Margaret) of Bashaw, Henry (Marguerite) of Regina, Garry (Laura) of Stettler, Ron (Anita) of Taber, Jeffrey (Louanne) of Innisfail, Jack of Compeer; 3 daughters: Mary Jane (Morris) Lowis of Coronation, Arlene Voeller of Foremost, Coreen (Hal) Stuart of Joffre; 34 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; 5 step grandchildren; 13 step great grandchildren, 1 sister Pauline Ollenberger of Canmore, 2 sisters in law Angie Zieger of Kerrobert and Rose Zieger of Regina, numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

Rose was predeceased by her loving husband George Peter Baier in 1994, daughter in law Audrey Baier in 1998, son in law Les Voeller in 2007, 7 sisters and 3 brothers.

Funeral prayers were held on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at the Christ King Catholic Church in Stettler, Alberta with Monty Sommers presiding. Funeral mass was celebrated on Thursday, August 20, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Christ King Catholic Church with Father Arlan Parenteau officiating. Rose was laid to rest at the Mount Carmel Cemetery, Altario, Alberta.

If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to Heritage House Care Centre or a charity of the donor’s choice c/o Stettler Funeral Home, Box 1780, Stettler, Alberta T0C 2L0.

Sympathies may be forwarded to the family by signing the guestbook at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com.

Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Elwood Williams

(Nov. 26, 1926~Aug. 24, 2009)

Elwood was born November 26, 1926, first child of Lisle and Irene Williams followed by sister Bessie and brother Roy.

Elwood grew up on the family farm attending Neutral Valley School then completing his high school in Consort. He later attended tech in Calgary where he obtained his automotive mechanics license. This is where he met the love of his life Yvonne Steckly. After convincing her to leave the big city and join the family farm, Elwood and Yvonne were married on June 16, 1951. They resided in the Neutral Valley district farming alongside father Lisle and Uncle Harry.

This marriage was blessed with three children Carol Lynn, Darvin Brent and Lori Corrine.

Elwood was always very involved in the community serving on numerous boards and committees. He enjoyed playing ball, curling and golfing as well as sharing his love for music and dance. He played several instruments including the piano, violin, saxophone and ukulele without reading a single note.

Elwood was predeceased by his parents Lisle and Irene, sister Bessie Nelson, sister-in-law Ella Williams and brother-in-law Ross Rule.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife Yvonne; daughter Carol Lynn (Fred) Symes of Edson, daughter Lori (Larry) Ference of Consort and son Brent Williams of Consort; granddaughter Tara (Todd) Fron, great-grandson Toren and grandson Brad Symes all of Edson, grandson Jordan (Ashley) Ference of Cold Lake, grandson Tyler Ference and granddaughter Jenelle Ference of Consort; brother Roy Williams of Red Deer, brother-in-law Ivar Nelson of Veteran and sister-in-law Berneice Rule of Didsbury; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

Elwood passed away suddenly on August 24, 2009 at Consort Long Term Care Centre at the age of 82 years.

The funeral service to celebrate Elwood’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Friday, August 28th, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. Officiating was Reverend Sandy Macpherson. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “How Great Thou Art” and “Beyond The Sunset”, led by the Knox United Church Choir. Long time friend Mary Readman presented the tribute. Special music “Yesterday” and “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” was sung and played by Allan Zinger. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #32 Consort paid their respects by placing poppies on the casket followed by “The Last Post” played on the bugle by Allan Zinger. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Active Pallbearers were Ted Devine, Keith Wittmack, Ron Symes, Rick Sortland, Phil Gilmer and Ken Williams. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Those Who Were Touched By Elwood’s Life”. A luncheon followed in the Lower Hall of the church prepared and served by the Knox United Church Ladies. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made in Elwood’s memory to The Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, Alberta, T0C 1B0, in care of Coronation Funeral Home Ltd. Box 35, Coronation, AB., T0C 1C0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Tribute

by Mary Readman

To say that final Good-bye to an old friend, is never easy. But Elwood was more than just an ‘old friend’, he was a lifelong friend.

The Williams family came into the Neutral Valley district, north of Consort, in 1912 and Charles Williams and his family established a farm there. They had originally settled in the Sedgewick area, having come from Cooperstown, North Dakota. Within the year, my Dad, Harold Scott, had taken out a pre-emption on land just half a mile south of the Williams farm, which he proved up after he returned in 1919 from service in WW 1. The two families were friends through all the years, helping each other when they could and just generally being good neighbors.

Mr. Williams built a house for his each of his two boys that homesteaded on the farm. Harry never married, but Lisle married Irene Hill and there they raised their family – Elwood, Bessie and Roy.

My Mom and Dad also had three kids – my two brothers, Charlie and Bud, and later I came along. With World War Two, my brothers entered the forces and I was left alone. Naturally, I hung out with the Williams kids and although Roy and I were more of an age, Elwood was like another brother to me. We all attended the Neutral Valley School that my dad had built on land right beside our yard. When it was necessary to consolidate several schools, because of a teacher shortage, Roy and I went four miles to the New Neutral Valley. By this time, Elwood had gone to Calgary to attend technical school. There were other Consort fellows there – Walter Zuk, John Polson and Art Spencer, and that foursome formed a bond. Elwood boarded with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Steckly and was captivated by their youngest daughter. He vowed that when she grew up he would marry her – and he did. Elwood and Yvonne returned to the farm where they settled down to raise their family of three – Carol Lynn, Brent and Lori.

By the spring of 1957, Bill and I found it necessary to settle down so our daughter, Carol, could start to school. Thus it was that she and Carol Lynn Williams ended up in Grade One together and the bond between our families grew even tighter.

The four of us, Elwood and Yvonne and Bill and I, struck up a close friendship and for many years we were always together. We travelled to such places as Hawaii and Las Vegas, always having a great time together. Our mutual love of music cemented the friendship even closer, as well as our pleasure in dancing.

But it wasn’t all fun and games for Elwood. He was a devoted family man, wanting only the best for his family and so it was that he served on various boards and organizations. For many years he was a member of the Medical Centre Board, a facility he had been instrumental in getting for the town. While all this was going on, he built up a farm to be proud of, with a thriving herd of cattle and prosperous crops. He kept maintaining the equipment and farm buildings and adding new ones which helped make Williams Farms a showplace in the Valley. Elwood had a true love and respect for his livestock and a dedication to the land he tilled.

The Kinsmen Club of Consort chartered on December 11, 1961 with twenty-four members. On February 10, 1973, the K-40 Club was formed with thirteen charter members. Elwood was one of them, along with Bill Readman and many of his other friends.

Elwood enjoyed sports, but his favorite was curling, and he could always be found at the rink throughout the season. He was a good curler and he and his friends made the most of their time there.

Elwood also belonged to the Oddfellows Lodge, was a Steward for Knox United Church and honored his Uncle Harry by becoming a member of the local Branch #32 of the Royal Canadian Legion.

In the years on the farm, my Mom and I enjoyed occasionally dropping in to Irene’s and would find they were making music – Lisle on the violin and Irene at the piano. Bessie had also become proficient at the piano and Elwood showed interest in the violin. They formed their own family orchestra. Elwood never looked back and soon was playing piano, violin, saxophone and became part of the high school band, “The Hep Cats” and later after his marriage, became a member of the “Serenaders”, a local orchestra that played for neighborhood dances. There were a number of others in that group including his brother, Roy (saxophone), Vernon and Gert Doherty, Cliff Long, Ida Maron and Les Funk. They weren’t always all together, but spelled each other off if need be. Through the years, Elwood has gladdened many hearts with his music, whether just playing for a sing-song, or entertaining at a dance. We knew we were in for a treat when we saw him picking up the bow.

Elwood was well read and knowledgeable about the world in general. He took an interest in what was happening and was always ready to help out wherever he could, be it a work bee for a neighbor or a meeting in town.

Elwood Williams was a gentleman and I’m honored to have been asked by his family to share some of my memories. He has been there throughout all of my life and while there were times when we each went our separate ways, our families have developed and remained in close friendship.

When Elwood’s health began to fail, he and Yvonne moved to town, and later into the Lodge. Just a few months ago, it was necessary for Elwood to move into Long Term Care here, but Yvonne was by his side for at least every day. This past Monday, several from Long Term Care had gone on the Seniors Bus for a farm tour, looking at crops and seeing the start of the harvest. They visited with friends in the Valley and had a wonderful day in the beautiful late summer weather. At four o’clock, they returned to Consort Hospital and it was only fifteen minutes later that the nurses discovered that, for Elwood, the song was ended.

Marietta “May” Fleming

(Sept. 20, 1927-Aug. 12, 2009)

May Fleming of Barriere, B.C. passed away at Royal Inland Hospital, Kamloops, B.C. on August 12, 2009, with her family by her side. She was 81 years of age. Predeceased in November, 2008 by her loving husband, Andy, May is survived by her five children, Eileen (Keith) Gilbert of Vernon, B.C., Linda Newberry of Calgary, AB., Rhoda (Robert) Cochran of Williams Lake, B.C., Rita (Sandy) Proulx of Williams Lake, B.C., and John (Leila) Fleming of Chase, B.C., eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Melvin Thomsen of Wainwright, AB., and her sisters, Rhoda Garstad of Coronation, Ivy Homan of Nampa, AB., and Nora Thomsen of Wainwright.

A service to remember the life of May Fleming was held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2009 in the Seniors Hall, Barriere, B.C. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in memory of Marietta Fleming to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of B.C., 201-635 Victoria St., Kamloops, B.C.,VZC 2B3.

Marietta Grace Katherine Thomsen was born in Veteran, Alberta on September 20th, 1927. She was the second oldest in a family of nine, raised on the prairie during the depression years, and from that beginning she learned to be independent, strong and capable. As a young woman during the war years she was employed in a jeans factory, bakery, hospital kitchen, and assisted the war effort by folding parachutes in an aircraft facility.

On January 16th, 1947, she married her sweetheart Andy Fleming and they lived in the Alberta foothills where Eileen and Linda were born. In 1951, they moved to Tete Jaune Cache, B.C., and a year later they were blessed with twin girls, Rhoda and Rita. Within a few short years, May had four children, four years old and under. There were no Pampers back then, no running water in the house she lived in, so the workload was tremendous. She managed to wash all those diapers daily, prepare all the meals, grow a big garden, and pick wild strawberries, blueberries and huckleberries to preserve for the winter. She was handy with a rifle if a bear happened to wander into the yard. She could catch a grouse with her bare hands, wring its neck, pluck it, clean it and have it ready for supper that night. She was an excellent seamstress and sewed all of the children’s clothes when they were young. She would stay up half the night to finish outfits for a special occasion the next day. In terms of money they didn’t have much, but in terms of family, love, and caring for each other, they were very wealthy.

In 1960 the family moved to McBride where May worked as a custodian at the local high school. She still found time for sewing, gardening and socializing. Then in the fall of 1962, the Flemings made one more move, settling in Barriere. After all those girls, a son was born. John was their pride and joy, as they had always wanted a boy to carry on the family name.

May LOVED fishing. She was so happy when she was trolling her fishing line behind a boat in some small lake in the area. On a fishing trip to Pioneer Lake, the memory is of one of the grandsons chuckling to himself, saying, “Grandma’s all hunkered down in the boat, ready for the big one. She sure takes her fishing seriously.” There are photos of May, Andy and the girls all fishing in the Fraser River and May and the girls are all wearing dresses. How times have changed!

May loved quilting and made many beautiful quilts for family and friends. She also knew just what to do when someone got sick. The family was often doctored with mustard plasters, hot milk poultices, cod liver oil pills and vinegar soaked cloths for nose bleeds. John remembers a time when they were camping at Dunn Lake, and he had taken a couple of friends along. At the bottom of the hill, the boys built a “jump” for their bikes using some railway ties and an old piece of plywood. John was the first to try it out, and started down the long hill. The plywood ramp broke and he was launched into the air at about 30 miles per hour sending him down the road on his face. May grabbed one of Andy’s shirts and soaked it down with whiskey, and proceeded to clean his wounds. John was writhing in pain, he felt like his face was on fire, but she very calmly told him to be tough, and that it would only hurt a little bit.

She had a deep compassion for anyone with a problem of any kind. When one of John’s friends was having a tough time at home, she took him in, no questions asked, until the situation at his home was resolved. At times she could come across as “gruff”, but inside she was a very soft hearted person who would give you the shirt off her back.

May was an awesome cook. There was always porridge for breakfast when the kids were younger. They hated it at the time but thank her today for starting them on a healthy path. She could make a tasty meal from almost nothing. One of the favorite treats was a glass of milk with bread cubes in it and Rogers Golden Syrup drizzled over the top. When unexpected company arrived she had the ability and confidence to cook a great meal in no time at all. We all remember the time she made a huge batch of bread, buns and cinnamon buns, left them on the counter and went off to work. We came home from school, each with friends in tow, and by the time she got home from work there was not a crumb left.

John remembers a time when he and Mom were doing the dishes in the old trailer when out from the corner a mouse appeared. Without missing a beat, Mom grabbed a cookbook that was laying there and nailed the mouse with the corner of the book, killing the mouse dead on the counter. She said, “That will teach him”, flipped it into the garbage can and went right back to doing the dishes. He learned a thing or two right there” don’t mess with Mom in the kitchen.

May was an active community member, involved in the Ladies Auxiliary Legion Branch 242, and the Cadets. For many years she was a member of the horseshoe club and darts club winning many trophies. She and Andy travelled around the province to competitions and made many good friends. She competed in the B.C. Summer Games in Kelowna in 1980 and in Comox in 1981, winning a silver medal for horseshoes at both competitions. After many years of working for the Barriere School District, she retired to enjoy her numerous hobbies.

After retiring she opened a store called “May’s Wool Shop.” From that endeavor a new passion arose. Knitting Machines!!! She spent many hours working those complicated machines and making woolen items for family and friends.

For years, May was the Avon Lady and would deliver the products to her customers via a three-wheeled bicycle with a basket on the back for the goods. Good customer service and exercise, all in one package.

May was an avid hockey fan and the Vancouver Canucks were her team. Her favorite players were the Sedin twins and if either of them scored a goal there was much cheering and hoopla in the Fleming living room.

May was undaunted by the electronic age. She was proficient on her computer, sending e-mails, downloading and printing photos from her digital camera. Her passion over the last few years was her Embroidery machines. We all have beautiful pillowcases, pot holders, and quilts made by her competent hands. Just one month ago, she made a baby quilt for her granddaughter Amanda’s baby, due at the end of October.

She had a great sense of humor, a quick wit, and could laugh at even the silliest things. There are many funny stories to be told, from learning to pump gas for the first time, to three year old Johnny, waking up in church, yawning and saying “Let’s get out of here, Mom”, or a bet with one of her son-in-laws about whether or not a chicken could swim. She had her own colorful sayings, which would leave us in stitches.

In her later years, she had limited vision, but awesome hearing. We knew not to talk about her at the end of the hallway because she could hear every word you said.

Mom left us all with a rich legacy. We will always remember her as a warm and caring mother, wife, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, mother-in-law and friend who always put others ahead of herself. She taught us not to waste, to be grateful for what we had, and to be respectful to others and ourselves. She instilled strong values which have carried down to the youngest great grandchild. During the many family gatherings over the years, all the kids played together and had a great time, and there was never any squabbling or disagreements, only fun. She always made us “call when we got there”. When Andy’s health was failing, she selflessly cared for him, and even when she was exhausted she didn’t complain. She adored every one of her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and extended her warmth and generous spirit to all who knew her. We know that she’s still watching over us, and keeping us all safe and warm. To us, she was our mom, she was everything.

Skeeter

(Oct. 30, 1957-Sept. 6, 2009)

Keith Brian “Skeeter” Beres passed away suddenly in a motorcyele accident on September 6, 2009 at the age of 51 years. A memorial service was held at their acreage on September 12, 2009 with Reverend Jope Langejans officiating.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, soul male, best friend, co-worker, and riding partner Michelle. Sons, Codie (Aleah) (grand-daughter to be, Serenity) and Bronson. His father Bill Beres (Helen); sisters and brothers Sharon (Ron), Gerald (Rhonda), Debbie (Perry) and Roddy (Judy); mother-in-law Elaine and extended family Jean (Les), Garnet (Carol), Cindy (Brian) and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by: his grandparents, mother Jean, father-in-law Gerry, nephew Keenan, sister and brother-in-law Rhonda and Mark and step son Rocky.

Keith was born in Lestock, Sask. on October 30th, 1957. He graduated from Lestock High School and later married Michelle Morris on February 14th, 1986. After working on the family farm for many years, Keith moved his family in 1994 to an acreage in Alberta that he was very proud of. It was here he started his own business, hot oiling in the oil patch. In 2006 he proudly took a job alongside his wife at Husky Energy where he was employed. Keith was a member of the Alliance volunteer firefighters. Keith enjoyed playing guitar, and riding his HOG. He loved his cattle, dogs and horses, and spending time with his family and hanging out with his friends. Keith was loved by everyone; when he shook your hand, you knew you had a lifelong friend.

Tribute

By Ron McGregor

October 30, 1957 a healthy baby boy was born to the family of Bill, Jean, Sharon and Jerry to be followed by Debbie. Son and brother. Next came Michelle, a wife forever. Father to Cody and Bronson. Uncle Keith to all of his nephews and nieces.

He earned the names of Friend, Buddy, Dude, Co-worker, Businessman, Trucker, Biker, Brother in-law, Mentor, Student, Farmer, Welder, Musician, Back up, Leader, Philosopher, Teacher, Advisor and Confidant.

Not that he would admit it if he were standing beside me, but he was as perfect, kind and gentle as a person could become. A respected and loved man you could count on.

Keith was a large part of our family of McGregors in Olds, Consort and Alliance. We, as well as all of you, will miss him terribly.

But as we have all watched a movie that was so good that we wished it would never end, this life that we are celebrating today is that movie.

We wish it could go on forever but the ending came too soon.

The sequel to this movie is for all of us here today to carry on as he would want us to do and in remembrance to tell others what a great movie we saw.

51 years of the movie called “Keith Beres”. A movie you can cry, laugh and give a five star rating.

Keith we will always love you and we will never forget you because your movie’s a CLASSIC.

Margaret Grace Myfanwy (Griffith) Sims

(Dec. 3, 1913 – Sept. 6, 2009)

On Sunday evening, Gracie died peacefully with family by her side, having lived a long life of dedication to her family and home. She was predeceased by her newborn son, Jimmie Lee, beloved husband James Leland and her grandson Jamie Auten. Born in Rounthwaite, Manitoba, Gracie was the last surviving child in her family of eleven.

Lovingly remembered by her daughter Jeryl (Darryl) Auten and son Roger (Carol): grandchildren: Catherine Auten; Lee (Gary) Giroux; Craig (Christine Whalen); Barbara (Scott) McKee; Leland (Karen); great-grandchildren: Madison and Coleman McKee; Marina and Jack Sims; Thomas and Benjamin Giroux; Lauryn, Audrey and Grace Sims.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, September 13, at 2 p.m., Veteran United Church, Veteran, Alberta with Dr. Darryl J. Auten officiating. Judy Heistad played for the congregational hymns as well as a special selection “All Through The Night”. The interment took place at the Veteran Cemetery. Lunch was served at the Veteran Hall by the Veteran United Church Ladies. In lieu of floral tributes, donations may be made to Veteran Municipal Cemetery, Village of Veteran, Veteran, AB. T0C 2S0, or Veteran Municipal Library, Box 527, Veteran, AB. T0C 2S0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Gracie Sims’ Life Story

Margaret Grace Myfanwy (Griffith) Sims was born December 3, 1913 at Gwalia Farm, Rounthwaite, Manitoba. She was the youngest child of Gwynfred John Griffith, Wales and Helen Buchanan Pringle of Tranent, Scotland. Gracie attended school at Rounthwaite and when her parents moved to Brandon she went to school there and later graduated from Brandon Collegiate Institute. After graduation she began an apprenticeship with Mr. Brown at Brown’s Pharmacy in Brandon. It was there she met Lee Sims who came into the drugstore with her friends, Marg and Harold. Gracie said it was one of those moments when your heart skips a beat and you know you’ve met the love of your life. At that time, Lee was stationed at Brandon with the RCMP. Those were the days when you served in the Force for ten years before you could get permission to marry. Also, Lee’s dad was dying in Vancouver and Lee was granted an honourable discharge so that he could travel to Vancouver to visit his father. Since there were very strict social customs about single men and women traveling together, Gracie and Lee needed a chaperone to make the trip to the coast. Elva, Lee’s sister, and her daughter Beverly traveled to Brandon to make the journey with Lee and Gracie. They went across the northern United States where the roads were much better than they were in Canada. Elva (‘Doolie’ as we called her) suggested that instead of traveling all the way back to Brandon to be married, Lee and Gracie could be married in Spokane, which they did on May 1, 1934. They travelled on to Vancouver, arriving just before Grandpa Sims died. Grandpa’s comment to Lee was “Ah, Lee, she’s just a wee bit of a thing, isn’t she?”

Lee and Gracie stayed in Vancouver for the following year, during which the Sims family made arrangements to trade land in Vancouver for farmland, and the Akhurst-Labarge Garage in Veteran, Alberta. Jeryl once asked them if they ever regretted that trade and both of them assured her that coming to Veteran was the best thing that they ever could have done. They truly loved this place. How could one ever put a price on all the good friends, the blue, blue skies and the beauty of the prairies?

Their first son, Jimmie Lee lived two days after he was born in 1936. Jeryl arrived in February of 1939 and Roger was born in November of 1944. They had hoped to have a larger family but it was not to be.

Gracie was an intelligent, well-spoken woman. Her Latin studies gave her a firm grounding in grammar. She loved books and was especially fond of poetry. She could recite pages and pages of poems and hymns. Her father had insisted on memory work for all of the children and had them set their own goals for memorizing material. Before Gracie’s brother Roger went to war the two of them memorized the Gettysburg Address, and when Roger returned, they stood together and repeated the whole thing. Gracie was an avid reader and was well-informed. Among her papers were many little pieces of paper with information she wanted remembered or factual data on many a subject, or sports data. She loved curling, hockey and baseball and could tell you who were on each team, where the team was based and stats for the team. She was also very musical as were all of her family, each of them playing a variety of musical instruments and all of them with wonderful voices and musical ability.

Gracie was very active in the community during her fifty-seven years as a resident. She was a lifetime member of the Alberta Women’s Institute. She loved being part of the WI and the opportunities that were presented for working in the larger community. She spoke at meetings and conventions and prepared information and speeches to give in the group. She was on the executive many times over the years. One of her special pieces of paper listed the names of the women who joined: Shirley Wraight 1953; Beulah Burns 1951; Joyce Ulseth 1951; Beth Doyle, Blanche Gorcak, Mary Young, and M. Bradshaw 1958. She took delight in the crafts and needlework and the many different WI Competitions. Gracie and her good friend Stella Canfield would often crochet together and look for new patterns to try. There was a collection of red first place ribbons in her things when she left Veteran in 1992.

Gracie was active in Veteran United Church from the time she arrived in 1935. She played the organ and piano at church and for other community functions. She laughed once that it was only because she had memorized “O Canada” and “God Save the King” that she was asked to play for events. She also loved to sing. Phyllis Craig said that one day recently when she went to Laurier House to visit, Gracie was lying in bed singing “All Through the Night” in her lovely voice. She was a Sunday School teacher, Superintendent of the Sunday School, the leader of the CGIT (Canadian Girls in Training). She was a member of the United Church Women. She always had groups rehearsing for special events and key musical programs. Among her keepsakes were cards from Pat Olsen, Marina McDonald, Kathleen Price, Evie Dahl for singing practices.

Gracie collected for the Heart and Stroke Foundation and for the Cancer Society. She contributed toward and worked for community events and Homecomings. One wonders how many squares, pies, chickens and turkey, canners of potatoes, carrots and peas, turnips, coleslaw or baked buns that she took to functions in town. She was always generous and willing to contribute to what was going on.

In the larger community, Gracie was employed by Elections Canada for a number of years. Over the years she was a consummate homemaker and a wonderful cook for her family and many visitors – goose hunters, John Deere and Ford salesmen, and friends who came to visit. She was always proud to be a resident of the Village of Veteran.

When Lee died, Gracie stayed in Veteran until she could no longer do the yard work. She moved in 1992 to a new condo on Sir Winston Churchill Drive in St. Albert, where she exercised daily by climbing the four flights of stairs just outside her apartment door. When she needed more support to live independently, she moved to Ironwood Point and then on to Laurier House Lynnwood in Edmonton.

The residents and staff at Laurier House admired her courage. She walked down to meals and was often there as the first person for breakfast in the mornings. She was fortunate to have maintained that strength. Many residents commented on her appearance and hair. She was always well “turned out”. It was “spit and polish” for Gracie.

Gracie was always close to family and kept up not only with special events but with trips over the years to Brandon, across the Maritimes, and in July of this year to Jeryl’s in Salmon Arm. She recognized her family’s support with a grateful heart. Gracie had kind and caring support from the staff of Laurier House, through difficult times and good, and her family is appreciative of their unfailing hard work. Gracie knew hard work in her own life in home, community and country.

Gracie died peacefully on the evening of September 6 with family by her side. She is survived by her two children and their families: Jeryl and Darryl Auten; Catherine Auten; Lee and Gary, Thomas and Ben Giroux; Roger and Carol; Craig and Christine, Marina and Jack Sims; Barbara and Scott, Madison and Coleman McKee; Lee and Karen, Lauryn, Audrey and Grace Sims.

Grace Myfanwy (Griffith) Sims was interred beside the love of her life, James Leland Sims in the family plot of Veteran Cemetery.

Anne Marion Hirsekorn

(June 11, 1924-Sept. 10, 2009)

Anne Hirsekorn of Altario, Alberta, passed away at Consort Hospital at the age of 85 years.

Anne was born in Altario on June 11, 1924 to Eliza and Oliver Phillips, the youngest of four children. Anne went to Camrose to work at the York Café, then to Donalda and Calgary before returning to Altario to work for Clint Galloway, Burt Caldwell and Forrester’s. Anne Married Paul Hirsekorn on November 8, 1948. In 1949 they moved to the Richard Roesler place where they lived till 1953. They then moved back to the home farm, previously farmed by Paul’s father Abel. Anne lived on the farm until moving to Consort Senior Citizens Lodge in December 2008 then to Consort Extended Care in February 2009.

Anne loved being on the farm all her life and having to leave caused her tremendous stress. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, crocheting, knitting, and she loved her chickens. We thought she was a wonderful sketch artist and her pictures hang in each of our homes. She was very proud of all her children, grand and great grandchildren and loved watching the little ones play. At Anne’s request the family re-united on August 29th for a barbeque at the farm. This reunion was great fun for her and she enjoyed seeing everyone together once again at “the old home place.”

Anne is survived by her six children; Lynda (Murray) of Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Jim (Trish) of Medicine Hat, Alberta, Joyce (Barry) of (Red Deer, Alberta), Rose (Bob) of Calgary, Alberta, Don (Mae) of Compeer, Alberta and Kathy (Scott) of Chestermere Lake, Alberta: 17 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Anne was predeceased by her husband Paul in 1980, sister Muriel in 1993, brother Peter in 2004 and grandson Steven in 1992, along with brothers-in-law Knud Jensen and Ross Adams.

This funeral was held on Monday, September 14, 2009 with Reverend Sandy Macpherson presiding, at Altario Community Hall. Philip Jensen, Annie’s nephew gave the eulogy. Special music “In The Garden” and “Take Me Home Country Roads” was played. Active Pallbearers were Annie’s family Jim Hirsekorn, Don Hirsekorn, Murray Cook, Barry Hager, Scott Coonfer and Bob Wallace. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Annie’s Family and Friends”. Lunch was served after the interment which was hosted by the Altario Community. Annie was laid to rest in Altario Cemetery beside her husband Paul. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200-325 Manning Rd. N.E. Calgary, Alberta, T2E 2P5.

Loretta Healy

Loretta was born September 6, 1918 to James and Mary Schetzsle in a farmhouse 5 miles from Youngstown. She was raised on a farm north of Little Gem.

She married Jack Healy in 1941 and they farmed in the Hemaruka District until Jack passed away in 1987 when she moved to Coronation.

Family was the most important thing in her life. Her greatest joy was her 5 children, her grandchildren and then her great-grandchildren. She also dearly loved her nieces and nephews.

Loretta was the family and community walking history book. There was never a day that someone didn’t call to ask about family or community history.

Loretta will ever be remembered and loved by her 5 children, Clifford (Darlene) Healy of Brooks, AB, Rosemary (Allan) Davies of Paddockwood, SK, Brian (Gladys) Healy of New Sarepta, AB, Cecilia Shubert of Mannville, AB and Ralph (Sarah) Healy of Onoway, AB; Grandchildren, Leonard (Pam) Healy, Yvette Ferris, Lynn (Wendel) Elliott, Wendy (Matt) Spoonheim, Michelle Davies, Dennis Davies, Terri (Scott) McMillan, Sean Healy, Desmond (Cora) Shubert, Brad (Jen) Shubert, Trent Shubert, Andrea (Adam) Shubert, Deanna (Jody) McCubbin, Jackie Healy and Danielle Healy; Great-Grandchildren, Kaid & Danica Healy, James Ferris, Allan and Darren Elliott, Jade and Jasmine Spoonheim, Nicholas Trotchie, Damen Laugheed, Hunter and Peirce McMillan, Nelson, Kathryn and Rachael Shubert and Allister McCubbin; Great-Great-Grandchild, Brooklynn Elliott; her siblings, Agnes (Ken) Rumohr, Delia (Hal) Sorenson and Gordon (Bernice) Schetzsle; numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and many dear friends. Loretta was predeceased by her parents, James and Mary Schetzsle; husband Jack Healy (1987), great-granddaughter, Skyla Spoonheim (2007); brother, Francis (Pat) Schetzsle; sisters, Celesta Evans and Helen (Donald) Kelts; 2 nieces, 6 nephews as well as Jack’s brothers and sisters and their spouses.

Loretta Katherine Healy passed away on Friday, September 18, 2009 in the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre at the age of 91 years.

Words of Remembrance

Loretta Katherine (Schetzsle) Healy

Sept. 6, 1918-Sept. 18, 2009

By Sarah Healy (Daughter-in-law)

It is with great honor and sadness that I have been given the privilege to stand before you today to celebrate and share in the life of Loretta Katherine (Schetzsle) Healy. Loretta was born September 6, 1918 to James and Mary Schetzsle in a small farmhouse 5 miles west of Youngstown, Alberta. She was just a wisp of a babe arriving weighing a mere 5 lbs, with only the doctor and Aunt Lizzy in attendance. Loretta always said her Pa was an “engine man” so she cut her teeth on “piston rings” instead of teething rings.

The Schetzsle family flourished after Loretta with the arrival of her brother Francis, sisters Helen (Dot) Kelts, Celesta Evans, Theresa (Aggie) Rumohr, Delia Sorenson and baby Gordon. This tight group of siblings and their families has stayed connected and close throughout the entirety of their lives with Loretta.

Loretta went to live with her Grandpa and Grandma Manion at the age of 6 where she attended Lothian School as they lived closer to the nearest schoolhouse. Making the arduous trip to school for Loretta required either a 2 mile trip on horseback or foot, throughout some incredible Hemaruka winters. One has to marvel at Loretta’s determination to become educated and the value she placed on acquiring knowledge at such a young age. In this day of gasoline engines it’s quite hard to fathom.

Loretta’s love of learning is very evident in the facts and recitations she held in her memory right up until her death. She had the most remarkable memory of anyone I have ever met and she was 91 years old. That incredible feat is not shared by many even half her age. I believe that she is truly the inspiration behind the computer search engine “Google.” In fact, she was faster and often more reliable than the internet. She knew more about family and world history than anyone. Loretta had this uncanny knack of being able to share an event or story connected to almost everyone she met.

I remember her sharing a story that at the age of 16, when young girls would be daydreaming of life beyond the farm, she got her first job helping a neighbor taking care of her children, gardening, doing the cooking and cleaning while still attending school. This work ethic is what allowed her to complete her grade 12.

Loretta worked at housekeeping jobs around the district for the next few years until she met a young fellow John Clifford Healy (Jack) at a dance in Hemaruka. On November 5, 1941 they were married taking up residence on a farm 2 miles northwest of the original town site. Four years later they moved to a homestead a little further north that we now know as the Healy farm.

Jack and Loretta were blessed with 5 wonderful children in this union: Clifford, Rosemary Davies, Brian, Cecilia Shubert, and Ralph.

Life at the Healy homestead over the years was busy with the demands of farm life and all the children took an active role. Family was always a big part of those years and many gatherings were fondly remembered revolving around Loretta’s fried chicken and mashed potatoes. That tradition carried on for years because I know we can all remember that being a favorite meal. Loretta’s lessons on culinary skills spanned all the generations even when she was in the hospital recently over the phone, she was helping Danielle make bread so that she understood yeast bubbling, did not mean to boil it on the stove. I think the phrase she used was “You’ve killed the yeast!” There was that amazing memory again.

Many may not know this about Loretta but she was instrumental in bringing a love of horses into that farmstead that has carried on into her children to this day. Many of you will remember the beginning with old Tiny.

Loretta was also active in the community with WI and many community events surrounding the Hemaruka area. The friendships she established in these years she valued and continued to enjoy until her death, like those with neighbors Mary and Dave Pennington.

Through the years Loretta also took over, and gladly accepted the role of mother and matriarch to many nieces and nephews that needed her. Patsy and Stan in the earlier years when they lost their mother and Colleen’s love and friendship in later years. This connectiveness to extended family was so obvious with the visits and concerned well wishes when Loretta became gravely ill.

The greatest fulfillment in Loretta’s life came with the arrival of her grandchildren: Lynn, Wendy, Michelle, Dennis, Terry, Leonard, Yvette, Sean, Dez, Brad, Trent, Andrea, Deanna, Jackie and Danielle, fifteen in total, followed by a generation of great grandchildren and even a great-great grandchild. The farm and Coronation apartment held many cherished memories for them, spending summers or holidays exploring the dusty fields. I believe many of them honed their driving skills through the abundant sage brush that grew freely in the pastures. Grandma had a way of making each of her grandchildren feel so special in their own way, including the life mates they each chose. She loved each and every one from the bottom of her heart and you knew you were loved by her.

With the passing of Jack in 1987, Loretta left the farm life and moved to her apartment in Coronation whereby she resided until a little over a month ago when health issues decided otherwise. At that time she was in the process of moving to the Extended Care Lodge. Up until then she continued to maintain her independence and alertness, which involved still driving. Amazing!!

Memories of a mother, grandmother, sister, friend, neighbor, aunt, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, historian, and devout Catholic have been nurtured over 91 incredible years. She was so together, strong and independent right up until the last. She loved a great argument and relished in stirring the pot a little to keep things interesting. And believe me, you better know what you’re talking about, as she challenged you in defending those beliefs. She truly knew how to debate a point and had her memory to back it up. Politicians could definitely have taken a lesson or two from her but she also had her opinion on them too. In fact, she had an opinion on everything. But I think her “bark was worse than her bite.”

Loretta loved a good game of cards and we all learned how to play a game of rummy or two or three. The card game “Happy” became the game of choice when the crowds got together or we learned some interesting new Saskatchewan card games that Rosemary’s family often shared. Loretta was always good at the games too and whether you were young or old, if you made a mistake she would chide “if you were playing with the big boys…” Believe it or not she also played the guitar and piano and would occasionally regale us with an old favorite country tune.

Loretta was generous, wise, intelligent, loved, admired, respected, committed to a family who loved her deeply and who are in many ways so much like her. As Michelle put it, “I hope I have just a little bit of her magic in me.” Take it from me, you all do!!

Clifford, being the eldest always brings responsibility that can be weighty. Your mom entrusted your wisdom to that role.

Rosemary, your commitment to your mom was unbelievable. You stayed with her, sharing the love only a daughter can give. You have set a standard that shall be carried on in generations to follow and I see it in your children. I know she was so grateful that you were there and when she needed you, you were that rock. Thank you.

Brian, what can I say. You stood beside her to the end. She enjoyed so much your sensitive, steadfast, sturdy strength.

Cecilia, your mom loved you deeply and she was so proud of the education goals you achieved in your adult life. I know you have lost a best friend but deep inside is still your mother. Hold onto that strength.

Ralph, through you I have been blessed to be a part of this wonderful family. I have always enjoyed the lively interaction between you and your mom. You were always able to be yourself with her. I know you share her love of quotes, especially the Irish ones. She was so proud of the man you have become.

I know we will all miss the phone calls even if she didn’t say good-bye and abruptly hung up the phone because you knew she would call back within 10 minutes with something she forgot to share or to add to the story she’d been telling. We will definitely miss the advice she so willingly bestowed on us even if we didn’t agree. We will miss her memory that never failed when ours most certainly did. We will miss her friendship as she was cherished as a best friend by many, her witicism, her arguments, and her keen sense of right and wrong.

You will miss your mother, your grandmother, great-grandmother, your aunt, your sister and your friend but she is still with us in the people you have become.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Loretta Healy took place on Wednesday, September 23, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in the Veteran United Church with Father Joselito Cantal officiating. Patricia Wiechnik played for all the music with Kelly Owens and Marilynn Deagle as the cantors. Mass hymns were “On Eagle’s Wings”, “Here I Am Lord”, “I Am The Living Bread” and “Sing A New Song”. Julie Schroeder, Candy Brown and Patty Shaw sang “Be Not Afraid”. Words of remembrance were given by Sarah Healy. Readers were granddaughters, Terri McMillan and Yvette Ferris. Intercessor was Cecilia Shubert, Gift Bearers were Clifford & Darlene Healy, Adult Servers were Loretta & Ben Scheck. Active Pallbearers were grandchildren, Lynn Elliott, Sean Healy, Deanna Healy-McCubbin, Desmond Shubert, Leonard Healy and Wendel Elliott. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Loretta’s Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren and Great-Great Grandchildren”. The interment followed in the Veteran Cemetery where Loretta was laid to rest beside her husband Jack. Lunch was served at the Veteran Community Hall which was prepared by the Veteran United Church Ladies. Memorial donations may be given to the charity of your choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome @xplornet.com.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Dallas Emilia Craney

(July 18, 1958-July 29, 2009)

Dallas Emilia (Thornton) Craney was born in Consort, Alberta July 18, 1958. She died tragically at the place she loved in Genoa Bay, B.C. July 29, 2009.

Dallas lived a happy childhood on the family farm north of Sedalia. Many happy times were shared with Pop-Pops, Nanna, Mom, Dad, sisters, brother, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. Dallas took her schooling in Sedalia, New Brigden and South Central High School in Oyen. She worked at the New Brigden School as a librarian/teacher’s aide until she met and married the love of her live Pat Craney.

Dallas and Pat were married July 26, 1975 in Oyen, Alberta. They made their home together in Eatonia where they lived, loved and laughed for 34 years. Dallas and Pat were blessed with the birth of their first born son Tyson Patrick April 8, 1977, then January 3, 1980 with their precious little April Raeanne. Tyson and April were a constant source of pride and joy to their mother.

Dallas was a vivacious energetic person who was always doing and giving to all those around her. She was a wonderful loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt and friend. Dallas had a special touch with children, especially with her seven great nieces and nephews, with whom she would spend countless hours playing and doing most anything to entertain them.

Dallas’ passion was cooking and entertaining. You name it – she cooked it! She loved to keep things beautiful and took great pride in her flowers and garden. She spent many happy hours taking care of her yard and her special Popcorn, Keisha, Kit-Kat and Tina.

Dallas was predeceased by her maternal grandparents Jerone and Emila Keller, paternal grandparents Ralph and Anna Thornton, father-in-law Francis Craney and nephew Brendan Bredy.

Dallas will be ever remembered and loved by her husband Pat, children Tyson (Shauna Nilsen) Craney, and April (Jackson) Giroux, parents Ralph and Jeanne Thornton, siblings Lorrie (Nelson) Tye, Ralph (Michelle) Thornton, Tracy (Shawn) Nunweiler and Tanice Neill, mother-in-law Fran Craney, Colin Craney, Joanne (Dale) Bredy, Mike (Sherry) Craney as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass was held August 8 at 1:30 p.m. in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Eatonia, Sask. with Rev. Fr. Varghese Thoppilan presiding. Organist was Florence Palmer. Special music “A Picture of Me Without You” was sang and recorded by sister Lorrie Tye. Readers were Diane Strome and Raeanne Bredy. Altar Servers were Melissa Heck and Angela Heck. Words of remembrance were given at prayers by Kendal Thornton, Sayler Droeske and Riley Tye with a special powerpoint presentation by sister Tracy Nunweiler. Honorary urn bearers were Cathie Punter, Sheila Stienke, Verna Davis, Jim Norman, Audrey Norman and Diane Strome. Active urn bearer was Ralph Thornton. Ushers were Bruce Cooke and Ken Wagner. Interment of ashes in the Eatonia Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to the Kindersley Community Funeral Home.

Mary Pennington

“Nain”

(April 7, 1926 ~ Sept. 30, 2009)

Eulogy

By Gerald Hogue

Mary Elizabeth Owens was born April 7, 1926, in the Welsh community of Glyndwr, Saskatchewan. She attended Glyndwr and Fertilebelt Schools, attending high school in Bangor. She took summer teacher’s training in Yorkton, and dietitian and first aid training while working at the King George and King Edward Hospitals in Winnipeg. This is where she met her friend and ‘sister’ Bernice Hogue, continuing a life long relationship between the two families.

Mary and her first husband moved to Alberta in 1949. After they separated, Mary met and started life with her beloved Dave in 1951, and together they raised three children, Kathy, Viola and Robert. Recently, a third daughter was added when Paulette found her biological father and joined the family.

Mary served on the Veteran United Church board for many years and was an active member of the Hemaruka Women’s Institute for thirty years. She enjoyed being a correspondent for the Veteran Eagle. All her life she enjoyed teaching and tutoring young people, from the neighborhood children to the tiniest great grandchild.

Mary enjoyed the outdoors and farm life naming each and every animal, often after their individual characteristics and goofy antics. During the winter she knitted and crocheted and many family members and friends received a pair of slippers. Also, her camera was always close at hand for a photo opportunity, creating piles of albums with many favorites posted on the refrigerator.

It seems that Mary was always getting into trouble even at a very young age. One time Mary threw a rock down the well…maybe to see how it would sound. Unfortunately, it hit Bo on the head, hurting enough that he yelled up at her to pull him up so he could give her a good whopping. She ran away but came back later. Bo asked her if she would pull him out of the well. She asked if he was still going to give her a lickin. When he promised he wouldn’t, she let him up.

Another time she cut up Uncle George’s horse harness to make a harness for her dog.

When Mary was helping Dave with the thrashing one day, her load of bundles tipped off the rack and embarrassed, she quietly told Dave. He walked around the thrashing machine for a look and broke out laughing. Mary was so mad she swung at Dave knocking his cowboy hat off and walked home leaving him with the mess.

In later years the same scenario played out with a load of bales. They had the truck loaded but while loading the rack they got into an argument. Mary said she was walking home! Dave said if she was going to walk home, she’d better take the truck load of bales or just keep on walking. She took the truck but when Dave came later with the rack, he saw the truck in the middle of the road with a back wheel off. So at the end of the day they were riding home side by side in the cab of the tractor and probably not holding hands.

When we came to visit, Uncle Dave, Dad and I would go to the local watering hole. On the way home our ears would be burning with what we knew Auntie Mary and Mom would be thinking.

Mary’s greatest treasure in life was her family, special friends, her love of reading and writing and her love of animals. She enjoyed surrounding herself with them. She always found a positive side to a situation as well as the people around her. She was always concerned for everyone’s safety above her own, even to the point of making Dave drive home from Veteran during a terrible blizzard to find the girls safe and sound at home. She wore out a path from the kitchen table to the porch window watching, waiting and worrying, until her loved ones arrived home safe. She trained many horses and enjoyed teaching them tricks like standing on rocks so she could pose underneath them for a picture. Her dearest pets were milk cows, rivaled only by a special cat, Spook, who she and Dave adopted as a house companion in Coronation.

Continuing yet, is a friendship with the Humphrey’s, childhood friends from Saskatchewan. She spent many hours with her neighbor and friend, Loretta Healy, their relationship continuing until less than two weeks ago, when Loretta went “home” ahead of her.

Now, I have some memories of Auntie Mary that go back to when I was about 10 years old. Our family would jump in the old Ford and come out from Manitoba for a visit. What a great time we had riding horseback, feeding the cows, feeding the chickens and picking the eggs. Auntie Mary liked to play jokes once in awhile. I asked her at one breakfast why the eggs had blue and green shells and she said that’s the way they were. I didn’t believe her and thought for sure she had painted them. I even got up early one morning and picked the eggs and sure enough they were colored. I finally realized she didn’t get up before me, paint them and put them back under the chickens. We sure laughed about that for years to come.

For many years we would come to visit for a wedding or just passing through. I used to ask her to give me the phone number of the motel so we could get a place to stay and she always gave her phone number, always saying it in a stern voice so I knew.

Aunty Mary and Uncle Dave treated everyone as family. They would go above and beyond to make you feel so special. Whenever any of us or our kids gave something to Aunty Mary, she would save it and display it for all to see. This also includes the distances that they would travel to share in those special moments in our lives. Michelle was very honored when they drove all the way to Regina to see one of her shows. She was so proud to have them there. My wife, my sons and their families were always welcomed and she knew everyone’s names, ages, and what they were doing with their lives. That fellow over there with the uniform was one of her favorites, I think, as she used to go all over Alberta watching Steven and him play hockey. She always talked about one game in Red Deer when Russ got hurt early in the game. She was so happy he got to sit with her and Uncle Dave for the rest of the game so he wouldn’t get hurt anymore. Auntie Mary wasn’t able to go to his RCMP graduation but always said she’d like to see him at her door in his uniform, but not to arrest her. Suzie and her family were very lucky to have been able to spend time with Aunty Mary and Uncle Dave in the last couple of years. On one visit, there was no way they were going to get to sleep in. They were awaked by the smell of bacon frying and to the sound of music (loud polka music) that Auntie Mary claimed wasn’t too loud. Who wanted to sleep in anyway when there was always food on the table and a lot of visiting to be done. We just want to thank her for including all our families, our mom and dad (Bernice & Philippe), sisters Bernadette, Suzie, Michelle and brother Bobby and all of their families in her life. She was a great inspiration to all of us in our lives.

As it became harder to live on the farm, Mary and Dave moved into Coronation in the spring of 2006. Mary’s health had deteriorated considerably and she required more hospital care. Her “home away from home” was always comfortable with Doctor Tolmie and the nursing staff’s loving care. In Coronation they soon adopted the Petersons from across the street, when Carl and Debbie would discover Dave on the roof patching the shingles or Mary waving from the window. Their days were brightened with such loving acts as supper arriving on plates and Carlina running in to check on them.

Mary was predeceased by her grandmother (Nain), grandfather (Taid), stepfather, Bo Moore, Uncle John, Uncle George, her mother, Kate, and her Uncle Dick.

Mary is survived by her husband Dave, children Kathy & Ennis, Vi & Greg, Rob & Leah, Paulette & Bob, and Debbie & Carl. She also leaves to mourn grandchildren Ted & Angela, Louise & Jake, Chris, Curtis, Stephen, Jordan, Matthew, Daniel, Carlina, Tania & Dave, Dawn & Don, and Gaye; and great grandchildren Sarah, Bronwen, Josh, Jody, Daniel, Matthew, Thomas, Jacynda, and Pamela. She is also survived by Auntie Phyllis, Bill & Bonnie Griffith, Dale & Vick Paidel, Gerald & Karen Hogue, Suzie & Claude Lagace, Michelle & Willie Anseeuw, Robert Hogue and their families.

Paulette and her husband Bob sent this message that I will now read. They say: “Both Bob and I are so sorry we cannot be with you today but with my broken ankle we are unable to be there. What can I say about Mum, although you were only our mum for a short time we have both come to love and admire you so much. You were a very special person and always made both of us feel completely part of the family. Recently when we were over there, we spent two great weeks with you and Dad. We had lots of laughs although you must have been in a lot of pain. Thankfully you are now free from any pain. Mum, we will miss you so very much. Enjoy your donuts in Heaven. Goodbye and God Bless, Paulette and Bob”.

Auntie Mary always tried to avoid good-byes. She would go back into the house and look out the window to watch us leave. The last words she would say to us was not good-bye but “I love you so much and we’ll see you again.” Well Aunty Mary, this is not good-bye but we love you so much and we’ll see you again.

The funeral service to commemorate Mary’s life took place on Monday, October 5, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in the Veteran United Church, Veteran, Alberta with Reverend Stephen Shantz officiating. Linda Schetzsle played for the congregational hymns “When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder”, “All The Way My Saviour Leads Me” and “In The Garden”. The eulogy was given by Gerald Hogue. Soloist, Michelle Anseeuw sang “How Great Thou Art”. Active Pallbearers were Bill Griffiths, Ken Anderson, Brent Kary, Clifford Healy, Trevor Kary and Stan Pennington. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Mary’s Family And Friends Near And Far Away”. The interment followed in the Veteran Cemetery. Lunch was served at the Veteran Community Hall which was prepared by the Veteran United Church Ladies. Memorial donations may be given to The Alberta Cancer Foundation, 1331-29th St. N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 4N2, The Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, 101-5208 53 Ave. Red Deer, AB, T4N 5K2 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome @xplornet.com.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Brent Darwin Foot

(March 11, 1965-Oct. 10, 2009)

Brent Darwin Foot was born on March 11, 1965. He was the ninth child of ten born to Frank and Delma Foot. Brent’s arrival into the world created much activity and excitement when he decided to make his appearance in a blizzard. This brought neighbors out with tractors, and snow plows to assist on their trip to the Oyen hospital.

Brent spent many years on the farm at Esther with his parents, where he was able to do numerous jobs that gave him great satisfaction. Much time was spent with his large and loving family. Brent loved to tease and enjoyed all the teasing that came his way.

Brent had many interests and involvements including the years he spent attending school in Oyen. He liked disking in the winter, being involved in 4H, quading, skidooing, dancing, listening to music, watching hockey, and just being with people.

Brent’s memory was to be admired. He never forgot your name, your dog’s name or the kind of vehicle you drove. Without hesitation he could tell you the date of all the family birthdays and also remembered to call with birthday greetings when the day arrived.

For the past fourteen years Brent has made his home with Jean, Elwin and the boys on their farm at Altario. One day Elwin arrived home with a pup for Brent. He spent many hours of work and play, training Kelsey to be a cattle dog.

Brent will be lovingly missed by his mother Delma Foot; brothers and sisters Clayton (Marilyn) Foot, William (Lil) Foot, Ruth (Larry) Evans, Jean (Elwin) Bouchard, Gilbert (Brenda) Foot, Faye (Jim) Boyce, MaryEllen (Morris) Lee, Calvin (Rita) Foot, Mervin (Tracy) Foot; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Brent was predeceased by his father Frank Foot (2004) and his nephew Shawn Evans (2008).

Funeral Service was held Friday, October 16, at the Esther Community Hall in Esther, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke. Shirley Foot was the pianist and special music was “On the Wings of a Dove” and “How Beautiful Heaven Must Be” sung by Ed Ference. Hymns were “In the Garden” and “Softly & Tenderly, Jesus Is Coming.” Pallbearers were Clayton Foot, William Foot, Gilbert Foot, Calvin Foot, Mervin Foot, Jerry Pratt, Dale Evans, and Rick Heck. Honorary Pallbearers were all Brent’s family, friends, and neighbors who shared and cared in his life.

Memorial tributes may be directed to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Esther Community in the Esther Community Hall.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

Tribute

Given by Doreen Trevor

Brent was well known to the community and surrounding areas. He always took great pleasure in visiting and was never at a loss for words.

Frank and Delma taught all of their kids good work ethics and Brent was no exception. In his early teens he was a big help for his Mom around the house. It didn’t take him long to realize that he needed to be outside helping his Dad and William around the farm. Brent was a good little helper and always willing to lend a hand. Most times when you asked Brent to do something, you could count on him getting the job done. Brent loved harvest, especially the meals that were brought to the fields. Brent spent many long hours riding along with whoever drove the grain truck. It gave him great satisfaction to be included in whatever was going on at the farm.

Along with the hard work, also came the fun times. When Brent first learned to ride his motorbike, he spent endless hours trying and when he finally got so he could drive the bike, he was grinning from ear to ear and Oh! So proud!. One day, his Dad spotted a few donuts burned at the end of the driveway – Well, of course he didn’t own up to that. Days later when he thought all was forgotten, Brent tried his tires out again, but this time the bike went down and he came limping into the yard with a number of cuts and scrapes. It wasn’t long when his Dad got his answer and the bike and Brent had a few weeks rest.

Two of Brent’s great loves were hockey and music. He spent hours recording and listening to his favorite tunes. Brent had an unique way of cheering for his favorite hockey teams, the Oilers and Flames. Starting the game with both jerseys side by side. Brent would frequently switch according to the scoreboard. You can bet that by the end of the game, Brent would always come out wearing the winning colors.

Brent always took great interest in what his nieces and nephews were up to, whether it be knowing who their latest girlfriend or boyfriend was, when they were getting their drivers licence, what grade they were in. Also made sure he was one of the first in line to dance with the new bride at all the family weddings. Brent was proud to be an uncle to 16 nephews, 12 nieces and he was extremely proud to be Great Uncle Brent to eleven great nieces and nephews.

Brent always enjoyed numerous road trips whether it be with his friend, Jerry, family or discing friends. Some of these trips included Flames games in Calgary, rodeos in Edmonton, air shows in Penhold and Cold Lake, fishing trips, horse sales, go carting in Saskatoon and all the disking bonspiels in the area.

Brent went to live with the Bouchard family after his parents’ accident. There he had a very busy life; he was still able to enjoy the farm and joined in many new adventures such as being a rodeo fan, many trucking trips with Elwin, hunting trips, events with his extended family on the Bouchard side, being part of the corral cleaning crew operating the Cat every chance he got. Brent would look forward to the days when Jolene and Jaclyn would be spending time at the farm with him under Jean’s care. He was very pleased to be invited to both of their graduations.

The Family would like to acknowledge Jean, Elwin and Family for sharing their home with Brent and for all the special love and care they gave him in the past fourteen years.

Mae Dempsey

(July 15, 1931-Oct. 10, 2009)

Mary Kathryn Deagle was born July 15, 1931 to Kathryn and Henry Deagle. Promptly thereafter the name Mae was attached and it stuck for a lifetime. She was the youngest and last in a family of four; Helen was the eldest, then Maurice and next Ted. At a young age Mae lost her mother. The family drew together and doted on the youngest member, Mae. Mom’s childhood friend Kay lived in Consort and they were fast friends to the end. Mae worked at the Consort Hospital as a nurse’s aid where she formed life long friendships with Elsie, Jenny, Cleo and Toosie. Of course she was following in her sister’s footsteps as Helen was matron of the Consort Hospital at that time. Mom’s bond with her sister will never be broken.

Vern met Mae at the regular Saturday night Monitor Dance. From that night on Dad decided Mae was the one. I guess Mom did too because Dad did mention that she had a boyfriend at the time but he wasn’t there that night. About a year later Dad popped the question. Mae said yes and they promptly ordered the ring from a mail order catalogue from the people who ran the garage in Altario. They were married here in this church, on May 20, 1953. After a short stay in a tiny basement suite, Hughie and Dad moved the household over to a duplex in the west end. One more lifetime friendship was born, as the couple on the other side was Eileen and Elmer Gilbert. Oh yeah – the reason for the big move was Lynn Marie, she was born in Consort on February 24, 1954. Mae’s final move in Stettler was to a small shingled house at 4706-54 Street. Al and Edith lived in Stettler at the time, so the boys did a home improvement by stuccoing right over those existing shingles. The family was growing by leaps and bounds. Verna Mae was born in Consort Hospital, December 25, 1956, because of course Mae needed to be home for Christmas.

After that the rest of the family were born in the Stettler Hospital starting with Bruce Robert Henry, her long awaited boy, on Oct 8th, 1958 and not to be outdone Jo-Ann Kathryn arrived on February 7th, 1960 and last but well worth the wait, Lee Vernon was born on May 30th, 1967; that completed Mae and Vern’s family. Sadly we lost Lee on Sept. 10th, 1984.

Mom was always proud of her home and Grandpa Deagle had promised to build her a new house. So Grandpa, Dad and Horst Zimmerman built her a beautiful new 6 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on the same site.

Jo-Ann provided Mae with a beautiful granddaughter Rique on October 26, 1992. Bruce was married to Lou in 1993 giving Mae her first grandson Cory. Cory promptly fell in love with the farm life and made many trips alone on the bus to his new grandma and grandpa. Bruce and Lou brought home Cole Jordan on December 20th, 1994 as an early Christmas present. Karen joined our family during her teen age years. John McAlister worked with Dad barbering in the sixties – his wife Joan became another of Mom’s life long friends – Both families remain joined.

Dad finally talked Mom into “going farming” and they moved to the farm they are now on in 1978. They quickly became close friends with neighbors Lydia and Butson Scheerschmidt. Mom loved to dance; shortly after moving to Stettler another life time friendship was formed with Harold and Mabel of the Simon’s Orchestra. The dancing continued for 50 years plus. Mae and Vern were active in several dance clubs, forming many lasting friendships.

‘Trailering’ was another favorite, with a start up homemade tent trailer – right up to the deluxe unit they have now. Mom kept boarders for many years in Stettler and lots of them are still close family friends. Mom was known as a great cook, but her claim to fame was her homemade bread and awesome cinnamon buns. Mae always had a houseful of plants and pets which she loved looking after.

A devout Catholic, Mae was a life time member of the C.W.L. Mom rode horses as a young girl, and rarely in her life was she without them. Wagon trains have been one of her biggest enjoyment for the last twenty years. Mom truly loved her many nieces and nephews and that love was given freely back. Mae’s idea of the perfect holiday was visiting family or friends. We were trying to describe Mae, but there wasn’t enough paper. Then we realized – what you all know – Mae was exceptional.

A prayer vigil for the late Mrs. Mae Dempsey was held Tues., Oct. 13, 2009 at 7 P.M. at the Christ King Catholic Church, Stettler, AB. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wed., Oct. 14, 2009 at 11 A.M. at the Christ King Catholic Church, Stettler, AB with Celebrant Father Arlan Parenteau. Musicians leading the congregational hymns were Joan Rushton, Debbie Simon, Terry Rushton and Dale Simon and soloist was LeeAnn Kinderwater. Words of remembrance were lovingly presented by Verna Pakay. The ladies of Christ King Catholic Women’s League formed an honour guard.

Mrs. Mae Dempsey was laid to rest alongside her beloved son Lee in the Lakeview Cemetery, Stettler, Alberta. Active Pallbearers were Rique Eismendi-Dempsey, Cory Ingram, Cole Dempsey, Markus Dressler, Albert Pakay and Bruce Dempsey. Honorary pallbearers were the Botha Dance Club, The Over 60 Club, and all those present at the funeral mass.

Memorial donations may be made to the Clearview School Division-Breakfast for Learning Program in memory of Mae c/o Stettler Funeral Home, Box 1780, Stettler, Alberta T0C 2L0.

Sympathies may be forwarded to the family by signing the guestbook at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com

Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Sarah Margaret Bowyer

(Sept. 11, 1917-Oct. 13, 2009)

Sarah Margaret Bowyer died in Stettler, Alberta, on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at the age of 92. Margaret was born in Ottawa, Ontario on September 11, 1917. Her early years were spent in Nova Scotia and Ontario. She worked in Loblaw’s Grocery Store where she met and married the Loblaw’s produce manager, Edwin Bowyer on September 24, 1938. Ed soon went into the ministry and was ordained an Anglican priest. Margaret spent the next 70 years by his side until Ed died on January 1, 2009. Over the years they lived in Ontario, Iowa, Minnesota, Alberta, Saskatchewan, England, California, British Columbia, and Manitoba. They loved to travel and traveled extensively by car all over the United States and Canada.

Over the years they raised five children: Peggy, David, Peter, Susan, and Bobby. Bobby was killed in a tragic vehicle accident in 1968 at the age of 14. Peter died from cancer in 2007.

Margaret was a very good cook (she and Ed preferred to stay home and enjoy her cooking rather than to go out to eat.) She was a very accomplished knitter, making beautiful baby clothes and hats. She loved to write and receive letters, maintaining contact with friends from everywhere they had lived. Margaret enjoyed light classical music and a good mystery novel. She was an avid rummy and scrabble player, and still managed to defeat her fellow players even at the age of 92.

This past year was a difficult one for Margaret as she dealt with failing health and the death of her husband of 70 years. In January of 2009 she moved into daughter Susan’s home in Big Valley, Alberta. When she regained her health, she moved into Heart Haven Lodge in Stettler, Alberta, just a short drive away from Big Valley. She enjoyed the company of the people in the lodge and appreciated the many kind-nesses shown her by the staff.

Margaret is survived by 3 children: Rev. Susan Bowyer of Big Valley, David (Gail) Bowyer of Bluffton, South Carolina and Peggy Alexander of Edina, Minnesota; 13 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Margaret was predeceased by husband Edwin, two sons Peter and Bobby; and siblings George and Dorothy.

Thank you to the staff and residents of Heart Haven Lodge, the Home Care workers, and the doctors and staff of the Stettler Regional Health Care Center for your care and compassion.

A service to celebrate Margaret’s life was held in the Stettler Funeral Home on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Debra Stockdale preceding. Stettler United Church Choir led the singing and sang an anthem. Evelyn Strandquist played the organ for the chosen hymns. A luncheon was held after the service at the Heartland Fellowship Hall by the Erskine and Botha U.C.W. Memorial donations may be made to Foster Parent’s Plan International or a charity of your choice.

Stettler Funeral Home and Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Joy Edwin Kleven

Joy Edwin Kleven passed away October 13, 2009 in Hanna, Alberta at the age of 96. Joy was born August 15, 1913 on his father’s homestead along the Thunder Creek near Darmody, SK and was the eldest of seven children.

He attended school in Mawer, SK and after completing Grade 9 worked in a grocery store. The family moved to Tisdale, SK in 1930. After a few years in the bush the family moved south to Mawer again. Joy and brother Oscar trailed the cattle and horses nearly 300 miles, tenting along the way. The whole trip took approximately two weeks.

In the fall of 1938 Joy, along with two friends, caught the freight at Elbow, SK, and rode a box car to Youngstown, where he got a job with Jim Cameron north of town (Bill & Shirley Powell farm today).

Joy purchased a farm nearby in 1940. It was during this time he met Eleanor Harland from Pincher Creek, a teacher at Wastina School. They were married in 1942, and their first daughter, Ida Lou, was born in 1943. Tragically, when daughter Eleanor was born in March 1945, his wife passed away. At this time his mother, “Grandma Kleven” came from Saskatchewan to help look after the girls.

After he sold the west farm, he purchased the “Day” place north-east of Youngstown where he lived until he retired from active farming in the early 1980s. Joy resided in the big brick house in Youngstown for many years until November 2006 when he became a resident of the Seniors’ Lodge in Hanna where he loved to socialize and participate in activities and trips.

Everyone will remember Joy for his remarkable memory, story telling abilities, amiable manner, sense of humour, unselfishness, honesty, and desire to help others.

He will be lovingly remembered by two daughters, Ida Lou Schober of Olds and Eleanor (Brian) Kreiser of Youngstown, eight Grandchildren: Dean (Vicky) Kreiser of Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, Myles Kreiser (Kandie) of Beaumont, Jeff Kreiser of Youngstown, Barry (Lana) Kreiser of Didsbury, Robin Kreiser (fiance Blair), Trevor (Naomi) Schober, and Loni (and James van der Lee) all of Calgary, and Chris (Katie) Schober of Ascot, UK. Also surviving are eleven great grandchildren; his brother Everett (Eileen) Kleven, and sister Inez Page of Three Hills, and brothers-in-law Derek Page and John Harland and sister-in-law Marion Dommer as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

Joy was predeceased by his wife, Eleanor, his parents, Ole and Ida Kleven, three brothers, Orin, Oscar and Kenneth, sister, Orma, and son-in-law, Herbert Schober.

Funeral Services were held in the Youngstown Community Hall on Wednesday, October 21, 2009. Donations can be made in Joy’s memory to the Hanna Seniors Lodge, Box 160, Hanna, Alberta T0J 1P0 or charity of your choice.

Heather Caseley of Hanna Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements.

ALICE LUCILLE LIKNES

Alice Liknes, widow of the late Albin Liknes, passed away October 12, 2009 at the age of 92 years.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Loretta (John) Johnson, Wade (Marian) Liknes, Judy (Bill) Hanson, Barbara (Bert) Quist, Joan (Stan) Powers, Nola (David) Picklyk, fifteen grandchildren and twenty-one great grandchildren; sister Evelyn Liknes; also numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and many friends

She was predeceased by her husband, Albin, son Tim (Nellie and grandson, Daniel) Liknes; grandson Derwin Johnson and infant daughter, Donna Evelyn.

A Memorial Service was held Saturday, October 17th at 2:00 p.m. at Cedar Creek Christian Fellowship Church at Dapp, Alberta with Pastors Ken Stange and Stan Powers officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Gideons.

DAVID (GERHARD) FRIEBEL

David Friebel passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at the age of 77 years. Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Marjorie; children, Beverly (Leonard) Kinch and Doug (Janet) Friebel and grandchildren Scott and Wes Friebel. David is also survived by six brothers and sisters.

David was a long time employee of Alberta Parks & Recreation and was an avid blue birder in his retirement.

A Memorial Service was held Monday, September 21, 2009 at Christensen Salmon Funeral Home, Lethbridge. If desired, memorial tributes may be made to The Gideons International in Canada, 501 Imperial Road North, Guelph, Ontario, N1H 7A2.

(Thanks to Earl and Ella Kropinske for sending in the above information as well as the following regarding the family. I, Mary, went to school with Gerhard at the New Neutral Valley and his brother, “Slim” was a close friend of my brother, Bud and was often at our farm home, especially during hunting season).

The Friebel family will be remembered as living north of Gooseberry Lake in the Neutral Hills. Mrs. Friebel was a teacher before coming to Canada and her husband, Paul, was raised in Africa. Their family grew up in the area, as they took their place in the world.

Reinhart and wife, Helen, spent thirty years as missionaries in India. Presently they are retired in Vernon, B.C.

Curt and Emelia chose Venezuela, South America as their mission field. Curt passed away while retired in Florida. Emelia has chosen to live there in the retirement home that a former missionary built for missionaries.

Albert, (Slim) a farmer in the Paradise Valley area, is retired in North Battleford, Sk., while his wife, Phyllis, is at Beaver Manor, in Viking.

Ericka and husband, Ralph, lived in Seattle. She nursed for a number of years before losing her husband. Presently, she is living in an apartment in Seattle.

Elizabeth, spent over thirty years as a missionary in India. While on the field she met and married another missionary, John Wilson, who passed away after their retirement in Three Hills. Elizabeth remains retired at Three Hills where she has helped patients at the hospital and manor.

Ruth, a former Consort teacher, spent many years as a missionary in Haiti before meeting and marrying Roy Farnham, a mechanic. Roy passed away when they lived at Wynlaw, B.C. Ruth is retired at Nelson, B.C.

Jack (John), presently resides in Vancouver, after choosing to work in the mission field.

David (Gerhard), the youngest, was schooled at Neutral Valley, a five mile ride each way, so he travelled a number of miles to gain his education.

Bruce Marin Deleff

(Jan. 30, 1968-Nov. 9, 2009)

Bruce Marin Deleff was born January 30, 1968 in Consort Hospital. He was the youngest son of Marin and Isabelle Deleff joining brothers Rick and Doug, sisters Wanda and Monica. He grew up in Consort, graduating from high school, then attended NAIT and Keyano College.

Bruce passed away suddenly at home November 9, 2009. He leaves behind his parents Marin and Isabelle, brothers Rick (Brenda, Nick, Megan, Jon), Doug (Carmen, Tyler, Jake), sisters Wanda Lofstrand (Doug, Robyn, Candace), Monica Shelstad (Ken, Adam, Nicole) as well as a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Over the years he tried his hand at several different types of jobs from working for others to running his own trucking business. While he enjoyed several of the jobs he tried he never seemed to find that career that was his passion and so he kept on searching. It was apparent from an early age that he would not be a farmer. While he often helped on the farm especially at harvest time he did not have a great affection for steep hills and combines.

One of the things Bruce really enjoyed was electronic sound and video equipment. He spent plenty of time on eBay, buying and trading sound and video systems, always on the lookout for something newer, faster, and louder, with a better quality picture, better recording qualities and more data storage. I recall him being at a custom car show and coming home to talk about the spectacular sound systems in some of them, going into great detail about the capability of these systems. He excitedly described how there was a demonstration where one of the speakers was so powerful that it blew the windows right out of the vehicle. Coming from a family with hearing problems I guess he was looking for a system even we could hear. I believe it was this passion for electronic equipment that brought him to meet Irwin Friesen. Irwin and Bruce became great friends and even though Irwin moved to Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario a few years ago, they spoke often.

Years ago while Dad was still farming Bruce and Irwin showed up at home and before long they had all the marker, brake and signal lights working on all the old farm equipment and trucks. This was great but I hated to tell them that Dad had never used a signal light in his life. Thanks Irwin for being such a good friend to Bruce.

Probably Bruce’s greatest passion was his love of dogs, especially his golden retriever, Casey. She travelled everywhere with him. On those occasions when she was left at home she would lay waiting for him with the saddest look you have ever seen, and appeared to be so heartbroken that she was left behind that she might die of loneliness. Just when there seemed to be no hope for her, she would jump up tail wagging at 180mph with this huge doggie smile and you knew Bruce had pulled into the driveway. It broke Bruce’s heart when she passed away last winter.

Bruce was good to his nieces and nephews; always coming up with Christmas presents even when times were financially tough for him. He seemed to really enjoy watching how excited they were to receive a gift from him. To me (Rick) it tells the true character of a person by watching how pets and small children respond to them.

Bruce was a very social creature and enjoyed meeting and chatting with people of all ages and backgrounds. Monica once commented that while Bruce was working in Taber for a few months he already knew more people than she did after living there for more than ten years. Over the last few days we have been told by several people how they enjoyed that Bruce always took the time to say hello and have a conversation with them or simply by helping carry groceries to the vehicle for them. Bruce truly cared for others and often took to heart the comments made to him by others.

Bruce had a strong love for his parents and in the last few years enjoyed their time together on shopping trips or medical appointments. Time in the vehicle with Bruce was always good for a conversation. As well he always knew that when he was facing health issues or tough financial times that he had a place to go and truly loved them for their support. He had a real knack for teasing or trying to shock Mom with some off the wall comment and getting her to launch into a lecture all the while grinning and arguing along with her. It was great entertainment to watch him set her up and then launch into an argument. I am not sure which one of them enjoyed it the most.

He became a pretty good pool player learning the game in the basement playing with Dad and often enjoyed giving Rick a lesson during family get togethers. I often think he would let me win once in awhile just so he could put me back in my place the next game.

Wanda shared many special memories with Bruce. They shared three common passions. The first being their love for people (although Brother Rick would say their ‘gift of gab’). Their adventures together always took longer than usual… because they had to chat with everyone they met. The second passion was the deep love that they shared of dogs. They spent many hours chatting and wandering the fields enjoying the joy the dogs brought them. The third passion was “Good Will Hunting” or “the thrill of chasing a good bargain”. One of the best laughs they shared was once while out garage-saling a lady remarked to them that “Isn’t it amazing how couples start to look like one another after they have been married awhile!” Bruce was mortified, not only to think that he would choose an older woman… let alone his sister! Yes, Bruce and Wanda loved second hand shopping. They were always finding that special something to surprise one another or to add to their eclectic collections.

One of Monica’s favourite memories with Bruce was putting Christmas lights up on the forty foot spruce tree in the middle of their driveway. Bruce was always up for an adventure, so when the opportunity came for him to put his sister up in the bucket of a picker truck he was all over it. After refusing to go up in the picker basket himself, he proceeded to lift Monica higher, even though she was screaming to be let down… but Bruce just laughed and kept raising her up and refused to bring her down until she had finished stringing the Christmas lights. Another precious memory was driving with Bruce out to a dog show in Abbotsford, B.C. Even though he constantly picked on her driving, they never turned on the radio once and talked all the way there and all the way home.

This October Monica asked Bruce once again to come down to Taber to help her with the Christmas lights – and he ended up staying for almost a month. He was a great help on the acreage and always had lots of fun while he was there. When he left their house, just a week ago, Ken questioned Bruce about the John Deere Gator that was taken apart and was laying in pieces on the floor of the shop. Bruce was the one who had taken it apart and Bruce was the only one who knew how to put it back together. His quick witted reply was, “That’s… what you call job security!” And with a grin and a hug he was out the door to visit mom and dad in Consort.

Brother Doug’s favourite memory was of a vacation they took together in Mexico. Bruce had commented that it was the first time he had seen the ocean. One afternoon we took a boat out several miles to an island that was totally covered in seals, aptly named Seal Island. Bruce took the opportunity to swim with the sea lions. After putting on a life jacket he jumped overboard; he had never been in the ocean before. I remember laughing my rear off because he was breathing so hard from the anxiety that I thought he was going to hyperventi-late. He finally settled down and enjoyed frolicking with the seals. He told me later that he was afraid of only two things, drowning and sharks. That night we had a wonderful dinner on a balcony high above the water and watched the sun set. Bruce ordered shrimp and was blown away seeing the size of them, more like small steaks than the tiny frozen ones we are used to seeing. I will always treasure those and many more fond memories.

Eulogy

by Jason Kurek

I myself knew Bruce from a very young age. We lived just down the alley from the Deleffs. We attended Consort School together and played together on numerous sports teams; mainly volleyball and hockey.

Bruce and I continued a friendship into our adult years. Even when he lived in other communities I always knew what Bruce was up to whether selling vacuums or driving truck or farming with his dad. We always kept in touch one way or another. And Isabelle I have to tell you that the day before his passing I got a call from Bruce. He was really excited about the direction his life was taking and he was looking forward to finding new work and getting settled down; he had a lot of excitement and passion in his voice. I am so glad he called. He had quite a knack for calling me on the cell and he always took time to shoot the BS.

Bruce and I worked together at the local NAPA store. I looked forward to his antics every day. Could that man sell; he could sell ice in Antarctica to a penguin.

I also remember the Deleff pool table where numerous local kids played every day after school and where you were always welcome and when it came time to leave Bruce would always say, “What’s your hurry? Stick around, play one more game so I can kick your but!”

We all know Bruce had his struggles in life, but the truth is we all have our struggles. I know when I look back on most of the times spent with Bruce I laugh and smile. We don’t cross the paths of many people in this world that make us feel that way. Marin, Isabelle and family – it was truly an honour to speak on behalf of your son today. May God bless you and comfort you in this time of sorrow. Rest in peace my ol’ friend… till we meet again.

Tribute To Bruce Deleff

by Irwin Friesen

I’m proud to say that Bruce has been an excellent friend of mine for 20 years. Now, for those of you who knew him, he was a well-mannered, fun-loving, adventurous fellow, full of energy and somewhat unconventional, even boisterous at times. He was a person that knew many people, but had few close friends. His humor was always contagious and I found his company a joy.

When I first met him in Calgary, I was surprised to hear that he was a farm boy too. This immediately gave us something in common, even though we were different in other ways. After a time, we became roommates as well, enjoying going out socializing together. Often I would be the designated driver, so he could have some drinks without having to drive home. We both looked out for each other, and all evenings ended safely without major mishaps. I really appreciated how he took me out of my ‘comfort zone’ socially and otherwise, to experience new things or go places of interest. We enjoyed many laughs and adventures together.

After our employment there, he persuaded me to work on a pipeline construction project near Consort with him, and board with his parents. His father was still farming at the time, and his mother was working at the local nursing home. They impressed me as well-intentioned, hard-working parents that loved their son very much, despite some minor frictions. I enjoyed her cooking very much, as well as spending some time working with his father in the shop, learning new skills or helping with the harvest. The pipeline job continued into November, and one day Bruce came to the jobsite with his worn winter boots for the cool and snowy weather. The footing conditions became slippery, and poor Bruce was falling down every 15 minutes or so, giving the rest of the crew quite a laugh. That evening he told his parents why he was so sore, and his father took the boots into the garage and installed some home-made studs. The next day, the crew was kind of disappointed that the comedy routine was over, for he stood upright all day. I must say that Bruce was always an asset when he was around, whatever the situation, even if only for some comedy.

In the new year, he encouraged me to come to Edmon-ton as his roommate, and get a job with an oilfield service company for the pay was good. He relieved my apprehension about moving to the big city and said, “You’ll probably be able to get a job in a week or two’… it took only 4 days. We really enjoyed this time together as well. He showed off his cooking skills by making bbq pork ribs with his “special recipe” sauce. My mouth still waters at the memory of those tasty, melt-in-your-mouth ribs. We both met a number of girls during this time, but the “right one” eluded us. He had a job in the oilfield service industry he enjoyed, travelling all over Alberta, and achieved a good wage. One of the things he enjoyed about it was the vast array of people he met in his travels. I found it amazing how many companies and people he became familiar with. After he became tired of the travel, he returned to Consort to work with his buddy Jay at the Napa automotive store. He excelled at being a partsman and salesman, getting to know numerous customers by name and what they might need.

Awhile after my father’s passing, he hired me to help him with his new oil-hauling business, and we were roommates again. It reminded me that it was always pleasurable to work with him, and we enjoyed each other’s company. He really was like a brother to me, maybe closer. We went through many tribulations together, and apart, but always kept in contact and reassured each other. I think most of his excessive drinking was a by-product of depression. He often told me about his brother’s and sister’s career and financial successes. He was frustrated and ashamed that he was unable to achieve lasting career success and relationship stability. Depression is a very disabling and misunderstood disease. I know, I have it too. I have found that even though we have successes in our lives, the failures cloud them into obscurity. And for us, being ‘A’ students in school, take failure very personally… it’s not supposed to happen. So, as his friend, I ask you not to judge him too harshly. A friend of mine described it as “It just hurts to be”. His heart and intent was in the right place, for he truly loved his family and close friends. Publicly, you would never know he was depressed. He was one of the few friends I invited to meet my parents, and they enjoyed his company as well.

I want to thank family and friends that helped him through the surgeries he underwent the past 3 years. It meant a lot to him. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there due to financial restrictions.

Recently, we were planning to get together again and start a business where our combined skills would complement each other to be successful. I’m sorry to say that we didn’t achieve this, as we were both waiting for the timing to work out. He felt his parents needed him close by for a period of time, and Ontario was too far away. I’m proud of him for the consideration he had for his parents, we only get 2 in a lifetime. I interrupted my career as well for family reasons, which is not always an easy decision, but our loyalty, thankfulness, and love of family takes over without resentment.

In closing, I have appreciated Bruce very much over the last 20 years, learning many things about Alberta and our personal selves. His honesty and trustworthiness was refreshing, his intelligence and thoughtfulness comforting, and his humor and comraderie uplifting. He was always up for another adventure.

Farewell My Trusted and Beloved Friend Bruce,

May you always have Light for your Path

Always in My Heart is the Gift of You.

Irwin Friesen

A memorial service for the late Bruce Deleff was held on Sat., Nov. 14, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Knox United Church in Consort. Reverend Sandy Macpherson officiated and the Eulogy was presented by Jason Kurek. Mrs. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “Abide With Me” and “Precious Lord Take My Hand” led by the Knox United Church Choir. Soloist, Kathy Fawcett sang “The Rose” accompanied by Monica Shelstad. Following the service, friends and relatives joined together in the church basement for a time of fellowship and refreshments.

People coming from a distance to attend the service included: Patty Wiese, Vancouver; Pat Wiese of St. Albert; Bobby Tainsh, Fox Creek; Bill and Gladys Tainsh, Tofield; George Lindsay, Martha Gathercole, David Tainsh, Darlene Moir, Donna Schieble, Marlene Kunz, all of Calgary; Billy Tainsh, Sean Donovan, Judy Gould, Gwen Hodge; Lorna, John, Holly Wiersema, all of Edmonton; Elaine Tahririha, Patty and Theo, St. Albert; Alex Deleff, Villeneuve; Lillian Warren, Roger Jarrett, Lacombe; Jim and Shelly Matheson, Spruce Grove; Derek and Shauna Tainsh and girls, Vern Grove, all of Hughenden; Julie Motley, Czar; Alison Lessard, Morinville; Andrew Tainsh, Red Deer; Doug Deleff, Castlerock, Colorado; Selmer and Jerry Liknes, Don Liknes, Drayton Valley, D. Grover, Cereal; Maxene Fiedler, Harold Church, Debbie Alexandre, all of Wainwright; Darlene Conroy of St. Albert, Don and Kathy Deleff, Medicine Hat; Kevin Ulry, Brooks; Shirley Ulry, Olds; Barry Deleff, Nisku; Cynthia Raabis, Bentley.

Judith Anne

(McCullough) Yaunish

(October 13, 1956 – November 28, 2009)

Jude has left our world after a difficult struggle with cancer. Jude is survived by her loving husband Mike Yaunish, her daughter Sarah, her son Taran, father Bob McCullough and siblings Doug McCullough, Laura Ritchie, Colleen McCullough, Mark McCullough and Joanne McCullough.

Jude’s philosophy in life has always been to leave the world a better place. She held a passion for education, having served her life career as an elementary teacher. A graduate of the University of Alberta, she held a Bachelor degree. While teaching completed her Masters degree in Education.

Jude believed in protecting the environment. She saw it as a personal commitment in her daily actions and encouraged others to do the same.

She believed in public health care system that serves the people it is intended for.

Jude, in her life’s journey of 53 years as a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, cared for others. All who knew her would use these adjectives to describe her … a vibrant, witty and intelligent individual with a powerful sense of humor and a passionate magnetism.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5th, 6:30 p.m. at Wild Rose United Church 1317 -1st Street N.W. Calgary, Alberta T2M 2S5.

In lieu of flowers, Jude requested donations be made to MLA David Swann who mirrors Jude’s own deeply held values of improving our health care system. Cheques may be forwarded to: The Calgary Mountain View Liberal Constituency Association c/o The Alberta Liberal Party, 10247 – 124 Street, Edmonton, AB. T5N 1P8. Cheques made payable to: Calgary Mountain View Liberal Constituency Office.

Fay Doherty

(Dec. 31, 1919 – Oct. 24, 2009)

Fay Doherty was born in Consort, Alberta on December 31, 1919 and passed away on October 24, 2009 at the age of 89 years.

She is lovingly remembered by her children Penny Radakovitch of Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Frank Doherty of Quadra Island, British Columbia, Colleen (George) Heslup of Millet, Alberta and Bill (Leah) Doherty of Edmonton, Alberta, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents Pearl and Samuel Gilmer, husband Wilfred, son Ted, sisters Betty and Marie and brothers Bud and Bill.

She is survived by her sister Jean and two brothers Ed and Bob. She also leaves to mourn many friends and relatives.

A memorial service was held at the Sacred Heart Church in Wetaskiwin, Alberta on November 7, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Peace Hills Lodge, Camrose Women’s Shelter, or a cause of your choice.

Eulogy by Lorea Gilmer

Fay Ione (Gilmer) Doherty

This tribute to my Aunty Fay is a celebration of an ordinary person who was an extraordinary human being. Aunty Fay was upbeat, generous and one-of-a-kind. She could laugh at herself and find humour in all life’s trials and tribulations. She told wonderful stories that are now family legends. We can’t tell all of her stories, we don’t have the time, and speaking of time…I feel like I should hand out scissors, bags of recycled material, and cardboard templates so you could be cutting quilt squares, otherwise, Aunty Fay would consider this idle hand time, and you know what that leads to.’Stories’.

When Aunty Fay, Aunty Jean and Aunty Betty were adventurous little girls on the farm, they set off to find something to amuse themselves. They went to play on the school section and discovered their Uncle George’s old steam engine. They screwed the tops off the grease cups in the steam engine and did they have fun. They smeared the bright yellow grease all over their white blond hair, faces and all over their clothes. When they arrived home, Grandma Pearl was just stunned. She promptly went out and got two saw horses and an old door. She laid each of them in turn, on their backs, with their head hanging down over a pail of coal oil for the first shampoo. Then she took the lye soap and shampooed again. Then she rinsed with rainwater with a teaspoon of soda added. Now they had bright yellow hair. They looked like the little chickens in the store window at Easter. Grandma Pearl said if their hair wasn’t grown out by Christmas they wouldn’t be going to the Christmas concert. Luck of them it did.

Aunty Fay spent her childhood exploring the Neutral Hills, which were literally her backyard. She recalled asking Russ Brian, a neighbour, what had made the trails that wound around the coulees, and he told her it was the scourge of the Neutral Hills – the Side Hill Gouger. Seems this strange but elusive critter had long legs on one side and short legs on the other, thus the narrow trails came to be. Aunty Fay didn’t completely buy this theory but she needed to put a scare into her two bothersome brothers, Bud and Bob – and it was better than the ‘boogie man’ myth. So, when the boys ‘filched’ (as Aunty Fay put it) a prized letter of Aunt Betty’s they exacted revenge. Aunty Fay went out into the wheat field that grew right up to the house and began to thrash around while Aunty Jean and Aunty Betty lured the boys outside and pointed out the presence of the Side Hill Gouger about to pounce and take the bad little boys away. Bud and Bob went yelling bloody murder back to the house. Grandpa Sammy snatched up the shotgun. After all, children weren’t often in danger from attack, but chickens were another matter. Aunty Jean saved the day by distracting her Pa long enough for the Side Hill Gouger to make her escape and divert disaster.

The depression didn’t prevent the Gilmer children from having fun; it just meant they had to make it rather than buy it. And that attitude extended to every aspect of Aunty Fay’s life, all her life. Aunty Fay was all about ‘making do’. Penny remembers her mom’s claim to have made the first snow suits ever when Penny and Frank were kids at Consort. She took black fur coats that she had gathered, and made snow suits to look like black bears. The snow suits were made in one piece, complete with a hood that had ears, and at the back of the suit there was a tail. Penny remembers she and Frank were quite proud to walk down Main Street strutting in their bear suits.

Auctions/Garage Sales/Quilts: Aunty Fay directed her ‘make do’ attitude toward augmenting her husband Wilf’s mechanics salary, and after he passed away, his pension. For 35 years, Aunty Fay was independent and had to make her own way in the world, many years as a single parent. Aunty Fay bought from and sold at garage sales and auctions. Over the years, as the auctioneers got to know her, they knew that if they had boxes of stuff they couldn’t get a bid on, it was ‘sold’ to Fay Doherty for $1. It was so rare for her to bid more than a dollar, that once, when she held up two fingers to bid on a particularly good box, the auctioneer’s chant came to a confused halt and he blurted out “lady, you grew another finger!

Aunty Fay and Penny made over 1200 quilts for family members, fire victims and anyone who needed one. They sold the rest at garage sales. She used to give J&B Motors bags and bags of material that couldn’t be used in a quilt, to use as grease rags and Jim would give her free oil changes in return. Nothing went to waste. Aunty Fay was ‘going green’ and ‘recycling’ long before it became ‘cool.’

Penny recalls setting up a garage sale in Aunty Fay’s long driveway. From spring until the week-end before the first snow was garage sale season. Penny hated putting up and taking down the sales, but her mom was in her glory chatting up a storm with anyone showing interest in anything at the sale. Everything had a history that her mom would pass along to the poor dear whether they wanted to hear it or not. And Aunty Fay had a flair for salesmanship. Penny remembers one garage sale where they spent several days before at the Peace Hills picking Saskatoons and cleaning them at night. Next came rolling out pie crusts by the hour. Early in the morning of the sale, her mom would cook berry pies. When customers would chance by, Aunty Fay would come sailing out of the house announcing in a loud voice, “here, Penny, another Saskatoon pie right out of the oven”. If THAT didn’t sell the pie, back in it went until the next customer. Penny recalls they could sell 30 pies a week that way.

Once Fay buried her garage sale profits in a tin box in the garage and in time forgot about it. Along came rain, the garage flooded and money floated up. She and Penny had to wash it and put up a clothes line to dry it. Aunty Fay was the one who had to take it to the bank, Penny refused, saying it looked laundered in more ways than one!”

Generosity: Profits, however, were just a welcome side effect of her endeavours. More valuable were ‘bragging rights’. Aunty Fay was always happy to show off her latest deal or find – but what made her stand out from the crowd, was the eagerness with which she would give it to you, if you needed it. Aunty Fay’s finds kept family and friends in almost every household item. Young people starting out made a trip to Aunty Fay’s garage to outfit the entire apartment. She only charged what she’d paid for the ‘big stuff’ (and that was nominal) and threw in the rest.

People got to know how much she was doing to help others, so she often found bags and boxes of ‘donations’ left on her deck to be put to good use. Especially welcome to family members with growing children were’goodie bags’. Each bag was identified with a masking tape label. They were often the only ‘new clothes’ the kids got when money was scarce, so they were always excited to see her drive in with a load.

Aunty Fay’s influence over the kids she helped to provide for, was so strong, that at Grandma Pearl’s funeral Lisa and Steven (great niece and nephew), both dressed formally for the sombre occasion, took time out to proudly tell Aunty Fay how little they had spent on their outfits!

Of special concern to Aunty Fay, were young mothers, especially single mothers, and she did her best to outfit them with furniture, clothes and diapers, a complete ‘layette’ she called it.

Another soft spot for Aunty Fay was working men – she made up goodie bags of all the sweat pants, t-shirts and socks she could find for her grandson Gary (an electrician) and her grand-nephew Lorne (in the oilpatch). Her son-in-law George, a diary farmer, received every good pair of jeans in his size. So many, that Colleen had to put a halt to the generosity. Colleen also remembers as a little girl, shortly before Xmas, her mom draped a big tarp over the counter in the laundry room and told her not – under any circumstances – to look under it. Needless to say she had to have a quick little look-see. Beneath the tarp, lay 30 or more fabulous dolls. Big dolls. Little dolls. Baby dolls. Even Barbie dolls. Each attired in a beautiful dress. Naturally, Colleen assumed that every one was for her. As it turned out her mom had collected the dolls all year, cleaned them up, gave some new bodies made out of stuffed nylons, and then sewed each a new Christmas outfit. She then donated the dolls to be given to children needing a Xmas gift.

Aunty Fay’s selfless ways were noticed by more than just family members. Granddaughter Amanda remembers, in grade 3, when her teacher spoke about “phil-lan-thro-pists”. The teacher described a lady who she admired, an outstanding individual. When the teacher revealed, at the end of her talk, that it was none other than Amanda’s grandma Fay, Amanda ran home that day to tell Grandma Fay what the teacher had said. Being the modest person, Grandma Fay commented “HARDLY Amanda”.

Work Ethic: Grandson Mark remembers his Granny’s work ethic. When he was around 15, his mom and dad were away and he was left to milk. “My granny came out to the farm to stay with Chris and me,” he said. Christie is his sister and ‘Granny’ had a broken arm in a cast at the time. They all went to a few garage sales early that morning and Mark bought a pocket knife. Before long he managed to cut himself – deep enough to require stitches. And then it came time to milk. Mark wanted to call for help, but Granny was determined they could manage. After much discussion they got down to milking. Each of them using their one good hand. Mark was to hold the milking machine under each cow’s udder and Granny was to put the suction cups on. Easier said than done! Every cow became agitated, and so did Granny. Granny was scared of cows. Every time a cow moved, Granny’d jerk the suction cups back and they’d have to start all over again. With 40 cows to milk, chores weren’t done ’til long, long after dark. But they were done.

Amanda also remembers her Grandma Fay’s attempts to pass on her strong work ethic. Only the reward of a shiny loonie or toonie overshadowed the grim task of cutting Grandma Fay’s toenails.

Great-grandson Kyle was her first choice to do yardwork. He spent countless hours burying ice cream pails in her flower beds, because grandma Fay believed this would prevent weeds. He diligently laid bricks one-by-one in her driveway.

Hospitality: Niece Marlene remembers Aunty Fay’s open-door policy. She recalls a stormy day, a van full of hockey players headed home from a tournament, and conditions so bad they had to stop in Wetaskiwin. Aunt Fay wasn’t home but the key was always in the clothes pin bucket. They went right on in. When Aunty Fay arrived home, things started flying around as she rustled up food, dry socks and toothbrushes. In the morning she served a great breakfast. Aunt Fay would never accept payment.

My daughters Leanne and Nicole remember visiting while Aunty Fay had her daily bowl of raisin bran. The milk turned out to be sour, but, waste not want not, Aunty Fay took the bowl to the sink, put her hand over it, drained off the sour milk, rinsed with tap water, and added fresh milk. Leanne and Nicole weren’t that thrifty, and skipped breakfast.

I remember visiting one weekend when Bill was home from University. Aunty Fay had got a great deal on a 5 gallon pail of chocolate frosting. We spooned it into little freezer bags. In the middle of that night, I went out to grab a bag or two. Unfortunately, a frozen chicken hit the floor. Aunty Fay was a night nibbler too. She made several trips, but she was trying to curb her night eating habits by installing a plastic pig that ‘oinked’ every time you opened the fridge door. So between my and Aunty Fay’s tramping over the creaking floor boards, the chicken and the pig, it was a long night. Especially for Bill who slept right below.

Talking: Aunty Fay loved to visit. Bill Lindsay often told the story of a talkative neighbour coffee-ing at his place, when Aunty Fay came breezing in with a few specially chosen goodie bags for Bill to make selections from, have a cup of tea, spill out the latest news on her family and breeze right on out again. The usually talkative neighbour speechless and tipped back in his chair as though he had narrowly avoided being run over. And Aunty Fay always did more than her share in the visiting – plenty of times she would be visiting with you at the kitchen table, jump up and head out to the clothes line or the garage without pausing in her conversation. You just tuned in again when she got within ear shot. In fact, she didn’t even require someone to talk to… as her granddaughter Angela recalls…. You see, Aunty Fay’s always bought a hatchback – for easy access to a large storage area. She pushed that storage area to the limit on several occasions, but she must have had a ‘light’ load on the day her two grandchildren, Angela and Christie, snuck in among the bags. After a few moments on the road, the girls ‘meowed’, which started Grandma Fay arguing with herself about whether it was possible that a cat had got in the car. After several blocks she finally won that argument (or lost it), stopped the car, got out, and discovered the giggling girls.

There are so many more stories we all remember as Fay found humour in almost every situation. Her home was a happy haven to everyone who visited or stayed. Now Aunty Fay’s spirit will live on in all those who put others before themselves and in those who perform acts of kindness.

Aunty Marie’s husband Phil Collier, once told me, “when I think of Fay, I think of the word ‘selfless'”. Uncle Phil was not given to exaggeration.

Aunty Fay was a shining light in my life. Thank you to Frank, Penny, Colleen and Bill for lending her to all of us, for all these years. Thank you for asking me to do this tribute. I hope you enjoyed it. I did my best, but we all know, Aunty Fay would have told it better.

Mary Kathryn ‘Helen’ Barber

(nee Deagle)

(Aug. 7, 1919 – Dec. 13, 2009)

Mary Kathryn Helen Barber of Red Deer, Alberta passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 13th, 2009 at the Red Deer Regional Hospital at the age of 90 years.

Helen will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by brothers-in-law, Vern Dempsey of Stettler, AB and Lyle Barber of Victoria, B.C.; sisters-in-law, Bernice Deagle of Consort, AB, Jean Deagle of Consort, AB, Edith McConnell of Stewart Valley, SK, Bernice Barber of Consort, AB and Betty (Donald) Day of Consort, AB. Helen was predeceased in 2006 by her loving husband of 48 years, Charles Barber; also predeceased were brothers Maurice and Ted Deagle; sister, May Dempsey as well as numerous brothers and sisters-in-law.

Funeral Mass for the late Helen Barber was held on Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church (4402 52 Ave, Consort, AB). Memorial donations may be made in Helen’s name to a charity of one’s choice. Condolences can be forwarded to the family by visiting www.red deerfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements in care of Red Deer Funeral Home (6150-67 Street, Red Deer)

Aunt Helen’s Tribute

By Jordie Deagle

When I was approached to write a tribute for Aunt Helen, I found myself wondering how I was supposed to compress such an amazing life story of 90 years into a few short minutes. However, phone calls and emails have poured in from loved ones, sharing precious memories of Aunt Helen, some through laughter, and some through tears, but always through their obvious love and affection for her. And, as I began to write, it struck me once again just how privileged I was to know such wonderful people, and what a great honor it was for me to be asked to stand here before you today; to lead the leave-taking of such a kind, warm, well liked and much loved woman. This is a tribute to one of a kind.

Mary Kathryn Helen Barber was born August 7, 1919 to Henry and Kathryn Deagle of Consort, Alberta. She went from SilverCrest School, to Green Ore, and finally finished her High School in Consort. From there, she attended Nursing School and completed her RN in 1941 and worked right here in Consort for the next fifteen years. During this time she would take LOA’s to work in Selkirk, Winnipeg, and Creston and for the last six, she was matron of the Consort Hospital. As if this were not enough, Aunt Helen then went to work at the Alberta Hospital for the Deaf. It was at this time, that she met the love of her life, Charles Barber. It was, as they say, love at first sight, and the two were married shortly thereafter on August 7th 1958. After the wedding, Uncle Chuck and Aunt Helen moved to the ranch northeast of Consort where they led a very busy and productive life. They even found time to spend part of their winters with family and friends in Mesa, Arizona. In 1996 they decided to retire and moved to Red Deer, where they made many friends over the next 13 years. Sadly, on July 25th, 2006, Helen lost her husband and soul mate of 48 years. However, even though it was clear for all to see that Aunt Helen missed him dearly, her deep faith carried her through those tough and trying times, and she continued to approach life with the same compassion and kindness that we have all come to know and love.

Aunt Helen was a quiet and unassuming person, and out of respect for that, I’m not going to dwell on her history and background any longer, but rather focus on the type of person she was, for, in my eyes, that is truly what made her so unique. There are so many wonderful memories that include Aunt Helen, and if I were to recount them all, we could be here for hours and hours. Nonetheless, I would like to take this opportunity to share a few. First and foremost, we can all remember Aunt Helen for her unrelenting generosity. Whether she was taking her nieces to the ranch, one week at a time, and treating them like little princesses, or baking her delicious and unforgettable cinnamon buns, Aunt Helen was always putting others first. Come silage time, Aunt Helen worked tirelessly, constantly cooking breakfast – lunch – and dinner for all the crews involved. Now, Aunt Helen may have been small, but she was mighty. While visiting Uncle Ted in the hospital, she actually had to reach UP to grab the doorknob. It alys amazed me how someone so small could be capable of emitting so much love and care to everyone around her.

Aunt Helen’s soft spot for family and friends was reflected in everything she did. You simply could not go for a visit without signing her guest book, or staying for tea and crumpets. At Aunt Helen’s, you were always welcome, and she was hesitant to let you go. Although she was never blessed with children of her own, I still feel as if, in a way, all of us were her children. Her nieces, nephews, and families meant the world to her, and, as busy as she was, she always made a point of following all of our accomplishments and achievements. Only hours before she passed, Aunt Helen had her portable radio on, listening to my hockey game with Jenna. The broadcasts were always a little bit hectic and confusing, she had admitted to me, but she liked hearing the Deagle name on the radio. It is that unwavering and unconditional support that made Aunt Helen so special.

By her concern and caring for other people, she always insisted upon putting the needs of others above those of her own. By her faith, her church and her family were very important to her. Aunt Helen was a gentle and compassionate person, who continually demonstrated acts of kindness to those around her. Whether she was bringing friends to the church who were in need of a ride, visiting companions at the hospital, or convalescing at home, Aunt Helen touched people with a gentle warmth that will never be forgotten. She was a true inspiration to living the faith, and although we can no longer hear the familiar jingle of that rosary in her pocket, we will always remember her saying “make sure you make time for God in your life.”

It was only over the past year that I truly got to know Aunt Helen. I discovered a woman who was slow to anger, quick to love, and in possession of a personality you could not help but adore. She was loved – so loved – by so many. In a way, she was the most precious gift that God could have given us. And, even though all of us will miss Aunt Helen terribly, I cannot think of any greater joy than for her to be welcomed into God’s arms surrounded by the smiling faces of those who loved her so dearly.

“A light has gone out, without so much as a flicker, and all we have left is the precious memory of how brightly it burned, and the warmth it gave us.”

Russel Jones

(Aug. 2, 1929 – Dec. 8, 2009)

Remembering Russel

by Jack Roworth

Russel Jones was born August 2, 1929 at Tofield, Alberta. He was the youngest of three children, his older brother is Earl and his sister is Marj. Russel grew up on his father’s farm at Tofield. He took his schooling, grades one to ten, at Lakeshore school, which was located close to Tofield. After that, the next two winters were spent working towards his ticket in diesel engineering. His summers were spent with his dad farming.

In 1946, while buying feeder cattle in Edmonton, Russel met Lee Williams of Weiller and Williams Stockyards. Williams became a mentor because he recognized Russel as a young man with a vision, someone with a lot of determination, and a strong work ethic.

In 1950 Russel broke his leg and while in the hospital he met a nurse’s aid named Jean Sutton. After a courtship of two years, Russel and Jean were married in 1952. Russel’s choice of a wife was excellent, because not only was Jean a spouse, but she was his “right hand man”. Whatever they chose to do, they did as a team. Ken and Debbie were both born at Tofield. Cindy and Trevor came along later and were born in Consort and Provost.

In 1956, Russel and Jean bought the YT Bar Ranch from Joe Richardson. The deal included 500 head of cattle, buildings, machinery, horses, and even household furnishings. All the livestock carried the YT Bar brand, which Richardson had registered in 1912. The brand was transferred to Russel and Jean, and is still used today.

Russel never looked back – he was always looking to the future. He had a tremendous eye for good quality cattle, and he had a keen ability to develop a great feeding system to finish cattle. The next several years were busy raising a family and building up the YT Bar Ranch.

Russel was an assistant leader in the 4H beef club. His children and grandchildren all belonged to 4H. In 1974, Russel joined the Czar Oddfellows. His favourite hobby was flying his airplane, a skill that made him one of the rare individuals who could fly a plane and still harness a team of horses. In 1977 Russel and Jean both got their pilots licenses and enjoyed several years of flying together. They flew to fly-in breakfasts all over Alberta and Saskatchewan, the air show at Cold Lake, and several fishing lakes. He loved finding excuses to fly somewhere! I remember going to the Consort Flying Club with Russel and the fellow speaking, told us that, “It was better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air then being in the air and wishing you were on the ground!” Russel and I both agreed.

Since 1949, Russel had never missed the Calgary Bull Sale but this year, due to his failing health, he couldn’t go. He was very upset when he couldn’t even watch it on what he called, the little black box.

He was always proud of the many loads of fat cattle he shipped to the Alberta packing plants, plus loads to the USA. Russel always tried to purchase his feeder cattle locally, patronizing the markets at Provost, Veteran, and Cereal. He certainly didn’t mind letting you know that you were wrong…. especially at a bull sale.

Russel was proud of his family and when we’d visit, I would get to hear about what a great welder Ken was, how good Debbie could train horses, and how Cindy could do everything from the books, to chasing cattle and how Trevor could rope a cow from a half a mile. He was proud of his kids but they had to earn that respect by working hard on the ranch. He was proud of his grandchildren too and I’m sure every one of them has learned valuable life lessons from their grandpa.

Russel worked hard and the location of the YT Bar suited him to a tee….you have to be independent and rugged to ranch in the Neutral Hills and Russel suited his environment. He knew the hills like the back of his hand and he could almost sense when some hunter or seismographer was going some-place that they shouldn’t be. I’m sure that from now on, when we’re rounding the cows up, they’ll be someone watching us.

Russel is survived by his loving wife Jean, son Ken and Donna of Killam, daughter Debbie and Roger of Veteran/Hoosier, daughter Cindy and Gord of Castor and son Trevor and Loreen of Consort; 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, his brother Earl and Anne Jones of Tofield and sister Marjorie Jacobsen of Fort Saskatchewan; brother-in-law, Darrell (Leona) Sutton; sisters-in-law, Shirley Middleton, Darlene (Ron) Lockrem and Laura Sutton; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many dear friends. Russel was predeceased by his parents Joe and Ellenor; brothers-in-law, Adrianne Sutton and Morley Jacobsen. Russel passed away on Tuesday, December 8th at the Provost Hospital.

If you can imagine Russel up yonder- the first thing he’d be doing is looking up old friends such as Lee Williams, John Hyde, Ted Humphrey and Olaf Jansen, to name a few. And one thing is for sure, he’ll be working to get cattle price a heck of a lot higher.

Farewell for now Russel.

Tribute by Trevor Jones

When you have spent 80 years of life, you gain a lot of friends and make a lot of memories. It is hard to put them together but I will do my best.

My time with Dad was always interesting. We had many rides through the hills fixing fence, checking the springs, and looking after the cows and bulls. Sometimes it meant missing school to round up a miserable old cow or to mend a broken fence. Dad always made it up to me by taking me to a fly-in breakfast or on  a fishing trip with Uncle Herb.

Dad loved to fly. I remember when my cub scout friends and I had a field trip in the hills, Dad was our wake up call. 5:00 a.m. came and he flew over our tents making sure we were all awake.

Calgary Bull Sale was another time when I could miss school. Dad and I would pack up and head out. One time, we forgot the toothpaste. I woke up early to go to the barns and brushed my teeth with Brylcream. It seemed anything was good enough for Dad’s tastebuds.

Silage came early one year. Dad or Mom would swath. They got so far ahead of the cutter they decided to go check the bulls. In their travels, they found one bull that needed attention. Dad tied him to a bush and went back for the truck. To his surprise the truck was not where he had parked it. He forgot that emergency brakes do not work unless they are applied!! The truck had rolled into a slough. The neighbours enjoyed taking photos before they grabbed their chains and cables and helped pull it onto dry land.

Calving time was always busy and sometimes rushed. One day, I roped a cow that we needed to load and take home. Dad pulled the trailer into place, opened the end gate, and tried to run fast to get the escape door open. That didn’t work so he jumped into the gooseneck. I shut the door, loaded my horse, and went home. Dad was fine riding in the trailer. We pulled into the yard at 3:45. Neither one of us had had lunch yet so I went into the house, sat down, and filled my plate. When Mom asked,  “Where is Dad?”, I said, “He is busy with a cow.” I didn’t know who to turn loose first….Dad or the cow!!!

Dad enjoyed feeding cows and taught me alot about rations, rate of gain, and good from bad. He loved all good cattle. We would have bets on guessing weights of fats. He was always within 5-10 lbs. One year, Dad sold 800 head to Skyler, Nebraska. He described them as averaging 1520 lbs after 4% shrinkage. I was checking pens and out of the 800 head I pulled out every big steer I could. I told Dad I needed to treat them. Several others followed the ones I had chosen. I said, “Let’s weigh them and see how big they really are.” Dad zeroed the scale and helped me weigh them one by one. To his surprise, they were 450 lbs. over his guessed weight. I could hear him pacing all night long worrying about how he had miscalculated the weights of those steers. It turned out he was only two pounds out on those 800 critters.

During Dad’s last few days at home, we still had our betting matches on weights. He hadn’t lost the knack of guessing weights even with his illness!

Every day, Dad would feed and I would check pens. He would holler or honk if he saw a calf that needed attention. When I got there, he was feeding the next pen and he would tell me there was a steer in pen six with foot rot. “He’s got a red white face.” I would head out to a pen of 350 red white face steers all at the bunk eating.  I took it upon myself to put a paintball gun in the feed truck figuring he could mark steers in the pen that needed attention. It turns out Dad made his own breed of orange steers. He did love to shoot that paintball gun!!!

Dad instilled his work ethic in all of us and we will never forget it. Work first play later! There are many stories I could tell about you, Dad. You will be missed – especially when I am riding through the hills and you won’t be there giving me great advice.

Love, Trev

Tribute by Loreen

I have known Russel for about 18 years and have learned much from him. From the first day we met I knew he was a gruff yet kind hearted soul. Actually I was afraid of him until I got things figured out.

Russel was one to never back down in an argument and, to his surprise, neither was I, so we had a few heated discussions about current events. I remember one time we were in a lengthy conversation about the government when suddenly I felt a sharp pain in my shin. I looked across the table and Trevor was giving me “the look” and saying he was ready to go so I quickly excused myself and we left. In the truck Trev said to me, “You are never going to win an argument so why bother?” That didn’t stop me and Russel and I had many discussions. Together we could have probably done a good job at running the country.

Russel took pride in his ranching operation. He had a great eye for cattle and his bulls were among the best. He always looked forward to the annual bull sales in the spring and fall. The Calgary Bull Sale was one of his favourites. I recall many times when I came home from town and he asked, “did you get the mail? Was my bull book from Calgary in it?” Sometimes he was quite disgusted it hadn’t arrived because he needed to study that book from cover to cover before he left for the sale. He couldn’t figure out why they couldn’t send it a little earlier than they did.

Russel’s work ethic was second to none. He was one of the hardest workers I have known. He was up with the sun, had the cattle fed, and was off to check the cows before I was out of bed. There were many times that Trevor and I were home relaxing on the couch after supper and out the window we would see Jean and Russel drive by in the green truck. Trev would make the comment, “Just wait, the phone will be ringing soon. Sure enough, not a half hour later, the phone would ring.They had found something down south that needed tending to and so off Trevor would go. You could never waste good daylight! I thank Russel for instilling his work ethic in Trevor although some days I wish he were home a little earlier. However, I am glad he isn’t lazy.

Grandchildren were another joy in Russel’s life. He never missed a Christmas concert or a dance recital and he even went to the odd hockey game. I was quite shocked one day when Grandpa was going to pay Brant $5.00 for every penalty he got. I heard about grandparents paying for goals but not penalties!!! That was Russel’s feisty attitude coming out and, believe me, Brant could have a hefty bank account if I had allowed it. This year was tough for Russel as he was not feeling well, but he still made an effort to attend the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo to watch the kids. It was pouring rain yet Russel sat outside watching Brant steer ride, Reegan barrel race, and Mattea compete in the wild pony race. He enjoyed watching the kids and even bragged them up a little. He has numerous steer riding pictures of Brant and dance photos of the girls” displayed on a wall where everyone can see them. He was proud of their accomplishments.

Not long ago, Brant came home and told me Grandpa was giving him a truck. He was kind of laughing so I asked him what was so funny. He told me Grandpa was giving him Dean’s truck. Apparently Russel was a little confused that day when Brant and Dean were visiting. Grandpa was in his favourite spot looking out the window and had said he was going to give Brant that white truck parked at Dean’s house. Much to Dean’s surprise it was his truck grandpa was giving away. Those boys got quite a chuckle out of that.

This month has been hard for Russel as he was in a lot of pain. Jean looked after him at home until two weeks ago. He was so glad to be home where he could look out the window and watch Trevor go by in the new feed truck. Trevor took him for a ride in it and that made his day. We silaged some corn this year and he got to go out and watch that for a bit. That was another good day for him. As we pulled into the driveway the morning Russel passed away, Trev commented, “Well, I better go get the cattle fed . Dad will be cussing me if I don’t get that job done first”.

In closing, I would like to thank you, Russel, for raising such a wonderful son and for making my life interesting. I have many memories of ranch life and you that I will cherish. Being a town girl, I had a lot to learn and you have taught me well. I will miss your early morning calls asking if Trevor is ever going to get outside to work. Don’t worry, we will take care of Jean. Go rest high on those hilltops now you are pain free and at peace.    Love, Loreen

Tribute by Reegan Jones

My grandpa Jones meant a lot to me.  I will miss going over to their house and grandpa would be sitting at the table eating.  He was always eating. Mattea and I would go over there all the time; we ended up getting nicknames “SKUNK” was mine and “RAT” was Mattea’s.  We will be sad not getting those nicknames. Whenever we went over there to eat supper grandpa would always eat his dessert then his supper, he always told us to eat dessert first it was healthy for you.  When I go and get a cow or go for a barrel run or go to dance I will be thinking about grandpa and I will do a good job on all those things. Grandpa will be missed by a lot of people.  I think of it as a blessing that he is gone because he is now not in pain.  He is not suffering anymore. I know that grandpa will help pour out the rain.  He will probably make it rain everyday in the summer for the crops to grow.  I just wish that I could of had one more minute with him to say I love you. Love, Reegan

A Tribute by Stacey Hawkins – Granddaughter

I would like to share with you a few of my memories. When I was a little girl, grandpa took my sister, Amanda and I out to the barn yard. He walked out into the bull pen and snapped a lead rope on the nose ring of his pet bull. He put the two of us on the bull’s back and led us around. Looking back this reminds me of the love and trust he had for his animals and the time he spent with them. In the late 90s grandpa and I went driving through pastures. He taught me about the land he loved. It seemed that he knew all the history on each piece of YT Bar land. He showed me where the first Neutral Hills post office was and explained the Big Gap rodeo and fair site. He also taught me about the Native American history of the hills and how the hills were named. He was a wealth of information and took the time to find out the history of the lands he so loved. I will be forever grateful that no matter how sick and how much pain he was in, grandpa and grandma made a point of coming to our wedding this August. My heart skipped a beat and tears came to my eyes when I saw them there. I have so many other memories of day to day ranch life, riding pastures, checking fences, cows and water throughout. I will always remember grandpa as the man who I saw as tough as nails, yet would show up at the door presenting grandma with flowers on any given occasion. He showed us the value of hard work and dedication. We love him and he will be greatly missed.

A Tribute By Deborah Jones – Daughter

Dad was a hard working man and expected the same from us. He and mom built the YT Bar to what it is today, from a little square house and no corrals or outbuildings to speak of. We learned to be hard workers, strong, independent, to succeed and be proud of our accomplishments. Dad taught us to have a good eye for cattle and horses as they are a part of us, and to always take care of the animals first and then yourself. They were his pride and joy. I hope to be able to carry all I have learned and more for myself, my children and my grandchildren. Even with all the work, we still had fun. When dad got on his horse to head for the hills to chop the water holes for the cows in the winter, he would throw his lariat on the front of our toboggan and tow us up in the hills and let us go when we got to the top. What a ride down we had. Then he and his horse would make their way down, sometimes the snow would be as deep as the horse’s belly and he would pull us up the hill again. I don’t know why we didn’t freeze. Several hills later with the water holes chopped, we headed for home. Dad had one horse he had named Kernal and he was what you called “a one man horse” as he would do anything for dad but would buck the hired man or anyone else off. I remember when we trailed the cows and calves to the hay meadow south of Czar. Mom, Ken and I came in the car to bring dad lunch. He would get off Kernal and say to him, like he was talking to a human, and shake his finger at Kernal “Now don’t miss a calf and keep them all going.” You know, that horse never did miss a calf as if one was tired and laid down, Kernal would drop his head down and nudge the calf up to keep them going until dad was done his lunch. When dad was done he would whistle and call, “Kernal get over here,” and that horse would come on the run. Dad would get on and away they would go.

Dad was not a man to show his feelings or give hugs or compliments but he gave mom a great one at one of their anniversaries. I remember, he stood up and said, “I want to toast your mother. She has always been there and worked hard and for every step I’ve taken, mom has taken two.” I will never forget that and he even had a tear in his eye.

Even though dad was in pain, he still had a sense of humour. When Roger and I were visiting him at the ranch one day, he winked at Roger with a smile on his face and pointed to the lift that brought him to the upper floor and said, “Don’t get on that thing with mom, she might just push you off.”

We have many memories of dad and that is what will get us through this sad time. The last time I saw dad in the hospital, his last words to me, as he held my hand tight were, “May God fly with me.” I gave him a hug and kissed his forehead. He had tears in his eyes as I did. Every time I look up at the stars I see the ones I have lost and love and I say a prayer. Now dad will be among them and he will be keeping an eye on us.

Dad, may you rest in peace and now you are free of pain.

A memorial service was held in Russel’s honour on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 in the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alberta at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Judy Heistad and Carolyn Devereux played for the congregational hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross”. Pat & Charlotte Gilmer sang a special musical selection. Randy & Barb Jones, Arnold Jones & Glenn played an instrumental selection. Memories written by the family were read by Darrel Durksen. All family and friends gathered at the Veteran Community Hall for a luncheon prepared and served by the Veteran Full Gospel Ladies Group.

Memorial donations may be made in Russel’s memory to Provost Health Foundation, Palliative Care Room, Box 270, Provost, AB., T0B 3S0, Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 1-020 HRIF-East, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1 or to The Czar Fire & Ambulance, Box 165, Czar, AB, T0B 0Z0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home Ltd. entrusted with care and arrangements.