2010 Obituaries

(1940 – January 13, 2010)

Norbert Beier of Compeer, Alberta passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at the age of 70 years at Compeer, Alberta.

Services were held Sunday, January 17, 2010 and Monday, January 18, 2010. Funeral services were held at the Compeer Community Hall with Father John Hesse officiating.

Gregory’s Funeral Home entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Eulogy

On August 11, 1939, Jack and Emilie Beier were blessed with their first child, Norbert Alexander Beier.

Each of us gathered here have a place where we go to remember. It’s a special place. A place to visit our memories, it’s our place. It’s happy and sometimes sad. We have spent a lot of time at this place during the past few days, and we will go there often in the days ahead. We will go there to visit someone special, a brother, a sister, a son, a daughter, a father, a mother, a friend. We go there to visit Norbert.

Norbert’s life began on the family farm. He attended Blarney country school and helped out at home. Before long Norbert had the reputation of being an excellent worker. He learned fast while operating machinery and had a way with animals. He worked for many local farmers and they always wanted him back. His farm experience landed him a job in road construction with his brother-in-law Dan, who happened to be the best grader operator in Alberta according to Norbert.

There were no free rides in Norbert’s world. If you wanted something be prepared to work and be honest – his reputation spoke well for him. I don’t recall ever hearing Norbert brag about his accomplishments. Most of us knew Norbert as a quiet, humble person.

Norbert came to Estevan, Sask. in the early 60’s and became part of the oil industry in southern Saskatchewan. He was an excellent worker and helped manage our junior trucking company for a number of years. On August 7, 1965, Norbert’s sister Irene and I were married at Compeer. Norbert stayed behind to run the business in Estevan and was unable to attend our wedding. It was a sad time but he never complained.

Norbert’s farm experiences never left and we’ve often reminisced how he tormented our children Karen and Darren while playing horsey and kitty – the laughter! If you listen, you can hear it now. He was part of our family and the children loved him. He would take the kids to the penny candy store and help them fill a little brown bag with whatever they wanted.

The party scene was a favorite pastime. Norbert loved country music and so did we. Charlie Pride, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard performed long hours and life was good. Norbert’s sense of humor was something else. Everyone looked forward to the next get together – the barbeques and the stories.

Norbert was becoming restless and talked about going to work on the drilling rigs. We hated to see him leave and so began the lesson “Nothing is forever”.

People liked Norbert and he developed some lasting friendships wherever he went. His love for the farm took him on another adventure and in 1975 he purchased the family farm from his parents when they retired to Provost. Norbert continued farming the home place north of Compeer until the time of his death. He never wanted to leave his special place – guess his prayers were answered.

Norbert loved the simple life, auction sales, greasy hamburgers and pie. He loved to tease the ladies. His descriptive, often perverted comments (usually in German) were hilarious. His actions were louder than his words – the ladies loved it!

Norbert was a special friend to many. He loved to visit, a few drinks and he would entertain for hours. A common sight at family gatherings would see Norbert surrounded by a host of young people, intent on his wisdom and experience. He was the center of attention and he deserved it. He loved to hear people laugh.

As the years go by, everyone’s life changes. Norbert was no exception. Being a heavy smoker most of his life began to take its toll. Norbert complained about his legs hurting and began to use a cane to get around. The work he used to do on the farm with little effort was becoming more and more difficult.

We are truly grateful to sister Bernie and her husband Jim, brothers Victor and Richard for the role they played in Norbert’s life. He knew he could rely on, trust and confide in these special people. On behalf of the family, thanks and God bless.

Norbert passed away at his home on January 13, 2010. He was predeceased by an infant sister Marie in 1959, brother Jerome in 1966, nephew Darren Krieger in 1991, and his father Jack in June 2009.

Norbert is survived by his mother Emilie, brothers Victor & Theresa, Richard & Jeanne, Ernie & Denise, sisters Irene & George, Luci & Dan, Linda & John, Bernie & Jim, Lillian & Bill, Cathy & Dave and Sheila & Ron. Included are nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
We will celebrate your journey Norbert and we will miss you. We will love you and cherish the memories.

A Tribute to Norbert

By Dale Koch

“It is what it is, it are what it are, and I am what I am.” This is Norbert’s number one trade mark phrase out of many.

I would like to thank Norbert’s family for giving me this special opportunity.

To me, the definition of an honest man, loyal neighbor, great friend can be summed up with two words – Norbert Beier, or known to many as “Norbie”.

He is a man of few words, but he is a man of wisdom. He had the gift to talk about anything with anyone, young or old, whether he knew them or not. Norbert had a canny sense of knowing what you were thinking and sense of humor second to none. Norbert had a big heart and a great willingness to help others.

For more than 34 years I have had the honor and privilege of knowing this man. Over the years, many untold stories have occurred and when visiting him at his place or mine, he would talk about his own stories, have a little chuckle, raise his finger at me and say “This doesn’t leave the house”.

All of us here today have our own fond memories and funny stories of Norbert. I am sure I could write a novel that would be a bestseller about his life. I have a couple of edited stories of my own.

I was 19 years old, sitting in Altario tavern, with some friends and locals, enjoying a few sarsaparillas, talking about misadventures. When I described a situation, when still in school, one morning on the bus, we came across a blue and white car in the middle of a slough 2 miles west of Compeer with water up to the windows. Norbert was one of the locals. He turned his head, looked at me, and said “Ya, that water was cold.” And that was the beginning of our friendship. And looking back now, finding the big brother I always wondered about.

A few years later, Karen and I were married. And you might say Norbert helped start our family. Living at the Post Office on Main Street in Compeer, on “days off”, as Norbert called them, he helped us move in our new bedroom suite. We were putting things together upstairs, and Norbert went down on his own for one more item. Karen and I were putting things in place, when all of a sudden you could hear trees crackling, page wire being stretched, someone singing a country song, we looked out the window and there was Norbert, box spring mattress in hand, over his head, coming through the carriganas, making a new entrance to our back yard. I asked him if he needed help, and he replied, “I think I lost one shoe, but never say WHOA in a tough spot!”

On the second day of a business trip to Provost, Steve Miller, Norbert and I were having breakfast in a restaurant – sausage and eggs all around. A young mother with her own mom and two children were getting up to leave when the Gramma backed onto Norbert’s side of the table, brushing up against his toast. He gave her a gentle backhand on the bum without her knowing what happened. Gramma gave a little jump in the air, turning to see what bit her, only to see Norbert eating away as if nothing happened! Steve couldn’t finish his meal, so Norbert reached over, picked up a pork sausage as if to smoke it. He leaned over cross the aisle and asked a gentleman, “Hey buddy, you got a light?” Norbert was puffing away on the sausage, as grease dripped off, putting out the lighter 3 times. Then Norbert sat up straight, thanking the man for the light. A minute later the man realized it was a sausage, and Steve and I had tears in our eyes from laughing so hard.

Norbert and I did a million things together and spent an endless amount of time with each other. I don’t remember what kind of work shift we were on but found ourselves on days off again, and back to town having another dinner. Now remember I said Norbert had a canny sense to know what you were thinking! After the third time our good looking waitress left our table, Norbert must have been watching my expression and said, “If you want to take that home you will have to tie her up in the porch for a couple of weeks until Karen would get used to her!”

Almost twelve years ago, we bought Elmer and Corinne Beier’s farm, and became new neighbors. Only a phone call away, any time of the year, when I would call for help and as “What are you busy at?” Norbert would say “I’m just curling my hair” or “I’m just doing some baking. Why, what’s happening?” I would explain my situation and then I would ask if he had time to help me move a tractor to mom’s or a big truck to Ganser’s, or just needing help for anything. Without hesitation, Norbert would always say “Sure.” I would ask again, “Are you sure you have time?” His answer would always be “We will make time.” In his weekly visit, I would talk about wanting to buy something whether I needed it or not, Norbert would rub his fingers together and say “Dale, you need some of this!”

Our family grew up thinking of Norbert as one of our own and I hope he knew that. He spent many holidays and special occasions in our home, and there will always be an extra chair at our table. Norbert would always have a laugh and say “Remember when your kids or niece Brittany would say …?”And then he would repeat what they said and give another chuckle.

Gone will be the days when:

– Tom Nyuli and I started the historic Blarney Stone slow pitch team, where in our flashy yellow uniforms, Norbert patrolled second base and was given the unforgettable nickname, “Big Bird”

– “Tammy, could you bring us one more round?”

– Raising your voice in conversation, Norbert would look at you and go >>>(fists together)

– Impersonating uncles and friends to perfection

– Sitting at Norbert’s kitchen table and a fast country song or polka was playing on the radio, Norbert would say, “You wanna step this one out?”

– Statistics Canada calling and asking for Mr. Bear, and Norbert would way “There are no bears here, I am the hired man.”

– Delivering lukewarm refreshments to surrounding friends and neighbors on a hot summer day, saying, “You need a break.”

– Engaged in friendly banter, and Norbert could not put his finger on the word he was looking for, I would fulfill his thought with a word, and he would say,”That’s the word I’m looking for.”

– For over a decade delivering the Provost paper, and in a two hour bi-weekly visit, solving the world’s problems with my mom, Irene.

But not gone are memories of a man that filled our lives with so much laughter and happiness.

I have read, “There is only one success: to be able to spend your life in your own way”. To me, this describes Norbert.

I am sure that if Norbert would have only known time was short, he would have said something like this to all of us:

All Is Well

Death is nothing at all

I have only slipped away into the next room

I am I, and you are you

Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.

Call me by my old familiar name

Speak to me in the

same easy way which

you always did,

Put no difference

into your tone

Wear no forced air of sadness or sorrow

Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.

Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.

Let my name be the household word that it always was

Let it be spoken without effect

Without the shadow of a ghost on it.

Life means all that it ever meant.

It is the same as it ever was,

There is absolutely unbroken continuity

Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?

I am just waiting for you,

for an interval,

Somewhere very near,

just around the corner.

All is well.

I have only said this to two men, one is my Dad and the other one is my son Derek. “I love you Norbert.”

Norbert: “You and I will meet again. When we’re least expecting it. One day, in some far off place, I will recognize your face. I won’t say good-bye my friend, for you and I will meet again.”

And as Norbert would always say at the end of our many phone conversations, “Well, that’s all from my end. I will let you go.”

And I would reply, “We’ll see ya.”

Loretta E. (Rennich) Dalueg

(Jan. 17, 1913 – Jan. 23, 2010)

Loretta Estella (Rennich) Dalueg (nee Scheible) of Stettler passed away peacefully in the presence of her loving family on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the age of 97.

The Early Years

Loretta was born January 17, 1913 on the family homestead near Wiste, Alberta, the second surviving child and only girl in a family of five brothers. On November 24, 1930 she married Peter Rennich at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, north Hemaruka, Alberta. Loretta and Peter’s first home was on Peter Rennich Sr.’s homestead, north of Hemaruka. Later, they moved to a farm south of Veteran, where together they continued to work the land and raise their four children: Melvin (1934), Lorraine (1937) and their twins, Richard and Jeanette (1944). During these farming years, Loretta tended a large garden, milked cows, and provided her family with hand-crafted necessities. She also enjoyed watching flocks of geese, especially during goose hunting season, which brought a hustle of activity to the farm. Through hard work, a commitment to family and friends, a talent for creating, and an uncanny ability to enhance everything around her, Loretta helped shape and build not only her family, but the prairie community she grew up in.

A Woman of Many Talents

In 1947, the family moved to the town of Veteran where Peter held the post of UGG Elevator Agent and where Loretta’s exceptional pie baking skills were enjoyed by patrons of the Veteran Hotel. It was well known that she would bake as many as 10 pies a day. Upon request, Loretta would prepare batches of her famous pie shell crusts for eager members of the Veteran community so that they could attempt to replicate her pies in their own home.

Baking was not the only talent enjoyed by the community. From family and friends to wedding parties, many people benefited from Loretta’s skills as a seamstress to sew their dresses and gowns. Also, local curlers were often spotted sporting Loretta’s knitwear. At any given time, most of the curlers at the local rink would be wearing cardigans hand-knit and darned by Loretta.

While in Veteran, Loretta took up curling and continued playing right up until she was 70, often ‘skipping’ her own team. From ice curling, she went on to floor curling and much, much later, played shuffleboard. Her vitality and love of the game kept her playing shuffleboard 13 days before she passed away! Even at 97 years, her opponents thought of her as a challenge.

To add to her list of talents, Loretta became known as the town hairstylist. Saturdays were her busiest days when local ladies would visit her home to have their hair permed, cut, dyed or styled. Veteran was a small and close-knit community and Loretta’s kitchen was a warm and inviting place where the ladies and their families would meet, not only to have their hair styled, but to share news and laughter. Loretta’s kitchen helped bind the Veteran community together, during good times and bad, particularly in the mid-1900’s.

Throughout the 1930’s, the war years and thereafter, Loretta became an avid baseball fan. Her love of the game grew as her husband, Peter formed and managed a local ball team, which included her five brothers and other relatives, and later their son Melvin. While Peter was away threshing during harvest, Loretta would listen to the World Series on the radio and ‘box score’ the game. Her favourite team was the Yankees and her dream was to watch an American Major League game. Her wish came true in 1996. At the ripe old age of 83, Loretta’s son-in-law, Gordon, took her to see the Astros play the Atlanta Braves in the Astrodome in Houston, Texas while vacationing with family there.

Tragic Loss and New Beginnings

In October of 1959, tragedy struck when their 22 year old daughter, Lorraine, passed away from cancer. Just one year later, in September, 1960, Loretta’s husband Peter died suddenly of a heart attack. In the midst of her tragedy and loss, Loretta made a courageous decision to move to Galahad with her teenagers Richard and Jeanette, to be closer to her eldest son, Melvin and his family. After making this fresh start, Loretta began working as a Ward-Aide at St. Joseph’s Hospital, always tending to the sick with a generous smile. Her door was always open to family, relatives and friends who needed a place to stay, have a friendly chat, or wanted to play a serious game of cards. It was in this new community, while working at the Hospital that Loretta met her second husband, Hank Dalueg. On July 2, 1965 Loretta and Hank were married. They then moved to Forestburg, Alberta and spent the next 29 years together. While living in Forestburg, Loretta embraced the next chapter of her life.

Loretta and Hank maintained a busy and fulfilling lifestyle. If Loretta wasn’t tending to her bountiful garden, she was in the kitchen preserving, or cooking large meals for her friends and family. No one ever left hungry after one of Loretta’s home-cooked meals. All her grandchildren have fond memories of eating her delicious banana breads, carrot muffins, cinnamon buns and homemade white bread and traditional German dishes. Loretta and Hank also spent their time fishing and camping, going for coffee and playing cards at the local senior’s centre, or entertaining the Dalueg and Rennich families. Their home was a welcoming hub, bringing both families together to enjoy each other’s company.

When Hank passed away on January 3, 1994, Loretta continued to live an active life. She moved to Wetaskiwin in October, 1998 where she lived for five years at the Legion Arms Retirement Community. She continued her hobbies, playing cards and enjoying visits to Richard and Lana’s ranch to see the countryside, cattle and horses. In January 1998, Loretta and her brothers were joined by their families in Red Deer to celebrate their birthdays together. She celebrated her 90th birthday in Wetaskiwin on January 25, 2003. Her final move brought her to Stettler in the spring of 2004 where she lived at Paragon Place. Even though Loretta had slowed down a little by this time in her life, she still continued to crochet her afghans and doilies, watch baseball and curling on TV, and socialize with her friends at Paragon Place.

A Remarkable Lady

Loretta always took great pride in how she looked, and her style and poise was often admired. She crocheted or knitted every one of her grandchildren (and great grandchild) their own afghan blankets. Loretta’s motto for living a long life was to eat three square meals a day and a small snack at bedtime (toast). This is good advice from someone who lived 3 short years shy of 100. Lastly, not many women get to celebrate 29 years of marriage – twice!

Loretta suffered a fall on January 9 and left us on January 23. The residents at Paragon Place will sadly miss her swift little steps and cheerful smile. Her family and friends will deeply miss her strength of character, resourcefulness, and wisdom. Most of all, we will miss her generous and loving heart, but not her spirit. Thankfully, that stays with us. Loretta is remembered by her many family members, relatives and friends as a wonderful lady who was small in stature, but had the spirit and determination of a giant.

Cherished Memories

Left to cherish Loretta’s memory are her sons Melvin Rennich (Joan Heuer) of Stettler and Richard (Lana) Rennich of Wetaskiwin; daughter Jeanette (Gordon) Bzdel of Wetaskiwin; daughter-in-law Catherine Rennich of Edmonton; Eileen Cunningham of Vancouver, stepson Jim (Joyce) Dalueg of Strome; stepdaughter Leah Heinz of Vancouver; and sisters-in-law Alvina, Alice and Doris. Also left to celebrate her long and abundant life are 17 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren and 1 great- great grandchild, as well as many other family members and dear friends. She was predeceased by her first husband Peter Rennich, her second husband Henry Dalueg, daughter Lorraine Rennich, parents Wilhelm and Lytie Scheible, and brothers Oswald, Albert, Arthur (Eleanor), Fred (Emeila), and Willy.

Catherine Sterrenberg

(August 14, 1910 – February 2, 2010)

Catherine (Kay) Stewart Sterrenberg of Edmonton, passed away February 2nd, 2010. She was born August 14, 1910. She was an inspiration to all with her quiet strength, integrity and unconditional love.

She was predeceased by her husband, Alex and two sisters, Helen and Anne. Surviving are daughters, Pat (Craig), Peggy (Peter) and Cathy; her treasured grandchildren, Geoff, Jennifer, Stefanie, Daniel, Chris (Jaylene), Patrick and great-grandson, Alexander.

Consistent with her wishes, the family celebrated her life with a private service.

Ella Adams

(April 9, 1921 – February 13, 2010)

Ella Adams passed away in Coronation Continuing Care Centre on February 13, 2010 at the age of 88 years. Ella was born April 9, 1921 at Zetland, Alberta and grew up on the Maron family farm with her parents and eight brothers and sisters. She attended school at Rushmore School.

Ella worked in Edmonton doing housekeeping for a few years after school.

Vern and Ella were married on March 13, 1953. They lived on the Adams farm for three years before moving south of Veteran to farm with Ella’s brothers on the Maron family farm.

Ella worked hard on the farm. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, gardening, milking cows and driving horses. Vern and Ella were also members of the Hemaruka Hall.

In 1992, Vern and Ella sold the farm and moved to Coronation where they became involved in the Golden Age Drop In Centre. Ella also enjoyed going to the garage sales around Coronation and shopping for clothes.

Ella was predeceased by her father Jacob Maron, her mother Rosa Maron, brothers Emil Maron, Oscar Maron, Ronnie Maron, and Sam Maron, sisters Selma Clark and Emma Nolte and daughter Sarah Adams. She is lovingly remembered by husband Vern Adams of Coronation, brother Harold Maron of Coronation, sister Martha Axelson of Monroe, Washington, sister-in-law Jean Adams of Veteran, sister-in-law Wilda McKay (Glen) of Three Hills, brother-in-law Hugh Adams (Sylvia) of Calgary, sister-in-law Judy Adams of Calgary, sister-in-law Carol Carl of Caroline and numerous nieces and nephews.

Eulogy

By Cindy Eamer

I can remember even when I was little going to Uncle Vern and Auntie Ella’s farm. I would sit on my dad’s knee and Auntie Ella would try to sneak me candies or chocolates or quarters. Once we were grown, Ella was the same with my kids. We would go to Uncle Vern and Auntie Ella’s for a big meal and she would be sneaking chocolates to the kids before they even started eating. It wasn’t just my kids she liked to spoil, I’m sure every kid in Coronation knew Vern and Ella’s was the place to hit on Halloween. Their treat bags were notorious. They would go through 100 lunch bags full of pop, candy, chocolate and peanuts. They just loved seeing the kids come to their door. Ella loved all kids. I can remember placing Brielle in her arms when she was just a newborn and I think she would have held her all day. Any time I said the kids were grumpy or misbehaving, she always told me that she would take them home.

Ella had a big heart. She liked to do things for other people. I have heard stories of meals she would cook for the whole community of Hemaruka. She would have everyone to the house and she would cook turkey, and ham, and cabbage rolls. Ella was a good cook, and a hard worker. Auntie Ella’s house was always spotless when they were on the farm. The whole farm was kept neat. Auntie Ella and Uncle Vern and Sam and Ronald worked hard together. There was always lots to do on the farm. I can remember cows and chickens’and rabbits coming out from every building. Auntie Ella used to raise geese to butcher and she milked the cows. She canned all the vegetables from Uncle Vern’s garden and made big crocks of sauerkraut and of course that went good with the homemade sausages from their butcher shop.

Once they moved to town, one of Ella’s favorite pastimes became shopping. She loved to buy clothes. At least a couple times a month, Vern had to take her to Stettler to Lou’s Fashions. I am sure the sales people must have known her by name. She liked clothes so much Vern had to build extra clothes racks in one of their spare rooms.

People sometimes didn’t know how to react to Ella. She was always very direct and said what she thought no matter what. Ella had a great sense of humor’ and a great big heart. She will be missed by all.

The funeral service for the late Ella Adams was conducted on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. in the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran,

Brent Williams ‘Cleaver’

(April 15, 1959 ~ Feb. 20, 2010)

Darvin Brent Williams was born in Edmonton, Alberta on April 15, 1959. Along with his parents, Elwood and Yvonne Williams, Brent was raised on the family farm north of Consort with his sisters Carol Lynn and Lori.

Brent attended Consort School and later took welding courses at Lakeland College in Vermilion. He always had a passion for the outdoors and had a huge love for animals. Often you would see a dog by his side and a part of his heart belonged to one of his many horses. Brent enjoyed people; always wanting to be a part of a social circle. He treasured the time spent with others whether it be family; his nieces and nephews were very important to him, his neighbors; helping out with cattle or enjoying a game of bridge, or simply spending time with one of his many friends visiting or shooting pool.

His activities always encompassed others; any job was easier with someone else to visit with! Brent enjoyed to hunt, was an active member of the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo association as well as the local gun club.

Brent was predeceased by his father Elwood in August 2009 and leaves to mourn his mother Yvonne Williams of Consort; his sister Carol Lynn (Fred) Symes of Edson, sister Lori (Larry) Ference of Consort as well as niece Tara (Todd) Fron and children Toren and Brylee of Edson, nephew Brad Symes also of Edson, nephew Jordan (Ashley) Ference of Cold Lake, nephew Tyler Ference and niece Jenelle Ference both of Consort.

Brent passed away suddenly on February 20, 2010 in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 50 years.

A Memorial Service to commemorate Brent’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Saturday, March 6th, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Officiating was Reverend Sandy Macpherson. Linda Schetzsle played for the congregational hymns “Amazing Grace”, and “Beyond The Sunset” which were led by the Knox United Church Choir. Cousin Julie Motley shared the tribute which included many fond memories. Pat and Charlotte Gilmer sang “I’ll Fly Away”. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. 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 Brent’s memory to The Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0, in care of Coronation Funeral Home Ltd., Box 35, Coronation, Alberta, T0C 1C0.

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home was entrusted with funeral arrangements. Ph. 403-578-2928. “Knowledge, Experience And Professionalism With A Personal Touch”

Tribute to Brent

By Julie Motley

I am very honored to be before you today paying tribute to a very special person, Brent Williams, also known as Cleaver.

Brent was our babysitter for a long time and I think that is where the bond began. He was a very special person in our family and fit in very well. He spent so much time at our place that it was like he lived there. Brent was more than just a cousin, he was like a big brother and we often introduced him that way.

I can remember Brent and my dad spending many hours at the kitchen table solving life’s problems, farming and ranching, you name it. I really don’t know how much solving they did but they sure did have a lot of fun.

My dad used to race skidoos and we went on many race weekends. Brent always came. He cheered him on, helped with the machines and always bought dad’s team in the calcutta with my mom. Brent just automatically came and mom and dad naturally expected him to.

Brent had a little green truck when he was 16 that he was very proud of. This little green truck could do almost anything. It could fly, it could go through snow drifts but unfortunately Cleaver found out it could not swim!! This reminds me of the time that he had taken Lori down to Duck Lake a few miles from home to skate. Well, he got little green stuck, and sent Lori walking back to the farm with her skates and guards on!!

Brent was born in April, which of course is close to Easter. My mom made him an Easter Bunny cake for his 16th birthday. Can you imagine a 16 year old boy with an Easter Bunny cake!! Well, Brent loved it. We have the pictures to prove it.

Brent was a horseman, the absolute best and he loved horses. When I was 16 and getting a new horse, my dad asked Brent to go with me. He would check out the horse and if it wasn’t good enough for me Brent would know. The horse checked out and we brought it home. However, we didn’t come straight home. We had to have a little adventure on the way. I can’t share the details of the trip as only Brent and I know what really happened that night and why it took us 8 hours to go to Sedalia and back. But we did get the horse home. It was all in good fun.

Brent loved to have fun and we saw him do a lot of it. He wasn’t always with us as he had a few other culprits in the country, Keith Wittmack, Phil Gilmer and Ron Symes. Well, boys, since we are in church, let’s just say, you had your fun and leave it at that. We know that you have a lot of memories of Cleaver and he spoke very highly of you and those were some of the happiest times of his life.

As long as we were with Brent, Mom and Dad never ever worried about us. We also never locked the door at night because more often than not, we would wake up in the morning to find Brent’s boots in the porch which meant he was asleep in the basement.

My sister Holly remembers the time that Brent went stair surfing down our basement stairs. He took the first step and literally slid down the rest of the way on his heel. And all we heard was, “I’m okay”!! She too said that he was the brother we never had.

Brent and I were more than just cousins, we had a true brother sister relationship. Brent has looked after me for as long as I can remember, even if I didn’t think I needed it, he was there. I can remember one time when I was at a party at Gooseberry Lake (one I wasn’t supposed to be at). Well, this big burly body clad in a cowboy hat and rain slicker, came through the trees, and some thought it was Grizzly Adams, but I knew exactly who it was and I was going home. Cleaver right behind me.

Brent also spent many hours helping me with my math homework and sometimes to save us both a lot of grief he just did it for me.

When I moved to Red Deer to go to school, Brent came to me one day and reminded me that I was a farm girl and I didn’t belong in the city, but go to school and when you are done, please move home to the country. He also told me to be careful because he wouldn’t be just around the corner. He also said that if I needed him all I would have to do is call and he could be there in two hours.

That’s just how Brent was. He put others first and himself last. I don’t know of anyone else that had a bigger heart of gold. He would have done anything for anyone and would have had no regrets.

Brent was a ranchman at heart and last spring we called each other almost every day. The first thing he would ask me is, “How is the calving going? And how many did you have today?” Cleaver was always more than willing to help out his friends and neighbors with their cattle and that is exactly what he was doing the day before his passing, so you can imagine just how happy he was.

Brent loved the outdoors, whether it was working with the cattle, riding his horse or going on his many snowmobile trips to the mountains, he was most happiest if he was outdoors.

Over the past year Brent and I spent a lot of time together. We took a trip to Red Deer one day for a medical appointment and we just had the best day. We went out for lunch, went shopping for a new cowboy hat and I have to add that was an experience. And on our way home we stopped to look at a pasture full of horses. We talked all the way there and back. And yes, I still got the “be careful speech”.

I often reminded Brent that I was over 40 and that I was pretty sure I could look after myself but he would just giggle. In fact, he met up with a mutual friend of ours and said to this friend I know you are good friends with Julie and Jay so I am glad to know that if something happens to me that you’ll be there to take care of her.

Brent was second to none. He would not want us to be sad and would not want us to cry. All he would ever want is that he be remembered. So please, think of him often and tip your hat to the sky when you do because he will be there. I know that he is happy, there is no more pain, no more struggles. Brent is riding his horse and looking down on all of us, his beloved family and friends. He loved his family with all his heart and was very proud to be a Williams.

I will be forever grateful for the times Brent and I shared. But most of all I am grateful for the fact that we have nothing left unsaid. We know how important we were to each other and how much we meant to each other. I heard him say to one of his nurses last year, that he had three sisters, Lori, Carol Lynn and the bratty one Julie. Even though, he called me a brat, it was a good feeling.

I have so many wonderful memories that I know I will be able to keep Brent with me forever and I will miss him. I wish I could share more memories today, but we have a lifetime of them. I will gladly share them with you as we move on in our lives.

In closing, I want to thank Carol Lynn, Lori and Yvonne for the honor given to me to give Brent his final farewell but most of all Yvonne, thank you for sharing your son with my mom and dad. And Lori and Carol Lynn, thank you for sharing your brother with me. He was a wonderful person and we truly loved him.

To my Brent, thank you for always being there for me and for being such a big part of my life. I know there were times that you didn’t know what direction you should take in life, you always knew what direction I should take and I am sure that is part of the reason I am the person I am today. I will always remember our talks, especially the one we had when we danced at my wedding, and the most recent one when we got to have that last dance this summer. Thank you for being my big brother but above all thank you for always keeping me safe.

I love you, rest in peace.

Dr. John N. Hnatuik

(1933 – Feb. 25, 2010)

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, son and friend, Dr. John N. Hnatuik who passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 25, 2010 at Camrose at the age of 77 years.

Dr. John is survived by his loving wife, Patricia, daughters, Joan (Bob) Noonan of Crossfield, Ann (Doug) Fleck of Camrose, Marg (Jim) Yaremko of Calgary, Barb (Brian) Schumacher of Leduc; grandchildren Kevin, Tyler, Kari, Jason, Jennifer, Heather, Kelsey, Katie, Cydney, Chris, Sarah and Brad; mother, Rose Hnatuik of Qualicum Beach, B.C; brother Roger Hnatuik; sisters, Joyce Vaughan, Barb (Ray) Hughes.

The funeral was held in Camrose on March 2nd at 2:00 p.m. in the United Church with the Rev. Alan Richards and the Rev. Brian Hunter officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the Provost Health Foundation, the SPCA or Nature Conservatory.

Marguerite Irene Henry – (nee Hayes)

(Nov. 28, 1923 – March 4, 2010)

Born November 28,1923 in Provost, Alberta, passed away peacefully March 4, 2010 at Burnaby Hospital, surrounded by family.

Predeceased by her life long love, husband Keith, in 2004, and her brother James Hayes. Marg will be deeply missed by her children Jeanne Keegan-Henry (Rowan), Kathy Corrigan (Derek), Bill (Darlene), and Jim (Gwen); sister Beth Hobbs; sisters-in-law Peggy Annett and Ev Henry; loving grandchildren Sean, Darcy, Patrick and Kelsey Corrigan, Kaleigh and Kristen Henry, Morag and Eilidh Keegan-Henry, Nate, Taryn and Sam Henry, nieces and nephews. Fondly remembered by many dear friends and former colleagues.

In the height of the Depression, Marguerite’s family moved to Edmonton, Alberta. She was a stellar student, winning the Governor-General’s Gold Medal twice during her high school years and the Tegler university entrance scholarship. She was also active in the student council and starred in numerous plays. She attended the University of Alberta in Edmonton, where she graduated with a degree in physics. There she taught, met, then married her life long partner and friend, Keith Henry, who was attending the university as part of his war service. After Keith graduated as a Civil Engineer in 1948, the young couple moved to Ontario where Keith embarked on his illustrious engineering career, and Marg happily started raising their four children. Keith’s career brought the family to West Vancouver in 1961, where they spent the rest of their long married life. Marg recently moved to the Mulberry retirement residence in Burnaby.

In the late 1960’s Marg went back to school and earned her Master’s Degree in particle physics at UBC. She then spent many years teaching physics at Capilano College, until she and Keith retired. Marg was adventuresome and fun-loving. She loved to travel. Keith’s career, and their vacations took them to India, Kenya, Australia, Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean and throughout North America. Marg and Keith took pleasure in mutual interests which often formed much of their busy social life. They loved to play tennis with friends at the Hollyburn, and social and competitive badminton at the Vancouver Racquets Club. There were many family hikes, usually involving mountains, where the rests often came because Mom had to identify, then mark a sighting of some rare bird in her Peterson’s Bird Guide. Marg loved the summers spent in Naramata. She always enjoyed parties, and hosted many a good one. The Henry home was legendary for its New Years Eve charades-games.

Marg was a great community builder. She founded a nursery school and a recreation club in Toronto, the junior badminton program at Hollyburn, was a member of the peace group Voice of Women, active in the Unitarian Church, on PTAs, the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST) and many other organizations.

Marg loved music. She and Keith spent countless hours playing duets, with her at the piano, and him on the clarinet, and almost every evening they would listen to several records from their large music collection, and read or enjoy the spectacular view of Vancouver.

In her later years, she very much enjoyed the bridge club at the Hollyburn, where she earned many masters points. She was extremely proud of her eleven grandchildren, and looked forward to big family Sunday-night dinners. It was a full and happy life well lived.

A celebration of Marg’s life and reception took place at First Memorial, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver, on Sunday, March 14, at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Burnaby Hospital Foundation or charity of your choice.

Douglas Edwin Westerlund

(Aug. 20, 1931-March 12, 2010)

Douglas Edwin Westerlund was born in Alsask on August 20, 1931 and passed away suddenly at his ranch home south west of Esther on March 12, 2010.

Doug was the eldest son of Leonard and Marjorie Wester-lund. He grew up on the Big Bend Ranch along the Sounding Creek with younger brother Lloyd and sister Linda. He began grade one at Rush Center School, and also attended Coe and Winger Heights. The distance travelled to get to these schools gave Doug the opportunity to become a skilled horseman and he developed a lifelong appreciation of good horses. During one sudden blizzard, he tied the reins up and let Molly, one of his favourites, take him and Lloyd safely home on her own. Doug’s high school years were spent in the Dorm in Oyen. Although he had planned to quit school after grade 11, a broken ankle kept him off the threshing crew so he went back to complete grade 12. It was then he met his wife to be, Joyce Meers. Following graduation in 1950, he attended Olds College of Agriculture for two years. He and Joyce were married August 6, 1953.

Doug continued to study agriculture and nature all of his life, enjoying ranching, farming and everything growing around him. Cattle ranked second only to his family in Doug’s way of thinking. Although he appreciated good cattle of any color, the red white faced Herefords were his favourite. His venture into the cattle business began by first raising 2 pigs he had bought from Mike Smigelski. He sold them to buy a steer from John Dobrosky. With money from the sale of the steer, he purchased his first purebred heifer from Fred W. Beynon in 1943. Thus began a purebred herd which was maintained until his passing. Along with his Dad Leonard and brother Lloyd, he began selling bulls at the Calgary Bull Sale in the early 1950’s. Doug was a charter member of the East Central Purebred Cattle Breeders Association (later to be called the East Central Hereford Club) in 1956 and was an active member for over 50 years. Proud moments of the 67 years he spent raising Herefords included winning Champion, Reserve and Best Pair honors at both Cereal and Hanna spring bull sales, induction into the Alberta Hereford Association Hall of Fame, selling heifers overseas, receiving his 50 Year Pin from the Canadian Hereford Association and seeing his family share his interest in the red white face cattle.

Doug’s interest in horses continued his entire life. He enjoyed numerous trail rides over the years, including a trek across the Suffield bombing range, trips to the mountains and his last trail ride through The Gap in the Neutral Hills in the fall of 2009. He also helped roundup cattle in the Sounding Creek Community Pasture when he was needed.

As a young man, Doug enjoyed baseball and curling. While raising their family, Doug spent many hours coaching both baseball and hockey. His interest in sports continued throughout his life – many recent conversations focused on the current state of the NHL. He was also a supporter of 4-H, encouraging all 4 of his children to participate in the local beef and or horse clubs. Doug was thrilled to obtain his private pilot license in 1977. In the air and on the ground, Doug enjoyed trips to many locations with Joyce. One notable vacation was spent in England and Sweden with Doug’s parents. He also shared his family and ranch time with community organizations such as the Rural Electrification Association, Rural Crime Watch and Alberta Cattle Commission. Another talent shared with others was witching for water – resulting in several successful water holes in the community.

As grandchildren arrived and began participating in various activities, Doug was one of their biggest fans. He and Joyce were often seen heading off to watch gymkanas, TaeKwon Do tournaments, rodeo, baseball, music recitals, beef achievement days or public speaking. He was proud of each and every event, whether a first place ribbon was won or not – there was always a good story to relay to everyone who missed the event. He always had time to visit, be it with family of all ages, friends, neighbours or someone new. It was always “Howdy Neighbour, come on in.”

Possibly the most notable of Doug’s achievements was the loving, patient care he provided for his wife Joyce during recent years of her illness. His dedication was a testament to true love and loyalty.

Doug is survived by his cherished wife of 56 and one half years, Joyce; sons Terry (Jane) and children Janie (Wes) Comstock (Colt and Ruger), Pam (Darcy) Gorgichuk (Roper and Laycee), Terry Jr. (Liz) Westerlund (Emma); Tim (Dianne) and children Katelyn and Levi; Clay (Sharon) and children Charmaine, Courtney, Vance, Shanelle and Jace; daughter Kathy (Darren) Simpson and children Justine, Kelsey, Tyrell and Wyatt; brother Lloyd (Maxine) Westerlund and sister Linda (Lawrence) Wilson; brother-in-laws Mervin (Amanda) and Ken (Anne) Meers; sister-in-law Hazel Bysterveld plus numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral Service was held Monday, March 22, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Oyen, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Reverend Catherine Holland. Marvel Jorgenson was the organist and a tribute was given by Darren Simpson and Delbert Pratt. Special music was provided by Ralph & Marvel Jorgenson, Pat & Charlotte Gilmer, and Jay Simpson. Hymns were “All Things Bright and Beautiful” and “Bringing in the Sheaves.” Pallbearers were Barry Bysterveld, Keith Bysterveld, Gary Meers, Kevin Meers, Shane Westerlund, and Jeff Wilson. Honorary Pallbearers were all of Doug’s family, neighbours, and friends who cared and shared in his life.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation, Box 150, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0; Oyen Minor Baseball, Box 217, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral service, everyone was invited to remain at the Legion Hall to join the family for lunch and fellowship hosted by the Esther Community Club, the All Saints Anglican Church and the East Sounding Creek 4H Club.

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

Tribute by Delbert Pratt

Doug

“Well, Howdy Neighbor, come on in”,

He’d always say with that big, happy grin.

And no matter how many or even who was there,

There was always room

for another chair.

Or if you was early or if you was late,

It didn’t matter, there’s an extra plate.

And don’t plan on leavin’ anytime soon,

For there’s always time for a visit, be it morning or afternoon.

Now I guess we won’t be visitin’ no more,

For his hat’s on the hook and his old boots is restin’ on the floor.

But I can hope when I walk this earth no more,

And I climb the stairs and knock on the door,

Maybe it’ll be opened by

Doug and his grin,

Sayin’ “Howdy, Neighbor, come on in”.

Tribute by Darren Simpson

I am truly honored to be asked to pay tribute to a very special man. For those of you who don’t know me, I am Kathy’s husband, Darren.

Doug was more than a father-in-law to me; he was a truly great friend as he was to many of you!

Doug had a very full life with many great attributes and accomplishments and to try to do it justice in a few minutes seems impossible. But after visiting with family and friends and digging through our memory banks, here are some of our thoughts.

Doug loved Family! His family started when he met a girl in Oyen by almost running her over with his car. It seems he had a cast on his leg from a broken ankle and he said the cast slipped off the clutch. But Joyce always figured he had other motives! Either way, they were married three years later. After looking at the kids, grand kids and lots of nieces and nephews, just think of all the commotion that little mishap started!

He was always especially proud of his kids, grand kids and great grand kid’s accomplishments, whether it was in life, 4-H, rodeo, baseball, hockey, music, Tae Kwon Do or whatever else they were doing.

Doug’s other great love of his life was his cattle, especially Herefords. He said he got into the cattle business by first raising two pigs he got from Mike Smigelski. He sold them and bought a steer from John Dobrosky, then sold it and bought his first purebred Hereford heifer from Fred Beynon in 1943, when he was twelve years old and has been in the Hereford business ever since!

That’s 62 years of building his Dream. He took their first bulls to the Calgary Bull Sale in 1946, on the train. One time, he got to ride in the caboose. He thought that was really neat and often mentioned it.

Doug was one of the founders of the East Central Hereford Club and instrumental in starting the first Bull Sale in Cereal in 1956. That continues today with their 55th Annual Bull Sale just taken place in Veteran last Friday. Doug was very proud that Tim and Dianne are continuing the tradition with the purebreds, the Club and the sale.

Westerlund cattle have been shown and sold at many sales including Cereal, Hanna, Calgary, Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, Agribition in Regina, as well as many local fairs and 4-H events. Other highlights included sales of cattle over North America and to Russia. Doug loved going to cattle sales and traveled far and wide for them. That was his way to keep up on the prices, cattle and their pedigrees. And of course keeping up with the people and what they were up to!

Doug always loved being around the cattle and branding was one of his favorite times because he had the best of both with cattle and lots of family together!

Another great interest that lasted his whole life was Horses. That started very early in life as he had to ride or drive horses to school for many of his first years. He said that along with his brother, Lloyd, they broke many horses that way. Doug talked to me about a horse that was one of his Grandpa Knut’s team, named Tony and when Knut wanted Tony to go faster or pull harder, he would say, “Dig Dirt, Tony”. As long as I knew Doug, when ever he got in a tight spot or needed to go faster, whether in a vehicle or on a horse, you’d hear him say, “Dig Dirt, Tony!”

Some of the favorite horses he mentioned over the years were Molly, Bessey, Tonka, Barsey, Spider, Strawberry and his present horse, Buck.

They say that when Doug brought old Tonka home, he was a little leery about him being rank and because he was over 16 hands high, Doug wasn’t sure he wanted to get on him first, so he never said anything and he got Joyce to get on him! Joyce said it worked out O.K., but she wasn’t impressed! Doug’s latest horse, Buck, is a tall horse, too. One day when Doug was having a hard time getting his foot in the stirrup, Buck leaned into Doug until he was up against the corral fence so he could climb up and get on. Doug was amazed and once he found out Buck could do that, he got on that way many times.

Of course, Doug loved riding while working cattle. Whether it be on their own round up, branding or the Community Pasture Round-ups that he helped with for years. He also loved riding on trail rides and took part in many. His trail rides took him all over, such as Gooseberry Lake, the British Block to Medicine Hat, Rocky Mountains, Sheep River, Blue Rock, Cypress Hills and even the last trail ride for the Big Gap Stampede. Also horseback hunting trips in the mountains and the Porcupine Hills.

Doug, along with Joyce, always had a sense of adventure and was willing to try anything! When we were trail riding in the Cypress Hills, it really started to rain, so we were all staying close to camp. Somebody found an old cast iron bath tub down in the trees by the homestead. We dragged it up to camp and put it so the rain off the awning would fill it up. Then we put a Tiger Torch under it. Doug and Joyce were some of the first to don their swim suits and test out our makeshift hot tub, refreshments in hand. That was in the middle of the night, in the middle of the Cypress Hills. They had a blast! I believe there’s a picture of them in the tub at the side display.

I think part of why Doug loved trail riding so much is because it involved one of his favorite pastimes – Visiting! Doug truly turned this pastime into an artform! “There’s always time to stop and visit”.

Doug was a People Person and could visit with anyone – young and old, male and female, any walk of life, it didn’t matter. Doug could visit and make friends in minutes.

With this ability and his incredible memory, it didn’t matter where you went, Doug knew someone there and if by chance he didn’t, well, within a few minutes he would.

As anyone knows, that’s ever been to their place, the greeting was always the same: “Come on in and grab a chair. You got time for a visit”.

For anybody that ever met Doug, they remember his sparkling grin, twinkling eyes, his chuckle and if you’re a man, his Dam Firm Handshake!

Doug was hard to get off the ranch, but once you did, he loved to travel. Doug had fun wherever he was. He really appreciated being able to go to England and Sweden with his Mom and Dad in ’86.

Doug had a passion for flying and got his pilot’s licence in 1977. Joyce also had her licence, so along with Bert and Shirley McFadyen they flew a 4-seater all the way to Texas and back. He often talked about that.

On one trip to Disneyland, Doug and Joyce got to sit in the cockpit with the pilots all the way to Los Angeles. Doug was amazed. Of course, that was before 9/11. On another trip, they got to tour a helicopter factory and of course Doug wanted one. He thought they’d be pretty handy to check cows with!

Doug was always very determined, although Joyce said he was just stubborn. I always thought he was very diplomatic – he always asked others opinions and ideas – took them into consideration, then always did it his way anyhow!

When he set his mind to something, he usually got it done. Sometimes, this got him into trouble. We were going to San Diego and had to stop at L.A. to change planes. We had a refreshment in a lounge, then went to board our other plane. When the stewardess asked Doug to see his ticket for his seat number, he showed her the stub for the last flight. She told him that was the wrong ticket and Doug panicked and ran past me toward the airport, determined he left his ticket in the lounge. Joyce went to follow, but we got her stopped; the pilot called the security counter to let them know it was alright, but they said a man blew right by them and was running down the hallway. Joyce had a talk with the pilot, then came to our seats. We had friends with us and they asked where Doug was. Joyce calmly said, “We’re leaving him”! They were flabbergasted.

Joyce never let them know the pilot told her that security had caught up with Doug, but couldn’t hold our plane any longer and they would put Doug on the next plane, a half hour later. So we waited in San Diego. Our friends were horrified thinking Doug would be really shook up after being lost in LAX and getting left there. I told them they didn’t know Doug very well and sure enough, a half hour later here came Doug off another plane strutting like a peacock, big smile on his face, acting like he’d planned it that way.

Joyce was not impressed, but she had to laugh anyway. Doug was determined to find his ticket, but she had it all along!

There is so much more that we could remember, like his water witching ability. His working on rigs or checking wells in the early days. His family race for the first crocus of the year, which he usually found. His love of sports and helping others. His toothpick in his mouth or sucking on his teeth! How he was never stuck for words. His battles for the check in restaurants. His love of young animals. His love of the land, enjoying the simple things in life and not worrying about the things he couldn’t change. His ‘Grandpa Teddy Bear Hugs’.

In Doug’s 1951 Year Book from Olds College, they had some of his goals and interests. “A handsome, curly haired cow puncher, cattle and horses are special interests. He wants to be a rich rancher”. The next year they added to his interests a girl from Acadia Valley! It looks like those goals worked out!

I think the pictures in the announcement card do a great job of capturing Doug. When I think of a symbol of a rancher, I think of that picture of Doug on the back page. Of course I am a bit biased, but that was taken by his granddaughter, Kelsey, when she was 8 years old and sent in to a Canada-wide photo contest. It won best place and was seen in magazines across the country. The Credit Union used it for their advertisements for Ag Week a couple of years ago, so they must have thought he was a good symbol of ranching, too!

The bottom line is – Doug loved life and for the most part was able to live doing what he loved. We can all take a lesson from him on his dedication,

Dianne Margaret Liknes

(July 3, 1947-March 27, 2010)

On March 27, 2010, Dianne Margaret Liknes passed away peacefully in the Red Deer hospital at the age of 62 with her loving husband and family at her side.

Dianne was born on July 3, 1947 in Camrose, Alberta, the first daughter of John and Margaret (Peggy) Walker. The family moved to Consort in 1951 where Dianne completed her schooling. As a young girl, she worked various jobs including helping her mother raise her younger siblings. For this, she deserv-ingly received the ‘Good Deed Club’ award. One of her first jobs after leaving school was at the local telephone office. Using skills learned there she moved to Edmonton and took a job with AGT.

Dianne married the “Love of Her Life”, Gilbert Liknes on July 29, 1967. They lived in Consort where Dianne worked her way up to Branch Administrator at the Royal Bank and then transferred to Red Deer working for the bank for a total of 13 years. In 1979, Gilbert and Dianne moved to Red Deer to begin a new chapter of their lives. Dianne was a huge support for Gilbert as she worked along side him in their various business ventures.

Dianne thoroughly enjoyed life and the interaction with people at various social activities they attended and as a result had a host of good friends. She was well known among her friends and family for her quick wit, unusual sense of humor and willingness to pitch in with help at any time.

Left to mourn her loss are her husband, Gilbert; brothers, Jim Walker (Peggy), Wayne Walker (Carol); sisters, Carol Walker (Brian), Marie Joel (Neil), Norma Astley (Rhyce); mother-in-law, Evelyn Liknes; sisters-in-law, Neana Walker, Carolyn Devereux (Harry); brothers-in-law, Darwin Liknes (Janice), Ron Liknes (Janice), Brian Barker; aunts, Alice McFadyen and Emma Cootes and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dianne was predeceased by her parents, John and Margaret Walker, brother, Dennis Walker, father-in-law, Harold Liknes and sister-in-law, Sylvia Barker.

The funeral service to commemorate Dianne’s life was held at the Pine Lake Ag Park, Pine Lake, Alberta on Thursday, April 1, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Calvin Ellerby officiating. Janice Lee-Liknes read the obituary and gave a tribute. The eulogy was given by Les McFadyen. Several tributes were given; those who shared their memories were Sharon Scott, Charlie Moore, Earl and Judy Dreeshen, Jean Bernes, and Wayne Thompson. Bert Quist played for the congregational hymn, “What A Day That Will Be”. Bert and Barb Quist sang two gospel musical selections. Pat and Charlotte Gilmer sang two musical selections as well. A video tribute by Lindsay Sullivan was played at the end of the service. Urn bearers were Kim and Heath Astley. Following the service family and friends gathered at the Ag Park for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A beautiful lunch was prepared and served by Tastebuds Catering.

In Dianne’s honour, memorial contributions may be made to the Red Deer Regional Hospital Foundation, Palliative Care Unit 32, 3942 50A Ave., Red Deer, Ab. T4N 4E7, Red Deer Hospice Society, 99 Arnot Ave., Red Deer, Ab. T4R 3S6, The Lending Cupboard Society of Alberta, 5406C 43rd St. Red Deer, Ab. T4P 1C9 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences can be forwarded to the family at corofuneralhome@xplornet .com

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

Eulogy for Dianne Liknes

By her cousin, Les McFadyen

1. INTRODUCTION

Firstly, I want to thank everyone for coming. Not only for Diane, but for each other. We are here today to celebrate the life of Margaret Dianne Liknes, and honour her for the many contributions she made to all of our lives.

Dianne was my cousin, and she was one of those complex people who come along once in a blue moon and simply dazzle you with their diversity. To me, she was a breath of fresh air. On one day you might find her organizing a campaign for a local politician; dealing with all the complexities and details of getting someone elected, and on another, laying back listening to, and enjoying her favourite country music. If you wanted something to happen, give the job to Dianne, and it got done. She was multi-talented and probably never knew just how gifted she was. If you got on the wrong side of her sense of humour, you were in deep water; yet her sense of humour was one of her greatest gifts. She was a risk taker and never a quitter. She loved to have fun which usually translated into others getting swept up into the enjoyment along with her. She was a genuine person and you definitely knew where she stood on the issues. Lord help you if you were on a different side. You were likely going to lose the debate. She was fiercely loyal to her husband, and to her family. That was Dianne. As I said, a breath of fresh air.

2. SHE WAS A GREAT

ORGANIZER AND HARD WORKER

Let me give you a little bit of detail so you all understand just what a gift she was to her immediate family, to her extended family and to anyone else who happened to be lucky enough to get to know her. To my mind, one of her greatest accomplishments was organizing a family reunion for the Cootes family. The thought of having a family reunion grew out of an idea that was born during a discussion at a past family gathering. As we visited, we had to admit that our family needed to get together more. Someone floated the idea that we needed to meet on a happy occasion and the idea of having a reunion was born. Now, there’s a big gap between having the idea of organizing a family reunion and actually attending the reunion. We all had great intentions but someone had to “spearhead” the idea and make it happen. Guess who? Dianne.

She was a “can-do” type of person and after all her hard work, and I’m sure the work of many others, we came together in this exact location and played, ate, danced, talked to each other and just generally had a good time. It was a blast! Needless to say, once Dianne grabbed hold of the idea of a reunion it was just a matter of time before we would be driving our vehicles along the roads of Alberta, and beyond, to meet near Red Deer for the big celebration. As I already said, this girl could organize most anything, from curling bonspiels, to charity casinos, to political campaigns, to Jim and Peggy’s wedding anniversary. What can I say – she was gifted!

3. DIANNE WAS NO QUITTER

Another thing that I admired about Dianne was that she didn’t quit when the going got rough. She loved a challenge, and if something didn’t work the first time, she would simply reorganize, analyze, synthesize and start all over again. She knew how to work hard, and to underestimate her determination was a major mistake. She and Gilbert were entrepreneurs and the business world is competitive. So the road is not always easy. Talking to Gilbert last Tuesday, I found out just what kind of a rock she could be. If things didn’t go well, she simply sat back, looked for the next opportunity, and told him, “It’s you and me Babe”, and away they went again on their next adventure.

4. LIVING LIFE TO THE FULL

Now, let me tell you about how Dianne lived life to the full. She worked hard, but she also played hard, and as I said before, if you were lucky, you got to be involved. The opportunities that stand out most vividly are the birthday parties she helped to organize for her Mom. The last one was Peggy’s 90th. I will never forget the happiness that was shared at these gatherings. Again, there was music-mostly western, talking, eating and just enjoying each others company. My life was certainly enriched, as were the lives of all those who attended these celebrations.

So, let’s deal with Dianne’s famous sense of humour. She had a sharp wit. I call it a mischievous humour. Other family members called it, unusual. I will never forget the time at another family gathering, Dianne, myself, and some other members of the family were at a pub enjoying a drink or two. We all decided to buy some tickets that were being sold to support a local charity. We all bought our share of tickets and after I opened many, and I mean many, and won absolutely nothing, Dianne dubbed me “Lucky Les”. Needless to say I was far from “Lucky Les” but her good-natured teasing actually made me feel better about my lack of luck. I ended up with the nick-name for years afterward. But I still haven’t won a darn thing. Except..in a way I have – because I was related to Dianne.

There are endless stories about Dianne’s “unusual sense of humour”. She was a bit of a teaser. I hear it on good authority she loved to give kids snakebites. You might have to be from an older generation to know what they were. A few of you might have even received them from Aunt Dianne. According to what I hear, she basically raised her younger brothers and sisters. I say that tongue in cheek and she did too, with a smile on her lips and a twinkle in her eye. I think there was a lot of that going on. I also hear she was the “Shuffleboard Queen” but it didn’t exactly have a lot to do with the original game. Something about dancing, I think. I guess Dianne was a gifted athlete in her day, which led to her love of curling and the annual Consort Curling Bonspiel. Well, apparently, that was wall-to-wall fun from beginning to end. Helen, Marie and Lorna could tell you more about the antics that took place on and off the ice during one of those epic athletic competitions. “Bottom line” – Dianne’s sense of humour was just plain fun to be around.

5. CONCLUSION

A GENUINE PERSON

Some would say Dianne was a genuine person. That meant different things to different people. To her Aunt Alice, she was the niece who never said a negative thing about others. To her immediate family, it meant she told it like it was. She “sugar-coated” few things. To me, it meant she was never one-dimensional. She wasn’t perfect. None of us are. Some might say she was an average person from rural Alberta. They would be sadly mistaken. She was multi-faceted, and a joy to be around. Just listen to her characteristics. She was a teaser, a committed family member, a hard worker who could make things happen, never a quitter, a person blessed with a sharp wit, a courageous person and she was funny and fun to be around. I guess you could say she was the “genuine article”.

I believe people like Dianne give all of us an everlasting gift. The unselfish contributions she made to others tend to take on a life of their own and they are eternal. Intertwined with others like them, these contributions weave a fabric that holds out hope for the future, because once woven together, their strength continues to grow, and they become powerful agents for good. Dianne did her share. Perhaps, this is the elusive meaning to life we all seek.

Now, I’m sure I’ve missed saying some things that needed to be said about Dianne. For those of you who knew her even better than I did, I hope my thoughts will trigger your own cherished memories about Dianne. I encourage you to share them with myself, and each other after the service today.

Oh, one more thing, celebrate her life, she would want you to do that!

Doris Scheible

(July 4, 1923 – April 1, 2010)

Doris Scheible passed away peacefully on Thursday April, 1, 2010 at the age of 86 years.

Doris was born on July 4, 1923 in the district of Hemaruka at the family farm. She leaves to mourn her daughter Val Wiltse (Dennis) of Red Deer, son-in-law Rob Wiltse (Sherry); 2 sons Don Scheible of Brooks and Lawrence Scheible (Charlotte) of Stettler; 8 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; 4 sisters Edna, Kay, Jessie and Madeline; 2 brothers Mike and John.

Doris was predeceased by her parents John and Pauline, her husband Albert, sisters Annie, Mary and brothers Bill and Dave.

A private family funeral service in memory of Doris was held at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alberta on Monday, April 5, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Readings were given by great grandchildren Bailee & Brittney Galloway. The Active Pallbearers were Shawna, Cory, Dawson and Danica Mauck, Stuart Gray, Sherri, Blair, Breanne, Bailee, Brittney and Brenna Galloway. The interment took place at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta immediately following the service.

In Doris’ honour, memorial contributions may be made to the The Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, Alberta, T0C 1B0.

Condolences can be forwarded to the family at corofuneralhome@xplornet .com

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

Louise Deanna Arthur

(February 2, 1947 – April 25, 2010)

Louise Deanna Arthur passed away at the Consort Hospital and Care Centre on Sunday, April, 25, 2010 at the age of 63 years.

Louise was born on February 2, 1947 at Smoky Lake, Alberta to parents Nick and Belle Taschuk. Louise was the youngest child of seven daughters. She went to school in Bellis and Vilna, Alberta. After high school she attended Alberta College in Edmonton.

Louise was blessed with one son Frank. Louise worked at the Royal Bank in Consort and she ran the concession at the Sportex in Consort for 3 years.

Louise married the love of her life, Bill Arthur on March 24, 1979 in Consort, Alberta. Bill and Louise did a lot of camping and Louise enjoyed fishing out at the pond. Lots of memories were around the campfire roasting hot dogs and visiting. Louise loved the outdoors, especially gardening and planting flowers. She enjoyed sewing, playing games on the computer and playing cards with Bill and their friends. She liked to be around people, especially socializing with her family and friends. She always watched the birds outside and made sure she kept the feeders full. She was very fond of her puppies Tuffy and Rambo. Pink was definitely her favorite color.

Louise will lovingly be remembered by her husband Bill Arthur of Consort; her son Frank of Moose Jaw, SK and grandson Travis; five sisters as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many good friends. Louise was predeceased by her parents Nicholas and Belle Taschuk as well as one sister.

Honouring Louise’s wishes there will be no funeral service. Memorial contributions may be made in Louise’s memory to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, 1331 – 29th St. N.W. Calgary, AB, T2N 4N2, Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 1-020 HRIF-East, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 9Z9 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences can be forwarded to the family at corofuneralhome @xplornet.com

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements. 1-888-578-2928.

Dan Letniak

(July 23, 1917-March 25, 2010)

Dan was born on July 23, 1917 in Loyalist. His parents were John and Mary Letniak; he was the second of five children.

Dan was predeceased by his father in November 1986, his mother in February 1979, his oldest sister Emma, who passed away at the early age of 18 months, his sister Lill in May of 2000, his brother Pete in April 2004 and his loving wife, of 53 years, Frances, who passed away in August 2003.

He is survived by and sadly missed by his youngest brother, John.

Dan is lovingly remembered by his children: daughter Roseann (Dal) of Campbell River, their two children, Tanya (Darren) and Tyson; son Frank (Bernie) of Loyalist, Bernie’s children Quentine and Holly and their families; son Wayne (Barb) of Veteran, their three girls, Melonie (Kirk), Sherri (Mark), Jackie (Kent), and son Ed of Edmonton.

Dan attended school to Grade 8 at Westville. He then farmed with his dad to help out with the younger siblings. Employment took him as far away as Red Deer. He enlisted in the army in his early 20’s. Like most, Dan was looking to get 3 meals a day; well that didn’t last long, he got the measels and was sent home, for fear the whole camp would become infected.

Dan purchased his farm in 1950, the year he was married to Frances. Dan became seriously ill with polio in 1960, struggling to recover he was sent to Edmonton for therapy. He recovered, leaving him with only a limp. In 1976, Dan retired from the farm, he and Frances moved into Veteran. Dan, not accustomed to being inactive, did odd jobs in carpentry and construction with High Ball Construction.

In his early 60’s Dan received a bike for his birthday. He enjoyed it so much that a few times on warm summer days he cycled 15 miles to Consort for a beer. He also enjoyed watching local ball games. Dan and Frances were the biggest fans of the Veteran ladies team. They never missed a game for many summers, no matter where the ladies played. He also enjoyed camping. One summer he received some shinny gold swim trunks for his birthday and couldn’t wait to go to the lake to go swimming with the grand kids and neighbor kids. However, when it came time to swim, the water was too cold for him. Dan loved to play the harmonica. He and John would get together and play, only on one condition, everyone would get up and dance.

Dan and Frances moved into the Consort Lodge in March of 2003. After Frances passed on, Dan kept himself busy with all the activities the lodge has scheduled. He loved the exercise classes, always commenting “If you don’t keep moving, you will seize up”. He loved the stories that were read to them relating to “way back when”. He loved getting outside for fresh air and a walk, saying, “Had to make a mile.” He even made a mile on a treadmill and boy did he sleep that afternoon! Often times you’d find him sleeping on the lawn chairs outside the lodge. He even participated in the Terry Fox Walk, whick took him up the hill on Hwy. 41 as you are coming into Consort. He told everyone he did the Fox Trot. We thought they were dancing at the lodge!!

Dan went on his first plane trip to Las Vegas at the young age of 87. From then on, when he was in a vehicle going to pass another, he thought he was on West Jet again taking off. At the age of 92, he couldn’t imagine how the competitors on Dancing With The Stars could move like that, wishing he was that young again. Dan enjoyed the many family gatherings, which were every year in July to celebrate his birthday. Dan was very fortunate in all his 92 years never to have been hospitalized until his last days with us.

A memorial service was held April 23 at 2:00 p.m. at Veteran Hall. Following the service family and friends gathered for a time of fellowship with lunch and refreshments served.

Ethel Doris Lucille Olsen

(Oct. 19, 1921-April 23, 2010)

Ethel Doris Lucille was born on October 19, 1921 in the Cappon area to Carl and Muriel Smith, the oldest of four children. She passed away peacefully in the Big Country Hospital on April 23, 2010 with her family by her side.

She attended Normal School in Calgary and received her Teachers Certificate. In her 1941-42 year book it describes her as a girl full of life, who loved skating, basketball, and being a part of the Dramatic Society. She started her teaching career at the Kenmaul School. In those days a teacher would teach twelve to fifteen students in nine different grades. She would walk to school in the morning and stoke up the fire so that when the students arrived it would be nice and warm. She was the secretary and janitor at her school as well.

Ethel married Clifford Olsen on September 19, 1944 and they moved to the Agar Farm in January of 1945. While there, two children, Gene and Muriel, joined the family. In the fall of 1950, they bought a house in Oyen where Cliff supported the family as a drayman and Ethel supplemented the income by substitute teaching. It was in this year that Gloria joined the family. Then, in 1955, they bought the Agar Farm and that is where their dreams started to come true. Over the next five years three more children arrived to complete the family, Carol, Odean and Dianne. After twenty-five years on the farm they retired and moved to Cereal in 1981.

She enjoyed knitting as a pastime in her earlier years and made all the family members curling sweaters. She belonged to the Home & School Association, Library Board, and Lioness Club where she held many executive positions.

She spent many pleasurable hours in her garden and flowerbeds and had no problem making things flourish.

Ethel enjoyed travelling and went on several trips, including going to Alaska, Nashville, San Francisco, Hawaii, Newfoundland, Portland, Reno, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.

She belonged to the Golden Centre Group where she enjoyed making her delicious buns for the Christmas food hamper.

Due to ailing health, Ethel and Cliff moved to the Country Cottages in 2007. She enjoyed playing bingo and cards with the other residents. Mom rarely missed a bingo game in Cereal, Oyen, or Youngstown. In February of 2010, she moved to the Oyen Lodge until her passing.

Mom enjoyed being surrounded by all her family. All gatherings weren’t complete unless everyone was there. With six children, sixteen grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren, she was always surrounded with love and admiration. Mom was always proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments.

Ethel leaves to mourn her passing, her children Gene (Viola) Olsen, Muriel Sletton, Gloria (Garry) Pederson, and Carol Hok; daughter-in-law Barb Olsen; son-in-law David (Marilyn) Long; grandchildren Twyla (Kirk) Boehmer, Connie (Wade) Holbein, Heidi Olsen (Dave), Serena Olsen, Chad Olsen, Carla (Jeff) Hogan, Tyler (Lesa) Sletton, Lee (Holly) Peder-son, Michael Pederson, (Tiffany), Cindy Hok (Dannen), Cody (Kim) Hok, Bret (Elena) Olsen, Clint Olsen, Tamara Olsen, Clifford Long, and Brittany Long; great-grandchildren Emer, Rhys, Hope, Ryann, Maysen, Blake, Parker, Hudson, Bridget, Shelby, Spencer, Presley, Tristan, Kayla, Katie, Chace, Cody and Cheyenne; brother Elgin (Hazel) Smith, brothers-in-law Gerry Rumohr, Charles ‘Bud’ (Alice) Olsen; sisters-in-law O’Lena Peacock, Rose Olsen, Esther (Jock) Boulter and Eileen Olsen; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Ethel was predeceased by her husband Clifford; parents Carl and Muriel Smith; daughter Dianne; son Odean; brother Clarence; sister Marguerite; son-in-law Jim; brothers-in-law Henry ‘Hank’ Olsen, Chester Olsen, Jim Peacock; and sister-in-law Doris Olsen.

The Funeral Service was held Friday, April 30, at the Cereal Community Hall in Cereal, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke. The Organist was Sandra Ford. Hymns were: In the Garden, Amazing Grace and Beyond the Sunset. A eulogy was given by Carla Hogan and Cindy Hok. The Soloist was Marilyn Long who sang “I Will Remember You”

Pallbearers were Chad Olsen, Tyler Sletton, Lee Pederson, Michael Peder-son, Cody Hok, Bret Olsen, Clint Olsen and Clifford Long.

Honorary Pallbearers were The Cereal Country Cottages residents, & the members of the Golden Centre.

Memorials tributes may be directed to the Cereal Golden Centre, Box 187, Cereal, Alberta T0J 0N0; Village of Cereal (Cottrell Cemetery Fund), Box 160, Cereal, Alberta T0J 0N0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Cereal Golden Centre Group and the Cereal United Church Ladies at the Cereal Community Hall.

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

Daniel Mohl

(Sept. 8,1938 – April 21, 2010)

Danny Mohl passed away peacefully at home on April 21, 2010, with Shirley, his loving wife, and his family by his side.

Daniel Fredrick Mohl was born on September 8, 1938, the third child of John and Martha Mohl of Hanna, Alberta. Danny was raised on the family farm south of Hanna and attended school at Golden Hill. He took an Automotive and Diesel course by correspondence and completed it in Edmonton and later went on to gain his Canadian Interprovincial motor mechanic’s license. Dan worked in many local dealerships, and also operated a Turbo gas station and maintenance shop; as well as working a short time in a parts store and learning a little about the “computer”.

One of Dan’s greatest loves was farming. He purchased some land in 1960, and worked both jobs. He continued to farm after semi-retirement until his health no longer allowed him to.

Dan met the love of his life in 1959. He and Shirley were married in 1961 and enjoyed 48 1/2 years together. They settled in Hanna to raise their four children whom he was very proud of. During the years his children were growing up, Dan was active in many of the clubs when they played sports and was always an enthusiastic viewer of their games. Dan and Shirley enjoyed camping and travelling, journeying to many fun places after their family was grown. He enjoyed figuring out mechanical problems, wood working, gardening, fishing, making ice cream, and most of all, spending time with his family and good friends. Dan served on several boards and committees with First United.

Dan will be greatly missed by his loving family – wife Shirley; son David and Kris Mohl and their children Michele, (fiance Shane) and Kyle; daughter Audra and Darcy Limpert and sons Devin, Bryce and Nathan; daughter Kris and Murray Orr and sons Jeffrey, Ryan and Chad; and son Jay Mohl. Dan is also survived by his brother Elmer (Dorothy) Mohl, sisters Ruby (Fred) Acton and Jean (LeRoy) Peterson; in-law brothers and sisters Bob (Judy) Schooler, Karen (Murray) Kropinske, Bev Schooler and Fred (Wendy) Schooler; as well as many special nieces and nephews. He is also survived by aunt Bernice Ziemmer and numerous cousins.

Dan was predeceased by his parents John and Martha Mohl, in-law parents Loyal and Viola Schooler, brother-in-laws Don Schooler and Ernie Kropinske and many of his aunts, uncles and cousins.

Private burial and a celebration of Dan’s life was held on April 26, 2010 with Rev. Lynn Workman officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Dan’s grandchildren Michele and Kyle Mohl; Devin, Bryce and Nathan Limpert; Jeffrey, Ryan and Chad Orr.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to Tom Baker Centre in Calgary, Canadian Cancer Society (Relay for Life) in care of Michele Mohl (Box 432, Hanna, Alberta T0J 1P0), or a charity of choice.

Margaret ‘Peggy’ Smith Holt

(Oct. 1, 1909 – April 27, 2010)

With deep regret, the family of Margaret ‘Peggy’ Smith Holt would like to announce her passing on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, at the age of 100 years. Peggy will be sadly missed by her family and all whose lives she touched. Her great nephew said, “Anybody who says 100 years is enough, didn’t know Peggy.”

Peggy was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1909. She immigrated to Canada with her family at two years of age. Growing up Peggy lived in both B.C. and Alberta; she had many fond memories of her years in Drumheller. Peggy attended the Calgary Normal School as well as the University of Calgary where she received her Bachelor of Education. She devoted her life to her family and teaching – she always had a book in her hand. The day before Peggy passed away she was reading the newspaper.

In 1937, Peggy married Mr. Carl Holt, as a couple they shared 59 years of loving marriage. Together, Peggy and Carl raised two children, Warren and Carol. They resided in many communities; Carstairs is where they spent the longest time and where Peggy and Carl retired. Peggy had an amazing sense of humor, she enjoyed life to the fullest and loved travelling. She had many experiences that she loved to share and could make anyone laugh. In her earlier years, Peggy was a member of the Eastern Star, the United Church Women and was active in her United Church congregation. For the past 10 years Peggy has resided at the Chinook Winds Lodge in Carstairs; one cannot speak highly enough about the caring staff she had and about her life there.

Peggy is survived by her brother, Alex Brodie; daughter Carol Isaman; daughter-in-law Kaye Holt; grandchildren Christy Van Vliet (Daniel), Deanna Holt, Doug (Heather) Holt, and Derek (Nicole) Holt; great-grandchildren Jayden, Cooper and Ryerson Van Vliet as well as Noah Holt; and numerous nieces and nephews. Peggy was predeceased by her husband, Carl Holt; her son, Warren Holt; her parents, Alexander and Margaret Brodie; and her sisters Barbara Sharp (nee Brodie) and Jean Brodie.

The memorial service for Peggy Holt was held Tuesday, May 4th, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at the Carstairs Bancroft United Church, 1204 Hammond Street, Carstairs. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the charity of donor’s choice or to the Chinooks Winds Lodge, 1401 Gough Road, Carstairs, Alberta, T0M 0N0. Condolences may be forwarded to the family from www.mountain viewfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Mountain View Funeral Chapel, Olds, AB., phone 403-556-3223.

(Editors Note: Carl and Peggy Holt moved to Consort in August 1951 and he was the CPR Station Agent. They left in 1955.)

Dennis Dumaresq
(1938-May 3, 2010)

Dennis Dumaresq passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, May 3, 2010 at the age of 72. He is survived by his loving friend Solveig Dumaresq, his daughter Susanne Conant and her husband Matthew, his daughter Patty Deol and her husband Rajen, and his son Richard Dumaresq and his wife Shannon, his six grandchildren Jordan, Amy, Kurtis, Lucas, Saraya, Cecilia, and his brother Ron Dumaresq and his wife Sonia. Dennis was predeceased by his brother Charles Dumaresq.

A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, May 8th at 10:00 a.m. at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, B.C. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, #200 – 4940 Canada Way, Burnaby, B.C. V5G 4K6. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneral home.com

Mary Brusky

(March 5, 1917 – Dec. 20, 2009)

Mary Brusky (Schuler) was born at Schmidt, Saskatch-ewan on March 5, 1917 to Christian and Christina Schuler, the second oldest of 13 children, 10 boys and 3 girls. Both parents were born in Odessa, Russia and emigrated to the United States; Christina to Eureka, North Dakota in 1914 and Christian to Fairfax, South Dakota in 1909. They were married on March 19, 1914 at Medina, North Dakota and came north to Canada that same year. Mary was five years old when they moved to Burstall, Saskatchewan and she took her education there up to grade 8 which after her birthday had to quit school and work at home. Mary had many jobs over her life time and worked very hard, not only raising her daughters but farming side by side with her husband Adolf.

In 1941 Mary had a job at Golden Prairie, Saskatch-ewan housekeeping upstairs and a store down stairs; this is where she met her future husband and after harvest they were married on September 26, 1942. They were blessed with two wonderful daughters Beverly Ann on October 7, 1943 and Carolina Jane on May 5, 1945. They moved to Monitor, Alberta in 1948 and then in 1954 moved into Coronation where Adolf worked at building the new school and then took over the caretaking of the school. In 1981 Adolf retired after working at the school for 25 years. Mary and Adolf enjoyed traveling in their holiday trailer and Mary loved her flowers; kept busy crocheting, craft work, sometimes bowling and floor curling at the Drop In Centre.

Mary leaves to mourn her daughters: Bev (Roger) Butterwick of Brownfield and Carol Gagnon of Coronation; grandchildren and great grandchildren: Tim (Kelly) Gagnon and their children Jared Baggett, Jacob Gagnon, and Ashley Gagnon; Gloria Gagnon; Monty (Tammy) Butterwick and their children Ory and Payton Butterwick; Carla (Dwayne) Chopeck and their children Damien, Skye, and Deniver Chopeck; two brothers Sam and Rudy and one sister Matilda; as well as other relatives and friends.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Adolf Brusky in 1990; son in law Lou Gagnon in 2008; grandson Gary Gagnon in 2001; as well as eight brothers and one sister.

Funeral services were held at the Coronation Community Centre on May 21, 2010 with Pastor Rick Laurendeau, St. John Lutheran Church, Castor, officiating. Margaret and Barbie Evans offered there gift of music on the organ and piano. Mary and Adolf Brusky were laid to rest at Coronation Cemetery. Family and friends gathered in the Hall for a time of fellowship and a luncheon prepared by the Federal Friendship Ladies.

Memorial donations may be made to St. John Lutheran Church, Castor, Alberta T0C 0X0, Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation or STARS. If desired, condolences may be sent to Parkview@telusplanet.net and will be forwarded to the family.

Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and arrangements. For further information please call 403-578-3777.

Margaret Jean (Williamson) Yasinsky

(Nov. 22, 1922 – May 16, 2010)

Margaret Jean Yasinsky passed away in Stony Plain at the age of 87 years. Jean is survived by her daughter Judi, and son-in-law Darren Lucas, and three grandchildren; Trista, Keely, and Rylan; as well as many nieces, nephews and their children, plus other relatives and friends.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband Joe on November 30, 2009, brother-in-law Thomas Wiechnik, father John, mother Violet, sister Elizabeth, sister Eva, son Donald, mother and father in law, John and Anne Yasinsky, brother in law, John Yasinski, and sister in law Ann, as well as many other precious relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Jean were held Sunday, May 30, 2010 in the Monitor Community Hall with Jean’s niece Lucille (Yasinski) Butler officiating and Shirley Evaskevich giving the eulogy. The active pallbearers were Rylan Lucas, Keely Lucas, Bill Wiechnik, Robert Polson, Michael Wiechnik and Ryan Hagens. The honorary pallbearers were “All of Jean’s Family and Friends.”

Following interment in the Monitor Cemetery, family and friends gathered together for a luncheon and fellowship at the Monitor Hall provided by the ladies of the Monitor Community Association. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in Jean’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society or Stars Air Ambulance. Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with care and funeral arrangements.

Eulogy

by Shirley Evaskevich

Margaret Jean (Williamson) Yasinsky was born Nov. 22, 1922 at Kirriemuir, AB and passed away on May 16th, 2010 at the Good Samaritan Care Centre in Stony Plain, AB.

Jean spent her early years south of Kirriemuir with her mother and father and sister Eva. Jean’s father, John (Jack) Williamson came from Manitoulin Island, Ontario and homesteaded 5 miles south of Kirriemuir in 1918. His brother Harry was already homesteading along the lake shore. John married Violet Vert and started a family with Jean born November 22, 1922 and Eva August 24, 1924. In 1926 he rented the homestead out, and with Violet & two girls moved to Monitor to run the livery stable and dray business. Jean often remarked how wonderful it was when the train stopped with the circus on board because they would unload the animals so that they could water at their troughs. In 1929 he sold the business and moved back to the farm where Jean & Eva attended the Dry Lake School one mile to the east of them.

When the dirty ’30’s came along, it was so dry the girls would often get caught in a dust storm coming from school and were pretty dirty looking when they arrived home. Her mother would have hot muffins waiting for them when they got home on the cold winter days. Buffalo chips were used for fuel and it was their job to gather them after school, they made a hot fire. Jean reminisced about the day that her dad brought a baby rabbit home for a pet. How her sister Eva, my mother could mimic almost anything including her Dad’s whistle, and called in the horses from the pasture, much to her father’s disgust.

And how her dad made sleighs and in the winter they would hitch Mary’s (her cousin’s) horse up and go sleigh riding on the lake bank. Jean said “We made our own fun in those days! The folks entertained themselves with card parties at different neighbors, rolled up the rug and danced to the gramophone. ‘Aunt Jean was bridesmaid for Uncle Albert and Mary Vert who were married at the local Dry Lake School as it was the center for social events.

With the dust and grasshoppers there wasn’t much left of the crops to live on, so as many others did, in 1934 John moved his family to the Morrison district, then to Island Hill district of Vermillion.

After business school, Jean worked in a bank at Camrose and she worked in Vancouver, B.C. before returning to Monitor where she worked at the E.L.Johnson Store. Jean was always sharp with numbers, and did their own income taxes for many years. She could add a column of figures faster than anyone with a calculator.

Jean married Joe Yasinsky on June 17, 1949. They farmed 12 miles south of Monitor, where my brother Dennis and Lois live today. There were many fond memories of those days on the farm. They started their family there. On September 4, 1950, their son, Donnie was born and daughter Judi on September 4, 1958.

Cathy Wiechnik recalls that Aunt Jean enjoyed telling stories about Bill, when he was little. Apparently Carol and I enjoyed playing on the forbidden roof of the chicken house at the farm. We would not help Bill climb up so he ran and told on us, then hopped along side of Aunt Jean as she came down to the chicken coup asking “are you gonna give them a licken” Auntie? Are you?.” She would chuckle as she told the story. I could not remember why we climbed that chicken coup roof all the time. Dennis said it was because the mother cat always had her kittens in a hole in the roof. Sandra said, “Well I think we climbed everything we could didn’t we?” I think they were both right.

We all recall the wonderful chicken dinners Aunt Jean prepared at the farm, and it was served on her good green china plates that had rippled edges. When we were done we would run our forks over the rim to make a nasty sound which we promptly got heck for from Aunt Jean. Carol recalls making doughnuts at the farm and having the counters covered in doughnuts. Jean was a wonderful cook. We use many of her recipes today, in particular her hot fudge pudding and mincemeat recipes.

Judi recalls her mother’s cakes she made for the bake sales were always the first to go. Jean seemed to make a home where ever they lived. Her plentiful gardens were the envy of the neighbors. While her pickles were so terrific that the guys Joe worked with offered to buy some from her, she said they were never as good as the ones she made from the spring water at the farm.

In 1961 they moved to Red Deer where Joe began his career with Northwest Utilities and Banister Pipelines. Joe and Jean joined the Moose Lodge in Red Deer, and remained active members for many years, and gained life long friends there.

In 1965 Joe joined the Alberta Gas Trunkline force now Nova. He worked for them up until his retirement.

Over the years Joe and Jean lived on the farm south of Monitor, they made their home in Red Deer, Pincher Creek, Drumheller, Calgary, St Albert, Spruce Grove and Stony Plain. Each time Aunt Jean made a comfortable home. Jean loved to read and packed her favorite hard copy books from home to home until she finally decided to donate them to the library. Judy and Aunt Jean enjoyed some of the same authors. This family tradition continues as Keely not only loves to read but has taken technical writing.

Aunt Jean was a real homemaker in the truest sense. She liked to sew and used her old treadle sewing machine for certain items, like the time she made a boat cover for one of the neighbors. She taught Judi to knit, crochet, sew and cook, and taught her to count by playing crib.

Judi was their pride and joy. And it was multiplied when she wed Darren Lucas and gave them three precious grandchildren: Trisa, Keely, and Rylan. They loved to go over to Grandma and Grandpa’s to play games, and Grandma would teach them to count also. Sometimes they went camping, fishing, or went out for a drive. They always stopped to visit old friends when traveling. Jean liked to go on picnics, play cards and dance with Uncle Joe. Aunt Jean always was there to cheer on her family, especially Uncle Joe when he curled.

Aunt Jean had a way with animals, she had Rover their dog trained to wipe his feet at the door and she stood with a flyswatter, or was that for us?? I never was sure. I always thought she looked like Grandma from the Hillbillies when she shook that flyswatter at us (Rover). She had a cat trained to sit on the toilet seat; this really surprised a guest one time when they were having a house party. He thought he had had too much to drink.

Judi mentioned her mom’s love of animals as she talked about the little dog she had on the farm, the horses from when she was little as well as the other farm animals. She loved all the dogs Judi ever had and even liked Keely’s ferrets, couldn’t figure that out as a mouse would have her standing on a chair. Judi’s dachshund Reese always knew when Judi pulled up to Grandma’s because she would bark and cry until she got her out of the car; then she would track Grandma to her room. Grandma always gave the dogs treats and they were always good at looking pathetic so she would give them more.

Joe and Jean loved to travel and visited B.C., Montana, and Las Vegas often. They took trips to Palm Springs, Disneyland, Scottsdale, Nashville, Alaska, toured the oil sands in Fort McMurray, and Scotland. They took numerous bus trips. Jean cherished the time they attended the Williamson Reunion on Manitoulin Island, Ontario where they showed Judi and family, and nieces Carol, Shirley, Sandra, and daughter Jenna around the original Williamson Homestead. For Joe’s 80th birthday, they visited Joe’s niece Lucille at Picton, Ontario. But of all the places they seemed to favor coming home to the Monitor area to visit friends and family.

Cathy Wiechnik gave thoughts on Aunt Jean: “From when Billy and I were first married, Auntie Jean filled the role of my Mother-In-Law. She and I became very close when I stayed with her and Uncle Joe while I was expecting Michael. We would pour over her photo albums, and she would tell me about Bill when he was little, about his siblings too! And, so importantly, she told me so much about her beloved sister, Eva. I will always treasure those conversations I had with Auntie Jean. She, like Uncle Joe, always made all of us feel so special, so loved. It’s comforting to think of her now with Uncle Joe, Donnie, Tommy and Eva.”

Jean gave so much and asked so little in return. Joe and Jean were there through good times and bad. So I think they really flew under the radar so to speak as far as recognition is concerned. I guess in their passing we realize how much we took them for granted that they would always be there for us. The times you could call to visit, or drop in, or all the times they always showed up to be with the family to share events.

I would like to read to you a passage from a book entitled, Believing in Myself, by Ernie Larsen and Carol Hegarty: “It is said that true giving asks no return. There is no remembering, no expectation, no greediness for gratitude. And NONE OF US ARE TOO POOR TO GIVE LOVE, RESPECT, ATTENTION, ENCOURAGEMENT, TIME, CARING, ASSISTANCE, COMPASSION. These busy days perhaps the most precious gift we have to offer our family and friends is the gift of listening and being there for them. And we can never give the gift of attention without being repaid in deeper understanding. What we give comes back to us.”

Jean and Joe seemed to understand that concept well. We will truly miss you; it gives us much comfort to know you are together again.

Presented by Shirley Evaskevich, and are the loving memories of Aunt Jean by friends and family.

Edna Myda Halseth

(May 26, 1918 – June 2, 2010)

Life History

Presented by Tim Smawley

Edna was born May 26,1918 to Fred and Emelia Anhorn in Hilda, Alberta. Edna was the oldest of 6 kids, thus she took on many chores and jobs that had her working hard in the house and outside on the farm. Edna’s life took her many places in the Dirty Thirties but she eventually ended up in the right place – Consort.

On April 21st, 1939 Edna married Morton Halseth and they moved onto the family farm south of Consort where they raised three children: Martin, Myda and Valerie. Grandma “wore many hats” on the farm, keeping house, tending a big garden, milking cows, raising chickens and turkeys, and even running the tractor when needed. In the ’50’s Edna got her chauffeurs licence and drove bus to Freda school. Whenever a coyote happened to get too close to the farm Edna would take down the .22 and let loose a few shots. I was told she never hit any but scared them good. It’s a good thing too that she was a bad shot. One time when she fired at a coyote it started running towards her and it turned out to be Denise and Bob’s dog.

Edna was a member of the Loyalist W.I. and the Mizpah Rebecca Lodge in Consort. She was well known for her large beautiful loaves of bread, cabbage rolls, dumplings and cream, and Kuchen (german coffee cake).

Edna lost Morton in 1971 and decided her and Valerie would move to town, leaving Martin and Shirley to run the farm in 1972. She had to make regular trips to the farm though to see how things were going. Grandma especially liked going to the farm during harvest. She took many pictures of the combines working in the fields. Branding was also a special time for her, as she would walk around the corrals admiring the cows and calves.

Edna took great pride in her yard and garden in town. She was especially proud of her large hedge and insisted on trimming it herself. She enjoyed it when the grandchildren would stop by and then steal a carrot from her garden as we left. She would be shaking her finger at us and laughing at the same time.

Christmas was a special time for Grandma as she loved to cook and have the whole family to her house. Then Santa Claus would make special appearance to thrill and sometimes scare the little kids.

It was around this time that Tom Wiechnik came into Edna’s life and they became dear friends and companions. Edna and Tom, along with their good friends, travelled to Hawaii, Mexico and numerous other places. They also loved to go camping and fishing with friends and family. Edna and Tom spent many years together enjoying each other’s company.

I know we all have our memories of Grandma. Sometimes I would go stay with Grandma in town when our family lived on the farm. She was a great cook and I always liked when she would slice cucumbers with vinegar or make me pan fried potatoes for supper. We always had a good visit between all the weeds we would pull together.

Edna leaves to mourn her passing, son Martin (Shirley) Halseth, daughters – Myda (Paul) Smawley, Valerie (Floyd) Dempsey; grandchildren Denise (Bill) Simons, Bob (Terri) Halseth, Tim (Cherie) Smawley, David Smawley, Dwayne (Brenda) Smawley, Brenda (Joe) Schnurer, Karrie (Chris) Hall, Taryl (Doug) Abt, Tracey (Darren) Hays; great grandchildren Ryan, Dallas, Mikel Simons, Brittney Halseth, Brittaney and Kirsten Paige Smawley, Darien, Jenna and Meghan Smawley, Tia and Carter Schnurer, Kendis, Braden, and Jaren Hall, Lacey and Karlee Abt, Caylynne and Colby Hays; and one great great grandson Chase Simons; as well as sister Eileen (Doug) Glebe, and brothers Ted and Roy Anhorn.

Edna was predeceased by her parents Fred and Emelia; her husband Morton; brothers Herb and Art; sister- in-laws: Louise, Bessey, Jean, Helen, and Agnes; brother-in-law Paul; grandson Daryl; great granddaughter Jordyn and companion Tom Wiechnik.

Kathleen Hager

(June 11, 1922 – June 6, 2010)

Mrs. Kathleen Pearl Hager of Red Deer, formerly of Nanton, passed away at the Red Deer Regional Hospital on June 6, 2010 at the age of 87 years.

Kathleen will be dearly missed by her husband of 66 years: Nick, children, Maureen (Roy) Franklin of Sherwood Park, Larry (Lorna) of Consort, Ron (Terrie) of Brooks, Terry (Kathy) of Lacombe, Lynn (Ray) Miller of Ponoka, Cindy (Larry) McFadden of Calgary, Pat (Irene) of Calgary, David (Jill) of Calgary as well as 20 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren (and 2 more great grandchildren expected). Kathleen was predeceased by her sister Dorothy Dand and brother Robert Jary.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 6 McMillan Ave., Red Deer, on June 15, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.. The Rev. Fr. Les Drewicki celebrant. Interment will follow at Alto Reste Columbarium, Red Deer. If desired, in memory of Kathleen, memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice. Arrangements in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, High River.

Tribute To Mom

Kathleen Pearl (Jary) Hager

Hello, my name is Terry Hager and I have the honor of telling you a little bit about mom. Who was this fine lady? This Kathleen Pearl Hager? Her children simply knew her as mom but she was also a wife, daughter, a sister, an aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, sister in law but most importantly she was a friend. A kind soul who’s touch made you a better person.

Mom grew up on a small farm near Kerrobert, Saskatchewan with her mother, Ellen; father, Robert; brother, Bob and her sister, Dorothy. Circumstances were not always easy but they worked diligently to contribute to the family needs. Growing up, there was not always a lot of food in their cupboards which forced them to be a little creative when looking for something to eat. Mom often told us about eating onion or brown sugar sandwiches. It was during the hard times that mom discovered that the skin of the potato was the best part. This was long before potato skins became a fashionable appetizer.

Mom had fond memories of her family and found each of their losses very difficult especially that of her sister Dorothy who shared many lovely stories that kept mom smiling.

Mom enjoyed her school years and often told us about riding her horse to school when it was not needed for farm work. Occasionally the horse would decide to graze along the road making her late for school. This may have been where she learned the virtue of patience.

After finishing school mom proudly started working at the Royal Bank in Kerrobert. She set up housekeeping with a girlfriend, Anne Laing. This was her first showing of independence and it was very important to her.

Mom loved to dance and it was at a dance in Major, Saskatchewan where she first met dad. They enjoyed dancing together and taught us how to dance at the many socials and weddings in the community. Through the years mom and dad won several awards for their version of the old time waltz, Mom’s favorite.

Mom’s wedding day was a little stressful. Mom and dad were married on February 16, 1944. Unfortunately there was a tremendous snow storm the night before and none of dad’s family could attend. This stormy start to their union did not deter them from a successful marriage and partnership for the next 66 years.

With eight children, 20 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren running around it

Mom was very proud of her family and had her own way of letting each one of them know just how proud she was. I recall how she shed a tear when her youngest son Dave successfully completed the Penticton Triathlon.

While mom was very petite she had an inner strength that allowed her to persevere through the most difficult times. She was a master of time management before the term was even invented. She was the cook, baker, laundry service, gardener, seamstress, nurse, councilor, barber, painter and quite often a referee. But she never made us feel we were a burden.

I can’t say that mom was a harsh disciplinarian given what she had to deal with. One of her methods of disciplining us was to make us stand or kneel in the corner. This was her version of the modern time out. All of us kids gave mom heartaches at one time or another.

It may have been the fear of one of us drowning when rafting on the slough or making her wait up for us after a night out. Mom had difficulty sleeping until she knew everyone was home safe.

Mom always had a huge garden. Partly because she liked to garden and had somewhat of a green thumb and partly because it was a necessary part of raising a family of eight.

Mom loved to travel and shared that passion with her family at an early age. Each summer mom and dad would load up the car with suitcases and kids and take us to new and exciting places. When Maureen and Larry matured to the point where they could help out and look after us, mom and dad expanded their travels with trips to New Zealand, Australia, Russia, Hong Kong, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Europe and even to Rome to see the Pope. When they returned home mom would often have family and friends over to watch the movies and slide shows.

During the times when there was actually peace and quite in our home, mom would sit down and try to play the piano. I say tried because she was not very good at playing the piano. I think mom had a secret desire for one of her children to actually have some musical talent.

I recall when mom talked or perhaps bribed Ron into taking piano lessons. Every Saturday we would pile into the car and mom would drive us down the dirt road to Mrs. Hanson’s house in Loverna. On one occasion we were spared the torture of sitting through another music lesson as the muddy roads were more than mom could handle and we ended up in the ditch. Mom did not give up and Ron does know how to play the piano.

Mom was a devout catholic and her beliefs provided her with comfort and strength throughout her life. She was active with the CWL in Compeer and Nanton. Always willing to give a helping hand or do some baking for their tea parties and bake sales. Mom believed in being part of the community. When the Compeer community decided to hold a sports celebrity night to raise funds for a new arena mom volunteered to host Father Athol Murray from Notre Dame College. After moving to Nanton mom volunteered at the Lancaster Museum.

Most of you know that mom was a fabulous cook providing us with treats such as homemade bread, noodles, saskatoon pies, cabbage rolls and her famous buns.

Mom and dad were meant for each other. They would both go out of their way to greet people and make them comfortable. Mom always had a smile on her face and a greeting for everyone she met. They made a lot of long lasting friendships in Compeer, Nanton, Mesa and Red Deer.

In the past few months mom had to move many times and she was always able to make new friends with neighbors as well as the staff of the nursing home. Everyone would stop and talk to mom because she was always pleasant.

Mom will always be remembered for her loving smile that she shared with everyone she came into contact with.

On behalf of our family I would like to thank you for allowing us to share some of our memories of mom.

Gerald Alfred Edwards

(March 11, 1930-June 20, 2010)

Gerald Alfred Edwards was born on March 11, 1930 in Coronation, Alberta. Gerald passed away peacefully in the Leduc Hospital on June 20, 2010 at the age of 80 years.

Gerald was predeceased by his parents, Job Alfred & Doris Albertha Edwards. His memory will be cherished by his loving wife of 50 years, Arlene; his siblings, Edith, Leonard, Audrey, Donna (Art), Lois (Gordon), Ken (Marina) and Ron (Rosemary) as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

The funeral service to commemorate Gerald’s life took place at the Veteran Cemetery, Veteran, Alberta on Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. Gerald’s sisters Edith, Audrey, Donna and Lois sang “Where The Roses Never Fade” and “What A Day That Will Be”. Several members of the family shared memories of Gerald. Arlene read a poem written by Gerald’s Dad in 1963. Donna (Plante) Dahl played for the closing hymn, “When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder”. Active Pallbearers were Ken Edwards, Ron Edwards, Theresa Dyck, Glen Weins, Terry Weins and Eddie Bergstrom. Gerald was laid to rest beside his parents in the Veteran Cemetery. Following the service everyone gathered at the Veteran Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@ xplornet.com.

Irene “Fern” Cook

(Dec. 3, 1939 – June 22, 2010)

Irene Fern Cook was born December 3, 1939 in Consort, Alberta to Irenee and Mabel Benoit. She was the oldest, with three brothers, Joseph (died in infancy), James and Eugene. She started school in Hilldale in 1946, and in 1958 graduated from Major School. After Grade 12, Fern attended a year at Teachers’ College and her dream of becoming a teacher was realized. She taught in Abbey, Consort and Altario. Fern was always proud that she got to teach alongside her own Mom, Mabel.

Fern married David Cook on August 28, 1961. She taught school for a while, but quit when the kids started to arrive; Ron, Marilyn (died in infancy), Bernie, Elaine, and Les. She was involved in the Antelope Park Homemaker’s Club and the Major School Board. In 1977, she resumed teaching in Altario, teaching elementary and then Junior High. In 2004, after 28 years of teaching she retired. She was also active on the farm, helping drive the silage truck, or after school she would unload the grain trucks during harvest. Camping was always a favourite family holiday. She took pride in growing a garden and loved her flowers. She liked to read history books, do crossword puzzles and bird watch.

Mom liked helping with the cattle, whether that was chasing them, making tags, or just sitting during branding and writing down the tag numbers. She would bottle feed the newborn calves that would be brought into the basement in the middle of the night and even raised five baby piglets by feeding them with a doll bottle. We had many pets; cats, horses and the milk cow’s calves. Sport, our big old border collie was one of the family’s favourite. One night he was hit by a car coming into the yard, and Mom loaded him up and took him all the way to Coronation to the vet. The next morning, she and Margie headed back in the opposite direction taking him to Saskatoon. A couple of weeks later, we were able to bring him home and he was even allowed to stay in the house and sleep on the couch. Now that we are adults, we appreciate that she did not do all of that for Sport, but rather for us kids.

She was most proud of her grandchildren. She was excited when she had a chance to babysit them, show them around the farm and introduce them to the new kittens or baby calves. Every birthday a card would show up in the mail and the phone would ring with birthday wishes. She attended their figure skating competitions, hockey, ball games, curling games, dance recitals, Christmas concerts and plays. She loved them and was proud of each one of their achievements.

Mom was generous and compassionate. She was very proud of her brothers and their wives and she loved her nieces and nephew like her own. She liked to have our friends around and affectionately welcomed our spouses into the family. She supported our decisions and did whatever she could to help. In 1997, Mom showed us her strength when Dad was in the hospital, and she sat by his bed everyday for eight weeks until his passing. She bravely fought and won a battle against breast cancer in 2004.

Mom married Alfred Cook on July 20, 2002. Together, they lived and helped out on the farm near Loverna. Watching curling was a favourite past time in the winter and cheering on the chuckwagons in the summer. They were fortunate to have been able to travel throughout the States over the past few years and made many trips by bus, meeting new friends along the way.

Fern passed away June 22, 2010 at RUH in Saskatoon. She will be dearly missed by her husband, Alfred Cook, daughter, Elaine Stang (Lyle), sons, Ron (Jackie), Bernie (Bonnie), Les (Lisa) and grandchildren Chelsea (Tyrel) & Jared Stang, Christopher, Alyson, Taryn, Tanner, Alyssa & Shelby Cook. Also left to mourn her loss are her brother Jim (Margie), sister in law Peggy Benoit, brother in law Bert (Helen) Cook, sister in law Myrtle Cook, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by first husband Dave Cook, infant daughter Marilyn, parents Irenee and Mabel Benoit, infant brother Joseph Benoit, brother Gene Benoit, Mother & Father in law Albert and Margaret Cook, brothers in law George, Joe and Ab Cook.

The Funeral Service was held Saturday June 26, 2010 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Kindersley, followed by the interment at Loverna Cemetery. Active Pallbearer’s were Fern’s grandchildren: Chelsea and Jared Stang, Christopher, Alyson, Taryn, Tanner, Alyssa and Shelby Cook. Ushers at the church were Fern’s nieces Cheryl Herron, Yvonne Rowley, Marilyn Zunti and Crystal Benoit.

Donations can be made to: The Children’s Wish Foundation, Box 309, Saskatoon, SK. S7K 3L3.

Alanta Kristine Moulton

(April 29, 1993 – June 27, 2010)

Alanta Kristine Moulton

Today and always

our memories of you

will bring us

strength, pride and happiness.

You were a gift to the world

which will miss you dearly.

Born on April 29, 1993 in Red Deer, Alanta Kristine Moulton died at the age of 17 years in a roll over just outside of Ponoka on the 27th of June, 2010.

Alanta is lovingly survived by her parents Chuck and Pam Moulton, her sisters Cassandra and Samantha and her brother Connor; her grandparents Theresa Deleney, Bob Hitchens, Diane and Harvey Weimer and Amey Moulten; great-grandparents Walter and Ruth Souther and Edith Hitchens; aunts and uncles Angie and Jason Skene, Joanne and John Takala, Kathy and Andy Moulder, Jill and Aaron Thordorson, Neil (Kathleen) Olsen, Helen, Mitch, Katy, Hugh and Zoey; as well as numerous other relatives and friends.

Alanta was predeceased by her grandfather Gary Moulton and great-grandparents Stella and Cecil Deshner.

Alanta had called a few places home in her short time on earth. Alanta’s family has made Ponoka their home for the past four and a half years.

Alanta was an honor student that just finished grade eleven at the Ponoka Composite High School this year. She was thinking about being a teacher after spending time at the middle school helping with the grade six classes. This was the highlight of her day. Alanta also greatly enjoyed greeting and helping customers at the drive-thru’ window at Tim Hortons for the past year. She also volunteered at Andy and Tina’s Dance FX as a student helper. Alanta’s main passion was dance from the age of five years old, winning many dance awards over the past twelve years. She was hoping to be able to teach at Andy and Tina’s Dance FX as well as dancing her senior year this fall.

Family was important to Alanta. She spent a lot of time with her sisters and brother hanging out with them and just having fun or driving them to school or helping out her parents. We will miss her deeply.

Thank you for the donations gratefully accepted in Alanta’s memory to the Glenrose Hospital Foundation or the Stollery Children’s Hospital. At this time we would like to thank everyone for all their kindness, thoughts and prayers that have helped us through this very difficult time.

A Funeral Service was held on July 2nd at 3:00 p.m. at the Ponoka Funeral Home with Mr. Jerel Peters officiating. Interment followed at the Forest Home Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Ponoka Funeral Home.

Keith Bertram Caldwell

(Jan. 19, 1946 – July 3, 2010)

Keith Bertram Caldwell was born on January 19, 1946 in Consort, Alberta to parents Bertram and Dorinda Caldwell of Altario, Alberta. He was the sixth child of eight, with two brothers (Charles and Kenneth) and five sisters (Ruth, Doreen, Judy, Barbara, and Beverly). Keith grew up six miles south of Altario on the ranch now known as Buzzard Butte Ranch. He attended his first year of school at Wheatsheaf school, and then continued his schooling in Altario.

Keith was a very active youngster, participating in 4H and school sports such as basketball, volleyball and baseball. He also spent much of his time at home, riding horses and learning about farming and livestock. After he finished high school he decided to stay on the ranch and work with his father, gradually establishing his own herd of cattle. This herd has evolved over the years to consist of purebred Angus and Angus-cross cattle. Keith took pride in his Angus herd and was a longtime member of the Canadian Angus Association. Keith also enjoyed working with horses and put together a group of mares and a black Quarter Horse stud, from which he raised several foals.

In the fall of 1974 Keith purchased eleven quarters of land from Jack Laing and Keith’s father Bert, followed by the purchase of the home place from Bert and Dorinda in 1977. Buzzard Butte Ranch grew to consist of 47 quarters of deeded and leased land and several hundred head of cattle.

Keith was always a family man and in March of 1980 he married Bonnie Starke of High River, Alberta. Bonnie brought with her a daughter, Candice, who Keith adopted as his own. Their family quickly expanded to include Jennifer (1980), Angela (1981), Bertram (1983), and Jessica (1986). Keith enjoyed his children to the fullest extent and spent most of his leisure time with them, as well as with his numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him as their mischievous, teasing Uncle Keith.

In the most recent years Keith had been trying to slow down, taking time to fish and see his family, which was expanding again to include Matthew Harty (Jennifer), Amanda Caldwell (Bertram), and Craig Chapman (Jessica), and four granddaughters; Trinity Chapman, Ava Chapman, Braydee Caldwell, and Cheyanne Harty.

Keith will always be remembered for his love of family, community, the land he called home, and all living things.

Keith Caldwell of Altario, Alberta passed away on July 3, 2010 at the age of 64 years in Altario, Alberta. The funeral service was held on Monday, July 12, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Altario School with Pastor Robert Bachmann officiating.

Gregory’s Funeral Home Inc., of Provost, Alberta was in charge of arrangements.

Eulogy

By Frank Murphy

We are here today out of respect for Keith, his family, his friends, his neighbors, his community, as well as to value the time that we personally spent with Keith being a part of his life. The memories that we individually hold of Keith, the times we spent with him, and the influence he had on us will live on. I am sure that we have all reflected over the past week of times that we spent with Keith. I’m not here to say goodbye to Keith as I truly believe that as we live our lives with others it not only shapes who we become but also influences them – Keith will be a part of us forever.

Thank you Candice, Jennifer, Angela, Bert and Jessie and for asking me to do the tribute to Keith today, it is truly an honor. This past weekend was supposed to be a happy time for all of you, it was Jessica’s birthday and Jessie and Craig were going to be exchanging wedding vows. The family were to have been together and Keith would have been walking his youngest daughter down the aisle and spending time with his young Grandkids. This is an extremely difficult time to go through and we hope that you get comfort from those of us in attendance today, knowing that not only your Dad was important to us but you are also. This is a community with a very big heart and a very caring attitude – generations of Caldwell’s have contributed in building this feeling and this community. Our community has also suffered a loss.

I don’t remember when I first met Keith, it just seems that I have known him forever. Both sides of my family go back to being friends with the Caldwell’s ever since they moved to this area in the late ’20s. I was teasing Bert a little over a week ago about the mischievous Caldwell blood, Bert simply laughed and said “don’t forget that you have a lot of Domanski blood in you”. I have known and been friends with 4 generations from the Caldwell family and I know some of the Caldwell’s can claim the same of 5 generations of the Murphy’s. I am not exclusive here today as many other families have also had a long friendship with Keith and the Caldwell family.

Keith’s company was always interesting and entertaining. Five of us single guys took our first trip to Vegas together quite a number of years ago, I attended a number of Calgary Stampedes as well as bull sales, and horse sales with Keith. Keith worked hard but he also enjoyed having some fun.

From as far back as I can remember Keith enjoyed being mischievious and always was a terrible tease. I suspect that not only his ancestry but also growing up with 3 older sisters Ruth, Doreen and Judy and 2 older brothers Ken and Charlie was very much a contributing factor to this. I am also quite sure that his 2 younger sisters Barb and Bev were subject to Keith’s perfecting both of these traits. His kids tell many stories of Keith’s tricks, things like sending Bert out to pick up a coyote he had shot on the other side of the fence (a fence that he had just made one wire electric) and calling the girls to the window so they could also have some fun at Bert’s expense. (Keith always had the ability to take a joke as well as play one, and we have all heard him laugh in both of these situations).

I am going to start today by going through a number of memories that Keith’s kids have given me. We have visited about many of these things over the past few days and it definitely brings back good memories.

Memories of Dad

Angela remembers shopping in High River for a hook for Keith’s patio door – his hunting hook. Angela picked out a white one and was told it wasn’t classy enough.

Pancakes every morning for breakfast.

Always being woken up by Dad at 6 or earlier.

Macki Dog – Dad’s stuffed animal from childhood. It was rescued at every clean up.

Always having to have breakfast no matter what.

Always being up early even when on holidays.

Dad’s teasing of all kids.

Dad was always so supportive in kids ventures.

He always took pride in building things.

He loved to plant the vegetable garden.

Dad was always like a “big little kid”.

He loved playing and cuddling with his granddaughters.

Mailing photo radar tickets back with a note “Slow down. Love Dad”

Going down south on days that were so windy that dirt was blowing everywhere, just to look for arrowheads.

Watching “Who wants to be a Millionaire” reruns every night, or “Rawhide” reruns in the morning.

Could fall asleep anywhere.

Asking us if we saw the “Line” when we crossed a Provincial border.

Jess remembers dad always asking her if she wanted to stop and pee on train if we were passing one.

All of his LAME JOKES!!!

Him teasing Ava with “Head of hair, forehead bare, eye winker, tom tinker, nose dropper, chin chomper, gobble, gobble, gobble!!!” She loved it and waited for it whenever she saw him.

Taking Trinity out to do chores with him”. They teased each other constantly!!!

Jess remembers having to pull the truck over to let dad have a nap and trying not to laugh when he started snoring.

Keith was a hard worker, he believed it necessary to see 6 a.m. every morning. Holidays made no difference, whether he partied all night never interfered with seeing the early morning. When five of us young single guys went to Vegas, our rooms were fairly questionable, the windows could be opened from the outside simply by sliding them. Each and every morning Keith would invade our room at 6 a.m., he would already be shaved and showered and be wanting me to go to breakfast with him (after being in Vegas with Keith for a week we all had to come home for a rest). Last summer we were pleased to attend Bert and Amanda’s wedding. Quite a number of us were camped in the campsite in High River, we were camped just across from Keith. Brian had gone with Bert the night before and left his truck parked in Keith’s campsite. At 6 a.m. we could hear a horn blaring on and off, sure enough it was Brian’s truck. I grabbed the key and headed out, got the key in the ignition and the horn quit. Keith was hiding around the corner of his camper. He had been going to head down to Angela’s for breakfast and had hoped that Brian’s keys were in the truck so he could get it out of the way. After that he decided to walk over, although he woke half the camp site, everyone staying at Angela’s was happy that he got delayed as they got a few more minutes sleep. The other night I listened to Keith’s kids tell about their early mornings – sitting in the dark having breakfast at 5 a.m. during the winter, the early mornings all through their growing up years, right up to the present whenever Keith visited they could hear him moving around before 6. Keith broke his big toe one time by catching it in the power nozzle while vacuuming at 5 in the morning.

Keith’s evenings did sometimes suffer as a result of being a morning person. After having supper with his family one night Keith and I sat in the living room, within minutes Keith was napping. I slipped away to check a couple of things returning in an hour in which time Keith never realized that I had left, he was still catching his nap. Keith could fall asleep in a minute and enjoyed many afternoon and evening naps in his chair.

Keith enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping and the outdoors in general. He would get a deer licence every fall and spend time hunting usually with son Bert, Glen and other friends. Keith often put out a bait so that he could either shoot or shoot at coyotes in the winter. The last fishing trip down to Acadia Valley they limited out on fish. He enjoyed playing cards. Like his father before him he had a weakness for angus cattle and quarter horses.

Keith also had a very strong respect for the older generation. Through the years he spent a lot of time visiting his mom and many friends from that generation. I never saw Keith that he didn’t ask how my mother was doing.

Keith was a strong believer in community, he always carried at least his share of the work load. Whether it was helping out at disking, organizing an event, supporting 4-H, being a strong Lion’s member, or whatever else was happening within the community, Keith was always there helping. The last visit I had with Keith was when we mowed the cemetery a few short weeks ago. We had decided on the spur of the moment on a Sunday to mow it. I was having trouble finding anyone at home to help but when I phoned Keith, he said he would be there if he could get his lawn mower working. Sure enough when he pulled the rope his mower started with an immediate blue smug surrounding it. The mower ran all the time it took to mow the cemetery but I kid you not when I say at times the blue smoke was so bad that we virtually couldn’t see Keith.

It was always refreshing to hear Keith’s answering machine pick up with Keith stating, “Buzzard Butte Ranch, please leave a message, the Buzzard is out”. I am sure that many of us have left the Buzzard a message.

I would again like to offer our condolences to the Caldwell family. Daughters and son: Candice, Jennifer and Matt (Hardy), Angela, Bert and Amanda, Jessica and Craig (Chapman). Grandchildren: Ava, Trinity, Braydee, and Cheyanne. Sisters and brothers: Ruth, Doreen, Ken, Charlie (Myrtle), Judy (Willie), Bev (Tim), and Barb (George). So many nieces and newphews. Clarence who loyally worked with Keith for so many years. Cousin Glen (Harriet) who have always been available to either go fishing, play cards, or lend Keith a hand at any task. As a community and as friends our hearts have gone out to you today and we share your loss.

Douglas William Tanaschyk

Douglas William was born March 6, 1937 on the family farm at Hemaruka, Alberta, the only child to Steve and Mary Tanaschyk.

Doug grew up on the farm and rode his pony Skeezics to Lawrence School three miles north of home until it closed. He then transferred to Hemaruka School where he would spend the winter months with his uncles Nick and Alex on the Dybak farm east of town. He would travel home on weekends on his horse Kipper.

After completing his schooling Doug worked on thrashing crews in the fall and helped out his uncles and special friend Albert Wroe with their farm work. His friendship continued with Albert until his passing and with his nieces Margaret and Renie.

In 1955 Doug graduated from Chicago Vocational Training (now known as NAIT) with a diploma in General Welding Both Gas & Electric. In 1962 he went to work at the Coronation Auction Mart and told numerous stories throughout the years.

On June 19, 1964 he married Johanna Koppenol and lived on the Tanaschyk farm with his parents. To this union three children were born, Perry in 1965, Annamarie in 1967, and Larry in 1968. He farmed with his parents and wife until his Dad’s passing in 1973 and continued with his Mother and was joined by his own children.

In 1972 Doug started driving feeder bus for Neutral Hills school division and continued to drive for 28 years until his retirement in 2001. His mother Mary moved to town in 1982 and Doug farmed with his family until 1998 when they sold their cows and semi-retired on the farm. He continued to help Perry and Larry with farm work right to his passing on the family farm July 1, 2010.

Doug was predeceased by his father Steve in 1973; his mother Mary in 1993; his father-in-law Mart Koppenol in 1970; his mother-in-law Johanna Koppenol in 1987; and one brother-in-law Cor Koppenol in 2000.

He is survived by his loving wife Johanna; their two sons Perry (Janice) and Larry (special friend Michelle Brousseau) all of Hemaruka and daughter Annamarie (Danny) Beier of Altario; seven grandchildren Gena Tanaschyk, Morgan and Haley Beier, Kaitlyn, Kelby, Lyndi, and Lia Tanaschyk; one brother-in-law Mart (Gloria) Koppenol of Hanna; one aunt Edna (Don) Todd of Coronation; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.

To Douglas from Danny

Doug was a man with simple tastes in life. He didn’t need any fancy frills, bells or whistles, expensive clothes, just a plain old simple way of life, with lots of hard work and lots of fun. When I first met Doug & Joanna, I liked them right off the bat. Their honesty and caring of people were only a couple of traits that stood out right away. Before long the “Like” turned into “Love” and the love remains stronger than ever today. I liked to tell Doug jokes and funny stories then watch him laugh, with mouth wide open and one old tooth protruding from his gums. It kind of reminded a person of a pumpkin on Halloween with a great big smile with one tooth carved out. After meals, I used to offer him a toothpick, but he declined and just shook his head. It was not too long after Anna and I were married when Doug, Perry, Tim, Anna, myself, and Robin went to Doug’s neighbour to buy some heifers. It was a cool day, and we were standing in the barn chatting, when this male cat came wondering by and layed at our feet and began licking his own privates. Brother Tim asked Robin if he wished he could do that. Quickly I jumped in and said, “I don’t think the cat would let him.” Well we thought the roof of the barn was going to lift from Doug’s howling laughter. I was happy to make him laugh and I know he appreciated the humour in life. Douglas, I would like to thank you for sharing your wonderful daughter Anna with me. Together Anna and I raised two great kids and I hope you can look down on them and be as proud of them as we are of you. You raised two fine sons with Johanna, who have become two of my best friends. You raised a fine family and are the envy of any man. Your way of life was second to none and everyone appreciated what a fine man you were. As I look up, I can imagine you driving your John Deere tractor across the green fields of heaven only to stop and listen to music of fiddles and harps that fill the heavenly skies. Thank you Douglas for being a great Father-in-law and you shall remain in my heart forever. Good-bye and we all love you. Love your Son-in-law, Danny

Tribute to Papa

Some of my memories of Papa are when I peed the bed and he told me I should start wearing rubber pants. He bugged me and I bugged him for a long time. When Papa, Me, Dad, and Uncle Tim were playing sequence Papa would lay down the queen of diamonds and put it on the queen of hearts. From there on I called him eagle eye. He would get mad at me and I would just laugh. Papa was always making jokes about me, and would always get the room laughing. I would come up with some smart remark which would never be as funny as what he said. The last time Papa and Grandma visited they slept in my room. I had a poster with a girl wearing a bathing suit that I thought was hot. After getting settled Papa soon called me down to talk to him. When I arrived he was sitting on the bed looking at the poster. Thinking I was going to catch trouble, I cowered beside Grandma. To my surprise Papa congratulated me and said he was proud that I like women and not men. Papa always made me feel good, and many more things. My favourite memory of him is at Christmas time when me and the girls were singing Toes in the water and Papa finished off the song for us. I love him so much and greatly miss him.

Morgan

My Papa was a Father, Son, Grandfather, Uncle. He was a very nice man. He would do anything for anyone just to help them out. He was also a very simple man. I remember when we were all little we could not say Grandpa so we started to call him Papa. A memory that I really remember is his whisker rubs. I sure miss them. Me and my Dad brought eggs over one morning and Papa made me coffee. Whenever we did cows he used to drive his quad over to our house and then me and him would drive out and help Dad. When Halloween came he used to dress up as the boogie man and sit in a tree and Grandma said he went to bed because he had a head ache! I loved to have sleepovers at their house because Pap would spoil you and Grandma would tuck you in so tight you could not move. They would give me a kiss and a glass of water. How I loved sleep over.

Kaitlyn

Everyone enjoyed Papa’s ever so passionate whisker rubs. Us kids would laugh with joy and beg for more. On gloomy days all you would need to cheer you up was one of Papa’s whisker rubs. I remember going to Grandma and Papa’s after school or any sports game. He’d ask me how school was going, what was going on or what the score of my game was. I remember our inside joke about mushrooms. Every time I walk past a mushroom I think of him. When Papa helped with cows he’d take the end of the cane and try to hook your leg with it. I remember drinking coffee with him in the mornings or having lunch with Grandma and Papa. I also remember coloring pictures for him and reading stories or listening to the radio with him. I remember staying with them after school during harvest. Whenever I took the mail over Pap would ask if I rode my bike. While he was reading the paper I’d bug him by asking a million questions or by flicking the page he was reading to see if we would lose his spot. He’d give me a hard time and tell me to stop. But it would only satisfy me and I’d start doing it again. We all love you Papa and will miss you! Gena

Papa was a strong, intelligent man. He tried his hardest to keep us grand kids out of trouble, but he would always say we were too fast for him. Sometimes when we came over he was sleeping or sitting in his chair eating hickory sticks. Every Halloween Papa would always tell us about the boogie man. This past Christmas we were all together as a family. We decided to put some music on. The two songs that played were Bad Romance and Toes. Papa surprised us by singing “Toes” along with us. Papa was always telling stories, some were about him when he was younger, some were about us grand kids. Papa would always say “keep on moving forward”, so let Papa’s heart rest in peace.

Kelby

Papa had a great personality. He loved to farm, he always wanted to work. He could put long hours in a tractor. He could tell a story no problem; you can be sitting there one minute bored out of your mind and the other laughing your pants off. He loved to read the newspaper and sleep. What I liked best in my life was talking to him. Now I will give anything to talk to him again. I will never forget him no matter what. I love you Papa, may his sole rest in peace. Lyndi

Papa loved hickory sticks. He loved to ride in the tractor. Every time I went to Grandma and Papa’s house he would be asleep or sitting in his favourite chair. Everyone loved him and misses him.

Lia

I remember Papa’s booger finger that he used to tickle me with and teasing him! Papa would give me whisker rubs and make my cheeks turn pink. Haley

The funeral service to commemorate the life of Doug Tanaschyk was conducted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. in the Hemaruka Community Hall, Hemaruka, AB with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Special music was played by Eddie Ference, Dave & Sheila Robinson. The eulogy was given by Dwayne Glasier. The grandchildren’s tribute and Danny Beier’s tribute were read by Dwayne Glasier. Active Pallbearers were Perry & Janice Tanaschyk, Larry Tanaschyk, Annamarie & Danny Beier, Gena Tanaschyk, Morgan Beier, Haley Beier, Kaitlyn Tanaschyk, Kelby Tanaschyk, Lyndi Tanaschyk and Lia Tanaschyk. Honorary Pallbearers were Everyone in attendance at the funeral service. The interment followed the service at the Senkiw Cemetery. Lunch, which was prepared by Lee’s Catering, was served at the Hemaruka Community Hall. Memorial donations may be given to Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 1-020 HRIF-EAST, University of Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, T6G 9Z9, Senkiw Church and Cemetery, Box 578, Veteran, AB, T0C 2S0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@ xplornet.com.

Kelly James Hager

Kelly James Hager passed away peacefully with his family at his side at the age of 49. Kelly leaves to cherish his memory his father Jerry and stepmom Kay, his siblings Barry (Joyce) Hager, Julie (Dieter) Stemmann, Trish (Jim) Hirsekorn, Dan (Michele) Hager, Eve (Dave) Lantz, Rose (Dan) Cowan, Rita Hager (Jerry Edwards), Bonnie (Bernie) Cook, Laurie (Darby) Gagnon, Trina (Mike) Kobley, numerous nieces and nephews, his dear friend Shelly Olmstead and his faithful dog Jake. He was predeceased by his mother Mary.

Kelly was employed in the oilfield industry, liked the outdoors and he took pride in his gardening, landscaping and handyman skills. He enjoyed socializing with the many friends he met throughout the years.

Kelly liked to keep things simple and always had a joke or amusing comment to make you laugh. One of his favourite sayings was, “Why say marmalade when you can say jam?” We will miss him and his sense of humour.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the EMS and ICU staff, and the doctors of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for their compassionate care.

The funeral mass was celebrated in the Holy Family Parish (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Thursday, July 22, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. with Fr. Keith Sorge celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ‘Halo’ c/o Southern Alberta Medic Air Society, #12 49 Viscount Ave SW, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 5G5. Please make cheques payable to Southern Alberta Medic Air Society.

To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Kelly Hager, or you may visit www.gonebutnot forgotten.ca and leave a message of condolence.

Arrangements are by the Pattison Funeral Home and Crematorium 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 2V6.

Eunice Marie Geddes (Nee Sullivan)

(April 1, 1931 – August 8, 2010)

On August 8, 2010, Eunice Marie Geddes of St. Albert passed away peacefully after a wonderful life. She was a beloved wife to Dave, and Mom to Kathleen Beard (Ron) and Keith Geddes (Michelle); also a loving Grandma to Madeline, Kaden and Naomi whom she loved dearly. She will also be missed by her numerous nieces and nephews, and many wonderful life-long friends. Her kindness and compassion touched the lives of many.

Born in Consort, Alberta, April 1, 1931 by the capable hands of Dr. Day in the ‘old’ hospital. She moved to Edmonton to attend Alberta Collage, and later she and Dave settled in St. Albert to raise a family. Eunice was an active member of St. Albert United Church, a tireless volunteer for The Canadian Cancer Society, and a founding member of the local branch of Amnesty International.

She was predeceased by her parents Florence and Morris ‘Sully’ Sullivan and her two brothers Maurice Sullivan (1976) and Donald Sullivan (2008).

A memorial service will be held at St. Albert United Church on Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society, Amnesty International or St. Albert United Church.

The family extends special thanks to Eunice’s family physician of St. Albert and the gentle care and compassion of the staff at Capital Care Norwood Palliative Hospice.

Fred Keith Tye

(Dec. 18, 1917-Aug. 10, 2010)

Fred Keith Tye was born on December 18, 1917 on his father’s homestead at New Brigden. He was the first son born to Rodney and Jane Tye.

His family left the farm and moved into New Brigden when he was a child, but he spent most of his time growing up and helping on his Grandfather Frank’s farm. Fred went to school at New Brigden and for two years went to school at Brigden, Ontario.

In 1940, Fred joined the RCAF in Calgary. He served in the war for five and a half years but was unable to go overseas. He was stationed in Toronto, Vancouver, Vulcan, Ottawa, Whitehorse, Grande Prairie and Saskatoon. Fred also travelled across Canada by train at least five times, taking German prisoners across the country.

Fred met Blanche Jorgenson and they married on December 27, 1941. Together they had six children, Darrow, Sandra, Gordon, Ralphie, Nelson, and Debra. Remarkably Fred and Blanches’ anniversary and their only two daughters birthdays were the same date, December 27.

In 1945 he worked as a fireman for the CPR at which time he purchased more land and returned to the farm and ranch full time. He had a deep love for a good horse. Fred especially enjoyed saddling up horses with his daughters and granddaughters and riding through the hills together. He trailed horses from New Brigden to Bentley for Gerald Wilson with Hilton Barber, Bill Cunningham and George Wilson in 1935.

Fred named the New Brigden History Book “From Buffalo Chips to Natural Gas.”

Sports, particularly hockey, baseball and curling were a very important part of his life either by coaching or being a fan. Gordon made the statement that if anyone happened to walk in front of the TV while the hockey game was on, the results weren’t good.

He was also a very active 4-H leader. He gained a lot of satisfaction and enjoyed working with the young people. Fred was a faithful member of the Oyen Legion, Oyen Crocus #82, and Oyen Serenity #113 Eastern Star.

Fred moved into the Oyen Lodge in 2001 and then in 2004 he moved to the Extended Care Facility following surgery.

Fred is survived by his three sons, Darrow (Carol), Gordon, Nelson (Laurie); grandchildren Rhonda, Darrin, Jacquelyn, Jennifer, Jody, Jari, Jillayne, Riley, Quinten, and Branden; and twenty great grandchildren; two sisters Ethel Brydges and Vera Tye; brothers-in-law Fred Jorgenson, and Ralph (Marvel) Jorgenson; sister-in-law Shirley Jorgenson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife Blanche (1976); daughters Sandra (1966) and Debra (1976), son Ralphie (1971); granddaughter Maxine (1976), mother Jane (1943); father Rodney (1951); sister Irma (1991); and brother Ken (2007).

Funeral Service was held Saturday, August 14, at the New Brigden Community Hall in New Brigden, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Rev. Catherine Holland. Marvel Jorgenson was the organist and Joyce Radcliffe was the bugler. “Dusty Old Farmer” was sung by Ralph Jorgenson. A tribute was given by Rita Dillabough. Hymns were “Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace.” Pallbearers were Riley Tye, Quinton Tye, Branden Tye, Jackie Friesen, Jennifer Dumanowski, and Darrin Tye. Honorary Pallbearers were the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #208, Oyen Crocus Branch #82 Masonic Lodge, and Serenity Chapter #113 Order of the Eastern Star.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation (Auxiliary Fund), Box 150, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Jeff Anheliger

(August 12, 2010)

On Thursday, August 12, 2010 at the Stettler Health Care Centre, Jeff passed away after a four month battle with cancer. At the age of 46, Jeff will be remembered forever by his loving wife Nadine; their three sons: Chad, Kyle (Jenna Jorgenson) and Reese. Jeff is survived by a sister Marie Chays; two brothers Tim (Deb) and Lorne (Brenda); Nadine’s parents Lawrence and Izella Hunter; in laws Carmen (Roger) Brown and Graham (Beth) Hunter; numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends all of whom mattered very dearly to Jeff.

Jeff was born in Saskatchewan but at a very early age the family moved to Kelowna, BC; it was here Jeff grew up and received his education. He spread his wings at a young age, moving to Frontier, SK and Lloydminster, AB to work. It was at Lloydminster he met Nadine Hunter; they soon married and moved to Kelowna, Sylvan Lake, Consort and finally Stettler. As a heavy duty mechanic in the oil patch he soon started his own business “Truck & Tractor,” later he worked for two different companies in the Edmonton area.

Jeff was an avid sportsman, he loved golf and hockey. Coaching his sons hockey teams was the ultimate for him, he would drive to Stettler from Edmonton for a game or practice and then return to Edmonton after completing a full day of work. Sometimes Jeff had to coach from the stands or outside the building though!!

Jeff also excelled at repairs and home renovations as attested by the work he did in their house in Stettler. He was always ready to give a helping hand to anyone or everyone who asked – it had to be done and done right!

There are many stories of Jeff and we all have our favorite, we will remember him.

Gone But Not Forgotten – Rest In Peace Jeff

Funeral services were held at the Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium on August 16, 2010 with Rev. Ross Helgeton officiating. Lorne Anheliger and Carson Cole gave the loving tribute. Scripture readings and a poem were presented by Jeff’s sons, Chad, Kyle and Reese Anheliger. Carson Cole and Deb Stone sang Amazing Grace and Linda Osetsky played for the congregational hymns. Family and friends gathered in the Heartland Reception Centre for a time of sharing and a luncheon by Pass the Pepper.

If desired memorial donations may be made to the Stettler Health Services Foundation – Palliative Care. Condolences may be sent to the family at sfchapel@telusplanet.net and will be forwarded on. Cremation has taken place and Jeff’s cremated remains will be taken home to Saskatchewan.

Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium, 403-742-3422.

Larry Seim

(Sept. 19, 1946-Aug. 1, 2010)

Larry Melvin Seim was born September 19, 1946 in Consort, Alberta. He passed away August 1, 2010 after battling Parkinsons disease and dementia.

Larry was a beloved husband to Gayle and devoted to son Ryan and daughter Lana. Larry is also survived by his mother Nancy Tainsh of Stettler, three sisters: Connie Barritt of Alix, Corinne (Elmer) Beier of Stettler, Norma (Gerald) Rehman of Consort, one brother Arnold (Heather) Seim of Chauvin, Uncle Alf Seim of Ontario, Aunt Gladys Hill of B.C. and many other relatives and friends.

Larry was predeceased by his father Otto in 1963.

Larry first attended Antelope Park School, often riding his horse, and finished high school in Altario. He enjoyed playing basketball during those years but really loved the dances across the street. Larry took one year of college in Camrose, then worked in the insurance business. He found the Arthur Murray dance academy and began his passion of teaching others the joy of dance.

In 1970, he married Gayle Jackson and between dances they had a son, Ryan in 1976, and a daughter, Lana in 1983. The four of them continued dance lessons. Larry set up a DJ business which Ryan took over later on. The family “teaching bug” came along and Larry was a driving instructor for some time. He became involved in business, some health related, as he believed in taking good care of the body. He had the “gift of gab” so was a true salesman. In between this, he helped Gayle in home schooling the kids and the results are two fine, caring young adults with positive attitudes. He was so proud and deservedly so. The family enjoyed working together, riding horses, fixing, etc. on their acreage near Wetaskiwin.

Larry passed away on August 1, 2010 in Edmonton after spending a few years at Good Samaritan Care Centre. A private graveside service was held August 7th at Wetaskiwin. A lovely farewell, complete with music, singing and a waltz by Gayle and Ryan.

Eulogy

By Connie Barritt

It is very enlightening to reflect on the life of a member of one’s family, as it seems to give insight into things we sometimes had not consciously recognized before. When Larry was about 15 and suddenly appearing in our room and demanding that us girls teach him to dance half an hour before the dance started, we were startled, then dismayed (this is going to be hard!!), then amazed as after a few sessions of this he was doing so well – he did pay attention to the little details that we suggested made for a good male dance partner. This partially made up for the ‘slight frustration’ we would feel if Larry got into the bathroom and paid absolutely no attention to our demands that he please hurry up as there were three more of us who had to get ready.

I came across his little homework notebook and marveled at how neat and detailed it was, and noticed the same decades later, on his desk where he kept track of his clients, etc. A sense of needing to portray professionalism pervaded everything he did from his sales pitches to his dancing instructing to his horse riding. Perfect planning and timing seemed to be his passion in his business life, although sometimes plans went amiss when trying to get to family affairs on time!

Does the word ‘stubborn’ feel as appropriate to you as it does to me when thinking of one aspect of how to describe Larry? Or would ‘determined’ sound better? He was certainly that when he wanted to learn to dance, when he was becoming a salesman, when he was riding his horse. I was so surprised to see Larry show us how he could play the accordian, then when he sarted to sing, I was dumbfounded. Both of these skills he developed when his own kids were little; he was determined to be the best example a father could be to the pride of his life, Ryan and Lana. It is not often that a parent is able to successfully give instruction to his child, but he sure was able to teach them how to dance in a manner that I believe could compete on “So You Think You Can Dance”. He was so proud of his children, their names were so often on his lips, and he was so adamant that they could be successful in their life. I heard him speak often of the love of his life, Gayle. He remembered so much about and thought so highly of his Mom even down to one particular flowered dress that he always thought looked so nice on her.

When asked how things were going, Larry would often say, “Well, there are challenges”, which portrays the sense of optimism that he always seemed to have. In the last few years these ‘challenges’ seemed to start overwhelming him; we didn’t know that disease was contributing to the problems. There are not many who could deal with intense challenges and still manage the sense of humor which will, at least for me, always bring a smile when I think of him. His typical humor was even displayed last month when he was in hospital. I talked to the nuirse who had been with him for three days, and she related how, when she went to leave the room she said, “I will be right back.” Larry retorted, “Don’t hurry” – the nurse had been poking him so much with the needles. Mention an old recitation and Larry would launch into a perfect rendition. Talk about the ‘old days’ – Larry could tell us a story or two.

I did take a few dance lessons from Larry, and his comments to his students were always the same: “The job of the woman is to make the man look good”. I have met and danced with a few of his students who were just so appreciative of how good an instructor he was. As ironic as it is that his dancing feet were the first part of his body to give out, I can see Larry now, dancing on the stars, shadow dancing with his kids. So Ryan and Lana keep dancing your best, as will Norma, Corinne, Arnold and I, often with Mom watching. We will carry on his legacy that “To dance is to live, to live is to dance”.

Robert Hobbs

(Jan. 14, 1928-Aug. 9, 2010)

Robert Hobbs passed away at his home in Redding, California on August 9, 2010. Bob is survived by his loving wife of nearly 57 years Eileen; son Randall, wife Kathy and family of Chico; daughter Holly, husband Mark Honeck and family of Orlando, Florida; and daughter Leslie and husband Jack Hubbard and family of Weaverville.

Bob enjoyed growing up in Washington, Oregon and California, graduating from high school in San Luis Obispo then enlisted in the Marine Corps.

After his military service Bob worked various jobs in Oregon and Montana and began working in oil exploration in his early 20’s. He was sent to Alberta, Canada where he worked as a surveyor and met and married his wife, Eileen (Kelts). They spent three years traveling between the Gulf Coast and northern Alberta.

In 1956 Bob and Eileen moved to San Luis Obispo, California where he attended Cal Poly, graduating in 1960 with an Architectural Engineering degree. In 1965 the family moved to Redding, in 1966 he became partner in a local surveying and engineering firm, eventually taking over the Redding office, forming R.E. Hobbs & Associates Civil Engineering and Land Surveying in 1968. As a licensed land surveyor and registered civil engineer, he completed projects throughout the north state before closing his office in 1991. He continued consulting for several local engineering firms then worked out of his home until his death.

Bob became a charter member of the Enterprise Lions Club in 1970 and continued to be a staunch advocate of Lionism for 40 years.

He was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman.

One of Bob’s great pleasures was his annual bird hunting trip to Alberta each fall.

Bob’s family and friends are grateful for and will miss his enthusiasm, intelligence, sense of adventure, passion to learn, loyalty, integrity and good humor.

A celebration of life was held for Bob at Allen & Dahl Funeral Home in Palo Cedro

on Saturday, August 14 at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in his honor to Enterprise Lions Club, PO Box 493308, Redding, California 96049.

Natalie (Tolly) Kromm

(April 15, 1920-Aug. 21, 2010)

Tolly passed away at the Stettler General Hospital on August 21, 2010 at the age of 90 years after a short battle with lung cancer. Tolly was born on April 15, 1920 in the town of Hemaruka, Alberta.

Tolly was raised and attended school in the Hemaruka and Veteran areas. She met and married Elmer Connor on December 7, 1937. To this union, three daughters were born: Millie, Norma and Marie and they were raised on the family farm. For many years, salesmen traveled throughout the area and they would come and see Tolly for hair cuts. This was extra income for her and her family during hard times. During the late 1940’s the family moved to a farm south of Stettler and continued farming. Tolly was kept very busy with her huge garden and the chickens she raised. In the early 1960’s, Tolly and Elmer moved to Stettler and then shortly there after divorced.

Tolly then met her second husband Gerald Kromm and after many years together they married on October 12, 1974. In 1975, Tolly and Gerald made the big move to Consort where they lived for 27 years. They truly enjoyed their time in Consort but finally moved back to Stettler in 2001 to be closer to the ever growing family here. After Gerald’s passing in 2005, Tolly finally made the move to Willow Creek where she resided until she got sick and she spent the last few months in the Stettler Hospital.

Tolly was an avid gardener both with her flowers and vegetables. She always had a garden big enough for several families and got so much enjoyment out of canning and freezing as many things as she could. She loved cooking and baking right up to the time she moved into Willow Creek. There was never a day that the family left her place without her sending some of her canning, freezing, cooking or baking home with them.

Another of Tolly’s hobbies was playing cards. Many an hour over the years were spent playing cards with her family and friends and she even learned how to play Texas Hold’em in her eighties and absolutely loved it. Tolly lived for all her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She LOVED babies and children. She was the happiest when they were around her.

The last of 14 children, Tolly was predeceased by her 5 brothers and 8 sisters and her parents as well as her daughter Marie in 2002, her husband Gerald in 2005 and her son-in-law Ted and grandson Darcy in 2007.

Tolly is survived by her 2 daughters: Norma (Jim) MacDonald, Stettler and Millie (Ken) Wayne, Parksville, BC; her 9 grandchildren: Michelle (Dick) Bowles, Stettler, Michael MacDonald, Stettler, Gary Bjornson, Whitecourt, Vern (Renee) Bjornson, Calgary, Barry Bjornson, Vancouver, BC, Carl (Tracy) Bjornson, Sherwood Park, Rick (Pat) Leicht, Whitecourt, Bill (Candice) Leicht, Stettler, Leanne (Niel) Thiel, Stettler, her granddaughter-in-law: Debbie Leicht, Calgary and her special 18 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home on August 26, 2010 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Debbie Stockdale officiating. Mr. Dick Bowles presented the eulogy. The Great Great grandchildren Brodey Bowles, Chariti Dahl, Natalie Bowles, Kenton Marshall, Landon Marshall and Hayleigh Marshall presented memories of Great Great grandma Tolly. Elaine Hennel played for the congregational hymns. Michelle Bowles presented a prerecorded letter to Nana of all of her memories along with the song “Wind Beneath My Wings.” The Recessional Music “Take My Hand Precious Lord” by Elvis was played as Tolly was taken to Lake View Cemetery where she was laid to rest beside her beloved Gerald. Dick and Michelle Bowles were Pallbearers.

Family and friends gathered in the Heartland Reception Centre for a time of sharing stories and a luncheon by Pass the Pepper. If friends desire memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation in Tolly’s name. Condolences may be sent to the family at sfchapel@telusplanet.net

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

Ida Margaret Wittmack

(Oct. 26, 1915-Aug. 28,2010)

Ida Margaret Wittmack passed away in Consort on August 28th, 2010 at the age of 94. She was born in Myrtle, Idaho on October 26th, 1915. At the age of two she travelled by train with her parents, George and Jennie Fleming, to Czar, Alberta and settled in the Neutral Hills.

After attending school in the Neutral Hills, Ida worked at several jobs in the Loyalist area where she met and married Max Wittmack, on December 12, 1940, in Coronation, Alberta. They farmed in Loyalist until 1975 when they retired, sold the farm and moved to Consort. Ida lost her husband, Max to cancer in 1981. She moved to Camrose with her sister Becky Olsen in 1986. Ida lost her sister and best friend, Becky, to a stroke in 1994 and returned to Consort in 1996 to spend 8 years in the Consort Lodge. In 2004 she moved to the Consort Extended Care.

Sewing, crocheting, knitting and quilting were a big part of Ida’s life. She did beautiful work and won several ribbons for her efforts. Ida loved to garden and play cards. She won a number of trophies for her bowling and spent many hours enjoying disking. She loved her children, grandchildren and the children she spent many hours caring for. She was a long time member of the Loyalist WI.

Ida is survived by her five children, Darlene (Lado) Vukorep of Vancouver, Don (Doreen) Wittmack of Mayerthorpe,  Kenny (Joan) Wittmack of Bonnyville, Kathy (Jim) Brown of  Saint Simons Island, Georgia, and Keith (Joan) Wittmack of Consort; thirteen grandchildren Cassandra, Dominique, Jamie, Corey, Brandon, Alicia, Lesley, Tony, Brandi, Rodney, Max, Kolby and Mitchell and four great grandchildren, Conor, Payton, Conner and Finn; brother, John Fleming of Consort Alberta, three sisters, Ethyl Morgan of Langley, B.C., Joyce (Dick) Holt of Lewiston, Idaho, and Nina Coffland of Lewiston, Idaho. She was predeceased by her parents, George and Jennie Fleming, her husband, Max, her sister, Becky and her three brothers, Leonard, Stanley and Andy Fleming.

The funeral service to celebrate Ida’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Thursday, September 2nd, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. Officiating was Pastor Darrel Durksen. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “In The Garden”, and “Amazing Grace” which was led by the Knox United Church Choir. The eulogy was read by grandsons, Kolby & Mitchell Wittmack. Ida’s daughter Kathy Brown gave a loving tribute. Special recessional music was played by Pat & Charlotte Gilmer. Urn Bearer was Joan Wittmack. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. 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 Ida’s memory to The Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home was entrusted with funeral arrangements. Condolences can be forwarded to the family at corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

Tribute by Kathy Brown

Mom

We remember our Mom as a kind, compassionate, sweet and loving person who loved to laugh and had the ability to laugh at herself. We believe this rare quality had a lot to do with her upbringing. The Fleming family had no material possessions to speak of but they did have music, love and lots of laughter. Mom’s sister Aunt Joyce wrote a poem that explains this and I would like to read it to you.

“Number Eight”

I was born on the plains of Alberta

Where the air was clean and free

To a mother and father who loved me

“Number Eight” in a large family

We awoke to the sound of a rooster’s crow

Drifting in to our sleepy heads

While the dawn prepared for the rising sun

And a brand new day –

just ahead.

A pot of hot mush and homemade bread

Toasted brown on a pipe from the stove

Were prepared for us by capable hands

And served for us with love

We helped with the clean up and dishes

But I could have helped much more

If I could just walk that way again

I’d willingly do my chores.

The sun told the time on the kitchen floor

On the dot (it wasn’t a hunch!)

Fresh aroma flowed from the kitchen again

We could tell it was time for lunch

The afternoons were free for fun

We could always find something to do

No costly entertainment

Like bowling alleys or zoos.

I’d lie on my back on the prairie wool quilt

With a moss pillow under my head

The sun spread its warm rays over me

And I’d gaze at the sky overhead

I used to wish I were a bird

Floating high in the

summer sun

I later learned they were searching hard

For food for their little ones.

We didn’t need riches in dollars and cents

For we lived far away from

a town

We sailed over every ocean and sea In our old bench – upside down

We went on trips around the world

In one day (if we travelled hard)

We’d pack a nice big picnic lunch

And go clear around the yard.

Our movie house was the sky at night

The roof was the Milky Way The dancing acts were the Northern Lights

While the cricket orchestra played

When the coyotes sounded the night revelry

We were soon to be tucked in bed

The wind gently wooed us off to sleep

After evening prayers were said.

Now some folk were born in the mountains

By the snow-caps – where water-falls flow

And some folk were born in cities

Where colourful neon lights glow

But I was glad I was born on the Alberta plains

Where the air was clean and free

To a mother and father who loved me

“Number Eight” in a large family

Joyce Holt 1/28/1980

When I think of the times that Mom laughed at herself I think of all the wonderful women in her life and her family. Aunt Becky was her sister and truly her best friend. After Dad and Uncle Les passed away Mom and Becky moved to Camrose. They had so much fun. They travelled to so many places – England, Ireland, Dallas, Seattle, Lewiston, California, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Vancouver and an Alaskan Cruise are just a few. They had so many funny adventures that our families fondly nicknamed them the Snoop Sisters.

This is just one of many stories that has been told: As you can imagine, Mom and Aunt Becky were not the most sophisticated and knowledgeable travellers. On one of their trips, they actually managed to board the wrong airplane and only realized their error when they discovered another couple sitting in their assigned seats. Heaven only knows how they managed to get past airport control and onto the wrong plane but it may have had something to do with them both trying to get through the security gate at the same time. They were always so attached at the hip that not even airport security could get them to go through one at a time. They actually tried to get through together, got stuck, backed out and tried it again. Two years after Aunty Becky died Mom came back to Cosort and moved in to one of the apartments in the Consort Lodge. She joined Joyce Symes, Florence Babcock, and Ellen Gilmer. Those four soon became know to their families as “The Golden Girls”. They had coffee everyday at 9 and 3. They truly looked out for each other and checked in on each other. Joyce was just across the hall from Mom so she received many of our calls when we couldn’t hunt down our busy Mom. Florence and she travelled to Europe together for two weeks. And a funny story about the Golden Girls was the night that Ellen and Mom drove out to have dinner with Keith and Joan. On the way home Mom was driving on the wrong side of the road. Ellen was getting pretty nervous and finally said, “Ida, did you know that you were driving on the wrong side of the road. And our quick witted mother replies “I kind of like it over here sometimes.” A golden moment. Another lady that was dear to Mom who arrived at the Lodge after the Golden Girls was Jean Bryan. And of course off Mom went again travelling with Jean to California.

Mom’s brother’s Uncle Jigs and Uncle Andy were the practical jokers in their family. Some of you know that those genes were passed down to Mom’s boys, Donny, Kenny and Keith. And Mom was fair game. Keith called her one December pretending to be calling from a radio station doing a survey on what people were buying their children for Christmas. Mom agreed to the survey so Keith asked what she bought for her oldest child and mom told him, and then he continued on until he got to what she bought her youngest child and just when she was going to tell him he said no mom don’t tell me. They both had a good laugh and when Keith hung up he promptly phoned the rest of us to let us know he knew what we were getting for Christmas. One last story. I called Mom when she was living in Camrose and she said, “Kathy I can’t talk long I have volunteered at the Seniors Center to drive old people to places they need to go.” I asked Mom, “how old are these people?” and she replied, “Oh I don’t know in their early 80’s” We both started to laugh because she was in her early 80’s.

In 2004, Mom moved from the lodge into Extended Care at the Hospital. This was very hard for her as she was losing that treasured independence she had. She was there for 6 years, the longest term resident as of today, and during those 6 years she mentioned to all of us on numerous occasions how grateful she was for the great care of the nursing staff who Mom fondly referred to as “the girls”.

Ruby Marguerite Stillings

(June 6, 1914 – Aug. 29, 2010)

“Death is as natural a thing as birth. We turn off the switch, walk up the path and are home.”

Ruby’s Family

Ruby is survived by her daughter Linda Kurek, her son Blake (Arlene) Stillings; grandchildren, Mary (Calvin) Ellerby, Martin (Cheryl) Kurek, Jason (Jodi) Kurek, Craig (Roxanne) Stillings, Robert (Kali) Stillings; great grandchildren, Denton (Sherrise), Keaton, Tiffany, Natalie, Kirsten, Damien, Analisha, Tianna, Kadin, Katelyn, Morgan, Blake, Rachel and Lauren; her sisters Gayle Williams and Goldie Burk; as well as other relatives and her dear friends.

The funeral service to celebrate Ruby’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Friday, September 3rd, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Officiating was Calvin Ellerby. Mrs. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace” led by the Knox United Church Choir. The Eulogy was read by great grandson, Damien Kurek. Ruby’s family, Mary Ellerby, Martin Kurek, Morgan Stillings and Kirsten Kurek gave loving tributes. Special recorded recessional music was “Wind Beneath My Wings”. Active Pallbearers were Martin Kurek, Jay Kurek, Robert Stillings, Craig Stillings, Damien Kurek and Keaton Ellerby. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Ruby’s Family & Friends”. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. 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 Ruby’s memory to The Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 244, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to Lakeroad Cemetery, Box 309, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0. Condolences can be forwarded to the family at corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

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

Eulogy

By Damien Kurek

It is an honor to be asked to present the Eulogy for Great Grandma. In the preparations preceding this, I had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with family and hear the stories and the history of a woman that I have come to greatly respect and admire, a women who lived a full and fruitful 96 years. The fruit of Great Grandma’s life is evident by all of you sitting here today.

On June 6th, 1914 Ruby Marguerite Hilstob, was born to proud parents John and Ruth Hilstob on their homestead south of Consort. It was there, that the woman that I came to know as Great Grandma Stillings, began her life. Great Grandma was the oldest of six, her family also included Sylvia, Wayne, Goldie, Edith, and Gayle; family who she remained close to her whole life.

Great Grandma spent most of her life in Consort. The Hilstob’s lived in several houses in the Village of Consort after the family decided to move to town from the original homestead. With the exception of the family living in the communities of Carbon and Beisiker, Great Grandma lived her whole life in the Consort area.

In 1919 John Hilstob or JJ, purchased the Gooseberry Lake Property. It was here that Great Grandma lived for a number of years. The family lived in a small house and ran the park for tourists and guests who wanted to rest in the shadow of the Neutral Hills. It was during this time that Great Grandma attended the Silver Beach School.

When the thirties came, so did the hard times. The Provincial Government purchased the property from the Hilstob family. The government went on to turn the property into the Provincial Park we all enjoy today. The Hilstob’s moved back to Consort and it was here that Great Grandma attended the Consort Consolidated School.

After Great Grandma finished school she went to work for Mrs. Lehman at the Telephone Office as a switchboard operator. It was during these years that Ruby Hilstob met Cliff Stillings. They fell in love and on August 8th, 1938 they wed. Several years later in 1942 they had their first child, Linda, known better to me as “Grandma”. Four years later in 1946 they had their second child, Blake.

Although I never met Great Grandpa, it is evident from the stories that they both loved each other very much. I have heard that Great Grandpa was an avid golfer, and it was not at all uncommon for the two of them to spend hours on the golf course together. After 30 years of marriage Cliff Stillings passed away in August of 1968.

The year before Cliff passed away, the Stillings family moved up the block two houses to the place that Great Grandma lived for the next 40 years. She was proud of that house and I can look back at the numerous times that I spent time not just visiting but helping my father and Grandpa Kurek do yard-work or minor maintenance on the house.

It was from the walls of this house that the piano could often be heard or the sound of family enjoying the conversation and treats that were always available. Great Grandma had many friends and they could often be found together, laughing while enjoying a game of Bridge, knitting or quilting. They would meet often and their creations would be worn by many family and friends.

Near the end of 2008, Great Grandma entered the Long Term Care at Consort Hospital, moving from her beloved house. It was here, in the town she grew up in that she passed away on August 29th, 2010.

It is difficult to sum up one’s life in the span of 5 or 10 minutes, and a summary of one’s life would not be complete without the sharing of some stories.

The piano that once sat in Great Grandma’s living room now sits in my family’s. Although I never actually heard her play, I have been told by numerous people that she could “make those keys sing.” This, as I have found out, was one of the best known attributes that not only Great Grandma had, but the whole Hilstob family. She was an avid lover of music and could play by ear, whether it was hymns or the finest of the big band era like Dixieland or Laurence Welk.

Great Grandma loved kids and it was a favorite day on the block when she would have her infamous tea parties. It was where kids from all over the neighborhood would come and enjoy fresh baking, and tea, but it was the laughter that there was sure to be plenty of.

Great Great Grandma Hilstob not long after Cliff passed away said that it was not possible for Ruby to get her driver’s license. Well Great Grandma being a little strong willed knew otherwise. She not only succeeded but she became known for driving around town with Marguerite Wiese in Marguerite’s sporty red Olds. They would never drive over 30 mph, and not stray far from the shoulder of the road. The two of them where often seen cruising the country side, sitting low in the cars bucket seats.

It was another driving incident that gave us a good laugh at Grandma Kurek’s yesterday. But first you need to know a little background info. Great Grandma did not like driving with Grandma Kurek, as she drove “way to fast”. It was on a trip to Wainwright that there was an innocent duck that had ventured out on the highway. Grandma Kurek, who was driving, saw this poor ducks imminent death and swerved out of the way, narrowly missing it, much to the chagrin of Great Grandma. It was at this moment that a foul word slipped out of her mouth for the first and last time, when she yelled “Don’t swerve, just hit the *#&^% duck”. You can use your imagination as to what was said.

Looking back over the past couple of days, seeing what comes to mind as I reflect upon what 96 years would look like, nearly a century of life. How incredible that is, that I and most of you were able to share some of that with Great Grandma. I think back and remember: always seeing her bible on the table beside her chair, the snacks us grandkids often enjoyed when visiting, or the treasures we were able to find when she allowed us to search through her closets. These are good memories and over the past two years as I was able to visit on weekend trips home from college, simply being able to sit and listen to stories, spend time praying with her as she sat in the Long Term Care, or share with her where my travels had taken me (she was awfully surprised when I took her pictures I had from Ottawa and was able to show her on my laptop). Ruby, Mom, Mrs. Stillings, Grandma, Great Grandma, Aunt, or whatever else defined the relationships she had with people, she loved well and she will be missed by her family.

This has been a privilege. God Bless and Thank you.

Tribute

By Mary Ellerby

Ruby

Before I begin, I would like to thank you all for coming to pay your last respects to Grandma Stillings, it means so much to us.

It is my privilege to take this opportunity to share with you for a few moments about the life of Grandma Ruby. Since I am her only Granddaughter, I count it a huge blessing to do so.

The name Ruby is of English origin and the meaning is, the red gemstone jewel. It is superior to all stones and only the diamond exceeds its hardness. The ruby is considered a precious jewel…..much like our Grandmother.

In preparing this tribute, I was reminded of a few memories that I would like to share with you that portray the precious jewel we had in a Grandmother.

Grandma Ruby was a lovely lady, she was elegant, gentle, quiet, and refined. She had a humorous side to her that often made us giggle. Her wit was winsome and funny. My dad Felix, the king of teasers, would try with all of his might to stir up the pot with her. She would listen quietly, then with charm and grace come back with something that would send him back to his thinking chair searching for his next plan of attack. I don’t recall her ever being rattled by his trickery, I do recall him being rattled by hers! They enjoyed an interesting son-in-law/mother-in-law relationship.

Grandma Ruby was a cultured woman who enjoyed and appreciated the finer things in life. She listened to beautiful music, read interesting books, and appreciated fine china, tea, and lovely sweets. Christmas dinner at Grandma’s was always a treat for me as she would have the table set with her finest china, silver, and crystal. She loved things looking nice. Not only did she like her home looking nice, she liked to dress nicely herself. She had matching scarves, hats, gloves, pearls, and furs that were adorned on a regular basis in her day. Her weekly trip to Sandy’s for the usual, always produced a perfectly adorned hairdo that looked much the same as a few weeks ago. The color of her hair never changed much, she still had more brown hair than white hair to the day she died. Lindsey and I were up to visit with her in July, Lindsey commented to her about this; her reply was, “Well, well, I don’t know what to say to that!”

Some of my earliest memories began with us sitting together on her green sofa as she read to me two of my favourite stories, “My First Book About Jesus” and “Cinderella” She never tired of these stories, never once missing a word or page. She taught me how to knit, to needle point, and play a few songs on the piano. Sunday night was games night; she would bring out the Aggravation board, we would play a few games before watching the “Waltons”, after which I would head home for bed. During the hot days of summer, you could always count on a glass of cold lemonade, along with a cookie to enjoy.

She was one of the pianists for Sunday School, she would play as Mrs. Henry would sing, “Climb, Climb Up Sunshine Mountain”, “Hear the Pennies Dropping”, or “Running Over.” Her faith in Jesus was something very real to her. Her Bible was always on the dining room table waiting for the next days reading, and she never started a meal without saying grace.

During my college days, she would travel to Red Deer with me and stay the week with Blake and Arlene, then travel back on the weekend. She was a bit of a Nervous Nelly in the vehicle, so I would try to be extra careful!

The years passed, and her Grandkids married wonderful spouses, and began having children of their own. She was blessed with nine Great Granddaughters, and five Great Grandsons. She would inquire about each of them and display their pictures with pride for all to see. She was proud to be your Great Grandma.

Although I only remember her as a widow, she spent 30 years married to Grandpa Cliff. One of my favourite stories happened when she was a young unmarried lady walking down main street; she spied this handsome young fellow across the way and said to herself, “I’m going to marry that man one day,” and she did! She had many friends over the years, Mrs. Marguerite Wiese, Mrs. Evella Spencer, Mrs. Selma Christophersen, Mrs. Jean Bryan, Mrs. Fay Doherty, or in later years Mrs. Isabelle Deleff, and the wonderful home care nurses and nursing staff that cared so well for her.

I think it would be safe to say that she had a best friend, that being her daughter Linda. Mom and grandma spent countless hours together over the years. Mom cared for her in ways too numerous to mention. As Grandma grew older, the responsibilities increased for mom, the tables were turning, the daughter was now becoming the mother, and the mother the child. Grandma understood how blessed she was to have mom so involved in her life, I know she never took it for granted. She would wait for her daily visits so they could have tea together and chat about the latest. And when Mom was away, she would count down the days till her arrival home.

Arlene, you were like a daughter to her. You showed kindness and caring. You were thoughtful in your calls, and generous with your time. You treated her with respect and admiration. You were an excellent example to us of how a daughter in law should be. Blake, you were a wonderful son. I caught a glimpse of that while spending time with you during her final hours. I thought of the well known children’s book called “Love you Forever” by Robert Munsch. Essentially it’s a story about a mother who begins her journey with her baby son, she rocks him back and forth every night and sings to him this song, “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be.” The little boy grows into a toddler, then into a teenager and does the things that irritate mothers, however, every night when she was sure her boy was fast asleep, she would sneak into his room and sing, “I’ll love you forever……” That mother grew older and older and one day became sick. The son went to his mother and held her and sat with her and sang her this song, “I’ll love you forever…..” I saw this story played out the night Grandma died, Uncle Blake you slept in the chair beside her bed, held her hand, stroked her forehead and told her you loved her. She knew you were there with her.

Grandma lived a long life, and it was her time to say goodbye to this side of life and enter eternity. I envisioned Grandpa Cliff waiting with a bouquet of roses, and my dad not too far off wanting to show her the beauty of heaven. I’m grateful for her contribution to my life, and the legacy she has left for us all. One day we shall meet again, and there will be no pain, anxiety, sorrow, or tears…… doesn’t that sound like fun!!!

Tribute by Kirsten

Whenever my family and I came to Consort, we would visit great-grandma. We would walk up to her big comfy chair and give her a great big hug. When my sister and I still took piano lessons we would present our recently learned songs. Afterwards, she would show her gratitiude by giving us cookies and another hug.

Great Grandma will always be in my memory. I love her.

Kirsten Kurek

Tribute by Morgan

There are a few words that come to mind when I think of my great-grandma. Strong, survivor, patient, sweet. She was a wonderful woman, grandmother, mother, wife.

I remember going to visit her in her house and me and my sister would always get spoiled with cookies and orange juice.

She had a huge soul and that’s why she will always be remenbered and deeply missed by me.

Morgan Stillings

Neil Bryan Ruppert

(April 27, 1954-Sept. 8, 2010)

Neil Ruppert was born on April 27, 1954 in Cereal, Alberta and he passed away on September 8, 2010 in the Big Country Hospital in Oyen, Alberta.

Neil went to school in Youngstown and graduated in 1972. After graduation he apprenticed as a welder in Lomond, Alberta at the Lomond Welding and Machine Shop which was owned and operated by his uncle, Pete Ruppert. While he was in Lomond he became very involved with the volunteer fire department, and served as Fire Chief for a period of time. After receiving his journeyman welding certification, he welded for various companies in Coaldale, Alberta and Fort St. John, British Columbia.

In 1980 he returned to Youngstown to live in the house that he grew up in. Now back in Youngstown, he was employed with the Special Areas as a welder. While working for the Special Areas he apprenticed as a heavy duty mechanic. He resumed his work with the local volunteer fire department, primarily focussing on education, and served as Fire Chief as well as Safety Codes Officer.

In 1985 he married the love of his life, Jean Curliss in Lethbridge, Alberta. Neil and Jean built a new house on the home property and worked tirelessly to create a beautiful yard and home. Their love of reading led them to serve on the Youngstown Municipal Library Board for many years. Neil also served as the Marigold Library System Representative.

Neil and Jean, though not blessed with their own children, became involved as foster parents and in 1997 welcomed the arrival of their fourteen year old daughter, Connie Haggerty. Connie and Neil had an instant bond, sharing the same off-beat sense of humour.

In 1999, Neil faced his first battle with cancer. Unable to return to mechanic work, he then apprenticed with the Special Areas as a Water Technician. He enjoyed all of his careers, and was always eager and willing to learn more and discover new paths. As a welder, Neil especially liked ornamental ironwork, and later channelled this exceptional talent and creativity into glass etching and wood carving. He was also an active ham radio operator and was involved with SARA, RACT and the Three Hills Radio Club.

He, like the rest of his family, had a deep and abiding love for animals, and was lucky enough to have his newest dog, Skootch, with him until the end.

He was the kindest and most caring individual and his passing will leave a huge void in the family.

Neil was predeceased by his father Paul (1978); mother Helen (1987); mother-in-law Margaret Hogenson (2001); and his father-in-law Morris Curliss (2003).

Neil is survived by his wife of twenty-five years, Jean Ruppert of Youngstown; daughter Connie Haggarty of Fort St. John, British Columbia; cousin and best friend Allan Ruppert of Youngstown; sisters Leona (Jack) Walsh of Loyalist, Connie (Ron) Jackson of Chilliwack, British Columbia, Barb (Willie) Goertzen of Brooks, and Lorraine (Bruce) Ruppert of Youngstown; sisters-in-law Debbie (Lynn) Edwards of Bow Island, Liana (Allan) Romeril of Raymond; brothers-in-law Jack Curliss of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Rick (Denise) Curliss of Bow Island; twenty-four nieces and nephews; twenty-eight great nieces and nephews; and two great-great nephews.

Funeral Service was held Tuesday, September 14, at the Youngstown Community Hall in Youngstown, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Dr. Lynn Edwards. Rosanna Lenfesty was the pianist and the song leader was Carol Wiens. Lorraine Ruppert gave a eulogy and the reader was Rick Woodward with “If I Knew”. The urn bearer was Allan Ruppert. Hymns were “Old Rugged Cross” and “Just As I Am.” Honorary Pallbearers were Bill Walsh, Mark Goertzen, Tom Jackson, Travis Curliss, Jordan Curliss, Peter Goertzen, and the Three Hills Amateur Radio Club.

Memorial tributes may be directed to The Friends of the Youngstown Library, Box 39, Youngstown, Alberta, T0J 3P0.

Following the private family inurnment at the Youngstown Cemetery, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Youngstown United Church Women and Youngstown Community in the Community Hall.

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

Robert William Naylor

(November 23, 1952 – September 14, 2010)

Rob was born November 23, 1952 and died after a brief and unexpected illness on September 14, 2010.

Robert Naylor was born in Toronto, Ontario and spent his childhood in Bolton, Ontario. He later moved west and graduated from high school in Airdrie, achieving his Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary in 1975.

He went on to teach in Consort and Three Hills, where he spent many hours coaching sports teams. In his later years he served the community of Three Hills as town councillor and deputy mayor. He retired after 34 years of teaching, to spend more time with his family.

Rob was blessed with the ability to see the best in everyone and to bring it out. He loved music, antiques, off-beat comedy, his family and his students.

Rob will always be missed by his loving wife of twenty-three years, Pamela; daughters, Melissa (Dan) Kanderka and Amanda (Dave) Olson; sons, Adam Naylor, Chris (Patricia) and Lucas Barr; grandchildrten Kyle, Josh and Ryan Kanderka, Megan, Emily, Riley Olson and Sophia Barr.

Rob was predeceased by his parents, Robert Naylor, Betty (Naylor) Batty and stepfather, Bob Batty.

A celebration of Rob’s life was held Saturday, September 18th at the Three Hills Centennial Place/Curling Rink at 11:00 a.m. with Harold Hunter officiating. The eulogy was given by Lloyd Boody and a tribute by Adam Naylor. Musical selections included “How Great Thou Art” and “You Lift Me Up”. The honorary pallbearers were Kyle, Josh and Ryan Kanderka, Meagan, Emily and Riley Olson, and Sophia Barr.

A luncheon followed the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alberta Lung Association.

Stanley Albert Tumoth

(March 11, 1939-Sept. 25, 2010)

Stanley Albert Tumoth, born in Consort, Alberta, passed away on September 25, 2010 at the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary, Alberta.

Stan was the second child of Lloyd & Frances (Healy) Tumoth. He spent his youth in the Hamlet of Hemaruka. He attended Kinear grade school and graduated from the Consolidated High School in Consort. He started his oilfield career with Cessco Ltd. in Edmonton and then joined Alberta Gas Trunkline (later Nova) in 1961. He retired in 1994 from the position of District Superintendent at Brooks, Alberta.

Stan enjoyed many years of retirement, living at Glennifer Lake, Alberta in the summer months and at Mesa, Arizona in the winter. His favorite pastimes were softball, golf, fishing & hunting and spending many Happy Hours with his Friends.

Stan is survived by his wife Joan (McFetridge) and their two sons: Stacey (Cathy) of Yellowknife, NWT, and Stanley Jr. (Anna) of Okotoks, Alberta; four, much loved, grandchildren, Colton, Alden, Karsyn and Lexi; his sister Pat Sherritt (Joe) of Calgary as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

His family would like to thank the staff on the ICU ward and Unit 82 of the Foothills Hospital for the excellent care that Stan received. Also, special thanks to Doctor Mathews.

As per Stan’s request, there will be no service. Cremation, with arrangements entrusted to Snodgrass Funeral Homes Ltd. in Okotoks, Alberta. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Terry Fox Foundation or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank all those who sent cards and/or expressed their condolences.

Yvonne Williams

(Feb. 27, 1933-Oct. 1, 2010)

Leita Yvonne Steckly was born in Didsbury, Alberta on February 27, 1933 to Harry & Thelma Steckly. Along with older sister Berniece, the family lived near all their cousins in the Didsbury area until Yvonne was 7 when they moved to Calgary. As a child, Yvonne loved to live in a world of make believe and loved to share her dreams and stories to prove it. Possibly this fostered her love for dance and the arts!

The Steckly home regularily took in boarders and that was how she met the love of her life. Elwood was attending tech in Calgary and instantly admired and fell in love with their tall red headed daughter! Yvonne & Elwood were married in Edmonton on June 16, 1951. After a short stay in the city, Elwood was called back to help on the family farm. A city girl through and through, Yvonne agreed, however it came complete with its trials and Elwood soon learned to accept his new wife would never see the ‘back of the barn’!

This union was blessed with three children, a daughter Carol Lynn (Symes), a son Darvin Brent, and a daughter Lori Corrine (Ference).

Between raising her children, Yvonne shared her love and passion for dance with many children in our small community. She taught for several years until passing the reigns to Betty Doherty (Rockey).

Yvonne was a very skilled and proficient seamstress and sewed most of her and her daughter’s clothes for many years. Her eye for detail and perfection along with a strong sense of style saw Yvonne in very trend setting and stylist attire! She was a city girl at heart and would often remind us of that! She learned to enjoy many other hobbies and crafts later in life including knitting, crocheting, needlepoint and decoupage.

Yvonne was pre-deceased by her parents, Harry & Thelma, husband Elwood, son Brent, sisters-in-law Bessie and Ella and brother-in-law Ross.

She leaves to mourn her two daughters, Carol Lynn (Fred) Symes of Edson and Lori (Larry) Ference of Consort. Grandchildren Tara (Todd) Fron and Brad Symes all of Edson, Jordan (Ashley) Ference of Cold Lake, Tyler Ference (Chelsey) and Jenelle Ference (Cody) of Consort. Great grandchildren Toren and Brylee Fron of Edson; sister Berniece Rule; brothers-in-law Roy Williams and Ivar Nelson; special friend Alvin Bishell as well as other relatives and many dear friends.

Yvonne passed away with her daughters at her side on Friday, October 1, 2010 in the Red Deer Regional Hospital at the age of 77 years.

The memorial service to honor Yvonne’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Saturday October 9th, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. Officiating was Reverend Sue Hertell. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “Softly & Tenderly Jesus is Calling”, and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” , led by the Knox United Church Choir. Long time friend Mary Readman presented the tribute. Granddaughter Jenelle Ference shared her memories in her tribute honoring her Grandma. Special musical selection “He Touched Me” was sang and played by Bill Steckly. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Urn Bearer was granddaughter Jenelle Ference. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Those Who Were Touched By Yvonne’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 Yvonne’s memory to the Consort & District Seniors Association; for the new Seniors & Community Recreation Centre, Box 220, Consort, Alberta, T0C 1B0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to corofuneral home@xplornet.com

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

Tribute

By Mary Readman

I was making beet pickles Saturday and I realized I was using Yvonne’s recipe, a recipe I’d used for many years, and on top of that, the beets that had been given to me were the cylindrical ones – the kind she preferred. I was – and still am – trying to get used to the idea that Yvonne is gone. For over 50 years we shared many things, just like the beet pickles.

Yvonne was a classy lady. As a young bride she came to the Neutral Valley district from the city. She knew little about rural living, but there she was with a new husband, a new home, a set of neighbors she hardly knew or understood and in the face of all this she was expected to make a home and a new life. It must have been difficult. But she learned.

She was concerned with her family’s welfare and felt that Elwood didn’t eat enough vegetables. When she discovered that he loved beet pickles, she realized it was one way to get some vegetables onto his plate, and so she made lots to last the winter. I’ve dropped in on her to find two dozen quarts cooling on the counter and that was just one day’s output. During the fall season she made sure she had enough. The beets themselves, came from her garden, her good garden, which she had learned to grow after she moved to the farm. There were so many things she had to cope with; things she was not used to. She became a good farm cook, able to turn out big meals for the men as well as entertaining at a fine dinner for friends.

As a very little girl she had danced for the soldiers in the city and now that she was in the country she was not about to give up her dancing. Because of this determination she brought a new element to the Consort area. She established a school of dance and with Mrs. Gilmer at the piano, guided many young people through the lessons and introduced them to a world of color, rhythm and music.

Yvonne was a very talented person and could usually master most anything she put her hand to. She was a beautiful seamstress and her family was always well turned out. She was a stylish dresser, able to copy the latest fashions – much the envy of us who could not sew. Not only did she teach dancing for many years, she also designed and sewed most of the outfits for the revue, making trips to the city to get the fancy and sparkly material needed.

She could write poetry at the drop of a hat and I remember Bill and Alice Lindsay’s anniversary, when it took her only about 15 minutes to come up with a clever and funny rhyme suitable for the occasion.

Later, when the Kinette Fashion Shows were held, she was always at the helm of the organizing and choosing the fashions on display. She and I would sit for hours writing commentary. By this time, our daughters, Carol Lynn and Carol, were old enough to model. They had grown up together, gone to school together and were fast friends. Even with time and distance seeing them go their separate ways, they still keep in touch. I remember the first time I saw Brent. It was early summer and Yvonne and Elwood had taken him – just a wee baby – to Gooseberry Lake on the Sunday. I stopped by the car where she was holding him, to admire the new member of their family. A few years later and after many disappointments, Lori came along. She was a miracle baby as new medical technology had made it possible for her to be born. I agonized with Vonnie during those waiting months, hoping everything would be O.K. – and it was. We rejoiced at her arrival.

Now their family was complete and life moved on just as we might expect, with holidays, taking the kids out for Hallowe’en (and getting in a few tricks of our own – Yvonne had a sense of humor!) – birthdays, anniversaries and jaunts with family and friends. The four of us, Elwood and Yvonne, Bill and I, travelled together, sometimes with others joining us and at other times on our own. We had a mutual love of music and would sit by the hour playing records and commenting on the various celebrities. If we could, we would get to the city to see some of these celebrities and I recall going to Calgary to see Louie Armstrong. On our trips to Vegas or Reno, we always took in several shows. We took in the exotic entertainment offered in Hawaii and there are many happy memories of the fun we had on that trip. Sunset cruises, hula shows, evenings at a piano bar, partaking of the pupus and entertainment on Kona and leading the sing-along with Elwood on the ukulele. It was often that way – Elwood at a piano or some other instrument. It was all such fun.

In the space of 13 months, this family has been torn apart and now there are only the two daughters left. Elwood left us in August of 2009, Brent in February of 2010 and now Yvonne. It’s too much to understand and certainly more than any family should have to face. While today I grieve for the loss of my long-time friend, my heart goes out to Carol Lynn and Lori, and their families.

In the last few months, Yvonne was able to take pleasure again in life. It was good to see her laugh again and we had a wonderful visit just a couple weeks ago at the dance. My thanks goes out to her special friend, Alvin, for brightening her days and enriching her life.

Tribute To Grandma

By Jenelle Ference

It is with great honor and privilege that I am able to share with you the special bond I shared with my Grandma. I am so fortunate and grateful to have had my Grandma across the road growing up – I had the best of both worlds. I was never even sure which place to call home. It didn’t matter what project Grandma had underway, she was quick to share her time with me.

The odd time Grandma would bake, she was meticulous. She leveled the measuring cup of flour with a knife, broke eggs into separate bowls and sifted everything! That is NOT how my mom bakes. And dad wonders why my cookies taste better than my moms! She wrapped presents the same way. Measuring the paper with a ruler, folding all the edges and making each crease perfect; no package was complete without ribbon and a bow! I definitely learned to bake and wrap presents from you Grandma.

She always could find me a job, which made me feel so important. Because Grandma loved to sew and became such an accomplished seamstress, she spent many hours in her sewing room. She would lower the ironing board and provide me with a basket full of wash cloths to iron. I now realize that was a make work project – who irons washcloths! She attempted to teach me how to knit, clearly a lost cause. I took 4H and tried to learn to sew like you Grandma, but my first project was a disaster. I not only cut one leg upside down on the fabric, I hemmed the entire leg shut!

My grandma was such an elegant lady, an attribute I always admired. I too have always been a girly-girl; sharing in her love for clothes, jewelry and shoes. When I was little, Grandma and I would spend a special time together every week. We’d get all dolled up in our Sunday best and go to church. It was something I really looked forward to and although I was too young to get any meaning out of church, Grandma tided me over until Sunday school with her change purse full of tic tacs. In the evenings and on our way to church Grandma endeavored to teach me the Lord’s Prayer, promising me a special gold locket when I could recite it on my own. Every time I say that prayer, I think of you Grandma.

I was very fortunate to have been able to share in one of Grandma’s greatest passions; her love for dance. A true city girl, Grandma grew up as a dancer. When she married Grandpa and came to Consort, our small community was blessed with a talented and graceful woman, eager to share her love for the arts. Many benefited from her wisdom and talents. I remember her telling me how Gert Doherty or Mrs. Gilmer would accompany her on the piano. When Grandma stopped teaching to raise her family, one of her students Betty Doherty, better known to me as Ms. Rockey took over the reins. In time, my auntie Carol Lynn taught several years of dance, followed by Betty’s daughter, Miss Tara; who has been much more than my dance teacher to me for the past 14 years.

Right from the beginning, Grandma was always my biggest fan. She was front and centre at every dress rehearsal and for many years never missed a competition. However, if Grandma was going to slip out to go to the washroom or get her Diet Pepsi, she would only ever sacrifice a jazz routine. Tap was Grandma’s favorite and she was the best adjudicator in the house, or so she thought. Aside from the fact that I was always her winner, she was quick to let me know which ones she thought were the best. Both Grandma and mom’s passion for tap, inspired me to love the discipline as well. I performed a tap solo every year – Grandma loved to watch me and never missed. Right up till this spring, Grandma was always there and was always my biggest fan.

I was honored to be so close to you Grandma, right up till the end. No matter what you needed, a crossword book, a chocolate fix or just a ride downtown, you knew exactly how to leave that message on my cell phone and that I’d be there as soon school was over. Thank you Grandma, for always believing in me and for your endless support and encouragement. You always said I would make the best nurse and even though I’m only in my first year, I hope to share with others the compassion and kindness that you’ve passed on to me.

Thank you so much Alvin for helping to fill the void in Grandma’s heart over the past year. You truly meant the world to her and made her SO happy.

I’m so very fortunate and grateful, Grandma, that you were able to share in my high school graduation, but it makes me sad that I’m so much younger than the rest of your grandchildren and that you were only able to share in such a small part of my life. The only thing that gives your family peace and comfort is knowing that you’re back in Grandpa’s arms. I am certain that if we gaze up on a starry night, we will see you and Grandpa dancing from star to star.

Nicholas John Baier

(Nov. 14, 1991-Oct. 29, 2010)

Nicholas John Baier was born November 14, 1991 in Edmonton, Alberta to John and Maggie Baier. He was a brother and best friend to Natasha Baier. Nicholas was taken suddenly from us on October 29, 2010 at the age of 18 years.

Nicholas will forever be missed and always remembered by his parents John and Maggie, sister Natasha of Altario; Grandmas Tilly Baier and Bernice Deagle; aunts and uncles Cathy (Frank), Joe (Kristie), Jeff (Allison) Van Humbeck; Dennis (Cheryl) Jenna Deagle; Anne (Grant), Christopher (Andrea), Heather Armstong; Pat (Trish), Jonathan, Jordie, Kevin, Brad Deagle; Rick (Marilynn), Amy, Renee, Trevor, Pamela Deagle; Marie (Eberhard), Alex, Claire Ludewigs; Theodore (Ingrid), Gabriel, Jessica Baier; Karen (Andy) Valadka; and numerous other family members and friends. He was predeceased by his Grandpa Deagle and Grandpa Baier.

Prayer Vigil Service was held Wednesday, Nov. 3 at the St. Donatus Roman Catholic Church, and Mass of Christian Burial was held Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Altario School. Officiating Clergy was Rev. Fr. Marvin Lishchynsky. The organist was Carlene Friedrich with special music provided by the St. Donatus Church Choir. A eulogy was given by Rick Deagle. Readers were Pamela Deagle, Amy Deagle and Renee Deagle. Gift bearers were Jenna Deagle, Gabriel Baier, and Jessica Baier. Hymns were “Here I Am Lord”, “You Are Near”, “On Eagle’s Wings”, “Take And Eat”, and “Amazing Grace.” Pallbearers were Trevor Deagle, Alexander Ludewigs, Christopher Armstrong, Bob Meier, Ray Farkas, and Jonathan Deagle. Honorary Pallbearers were Trevor’s girlfriend Joni Alexander who was a special friend to Nicholas, all of Nicholas’ friends and classmates of Olds College, all of Nicholas’ extended family, and all of Nicholas’ friends and neighbours.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, #204 – 1608 – 17 Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta, T2T 0E3; MADD, Bay 12, 3307 Dunmore Rd SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 3R2; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral mass, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the KAC Community Group in the Altario School.

Eulogy

My name is Rick Deagle, I am an uncle of Nicholas’. I’ve had the honor of being asked to share some memories of a very special person to me. I know that everyone in this room has lots of special memories of Nicholas, but I would like to share some of mine with you.

I think it is important to start before Nicholas was born. When children turn out to be the kind of person that Nicholas was, it is a tribute to the way he was raised by his parents. I remember Maggie doting on all her nephews and nieces, often times taking them to her place for a weekend break from their parents. When John and Maggie were newly married, our two oldest girls, Amy and Renee, couldn’t wait to sleep over at Uncle John and Aunty Maggie’s place. There they were spoiled (as nieces and nephews should be) by being allowed to stay up late to watch movies, eat ketchup chips and eat Long John’s – which Uncle John proclaimed he made, and that’s why they were called Long John’s. My most vivid recollection of what was to come, was one weekend, Maggie dressing our little girls in party dresses, their hair done up, and Uncle John walking to Altario Church with each girl walking beside, their hands clamped on to John’s fingers. They were so ready to start their own family.

We couldn’t wait for this wonderful couple to have their own. November 14, 1991 a beautiful baby boy was born. As soon as Nicholas was home in Altario, our family went to visit and meet our newest nephew and cousin; thus starting a bond that grew and strengthened over the years, especially when both our families were complete, Nicholas and Natasha and Amy, Renee, Trevor and Pamela.

The pride instilled in the Baier name was evidenced by anyone who phoned the house, when Nicholas was a toddler as he would answer, “Hello, this is Nicholas John Baier”. Or when he would call to wish you a happy birthday, you would be greeted with “Hello, this is Nicholas John Baier calling”. The importance of family and remembering each one at their birthdays was a tradition instilled at an early age when Maggie would have Nicholas (and Tash as soon as she could talk), phone and sing Happy Birthday to each of us.

Traveling from Altario (where John and Maggie first lived) out to the farm would allow the family time for singing – Nicholas’ favorite song of all was “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash. At the Deagle reunion when he was 4 years old, Nicholas’ solo rendition was performed around the campfire much to the delight of the family. John was quick to point out to everyone that it wasn’t from his side of the family.

At a very early age, Nicholas could be found at the farm with his Dad and Grandpa Baier whom he became very close to. He was always on Grandpa’s lap whether it was in the house, or on the tractor or trucks driving around the farm. One of his favorite things was Grandpa’s snuff tin that he carried in his pocket, easy access for Nicholas, which was filled with Smarties. One of the first times we went to help John silage, I’ll never forget seeing this tiny little guy proudly perched on Grandpa’s lap helping steer the bidirectional tractor packing silage. It was hard to tell who was prouder, Nicholas for helping Grandpa pack the pit, or Grandpa for having his grandson with him.

Being brought up on the farm there is never any question about helping out, and doing your part, that’s what being raised on a family farm is all about. When Nicholas was 10 years old, his Grandpa Baier became very sick and unable to help on the farm; John tells me there was swathing to be done, and he was hoping Nicholas might be able to do it. There was no question about it, his apprenticeship from all the years with Grandpa and John were over, he was ready. There was only one problem, that darn swather kept shutting off. Every time it hit a bump, the swather would quit. After a bit, John realized Nicholas was too light and every time he went over a bump he was lifted right off the seat, and the neutral safety switch shut the swather off. John says he thought they would have to put a big rock on his lap! From then on he mastered every piece of equipment on the farm and the passion for the land and cattle and life on the farm grew.

His patience, kindness and gentleness were particularly evident when it came to teaching his Mom. All the years of her patience (which I can say was a strong trait of Nicholas’ Grandpa Deagle) was being reciprocated. When it came to the ranch, he took the time teaching Maggie what he had learned; this was his “classroom”. Maggie remembers his patience and encouragement being particularly useful when teaching her how to drive the tandem truck for silaging. He stood on the running board of the truck hanging into the mirror while she carefully and cautiously backed up beside the silage wagon, Nicholas kept saying “you’re doing great Mom, it only took you one extra time!”

Our family and John and Maggie’s have been exceptionally close over the years, partly because of where we are located, what we do and because we share many of the same values and goals. We have both known that get togethers would revolve around farm and ranch work, but that didn’t lessen the importance of time together; and when kids are brought up in this lifestyle they understand and Nicholas was no exception. I remember one occasion, at Christmas, Nicholas, Trevor and Natasha were trying to teach Amy, Renee and Pam to play the Wii. Lots of laughter and teasing went on, before the boys finally took the controllers away, deeming it hopeless. A lot of our family get-togethers revolved around work. We tried to help each other out at silaging time and brandings, but the help always seemed to be lopsided as the Baiers were always ahead of us in getting their work done and they always seemed to be over to help us. It was a treat for us to have John, Maggie, Nicholas and Natasha come help.

As recently as this summer we had the opportunity to help silage with them and I couldn’t help but think, this is what life should be like, helping each other out. They let me run their forage harvestor and I would like to look across at Tash busy swathing, wait for John, Trevor or Bob and Ben Meier who were trucking. And then there was Nicholas, always on the go. Nicholas would truck on days we were short, and then get to the pit, unload, jump in a tractor to push up the silage, run and get in another bigger tractor to pack because he said the smaller one wasn’t doing a good enough job. At the end of the day we would go in for gourmet meals that Maggie had made. I was worn out just thinking about the number of miles Nicholas put on, running from one tractor to another, and trucking; never falling behind and never complaining. He was always up and ready to go the next morning. The pride that John and Maggie have for their two kids is immeasurable and reflects in the way Nicholas and Tash work, how they treat other people and how they were always willing to help out.

John was telling me how willing Nicholas always was at helping out. After hosting the District 4-H achievement days this past June, the Altario club had a lot of cleaning up to do and that falls into the parent’s hands. John said he had to go cleanup and without hesitation Nicholas was right by his side, helping out even though he wasn’t in the club anymore. Nicholas was truly John’s right hand man.

Growing up through the years Nicholas was always a small framed, slight little guy and there were many years that Tash was taller than him. If you have seen pictures of Nicholas over the years, you’ll see him standing straight up, neck stretched out to the limit to gain every inch he could. This all changed around the age of 16 when his growth spurt kicked in and he shot up to pass everyone in his family. I remember the family stopping by for a visit and I suddenly realized that Nicholas had surpassed Tash. “Nicholas!,” I exclaimed, “you’re taller than Tash!” He grinned ear to ear, pumped his fist and said “Yes! Finally!”

When it came time to start thinking about which post-secondary institution to attend, I surmise there was a lot of dialogue in the Baier household. I’m sure a lot of influence to attend Olds College came because of his cousin Trevor. At family gatherings those two would sit and talk farming and ranching, all about cattle and equipment and what each operation was doing. After Trevor attended his first year, we knew what a wonderful experience that was for him; not only the curriculum, but the college atmosphere and the close friendships made by lots of students from similar backgrounds. This was a perfect fit for Nicholas and Trevor was sure to show him around, introduce him to his friends and in a short while, Nicholas was meeting new people and forming friendships of his own.

When his first year was complete and he was back home on the ranch with his family, Nicholas and Trevor would text each other over the summer, getting updates on seeding, then haying, how much rain each other had been getting, and if harvest would get done before Nicholas had to head back to college. It didn’t and Nicholas would head home every weekend to help out his Dad, Mom and Tash. He also called John nightly, to check how his day went, what was up for the next day and what was planned for the upcoming weekend. Upon returning from his weekend he would share with his friends what he had done at home that weekend and what he would be doing for the upcoming one.

I think it is really important for John, Maggie and Natasha to know how many people’s lives Nicholas touched during his time at Olds. There is a contingent of approximately 80 students and faculty in attendance today and I know John, Maggie and Tash would like to thank you for your support. Knowing how much he was liked is such a comfort. At the same time I think it is important for the students and staff to see the family and community that Nicholas was from. You appreciate the dedication that Nicholas had, just by seeing the distance he traveled every weekend to be home and work with his family. We hope you can take some time after the interment to meet John, Maggie and Tash and get some comfort yourselves, knowing they are thinking of you.

If you ever had the opportunity to see the Baier family working cattle; you could see team work in action, all 6 of them. John, Maggie, Nicholas, Natasha, Libby and Pepsi; the two prized dogs that Nicholas and Tash love so much. John has told me on several occasions that having his two kids and those two dogs were like having 10 extra people.

Nicholas and Natasha were as close as brother and sister can be. I’m sure they were no different than our kids with sibling rivalry and arguments but also the undeniable love for each other. Nicholas’ pride and love showed through whenever he would tell his friends at school about home. Joni said you could hear it in the way he said her name and how when he talked about Tash his eyes lit up and he beamed, there was no doubt to them how he felt about his sister.

A few days ago John and I drove to the cemetery where Nicholas will be laid to rest. As I had never been to Mt. Carmel before, I could not imagine a more perfect place for him to be than a small, quiet, peaceful place on a hill, looking out over the Prairie across to the south where the Baier cattle graze with Grandpa Baier watching over him. Nicholas you are home.

Benoit Francois Gustave Paillard

(Mar. 26, 1936-Oct. 17, 2010)

Ben Paillard was born March 26, 1936 at Tisdale, Saskatchewan to Edouard and Jeanne Paillard. He attended Salopian School until 1949 when the family moved to the Broadview district, south of Loyalist. He then attended Freda School. He worked on the family farm with his Dad and brother, George and also for different farmers in the area, on threshing crews or running combines until he moved to Calgary and purchased a truck. His work took him across Canada and from Alaska south to many of the States.

Ben loved animals, especially horses, so he moved his family to a small farm at Airdrie where he was able to work, train and show his horses.

Ben lost his life tragically on Sunday, October 17, 2010. He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, Marilyn of 40 years, son Daniel (Theresa), daughter Heather (Lee) Angeli, grandchildren Marlee, Megan, Joshua, Philip and Mark; great grandson Isaac; step grandchildren Taylor and Kayla. Also left to mourn are his sister, Lillian (Bud) Hayworth of Daysland, brother George (Linda) of Consort, sister-in-law Shelly (Ken) Itterman, brothers-in-law, Larry, Bill and Bob (Ellen) Smeltzer of Calgary, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edouard and Jeanne, sister and brother-in-law Andree and Charles Mason, and special niece Karlee Hayworth. Also his parents-in-law,Joyce and Gordon Smeltzer and brother-in-law, Sam.

A Memorial Service was held Friday, Oct. 22, 2010 at First Baptist Church in Airdrie.

Nick Kroeger

(Jan. 14, 1915 – Nov. 13, 2010)

Nickolai Henry Kroeger was born January 14, 1915 in Rosenthal Russia, eldest son of Henry and Helena Kroeger. In 1926 at the age of 11, Nick came with his parents and siblings to Canada to start their new life.

In 1939, Nick married the love of his life, Lucille Bliesner, and they began their life together on a farm south of Consort, where they farmed for 5 years. In 1940 Nick and Lucille welcomed their first son Dale, and a second son, Lee followed shortly after in 1944.

In the spring of 1944, Nick moved his family back to Consort, to start a new business venture with his brother Henry. Kroeger Brothers became a well known Massey Ferguson dealership across the rural area. In 1968, Nick parted from the business and took over the Shannon farm, south of Consort with his son Lee, where Mervin continues to farm today.

In December of 1999, Nick and Lucille sold their Consort home for an easier life in the Consort Lodge and in March of 2007 they continued their journey to the long term care facility, where they spent their days happily together.

Nick passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 13, 2010 with his loving wife Lucille by his side. Nick was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Helena, his brothers Henry and Art, and his sister Helen. Also by his sisters-in-law, Gay, Penny and Cleona; brothers-in-law, Fred Dafoe and Claude Thornton.

Nick is lovingly survived by his wife of 71 years Lucille, his oldest son Dale and wife Evelyn, and his youngest son Lee and wife Helen; his 6 grandchildren and their spouses, Rocky (Brenda), Ken (Bobbie), Darlene (Brian), Mervin (Sherry), Gary (Angela) and Lisa (Kevin); 18 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren; his brothers Pete (Cathy) and George (Irene) and sister Ann; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

The funeral service to honour Nick’s life took place at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Thursday November 18th, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. Officiating was Reverend Sue Hertell. Pat & Charlotte Gilmer played for the congregational hymns “The Old Rugged Cross”, and “How Great Thou Art” which was led by the Knox United Church Choir. Kate Kroeger and Brian Kroeger gave the eulogy. Special musical selection “Wings of a Dove” was sang and played by Pat & Charlotte Gilmer. The recorded recessional song was “Go Rest High On That Mountain”. The interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Active Pallbearers were (Grandchildren) Rocky Kroeger, Ken Kroeger, Mervin Kroeger, Gary Kroeger, Darlene & Brian Barber, Lisa & Kevin Repchuk. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Nick’s Family and Friends”. A luncheon followed in the Lower Hall of the church prepared and served by the U.C.W. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made in Nick’s memory to the Consort & District Seniors Association; for the new Seniors & Community Recreation Centre, Box 220, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

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

Eulogy

By Kate Kroeger & Brian Kroeger

Kate and I are here to say “Thank You” to our Uncle Nick because our fathers can’t be.

The brothers, Kroeger brothers and sisters, Auntie Helen and Auntie Anne all called Consort home for a time. In Nick’s case – for a very long time.

Everyone loved to come back to Consort, and Nick and Lucille made all the family feel like they had never left – Consort was still home.

[Kate]

Dad loved Consort, and Nick – and Nick and Lucille certainly made sure there will always be a lot of Kroeger’s here.

Family reunions at Gooseberry Lake, annual pilgrimages to Consort from wherever we all were in the world, visits to the original farm site and the present day farms, these were all an important part of my growing up. Dad wanted me to know where my roots were.

[Brian]

And the stories

My own experiences at the farm, coming from Stettler on the weekends. Uncle Nick driving around with a case of dynamite in the back of the station wagon, taking me out to the farm to do some rock removal, rocks that would damage the tillage equipment. WOW.

And there was the day I was corral cleaning with the 90 diesel tractor, and ended up on the frozen dugout just to find out it wasn’t quite frozen. As the tractor was sinking I crawled out over the hood. A call to Uncle Nick.

A couple of weekends later I was hauling grain to town, and rolled the grain truck on its side when I hit a snow drift in the yard. Another call to Uncle Nick. There was never a raised voice to me, just a tractor rescued and a truck frame straightened.

[Kate]

Cousin Lee and Brian told me stories about King, Nick and Lucille’s St. Bernard who ruled the south end of main street in Consort. King showed up one day with a quarter of beef he found unattended at Sodemans meat market across the street from the garage.

I have heard about the weekly poker games, Jack Newsham, Frank Gattey, Art Wiltse, Murray Tetlock, Len Schaffer, Bill Wiese. They are all waiting upstairs, ready to try and take some more of Nick’s money.

Nick always had his station wagon ready for ambulance use by anyone in need. There were no cell phones, poor roads, and many times no phones at all. Nick was always there.

[Brian]

Saturday nights at the garage, Annual fishing trips to Moose Lake, and after Nick retired he and Lucille loved their winters in Apache Junction, and all the while being there for his family and community.

Nick, you, will be missed. Thank You.

Max Music

(Oct. 11, 1916-Nov. 14, 2010)

Max Music was born October 11, 1916 in Knittelfeld, Austria.   In 1918, Yugoslavia was established as a country and his family moved back to Ljubljana (which is now the capital of Slovenia) soon after, where Max grew up. Max trained in carpentry and woodworking. After serving in WWII, Max immigrated to Canada in September 1948. He came to live with his uncle, Andrew Music, in the Talbot district. Max also had two cousins at Talbot, Josephine Schroeder and Annie Music. In the spring of 1949, Max went to work for Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Lougheed, north of Veteran.

In 1952, Mr. Lougheed sold his farm and moved the house to its present location: north of Veteran, across the railroad tracks.  Mr. Lougheed and Max bought a section of land that was complete prairie grass.  Mr. Lougheed proposed to Max that if Max would renovate the house – Mr. Lougheed would break up the land.  Upon completion of the house, Max farmed the land.  When Mrs. Lougheed passed away, the acreage was sold and Max moved into a small house in Throne and then purchased a house in Veteran.  In 1973, Max rented his land out to Jack Caseley, who continues to farm it at the present time. Due to failing health, Max moved into the Consort Seniors Lodge in September 1980.  At the time his remark was “I won’t be staying in this hotel very long.” However it became home and he resided there until the fall of this year, when he moved for a short stay in long term care, before passing on.

Max lived up to his last name of “Music” – playing both the accordion and the piano.  He was also a great curler – participating in bonspiels in neighbouring towns as well as going down to Calgary with his team.  Max loved to play cards, often getting up to join the night shift at the Lodge for a few hands of crib. He also became locally famous for his carpenter skills and wood working.  One of his many projects was refinishing the stations of the cross that still hang in the Consort Catholic Church. He also helped decorate the Consort Lodge by building beautiful frames for the many jigsaw puzzles he completed.  Some of these are still hanging in the Lodge today.  While he gave up cards in the past years, he still kept on with his puzzles.  This summer – while staying with Greg and Mary Schroeder – he completed two during his short stay.

Max is also well know for his great sense of humour and the ability to have a witty answer for everything.  Once, when asked by a lady why he didn’t wear his hearing aid, his reply was, “If you paid $1500 for a new dress, would you wear it everyday?”

Max passed away quietly on October 14, 2010 at the age of 94 in Consort’s long term care facility.

Max is predeceased by his parents- Peter and Franciska Music; his sister and brother-in-law – Franciska and Ignac Perne; his nephew – Cvetko Perne; his uncle – Andrew Music; his cousins – Josephine (Music) Schroeder, Gregory A. Schroeder, Annie Music, Dolores Schroeder, and Ford Bergwall.

Max is lovingly remembered by his nephews and nieces in Slovenia – Marinka, Francka, Ignac, Tonka and Peter and their families; his second cousins Bernadette Bergwall, Kay (Leo) Schultz, Greg (Mary) Schroeder and their families.

Words of Remembrance

By Evelyn Williams

Max came to the Lodge December 6, 1980.  His first comment to me was “I won’t stay long in this hotel.”  That was almost 30 years ago. Max soon became a favorite with staff and residents – he just never complained and went with the flow.  Max had a turquoise and white pick-up truck which was his pride and joy – he told me one day it was now old enough to vote.  For years we would see Max drive downtown to get himself fruit, ritz crackers, “snuff” and “antifreeze” – which he kept carefully hidden in the closet or dresser drawer.

Max loved flowers and early each spring for years he planted sweet peas around the power poles with strings for them to climb on.

Whenever a new night staff member started work he would ask, “do you play crib?” Two games of crib before work was the rule.  He was appreciative of anything one did for him.  I took him to Red Deer for an appointment and when I picked him up he looked at me and said “Here’s my mother”

We had many successful craft sales thanks to Max’s carpentry: bird houses, candle holders, and angels, to name a few. When our daughter got a new puppy Max went about building a cream and brown gingerbread type dog house.  She still cherishes it today. He enjoyed the keyboard and sometimes played the piano in the Lodge dining room.  He loved cats and birds, a rare combination.

Rest in Peace Max – your work on earth is done.  Thank you for the memories on behalf of myself and the Lodge staff and residents.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Max was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at the Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Consort, Alberta, with Celebrant Father Joselito Cantal officiating. Organist and Cantor was Marilyn Long, the Mass Hymns were “Peace Is Flowing”, “Be Not Afraid”, “Our Daily Bread” and “Amazing Grace”. Words of Remembrance were given by Brenda Schroeder and Evelyn Williams. The Adult Server was Peter Tyliszczak and the Intercessor was Melanie Heidecker. Readers were Denise Dawson and Melanie Heidecker. The Gift Bearers were Teresa Fleck and Mary Schroeder. The interment followed at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Active Pallbearers were Gregory Schroeder Jr., Gary Schroeder, Leo Schultz, Terry Dawson, Jack Caseley and Terry Schetzsle. Honorary Pallbearers were The Staff and Residents of the Consort Seniors Lodge. A luncheon followed in the church, prepared and served by the Catholic Church Ladies. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made in Max’s memory to the Consort & District Seniors Association; for the new Seniors & Community Recreation Centre, Box 220, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be sent to coro funeralhome@xplornet.com

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

Lilian Airey

(May 11, 1911-Nov. 20, 2010)

Lil was born to William and Lilian Parkin on May 11, 1911.

Along with her mother, father, and five brothers, they sailed to Canada from England in 1922 on the ocean liner, the Montrose. Lil was at first a little upset when her father announced that he was giving up a good paying job to come to Canada in order to give his five sons an opportunity to make a better life. She soon realized though, that not everyone could venture across the ocean on a cruise liner to travel to a new country. At that realization, Lil began to get excited. When they arrived, they lived with her Aunt Florrie and Uncle Otto Shon of Kirriemuir, Alberta. Two years later, the Montrose, the very ship they had sailed on, struck an iceberg.

At an early age Lil missed approximately two and a half years of school because of a life threatening disease, diphtheria. She had a keen interest in learning so kept up her grades in school from the homework her brothers brought her each day. In grade five, she climbed to the top of the class which came with many perks, such as early dismissal and being the “teacher’s pet”, along with other goodies. Lil enjoyed being raised on the farm with her five brothers.

Lil’s greatest love was her God, Jehovah. She was never shy to speak about the truth of God’s word and sparked an interest within many and mentored many others. She was zealous in her service work and loved to spend time with her spiritual brothers and sisters. She enjoyed a simple life and was able to contribute to help in the world wide preaching work of Jehovah’s Witnesses. It gave her the greatest pleasure to be able to do so.

In 1930, she was introduced to a chap named Jim. He was one of only a few that owned a Ford car. He invited her to tour the countryside one day, and from there, their romance blossomed. They were married April 19, 1932 at Esther, Alberta at the home of Mr. Fred Foot.

As others in those years, Lil and Jim had hard times. One year they had little else to eat other than grain and for sure they had no cream and sugar. They ate porridge for breakfast, lunch, and supper, joking at each meal to each other to please pass the cream and sugar. She was a seamstress and was employed for a time making drapes. She was also very proud of the clothes she made for herself. She knitted sweaters, scarves and mitts to while away the winter hours.

Lil had the finest appreciation for all kinds of music and she loved to dance whenever she had the chance. She took great pride in reciting many of her favorite poems. She enjoyed company and on many visits she liked to be silly, but most of all she loved to make you laugh and always had that special wink for you. One of her favorite sayings was “To Beat The Band”.

Lil spent the last few years of her life in the extended care in the Consort Hospital. With her visitors and magazines it kept her uplifted and encouraged to know that Jehovah’s promise would soon be fulfilled. Lil will be sadly missed by her friends and family until that day when we all meet again.

Lil was survived by her sister-in-law Margaret (widowed by Bert) Parkin of Monitor, Alberta; nephew Larry (Val) Parkin, Monitor, Alberta and their extended families, Ramona Munro, Riley Munro of Monitor, Alberta, Carrie Lynn Hayworth of Consort, Alberta, Bobbi (Ken) Kroeger of Blackfalds, Alberta; nephew Leonard (Sue) Parkin of Victoria, British Columbia and their extended families, Jamie Parkin of Coquitlam, British Columbia, Becky (Brad) Anderson of Port Moody, British Columbia; sister-in-law Margaret (widowed by Ronald) Parkin of Victoria, British Columbia; nephew Ron (Jeannette) Parkin of Monitor, Alberta and their extended families, Suzanne (Neil) Lake of Norfolk, England, Patrick (Jamie) Manoc of Red Deer, Alberta; niece Heather (Jeff) Williams of Langley, British Columbia; numerous great-great nieces and nephews; and her loving friends, Ron and Clarice Scheuer of Oyen, Alberta.

She was predeceased by her husband Jim (1979), father William Parkin (1951); mother Lilian Parkin, (nee Beckett); brothers Harold (1947), Edward (1961), Stanley (1989), Albert (2002), and Ronald (2002); and sister Irene (1916).

Memorial tributes may be directed to Watch Tower, Box 4100, Georgetown, Ontario, L7G 4Y4; or Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society (S.T.A.R.S.), Box 150, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0.

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

Raymond Vogel

(May 7, 1937- Dec. 12, 2010)

On December 12, 2010, Ray Vogel passed away at the age of 73.

He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Doreen; his children, Wayne (Rhonda) Vogel; Mervin Vogel, Marilyn (Brian) Sorken and Gordon (Nicole) Vogel; his grandchildren, Brandon, Tyler, Derek, and Owen; brothers, Aloys Vogel and Stanley Vogel; sisters, Mary Vogel, Leona (Victor) Wold, Doris (Dale) Evans, Gladys (Brian) Healy, Theresa (Blaine) Kjorlien and Loretta (Ben) Scheck.

Ray was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Christina Vogel and nephew Darren Evans.

Ray was born in Consort, Alberta on May 7, 1937. He grew up and farmed near Compeer, Alberta until retiring to Sherwood Park in 2002. He enjoyed playing music and would occasionally tour with “The Town and Country Kings” band, comprised of family and friends. We are all better people for having known him.

The family would like to thank the medical and support staff of the Royal Alexandra and Grey Nuns Hospitals for their compassionate care.

The funeral was held at Glenwood Funeral Home, south of Wye Road on Range Road 232, Sherwood Park, on Monday, December 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Interment followed at the Glenwood Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Ray to the Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.

To e-mail condolences, please visit www.glenwood memorial.com Saturday, November 27, at the Monitor Community Hall in Monitor, Alberta. Officiating at the service was Tim Herman. Th Pallbearers were Larry Parkin, Leonard Parkin, Ron Parkin and Riley Munro. The Honorary Pallbearers were her brothers and sisters.

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

Arlos Ferdinand Long

(Nov. 23, 1914 – Dec. 16, 2010)

Arlos Ferdinand Long passed away at Heritage House in the Stettler Hospital Complex on December 16th, 2010 at the age of 96 years and 23 days.

Arlos was born to Charles and Rosetta on their farm near Veteran, Alberta on November 23rd, 1914.

He was the fourth oldest of nine children which included three brothers and five sisters. He has been pre-deceased by his parents and four of his sisters Esther, Rita, Blanche and Madeline and brothers Ray, Ralph and Don.

Charles and Rosetta moved from St. Paul, Kansas, to first the Delburne area in 1909, and later to the Veteran area in 1912.

Growing up on the family farm, Arlos attended Wheatbelt country school, which was approximately three miles from the farm and transportation included wagon, sleigh, horseback and of course walking. He performed numerous janitorial duties while attending school.

Neighbours were always fairly close by in those days and the Bishell family were some of his closest friends. They moved to the Veteran area, approximately the same time as Charles and Rosetta.

In his spare time, he enjoyed riding steers, playing ball and later on, taking in community dances. As with most farms in those days, a lot of time was spent helping with the farm chores, which included milking cows, feeding pigs and gathering eggs, which during the school year, this was done before and after school.

Once out of school, Arlos remained on the farm as he truly enjoyed all aspects of mixed family farm. He loved the camaraderie of the “threshing Bees” and in those days, it was a chance to work as a team of people achieving a common goal. During the 30’s, joining one of these threshing crews with a team of horses and wagon meant you could earn $3.00 per day. This was definitely not an 8 to 5 job…typically you were fed, the horses fed, groomed, harnessed and hitched and ready to go at first light and the day lasted until dark.

During the Second World War, Arlos served in the Military from 1942 to 1945 stationed in Suffield Alberta, Prince Rupert B.C. and Horseshoe Bay on Vancouver Island.

After the War, he returned to his parents farm. In 1948, Arlos met Phyllis Vetter and they dated until July 2nd, 1952 when they married. They moved to a mixed farm less than a mile S.E. of Veteran.

Over the next few years, three children were born to this union, Gordon, Wayne and Ian. Growing up on the family farm holds many precious memories for us boys, as we all loved the animals and the freedom the wide open spaces offer. Here we also learned many life lessons and values which are still very much a part of our lives today. Living as close to town as we did, there were always numerous friends who rode their bicycles from town to also enjoy our special farm lifestyle.

Growing up on a “mixed farm” always offered a wide variety of opportunity for new experiences. From the time we were six years old, milking cows was an activity that happened twice daily, so all of us were experts by the time we were the tender age of ten. In those days the cream was separated from the milk and sold to the local creamery, and the milk, other than what was consumed by the family was fed to a herd of hogs.

Chickens were a large part of the family income, and were raised for both meat and egg sales to Veteran and neighbouring communities. Some of my fondest memories included joining the egg delivery run on Saturday mornings around the town to numerous residents. There was always time to stop and catch up on the latest events and happenings in and around the area.

Another, was the many competitions when joined by our friends from town, to see how many chickens we could put to sleep. This is done by first capturing them, tucking their head under a wing, then rocking them for a minute, setting them down and moving on to the next victim….I mean bird. Of course Mom and Dad were always the last to know of this activity, and typically we knew we were busted when they would quiz as to why the eggs had blood spots in them.

Also, there were always the calves and pigs who served in our rodeo competitions, to see who could ride a squealing pig or bellowing calf the longest. More often than not, this ended up with the animals winning, and us suffering some loss of blood or at minimum scrapes and bruises.

As time passed and the boys left the nest, Dad and Mom discovered camping and travelling. This became a passion of theirs and nothing gave them greater pleasure than taking all four grandchildren to a campground for a few days camping. It was a very special time in their lives and as any grandparent, they were especially proud of their grandchildren.

They also made some long distance camping excursions, one to Alaska and another across Canada from coast to coast. On the trip to Alaska, they had a very special guest, Dad’s sister Esther. These two siblings always had a very special bond and the three of them always had some amazing stories of their journeys together.

In August of 2005, due to Dad’s failing health, Dad and Mom moved to Heart Haven Lodge in Stettler. Early in 2007, Dad relocated to Heritage House until his passing.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife Phyllis of 58 years; one sister, Cleo (Tor) Garbutt of Edmonton; sons, Gordon (Paulette) of Veteran, Wayne (Karen) of Stettler, and Ian of Red Deer; grandsons, Jason of Stettler, Tyler (Amanda) of Ft. St. John B.C., Ellis (Sarah) of Calgary and Galen of Edmonton; two Great Granddaughters, Ava and Brooklyn of Ft. St. John, B.C.

Funeral mass was held at Christ King Catholic Church, Stettler, Alberta on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. with Father Arlan Parenteau as celebrant. Wayne Long and Ellis Long offered loving words of remembrance in memory of their father and grandfather. Joan Rushton, Leanne Kinderwater, and Debbie Simon led the music in song for the congregational hymns “In The Garden”, “Amazing Grace”, “How Great Thou Art” and special selection “Star of the East”.

Active Pallbearers were Arlos’ grandchildren Jason Long, Tyler Long, Ellis Long, and Galen Long. Honorary pallbearers were “All of Arlos’ Many Friends”.

Following the mass, family and friends gathered together in the parish hall for a time of fellowship, sharing and refreshments prepared and served by the Catholic Women’s League.

Memorial contributions may be made in Arlos’ memory to the Stettler Health Services Foundation – Heritage House or to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Research Department or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Forwarding condolences may be made by signing the guestbook at www.stettler funeralhome.com

Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium and Parkview Funeral Chapels were entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

A Tribute to Grandpa – Read by Ellis Long

For those of you who do not know me, my name is Ellis, 3rd eldest grandson to Arlos, or as I knew him ‘Grandpa Joe’. On behalf of all four grandchildren I wanted to say a few words in tribute to our Grandfather.

An Irish Poet said:

Death leaves a heartache

No one can heal;

Love leaves a memory

No one can steal

All of us are deeply saddened by the passing of our Grandpa, and a small part of us has left with him in his journey to a better place. But it is through all of our memories that Grandpa will always be with us and his faithful, quiet, caring and supportive nature will never be forgotten.

Grandpa has four grandsons, Jason, Tyler, Galen, and myself. We all remember Grandpa as being a common pillar in all of our lives. No time spent together among the Long cousins was quite complete without Grandpa and Grandma.

Jason recalls that some of our best times and memories growing up were spending weekends at the Grandparent’s farm or our summer camping trips across the prairies. When we think back it must having been a daunting task to load up all four grandsons at an average ‘obedient’ age of 10 and spend four days with us in the motorhome. But Grandpa was always excited for these trips and ever lenient with our ideas and adventures.

Tyler describes a memory that he and Grandpa would talk about almost every time they were together. Grandpa would always ask Tyler if he remembered driving the ride on lawnmower when he was young and how he was too small to hold down the engine kill switch under the seat. It always gave Grandpa a laugh when he would recall how Tyler would drive around for hours with his feet pushing on the dash to keep that tractor running. However, Tyler’s favourite memories of Grandpa will always be the ones that he and grandma made for their family during Christmas and other family gatherings.

Galen will remember Grandpa the most for how much he reminisced about the past. Galen can remember sitting at the kitchen table with Grandpa on many evenings and being fascinated at the stories he would tell about times long past and how different things were back when Grandpa was young. Grandpa was a fine story teller and Galen has learned a great deal about the Long family history from him. Galen also remembers playing Hearts with Grandpa, one of their favourite card games. If Galen ever started to get on a role, Grandpa would always say to Galen, “Wow, it looks like you are really going to town!”

Besides all of the sleepovers and camping trips my best memory of Grandpa is his subtle support over the years. Grandpa never missed a birthday, festival, 4-H show, graduation, or the like. Although he never said a lot, with his presence and a firm congratulatory handshake I always new Grandpa was proud of everything I did. My earliest memory of Grandpa is him kneeling beside me at night methodically teaching me my first bed time prayer, this prayer and the memory that accompanies it will never be forgotten.

These memories define Grandpa and us as grandchildren, without them our lives would not be as rich as they are today. Thank you Grandpa for your love, patience, discipline, sharing your faith, and for all of the great times we spent together. You will always be missed but never forgotten.

Love,

Jason, Tyler, Ellis and Galen

Raymond Kohlman

(April 29, 1935-Dec. 19, 2010)

Raymond was born April 29, 1935, on the family farm near Altario, Alberta. Ray died suddenly after a brief and courageous battle with cancer, on December 19, 2010 at the Provost Health Care Center at the age of 75.

Ray was the fourth child of Jacob and Martha (nee Sieben) Kohlman, in what was to become a large family of 17.  Being born on his mother’s birthday, she called him her best birthday gift.

Ray attended Upland Country School about 2 miles east of the family farm.  He completed grade 8, but when we asked what grade he got to in school he said, ‘I went right through school, in one door and right out the other.”

Ray loved farming and was a hard worker.  In 1962 while at a wedding dance in Primate, Ray’s heart was captured by a young lady. Ray and Marie were married April 15, 1963 at Macklin, and began their life together working on the family farm. In 1977, after his father passed away, they continued to farm on their own.  Many happy years were spent there raising their four children; Debbie, Bruce, Melvin and Brenda.

In 1994, Ray and Marie decided to pass the main farming responsibilities on to their eldest son, Bruce.  They moved to Hayter where they owned and operated a convenience store and ran the post office and a rural mail route. During this time, Ray was supposed to have quit smoking; however, we understand though that on a few stops on the rural mail route, he would find a couple cigarettes waiting for him as he put mail into the boxes.  Anyone along for the ride would be sworn to secrecy not to tell Marie.

Even though Ray had officially moved to town, his heart was still on the farm.  During seeding and harvest, he could be found helping Bruce and Rose-Marie. In 2005, Ray and Marie decided to retire and closed the business. They sold the house and built a new one on the lot next door.

If you played cards with Ray, you knew how entertaining he could be.  When Marie was his partner playing cribbage and she would play the card he needed, he would always say, “That’s my girl!’  When his opponent would get a 15 for two points, then you would hear him say, “LOUSE.”  Ray was lucky in cribbage; in all the years he played he got two perfect 29 hands. He was always quick to catch an opportunity to snatch a few points and when he had just the right card, at just the right time, his knuckles would wrap down on the table with a bang causing the whole table to shake.

The grandchildren remember playing many card games with Grandpa, especially ‘President’.  They were all baffled at how long he could stay in that president chair and were confused at how they couldn’t move him even when they got good cards.

Over the years many interesting stories about Ray have come up.  He was known for his quiet strength, never saying too much, but always being the one we could rely on for advice.  He had a definite line between right and wrong and was always fair. Often when we would try to string him a story, he would quickly set us back on the ‘right path’.

Each of Ray’s sons-in-law and daughters-in-law chuckle now as each admits that their first impression of Ray was one of fear. No one knows just what it was . . . his size, his voice, or his demeanour, but it left a really strong impression.  They soon learned that he had a huge heart as he welcomed each one of them into the family.

We celebrated Christmas early this year and as always Ray enjoyed having his family around him and as always he took special pride in his grandchildren.

Ray will be sadly missed and lovingly remember by his wife Marie (nee Reschny); children Debora (Vernon) Brockmann, Bruce (Rose-Marie), Melvin (Joanne), Brenda (Bill) Probst; grandchildren, Tyson, Samantha, Jordan, Cody, Tanner, Jaired, Karson, Landen, Jacob, Nicholas, Dwight, Allison, and Rebecca.

Ray is survived by his brothers, Vincent (Gabrielle), Edward (Pat), Stan (Carol), Steve, Larry (Arlette), Tom (Yvonne), John (Mary-Anne); sisters, Mary Bokenfohr, Barbara (Joe) de Kock, Anne (Bill) Kryger, Lillian, Evelyn, Angela (Lorne) Eckersley, Lorretta; as well as his extended family , and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray was predeceased by his parents, Jacob and Martha; brothers, Ralph and Nick; sister-in-law, Mechitilde Kohlman; and brother-in-law, Charlie Bokenfohr.

Vigil Service was officiated by Caroline Doetzel, on December 22, 2010 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church , Provost, Alberta. The funeral service was held on December 23, 2010 at 1030 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Provost, Alberta with Father Joselito Empleo Cantal officiating. St. Mary’s Church Folk Choir provided music and hymns. Eulogy was given by son-in-law, Vernon Brockmann. Pallbearers were Ray’s brothers. Honorary pallbearers were Ray’s godchildren, Stan Kryger, Neil Sieben, Phil Kohlman, Sheila (nee Kohlman) Fincaryk, Melissa (nee Reschny) Barker, Pam Charters, Samantha Kohlman, and all his family and friends. Fellowship and refreshments were hosted in the church hall by the CWL. Interment took place at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Altario, Alberta. Gregory’s Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

If friends and family so desire memorial donations in Ray’s honour may be made to the Mount Carmel Cemetery Fund, Box 42, Hayter, Alberta, T0B 1X0; the Canadian Cancer Society; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Card of Thanks

Marie Kohlman and family would like to thank all staff at the Provost Health Care Center, the Cross Cancer in Edmonton, and the Cancer Unit at the Lloydminister Hospital for the care Ray was given. Special thanks to Dr. Eramus and Dr. Malan. Thanks to friends and family for all of your support, flowers, cards, food, and the memorial donations. Also thank you to Jeremy and staff at Gregory’s Funeral Home.