2012 Obituaries

Maryetta Mock

(May 18, 1950 – Jan. 7, 2012)

Maryetta Jeanette Mock was born in Consort, Alberta on May 18, 1950, the eldest daughter of Mary and Ralph Morris. She attended school in Consort, where she completed grade 12. When she was in grade 8 she took a trip to the state of Washington with her grandmother Frieda; they visited hunters that Frieda used to board. She was the captain of the women’s basketball team, and was an active member in the CGIT. She also sang in the church choir. Through the years Maryetta had lots of roles: she looked after siblings, babysat for others, and worked for Simpson’s meat market. She was a nanny, and kept house for the ladies she babysat for.

After grade 12 she met the love of her life, Roy Mock. They were married May 17, 1976 in Calgary, Alberta. They moved to the Mock Ranch outside of Consort, where their family soon started.

Maryetta loved the ranch life and all that it entailed. She helped Roy with haying, pitched bales, processed cattle; she was Roy’s right hand girl. They owned and operated their family business: Mocks Meat Cutting in 1980. Maryetta and Roy opened their home to many hunters throughout the years. The house was never empty. She lived for her family, she had an enormous heart; there wasn’t a thing she wouldn’t do for anybody. Maryetta had a passion for fishing, baking, crocheting, music, and playing the piano. She was a self taught pianist and loved to play the accordion. Her love for music was never ending. Her love for gardening was recognized by so many; friends and neighbours would come to enjoy the bounties of her hard work. Her flower beds were always beautiful; she spent many hours pruning and perfecting them. She was an active member in the Consort Legion, as well as a member of the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo Association, where she was known for doing the pancake breakfast.

The stories of Maryetta’s kindness, generosity, love of life, her addictive laugh, and jokes are endless. Her smile, and personality will always be remembered and never forgotten.

Maryetta passed away suddenly on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at the Provost Hospital, Provost, Alberta at the age of 61 years.

Maryetta was predeceased by her father Ralph; mother Mary; sister Marilyn; mother in law Mary; and father in law Gotlob Mock. She is survived by her husband Roy and their five children Cory (Nicole) of Calgary; John Wayne and Tim of Consort; Tammy (Terry) of Czar; and Sasha (Aaron) of Wainwright. Four grandchildren Liam, Sarah, Mathew, and Arianna. Two brothers Allan and Johnny. Three sisters Marjorie, Mylinda, and Marcia and their families.

To commemorate Maryetta’s life a funeral service was held on Friday, January, 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at the Consort Sportex Hall, Consort, Alberta with Reverend Pauline Bell officiating. A tribute to Mom was shared by Maryetta’s daughters, Sasha and Tammy. Son, Cory McWhinney, gave the eulogy. Joan Bousquet shared her letter of remembrance; letters of memories were written by Mindy Klarer and long time friend Jackie Chin. Special music “Show Me The Way To The Other Side”, “Reach Out Your Hand To Jesus” and “Amazing Grace” were by Pat and Charlotte Gilmer. A video tribute was played during the service. Honorary Pallbearers were “Everyone Who Has Shared In Maryetta’s Life”. Active Pallbearers were John Wayne Mock, Tim Mock, Cory McWhinney, Terry Clark, Aaron Wittkopf, Kirk Sortland, Bruce Sortland and John Short. Maryetta was laid to rest at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Following the interment, lunch was served and prepared by the Consort Community Funeral Committee. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com
Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming today on behalf of the family.

For those of you who do not know me, my name is Cory McWhinney, I am the oldest son of Maryetta Jeanette Mock.

For all of us that know Maryetta, she was the life of the party. She could make anyone smile with her contagious laugh. Maryetta was always full of life, love and kindness. Maryetta was very family orientated and had a heart of gold.

Maryetta was always on the go from an early age taking care of siblings, to babysitting around town. Maryetta was a real go getter; she attended Consort School for her active schooling until graduation in grade 12. Maryetta had many jobs through the years from babysitting others children to house keeping and working for the local meat shop, “Simpsons”. Also helping clean the bank and Post Office in Consort.

After high school Maryetta found the love of her life, Roy Mock. In the sping of 1976, they were married in the “Big City” Calgary, Alberta and this is when Maryetta moved out to the Mock Ranch just outside of Consort, and the Mock family with Roy and Maryetta soon began.

Maryetta enjoyed taking part in many hobbies and community activites. Maryetta was active in the CGIT for many years and probably known for her involvement in the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo with her and Roy flipping pancakes! Maryetta also enjoyed fishing, baking and cooking for others.

While sitting around and talking with family the last couple of days, the things that have made us laugh are remembering sayings like, “Alright then”, which we remember as the good times.

A couple of memories:

“A time we remember as family is when Maryetta was down in the garden picking lettuce one afternoon. All of sudden there was this blood-curdling scream and all came running. What followed was the kids seeing Maryetta being dive bombed by mad and angry barn swallows. The lettuce still needed to be picked, so away went Maryetta to the house and returned with a big silver mixing bowl on her head as a protective helmet, to pick the remaining lettuce.

Another time: Maryetta “The Pickerel Queen” on a traditional Family Fishing Trip, the fish of choice was always pickerel. One afternoon while fishing, Maryetta caught on to a massive pickerel even bigger than her previous catch. She fought to reel it in and upon landing this “Trophy” Pickerel, John Wayne said, “Sorry mom it has to go back, we have reached our quota,” and away the trophy catch swam to the bottom of the lake. Later that day, John Wayne realized the quota was “Not Full” and the Pickerel Queen could have reigned.

Maryetta, Etta, Mom had a passion for teaching – always having time to teach a new faster “mommy wrap” in the meat shop or having time and the patience to teach that “New” old recipe to one of the kids.

A Tribute to Mom

by Tammy and Sasha

Mom, Tammy and I are standing here today to do one of the hardest things we have ever had to do.

How do you say Goodbye to a mother who was your whole world, your everything, one who you looked up to; shared your every thought with. One we laughed with, cried with, called for advice on how to cook something or just to shoot the breeze with. Dad always knew when it was us calling to hand the phone over to mom cause we were gonna be awhile.

You taught us so many things in life, mom. You guided us, you were the glue that held the family together. You loved us so. You opened your heart and home to so many. You always had love for everyone. Your kind words, contagious laugh and beautiful smile will never be forgotten. You were always so positive and loving, caring and generous, with a heart as big as the world. You meant so much to us, you touched our lives in ways you can’t imagine.

We miss you standing in the window, watching, pacing, patiently waiting for all of us to come walking in to the kitchen. Most of all we miss your cute five foot jolly little self there to greet us at the door when we came in. So excited, your house was full again. How you loved to visit, tell stories and jokes.

When we think of you, we always remember when things weren’t going quite the way they were supposed to and everyone was down on their luck you saying, “It will all come out in the wash.”

You were an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother; the grandkids really loved you. You were the greatest of them all. You will be missed beyond belief and forever in our hearts.

We’ll remember you when the sun shines in our hair, the shadows are on the ground, the whispers in the wind and the stars shine bright.

We are so grateful for the time we had you in our lives and are blessed everyday that we shared such a beautiful life with the most amazing woman.

We love you always and forever, til the day we meet again.

Our Departed Mother

She always leaned to watch

for us

Anxious if we were late

In winter, by the window,

In summer by the gate,

And though we mocked her tenderly,

Who had such foolish care,

The long way home

would seem more safe,

Because she waited there.

Her thoughts were all so full of us,

She never could forget,

And so I think that where she is,

She must be waiting yet.

Waiting, till we come to her,

Anxious if we are late,

Watching from heaven’s window

Leaning from heaven’s gate.

Dear Sister,

You have given me the strength and determination to strive for better. First born of M’s in the Morris family, Maryetta, Marjorie, Marilyn, Mylinda and Marcia, the sister M’s including Mother Mary, what a life of M’s. You have shown me as a big sister, first of love, understanding, then of giving as you are the most giving person I know; always others first, you in the back. As I heard the news you are gone, I am still in disbelief that such a Mom has been taken but as you know He only takes the best. Please know that you made a huge impact on our lives in such a positive way that I am forever grateful. My heart aches as I express how much I love you.

My Dear Sister, you are the ray in my sunshine, the cool of the rain, the gold at the end of a rainbow, the strength of the storm, the softness of a touch and the smell of flowers in the spring. You will always be in my heart.

M.

A Tribute to My Best Friend

by Jackie Chin

My family’s relationship with Maryetta started the day she was born. My mother was the R.N. on duty when Mary went to the hospital to have her second baby. As my Mom told the story, it was the one day of the year that Dr. Day would be out of town at a bull sale. Thus began what turned out to be one of the best friendships a person could ever have.

My first actual memory of being with Maryetta is when her Mom & Dad and Allan lived in the house at the end of our block on the other side of the street. The house next door was Grandma & Grandpa Wiest’s house and there was a gate in the fence joining the two yards. Grandma Morris was babysitting the Morris kids (I think Johnny was already born by this time). My memory is of Grandma Morris standing at the gate and telling me to go home. Ever since then Maryetta and I have been friends.

When we were teenagers we would put all our spending money together and buy a coil of garlic sausage which cost 69 cents at the time. We would take this garlic sausage and walk up the hill to Grandma Morris’ house to drink tea, eat the garlic sausage and smoke. And yes, we had bought our own cigarettes. We spent many afternoons with Grandma Morris drinking tea but not always eating garlic sausage.

Maryetta and I use to sing in the church choir. Maryetta had a lovely pure voice and definitely deserved to be singing in the choir. I was the requisite monotone and just followed Maryetta’s voice. When we had enough money, after singing in the choir on Sunday, we would go to the hotel café and buy pie a la mode and pop – a real smart move considering we were both overweight. It seems odd to admit this now but we use to sing duets in the Variety Shows put on at the school. We both loved to sing and I was so fortunate to have Maryetta’s voice beside me to make me sound better. We also used to buy song books that had the words to the songs on the hit parade and we would sit on the steps at the Morris house and learn all the words. We also attended CGIT together and had some great times at the car washes, bake sales, sunrise services and other activities. In school, Maryetta played basketball and volleyball and was a much better player than I was. Even though we weren’t in the same grade at school we hung around together after school and on weekends.

Some Saturday mornings, after Mylinda was born, I would get a phone call from Maryetta to come down to her house right away. Off I would go thinking she might need help with the little ones because Mary was working at the drug store. It took me several of these Saturday morning phone calls to realize that Maryetta was calling me because there was a dirty diaper to change and she just couldn’t do it. At least at that age she couldn’t do it – by the time Marcia came along she had learned to cope with the dirty diaper detail. Learning how to do that, as well as help look after her younger siblings, stood Maryetta in great stead when she became a mother to her wonderful children. She truly loved her kids and did everything she could for them. I never saw Maryetta really mad at her kids but she did on occasion give them a look, and they stopped what they were doing. She was a great cook and baker, even making her own noodles like Grandma Wiest use to do. How she had the time to do that is beyond me.

Her life on the farm with Roy was very good for her. Roy was an especially good husband to her, and I know she felt loved. This, combined with the love her children showed her, made her happy and contented. If she had a choice she wouldn’t leave the farm for very long.

One of the many things I loved about Maryetta is that it could be a long time between our getting together or having a phone conversation but it was always just like yesterday that we had talked. I also always felt that I could have called her at any time of day or night needing help and she would have been there for me. My daughter also felt this way about Maryetta and Roy, and always felt the unconditional love from them whenever we went to their house.

And she had this way of looking you dead in the eye when you were telling some long winded story and saying “Really?” in a special tone. Yes, really Maryetta. I will miss you for the rest of my life.

Dear Roy, John, Tim, Tammy, Sasha and Cory

You are shocked and devastated trying to cope with Maryetta’s sudden death. The community is shocked and saddened. She was truly the supportive, loving and nurturing matriarch of your family.

I have known Maryetta for at least 56 years as she and I were in the same grade, starting our educational career together with Mrs. McCarthy in the old Grade 1 portable. I remember very little about Grade 1 other than the fact that Maryetta was a good singer and she loved to sing. She probably led our class in the annual Christmas Concert Choir!

When I think of Maryetta, and all the Mocks, of course I think of Rodeo. Years and year and years of commitment, and hundreds and hundreds of volunteer hours have been amassed by all of you for the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo. Just as our Mothers, as Legion Ladies, worked the booth in the early years of the rode, Maryetta and I worked shifts together every year. I looked forward to our annual visit on Father’s Day Sunday at the Rodeo when we’d crank out hundreds of pancakes, eggs and ham (as a matter of fact, when I got called to work, I would agree only if I could be on Maryetta’s shift!!). She was adept at making the perfect pancakes and could handle the steady stream of calls for “Two breakfasts, Four breakfasts! Three breakfasts – one ham & egger, easy over!” standing at the grill without relief for 3 to 4 hours! And before one pancake was even flipped, she’d been there by 6 a.m. to start the coffee urns, and adjust the grill for perfect heat.

Roy, you were often part of our breakfast crew, even though it was Father’s Day – something you usually remembered long before Maryetta and I did!! A great tip that I learned from one or the other, Roy or Maryetta, is that the best pancake batter is made with beer (and it doesn’t hurt for the chef, or assistant chef, to have one too!!)

The only time that it was uncomfortable to be on Maryetta’s shift was if it was a sweltering hot morning with the grill putting off enough heat to create a suffocating sauna. We could be dripping perspiration, greasy hot, and dying for a cool cross breeze in the booth, but Maryetta absolutely refused to allow us to open the big window by the grill for fear that a bird or birds would fly in. For all her calm at the grill, she was panicked by the slight possibility of a bird flying into the booth, so the shutters remained closed and the cool breeze remained a dream! But – I happily suffered the heat for Maryetta’s ability and efficiency and her congenial conversation.

Recently I bumped into Maryetta at the grocery store on one of her infrequent visits to town. We were surprised, and pleased, to see each other by chance, and gave each other a warm hug and a New Year’s greeting. We laughed as we waved goodbye saying, “See you at the Rodeo!”

Now, looking back, I treasure that chance meeting with my friend Maryetta, and I will forever treasure the warm hug and her happy smile. I will always miss my Father’s Day Breakfast partner – I can’t imagine pancakes without Maryetta. I know you can’t imagine life without her.

Please know that all of us are thinking of all of you – a big huge hole has just opened up in your hearts, and lives. It will take a long time, and the support and love of family and friends to try to repair your hearts.

Sincerely, and with a warm Maryetta Hug,

Walter Zuk

(April 9, 1926 – Jan. 1, 2012)

On January 1, 2012, Walter Zuk of Edmonton passed away peacefully at the age of 85 years.

Walter will be cherished by his wife Ruth of 54 years, three daughters: Rosemary, Sharon and Carol, 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service was held on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 9654-75th Ave. Edmonton, AB at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the Cross Cancer Institute, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2 or The Alberta Lung Association, Box 4500, Station South Edmonton, Alberta T6E 6K2.

Note – The above information was printed in the Edmonton Journal. Walter was well known in this district having worked at Kroeger Bros. Garage, as well as farming. Through the years, Walter kept touch with his Consort friends, and until ill health overtook him a few years ago, he and Ruth would come out and visit in the area. Friends will regret hearing of his passing and extend sympathy to the family. The following information has been taken from the history book, “The Sunny Side of the Neutrals”.

From the time of his birth in 1926, until September of 1933, Walter lived in the Ukraine with his mother and sister, Mary. His father, had come to Canada in 1922, seeking a better way of life. He had worked for various farmers in the Hemaruka and Loyalist areas, eventually striking out on his own, which was difficult because of the depression. By 1933, Wasyl “Bill” Zuk was able to bring his wife, Mary, and two children, Mary and Walter to Canada and after a long boat trip from Hamburg and train trip from New York, they arrived in Canada. They were met in Consort by Mr. Zuk and Tieffen Covlin and the two kids rode out to their new farm home in the rumble seat of Mr. Covlin’s coupe. (Two older children, John and Nina, who were already out on their own, remained in the Ukraine).

At seven years of age, Walter and his sister, Mary, 13, started school at Silverdale where Margaret Gould (Hutchings) taught them. Some of the neighbors included the Frank Morris family, the Tom Anderson family and the Murrays. It was a difficult life, especially for the adults, as they had to learn a new way of life and a new language. A big treat was getting into town for the Saturday night picture show and a 5 cent chocolate bar.

In 1937, the parents bought the Forsyth place, three-quarter sections of land one mile south of Consort for $1,600. They also bought the Cameron one-quarter for back taxes of $350.00. They farmed this land until 1952, when Walter took over and his parents moved to Edmonton.

After Walter graduated from High School in Consort, he took an Automotive course at Tech in Calgary. He married Muriel McKay in 1948 and they had one daughter, Rosemary. Muriel passed away in 1954. Walter married Ruth Polei in Wetaskiwin in 1957 and they had two daughers, Sharon and Carol.

Eileen Carless (Nee Thornton)

(Sept. 26, 1927-Jan. 15, 2012)

Eileen Mary Ellen Carless (nee Thornton) passed away peacefully on the afternoon of January 15, 2012 in Red Deer, AB. Eileen was born in Cereal, AB. on September 26, 1927 to Ralph and Anna Mae Thornton (nee Uffken).

Eileen graduated from high school at the age of 17 years and attended Normal School (teaching college) in Calgary through the University of Alberta. She graduated from the program in 1946 and began her career teaching at rural Alberta schools including Horseshoe, Broadview, Butte Valle and New Brigden over the next seven years. During this time of her life she was also involved in music, playing the piano with the Thornton family band.

In 1954, she married Edwin John Carless at Consort, AB. and lived in a number of places throughout the province including Edmonton, Stettler and Cessford. In 1965 she moved her family to Red Deer and resided there until her health declined. During her time in Red Deer, she made a living by baby-sitting in her home.

Eileen was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish (proclaimer and hospitality minister). She was also a member of the Catholic Women’s League (since 1960) and a community volunteer.

Throughout her life, Eileen was musically and artistically inclined-playing the piano, drawing and writing poetry.

She is survived by her children, Carole (Bernie) Goruk of Calgary, Barbara Travis of Drumheller, Diane (Merv) Strome of Calgary, Eddy (Dianne) Carless of Red Deer and Susan (Rick) Pankiw of Rimbey. She is also survived by her sisters, Elaine Durksen of Calgary and Shirley (Don) Sortland of Red Deer and her brother Ralph (Jean) Thornton of Sedalia, Alberta as well as many nieces and nephews.

Eileen was the proud and affectionate grandmother to Jared, Lisa, Dana, and Jordan Goruk; Kelcy, Kirby, and Connor Travis; Courtney Juurlink (Strome) and Brianne Strome; Morgan, Justin, and Spencer Carless; Colton, Logan and Taylor Pankiw and great-grandmother to Maya Johnson and Oaklyn Juurlink.

Eileen was predeceased by her grandson Byron Goruk; brother in law Henry Durksen; and niece Dallas Craney.

Prayer services were held at Eventide Funeral Chapel, 4820-45 Street in Red Deer, on Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. followed by a Funeral Mass on Friday, January 20, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Parish, 6 McMillan Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta. Interment took place at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Red Deer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Eileen’s honour may be made directly to The Red Deer Hospice, 99 Arnot Ave., Red Deer, Alberta T4R 3S6. Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.eventidefuneral chapels.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Eventide Funeral Chapels.In 1958, Walter and Ruth moved to Edmonton where he joined the staff at Shell Oil and later operated the Shell Station in the Riverbend area.

Cam Wiltse

(June 13, 1960-Jan. 22, 2012)

Cameron Ross Wiltse was born on June 13, 1960 in Consort, Alberta and was the youngest child of Art and Helen Wiltse.

Cam passed away in Consort, Alberta on Sunday, January 22, 2012. He is survived by his two sons and their families; Sheldon (Amanda) Wiltse, Shane (Laura) Wiltse, his grandchildren: Austin, Stephanie and Mya, all of Consort; sister, Maureen (Gary) Schooler, of Olds; 2 brothers Rob (Sherry) Wiltse, of Consort and Fred (Cheryl) Wiltse, of Kelowna, B.C.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Cam was predeceased by his parents Art and Helen Wiltse.

The memorial service for Cam Wiltse was conducted on Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sportex Hall, Consort, Alberta with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Pat Durksen played for the congregational hymns “In The Garden” and “Amazing Grace”. Tributes and fond memories were shared by Randy Kulyk, Phil Gilmer and Keith Wittmack. Honorary Pallbearers were Keith Wittmack, Phil Gilmer, Kelly Day, Randy Kulyk, Roger Johnson and Ray Schiltroth. Urn Bearers were Sheldon Wiltse and Shane Wiltse. A private family interment was held at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Lunch was served in the Sportex Hall which was prepared by the Consort Community Funeral Committee. Memorial donations may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice in care of Coronation Funeral Home, Box 35, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0. Heather Caseley entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

Eulogy/Tribute

by Randy Kulyk

I am very grateful and fortunate to have had Cam Wiltse as my friend. He had a great wit and loved to make you laugh. The first time that I met Cam was on a cold and snowy night, the first fall that I moved to Consort. I was driving home from work in a snow storm and saw an orange Chevy truck with slick tires in the ditch along the service road on the east side of town. I stopped and offered to lend a hand. The driver, Cam, jumped out of the truck… and slipped and fell on his back. His comment on getting up was, “I meant to do that!” I pulled him out of the ditch and he continued on his way, spinning on the ice, only to travel about 100 yards and end up in the ditch again! I drove up to him and he jumped out of his truck again and said, “Like I said, I meant to do that” – with a huge grin on his face. Like always, he was just having fun and I knew that we would get along from then on.

Cameron Ross Wiltse was born June 13, 1960 in Consort, Alberta and was the youngest child of Art and Helen Wiltse. Cam grew up and attended school in Consort until venturing to Drumheller High School to pursue his love of playing hockey.

When he returned to Consort, he began working at, and eventually owned, the family business – Wiltse Pioneer Store. On September 8, 1979 he married Patti Suchotzky of Veteran, Alberta. Together they were blessed with two sons, Sheldon and Shane, who were the pride of Cam’s life.

In 2001, after the boys were grown up and left home, Cam and Patti sold the family business and moved to Pigeon Lake, where they bought Western Spirits Liquor Store.

Cam returned to Consort in 2007 where he resided until the time of his passing. During these last 5 years, Cam enjoyed many special moments with his sons and got to experience the joy of being a grandpa.

Throughout his life, Cam took pride in his home and community. He volunteered his time to many causes including the Consort Oilmens Association, the Legion, Minor Sports and the Golf Club.

His passions included hockey and golf, whether playing it or watching the games on TV. Cam valued the gift of family and friendship and loved to visit. He had many colourful stories that he loved to share.

I have so many memories and stories that I could share with you about my good friend, Cam, but I’ll end with just one more.

A few years ago, Cam was ribbing me about spending too much time ice fishing.

I asked Cam to come ice fishing with me sometime, and he said that he really didn’t like the cold, or fishing, very much. After hearing that I had a fishing shack with a wood stove, he finally agreed and we decided on a day to go. I ragged on him for over a week to buy a fishing licence as he needed to have one if he wanted to fish. The afternoon before our trip, he showed up at my office sporting his usual big grin and, as he put it, with an official “W-l-N number licence and a Fishing ID” – he always worded things backwards intentionally.

We went on our fishing trip the next day, had a lot of fun, and Cam even caught some fish! On the way home, we were stopped by the game warden. He asked us for our fishing licences and I looked everywhere and realized that I didn’t have mine with me! Cam proudly reached in his coat pocket and produced all his new documents, saying, “Randy – I’ve been ragging on you for a week – go get a fishing licence!” Cam took great pleasure in telling that story over and over for many years afterwards!

How can you not love a friend like that? That was Cam. He loved life, loved his friends, and loved to have fun. And he always found a way to make me laugh.

Cam – thanks for letting me be your friend.

Tributes

by Keith Wittmack & Phil Gilmer

– Phil

Joan and Keith, and Brenda and I are honoured to have been asked by the family to share a few memories of our longtime friend Cam. We tried to make this a little shorter than one of Cam’s stories. As I’m sure all of you know, with Cam’s stories you could leave for 20 minutes or more, come back, and really not have missed anything.

Cam had a love for people, this translated into running a very successful business alongside Patti in Consort for many years. He was a very well respected community man. I remember many conversations about the importance of putting the community first which he backed up by serving on many boards including minor sports and the golf club.

Cam was known to be a little tardy. Whether it was leaving for an 8:00 o’clock curling draw in New Brigden at 7:45 or waking up for his bus run 2 minutes and 30 seconds before he had to leave, we all made allowances. I did solve this problem one time by inviting him out to a branding at 5:00 with no intention of starting until 7:00. He expected to time it for the steaks and beer but actually had to wrestle some calves. He never forgave me for that one.

Cam made several trips to Scott Lake with Kel and friends. He was a little out of his element in the bush and along with another townie, they earned the label the “D F’s” (You can check with Ray about the definition). They were often targeted but Cam got the last laugh when under protest, he was sent to clean fish. The only professional butcher in the group returned with fish chunks. Needless to say he wasn’t required to clean fish again. Another time while the DF’s were mocking the upper classmen for having to lug batteries, antennas, and phone gear up a mountain to make a phone call, all they had to do was get the fire ready for lunch. When we returned however, we knew that their nickname was apt as they had lit the fire and both promptly fallen asleep. Apparently while they were sleeping the fire spread and they had a few hectic moments getting it out. They might have gotten away with it if they hadn’t been all sweaty and covered with soot when we got back.

Cam’s “Handyman” abilities were, to say the least, a little suspect. When Patti saw the arrival of “Handyman” magazine show up in the mail, she was excited about the possibilities. Maybe some new exotic tree planters? New fence? Cam wasn’t excited. Turns out it was a mystery subscription from friends. I got blamed for that but Keith and Randy might know a little more about it. Basically Cam’s handyman job was to phone family and friends when there was a project.

Keith –

In fact, Cam would go to great lengths to avoid Handyman jobs. I recall when we were shingling my roof one hot August day, after being asked to climb a ladder (scared of heights), he went so far as to encourage a bee to sting him. After he puffed up like “Elephant Man”, he didn’t return from the hospital until the job was near done. Never did see any more bees, had to wonder if he brought his own.

Cam was a good athlete. One of the top goalies Consort has produced. He had many successes in his hockey career. He had great reflexes and a super glove hand, earning him several MVP awards and championships. Later on he switched to Rec Hockey, curling and golf. All of these gave Cam the chance to excel in the social aspect of sports.

He was one of the founding fathers of the infamous “Gooseberry Lake Pilsners” slo pitch team. We actually moved up from playing only girls teams to having the odd good showing at mens tournaments. A lot of good memories.

Cam also excelled in golf. He loved being on the course, especially going head to head against Shane and Sheldon. We’re sure it created many lasting memories.

One of Cams big golf highlights was getting a hole in one at a par 3 tournament playing with Joan and Brenda. His topped ball skipped and bounced it’s way 150 yards finally dribbling into the bottom of the cup. His elation was tempered by Joan and Brenda’s less than enthusiastic celebration at his duffed shot.

In closing, as we touched on before, Cam’s strength was dealing with people. He took pride in his store and particularly the meat department. Everyone knew of his famous Legion Supper steaks.

Cam was very proud to be a Wiltse. His dad left big shoes for him to fill and he did his best to make him proud. We all know he succeeded.

Cam loved his family so much, the years he and Patti spent raising the boys were the best of his life and resulted in two fine young men.

Cam was very proud of Sheldon and Shane and their families. He couldn’t have been more pleased with their choices of wives in Amanda and Laura and proud of all his grandchildren. You were all so special to him. This would also include Cams brothers and sister as well as Patties sisters and parents who he was very close to. I could go on forever, Cam knew so many people. If you came across a crowd of people having a good time, Cam would be there.

Cam obviously had a great sense of humour. This should be evident in the friends he chose and we were blessed that he chose us as friends. Cam was a great friend.

Dawn Guenthner

(June 11, 1954 – Feb. 4, 2012)

Dawn Marie Simkin was born to Gavin and Cecelia on June 11, 1954 in Consort, Alberta. She was welcomed by two older brothers, Robert and John, and later became the big sister to Audrey. She passed away peacefully in Edmonton at the Cross Cancer Hospital on February 4th, 2012 with Ken by her side.

Dawn grew up on the family ranch. She attended school in Consort where she exceeded in academics and sports. Her son Jeff was born at this time and was raised as a much-loved member of the Simkin family.

Following high school, Dawn attended Red Deer College and the University of Alberta. While studying for an education degree, she was a competitive and feisty basketball player, first for Red Deer College and then for an Edmonton city team that went to Nationals. Sports continued to be a passion for Dawn, especially with the Halkirk Jays fastball team who were provincial champions.

A natural teacher, Dawn was well respected in Gadsby, Provost and Consort. Dawn loved music and integrated piano playing into many of her classes. Her love of sports influenced her teaching and she coached and developed many students in athletic endeavours. Dawn obtained a license to drive the bus to ensure that over the years youth had the opportunity to travel for sports.

On February 4th, 1984, Dawn married the love of her life, Ken Guenthner. Together they had a happy partnership. They loved their country life in the Sounding Lake area, a place Dawn often referred to as “God’s country.” They were blessed with three children, Tanya, Laurie and Scott. The family worked and played together to build their ranch. She appreciated the land, liked to work, was strong willed and an astute business woman.

Dawn loved her community and was proud to call Consort home. Dawn and Ken have been involved in many community events and projects. She has given her time and talent to 4-H, coaching, the Consort School, the Monitor Community Club, homecomings and the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo. Dawn was one of those “go to” people who could organize and implement anything she set her mind to.

Dawn and Ken’s life was enriched with the arrival of Jeff and Daphne’s children, Georgia and Gavin. They were the source of endless joy sharing their ranch life which both children love.

Dawn is survived by her loving husband Ken; son Jeff (Daphne) Simkin, daughters Tanya and Laurie, son Scott; precious grandchildren Georgia and Gavin Simkin; her mother Cecelia Simkin; brothers Robert (Trudie) and John (Sue); sister Audrey (Gord) Wilkes; father and mother-in-law David and Leta Guenthner; brothers-in-law Gary Guenthner; and Ron (Roxanne) Guenthner; a large extended family and many dear friends. Dawn was predeceased by her father Gavin Simkin in 2001.

Those we love don’t go away,

They walk beside us

every day,

Unseen, unheard, but always near,

Still loved, still missed

and very dear.

A funeral service celebrating Dawn’s life was held on Friday, February 10, 2012 in the Consort Sportex, Consort, Alberta with Reverend Pauline Bell officiating. Dawn’s grandson Gavin Simkin was the candle lighter and granddaughter Georgia Simkin, with her little brother Gavin’s assistance, presented a poem written by Alice MacRae Simkin, “A Flower and A Kiss.” Loving eulogies were given by brother John Simkin and son Jeff Simkin; daughter Tanya Guenthner gave a moving tribute in memory of her mom. Musician Linda Schetzsle blessed those present with her gift of music and accompanied the congregational hymn, “Amazing Grace.” Those in attendance viewed a beautiful video tribute honouring Dawn’s life. The recorded musical selection “Hallelujah” by k.d. lang, was played as the mourners exited the hall. Following the service, Dawn was laid to rest at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta with Justin Guenthner, Michael Wilkes, Mark Simkin, Alistair Dinniss, Brad Fedick, Casey Lawes and Brendan Laye serving as active pallbearers. Following the interment, a time of fellowship and a luncheon prepared and served by the Consort Community Funeral Lunch Committee took place. Memorial donations may be made in Dawn’s memory to S.T.A.R.S., Cross Cancer Institute or a charity of choice c/o Parkview Funeral Chapels, Box 186, Castor, Alberta T0C 0X0, who were entrusted with the care and arrangements. To send or view condolences to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneral chapels.com

Eulogy by John Simkin

Dawn was a truly remarkable woman. Everyone here today who knew her well, have their own special memories of my honorable, caring sister. In my mind she stood just a little taller than most. Dawn was a strong woman – athletic, industrious, capable and a stalwart community member.

Growing up provided lots of opportunity for great memories. Our Grandma Simkin would give us “nature talks” in the garden. The topics might be: why we have night and day; what makes plants grow; why plants have seeds; why different animals and birds have different colors – all fodder for inquisitive little minds. Our mother made sure all of us had plenty of fun. Dad wanted us to all take piano. We all took tap dance. Dawn really enjoyed dancing and music, traits she passed on to her own family…A real memorable occasion was afforded by the Mitchell’s when they took both of us to a Postmaster’s Convention in Calgary. This was Dawn’s first look at the bright city lights and since I had been there once already, I was able to take on the big brother role of tour guide. My chubby faced, little, blond sister was fascinated. Lights, big buildings, elevators and escalators were remembered forever. When Audrey started Grade 1, she had trouble coping without mom close by. She either had to go up to grade 4 or Dawn had to sit by her in the Grade 1 classroom. Dawn’s personality as a “go to” person was recognized early by Audrey.

Joan (Day) and Dawn became lifelong friends through church and church related activities, the main one being C.G.I.T. They always joked that the acronym stood for “Curviest Girls In Tights”. Their friendship allowed Joan to be her closest confidant. Laughter entered every conversation. Joan remembers that being Thumper’s [Robert’s] sister, shopping for shoes was a lifelong pursuit of Dawn’s.

Cyndy (Berry) captured some of Dawn’s attributes: The only time I could compete with Dawn was in the classroom where we vied for the highest marks. She usually outdid me!

Dawn was always a great organizer and in high school she was the mastermind behind a proposal for a summer youth employment incentive called “Opportunity for Youth”. They performed music and plays in the area to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee’ lots of fun and Dawn was music director.

Dawn was a good athlete. At Red Deer College her basketball coach didn’t make cuts, he just made them run miles of laps and do endless pushups and exercises until only the strong stayed standing. She was one of them. At the U of A, she took an outdoor education class and one activity was to build an “Indian Sauna” on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River. They went in the sauna until they couldn’t tolerate the heat and then they would jump in the river. They repeated this until she said you swam in the river and it felt like bath water” and that was in the early spring in Edmonton. She didn’t enjoy swimming at the best of times. She took lessons while in university and it was probably the only course she ever struggled with or complained about.

Dawn liked to write and took a creative writing course at RDC. She would use her experiences from the farm as prompts for her writing. Cyndy remembers her talking about some of the “hired hands” that came to work. Once, dad wagered that she could carry two five-gallon pails of grain further than this hired man could’ she did. Speaking of hired hands brings back another memory. We were somewhere between five and seven. One of those characters, Russell Devine, liked to smoke. I mean he really enjoyed smoking, and since dad didn’t like him smoking in the hayfield he would lounge around after dinner or supper and truly enjoy a smoke. This never went unnoticed and Dawn and I figured if we were to ever get good at smoking we needed to start. I pilfered a couple of Russell’s cigarettes. I don’t recall who chose the location, but we ended up in the old two holer, shut the door and lit up. We hardly had time for anything like enjoyment when we heard the outside door latch lock. There we were, locked in with Grandma outside. She obviously couldn’t decide on appropriate punishment and let us know our father would take care of it. This was an unhappy turn because we knew what the likely punishment would be. We had about three and a half or four hours to sit in poor surroundings to contemplate Dad’s arrival. I consoled Dawn by telling her it would only hurt for a little while. Neither one of us ever smoked.

Dawn and I were pretty close in age and fortunately spent some time at the same schools. At Red Deer College and the U of A, I often introduced her as my older sister. She never objected, just smiled and let my little game continue. Most knew I was joking but one guy whom I actually lived with knew I was B.S.ing. He was sure she was my twin.

We had many mutual friends, some admirable, some a little sketchy. One of mine in particular, Dawn especially disliked and she decided to do something about it. Strong willed, determined, or just plain tenacious, once the bit was in her mouth there was no stopping her. She succeeded in replacing that person with the woman who became my partner for the last thirty six plus years. Dawn and Sue have been superb friends all these years and I am forever grateful. I never had the opportunity to repay her in kind, but you never know what Uncle John might be able to do for those three eligible kids.

Dawn was very humble. She never conducted herself in a way designed to shine the spotlight on her talents or abilities. Family and community were her focus and obviously todays turnout is a show of appreciation.

Dawn and Ken’s relationship was a great partnership. Their bond was a shared appreciation of family, life, nature, and ranching. When helping in the community, if you had one – you got both. The Gooseberry Lake Rodeo springs to mind. Both enjoyed community events and she urged people to get involved with Consort’s upcoming 100th year celebration. Dawn thought it important to commemorate events whether it was a Guenthner or Simkin reunion, the community at large, or birthdays, or anniversaries.

Watching all her kids grow up, seeing to it that the business side of life was well looked after and ranching with Ken in the Sounding Lake area and beyond, gave her contentment that allowed her to proclaim often that “We live in God’s country”. There is no question we could all have benefited by Dawn having had a longer life, but we must accept the facts as they are and draw from who she was. Dawn was an excellent teacher and her kids and many others have benefited.

I would like to thank Ken, Scott, Laurie, Tanya, Jeff, Daphne, her two wonderful grandchildren, sister Audrey and her family and everyone else who made Dawn comfortable.

We should all count our blessings! The very least this can accomplish is to take your mind off the everyday burdens we all have. Take a break, start counting.

Eulogy by Jeff Simkin

I found trying to capture Mom, and what she meant to all of us, a daunting task, and was frankly overwhelmed with where to begin. How do I describe someone who was so important to all of us, but on different levels: as a daughter, mother, grandmother, sister friend and wife. Like many things that we find complicated, through the eyes of our children they become simple and clear. This past Christmas our children gave Mom a journal and wrote the top ten things they loved about Grandma Dawn. I would like to share their list with you.

Top 10 Things Why I Love Grandma Dawn

1. She makes me laugh.

2. She plays with us.

3. She makes me cookies.

4. We watch the moon together.

5. She helps us put on our saddle.

6. She tells us family history.

7. She gives us hugs.

8. She is always happy.

9. She teaches us interesting facts.

10. She cares about us and does things for us.

That’s why we love her.

Reading the list, it is easy to see that she was not different things to each of us, but the same things, perhaps delivered differently.

While Mom was a private person and guarded with her emotions in public, with her family and friends she was very open. Mom loved to laugh, and looked for opportunities to find humour in day to day life. Whether it was a quick phone call or a well placed note that brought a smile when found. Mom maintained her sense of humour in difficult times, making humorous comments during her treatment that would allow all of us a chance to laugh, take a deep breath, and gather ourselves to get through the hard moments. Her ability to find humour was a gift, but over time it became clearer that her true intention was to protect her family, despite the fact that it was her needing our help.

Family was very important to Mom. She understood the strength that family provides and worked hard to develop a deep sense of family in all of us. Mom believed in family gatherings to mark occasions and provide a chance for the youngest members to gain an understanding of their roots. While we enjoyed getting together, it was because of her willingness to organize, plan and coordinate with all of us that these events transpired.

Family history was naturally instilled on these occasions, but she never missed an opportunity to share it. I watched her sit with Georgia at the piano as she shared stories of how she learned to play the piano with her grandma. Her expression of pride spoke for itself. Or, after dinner Gavin would ask her to share some family history. There would be a smile, always followed by a story that seemed to tie into their day.

The concept of family was easily extended by Mom, and over the years came to include a special nephew or friends in need, who were taken under her wing and became part of her family. For a number of years, Mom and Ken have taken in trainees from around the world, who still remain close to the family. A testament to those realtionships are flowers and messages that have been sent here today from Sweden and Australia.

Mom and Ken had a special marriage and set a wonderful example for all of us on a true partnership. The combination of their different strengths and personalities showed the sum was truly greater than its parts. Can anyone remember an event, whether it was watching their family in minor sports, a community event, rodeo or meeting when they were not together? While not always on the same page, Ken could usually see Mom’s point of view, and quickly if required! His patience and understanding was the perfect compliment to her drive, conviction and outright stubborness! I had many conversations with Ken that included the same line, “What am I going to do? This is what she wants and she won’t change her mind!” They were lucky to have found each other.

A large part of their happiness stemmed from a shared love for the outdoors, ranching and the country way of life. Family, work and fun were seamlessly woven together over the years and they enjoyed raising their family with this way of life. Mom never had a better day than working outdoors with her family.

The joy of watching her kids and grandkids learn to ride and help was obvious. A constant stream of new horses over the years provided endless entertainment, whether it was hooking them to a sleigh to see what would happen, or that first ride. Mom would always laugh and yell, “Hold on kids, let me get my boots and I will be right out!”. Watching Scott progress from breaking minature ponies and riding them into the house to show her, to a promising rodeo career filled her with great pride.

Family holidays every two weeks to Cold Lake to check cattle were often met with Mom rolling her eyes and saying, “yes, great holiday”, but she would quickly follow that with, “Let me get ready and we will go!” Not everyone may think of trips to Cold Lake First Nation Reserve to check cattle as a holiday, but they are special for our family.

Our kids love going to Cold Lake and if you ask them the reasons why, they would say- Grandpa and Grandma showing them where the best wild raspberries grew, cooking smokies in a freshly dug fire pit, or riding with them, learning how to check cattle, having Grandma tell them the names of flowers and birds they passed along the way. Many of life’s greatest lessons are learned while working together.

One of the things our kids wrote is that ‘Grandma teaches us interesting facts’.we fondly refer to these as Grandma Dawn lessons. You never knew when a lesson would come your way. She would often phone in the evening, past the kid’s bedtime telling us if they were still awake to take them outside and look at the moon’ it was particularly full and bright. She would then ask them why they thought it was called a full moon. As I got older, the lessons became more subtle, with a well timed observation or comment that made you stop and maybe reconsider your position.

Mom’s interests varied between music, sewing, reading, and a love of sports. She enjoyed many successes in sports, from making both the Volleyball and Basketball teams in Red Deer College, to canoeing in university and competing in basketball at a national level and a provincial winning ball team in Halkirk. Mom believed in fitness as a way of life for all of us. She pushed the limits this fall when she needed to have fluid drained from around her heart. She took the stairs up to the clinic rather than wait for the elevator. When she met with the cardiologist he told her “that NO ONE takes the stairs that needs to see me for this procedure.” If Mom believed she could do it, no one could stop her.

Driven as she was in all aspects of her life, her fierce competitive spirit was apparent during any competition. If you ever played with or against her, you will remember it. I experienced it first hand in grade 11. I was point guard for our basketball team and mom reffed a tournament in town that we won . After the tournament ended she congratulated me on my play and asked if I wanted to play a little one on one. What started out as a fun game between a mother and son quickly turned serious. Soon we had the attention of the remaining parents and I was working harder then in the tournament. Our game was close but with the game tied, I was able to get some separation and launched what should have been the game ending jump shot. Only to have her quickly get back and step slightly on the side of my foot as I went up for the shot. I was a little off balance which resulted in an air ball, she quickly rebounded and scored to win the game – also providing a good laugh for our spectators. I remember looking at her, my face clearly asking did you do that intentionally? Again, the quick laugh and her saying “you can’t give up.” Was it incidental or a lesson in humility? Losing to your mom in grade 11 is humbling.

You can’t think of mom, without remembering certain traits. She was principled and would not waver if she believed she was right, regardless of the pressure to conform. While never spoken, Mom held herself to a higher standard than she expected of others. You can see that this has rubbed off on many of the people she was close to. Mom had a steadying influence and a natural ability to take care of problems if they arose. I remember Georgia understanding this intuitively when she was three. We were going to Cold Lake and Daphne was worrying about what she needed to pack. Georgia looked at Daphne and said, “Don’t worry mom. Grandma will have everything packed that we need. She will take care of us.” And she did.

Mom’s commitment to the community will be missed. She was active in many organizations over the years, always taking a larger role if she felt there was something that needed doing. Mom spent most of her life in Consort and was proud to call it home. She believed in trying to make the community better, and often encouraged, or coerced, others when necessary to get involved. She was thrilled to hear this fall that younger members have joined the rodeo committee.

After a litany of tests and appointments in September Mom was given a grave diagnosis.

The quote, “We do not get to choose life’s path we walk down, but we do get to choose how we walk down the path,” captured who Mom was.

Daphne and I were fortunate to have Mom stay with us for large parts of her treatment and be part of her final lesson to us. Mom’s inner strength, courage and unwillingness to compromise, became more apparent as her illness progressed. Difficult treatments made simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. Mom never complained, although at times the struggle was obvious. Fiercely independent, Mom believed in how you presented yourself. Daphne would tell me before the kids came home from school, she would somehow will the strength to shower, do her hair and be dressed when they arrived. Out of breath, exhausted but true to her beliefs.

It was with genuine excitement she shared our children’s triumphs and on bad days provided empathy and advice. Her determination and inability to take an easier path – even when we wished she would, made her opinion and actions mean more to us.

We talked with Georgia and Gavin about how Grandma Dawn will always be with us, and if you look closely you will find her. It might be a brighter moon than you have seen in a while, or the smell of gingerbread cookies in the oven.

It is a comfort seeing her influences in our family. You see it in Tanya’s love of teaching, Scott’s love of ranching and easy laughter and Laurie who has inherited more of Mom’s traits than she knows yet.

For me, I wrote this at her desk surrounded by perfectly arranged files with post it notes saying what needs to be done, exact balances and where they should be filed. I am not sure I could have written this without feeling her presence.

The circle of life continues and the lessons you have taught us will be passed on.

I will miss you Mom.

Tribute to Mom

by Tanya Guenthner

To start with I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has and continues to support us during this difficult journey. Your love and support has allowed us to make the most of the time we had with Mom. I would also like to thank you all for coming today. This showing is a true testament of the legacy that Mom leaves.

A little while ago we were all sitting together after just receiving discouraging news and I was struggling with why this was happening to our family. Mom paused for a moment and then asked me to get a book from her room and she read us the quote I would like to share with you now.

“Why me?” Isn’t it funny how we only say, “Why me?” when something bad comes into our lives? We could just as easily turn it around. Each day, we could stop to look at all the good that God has brought us, and we could ask, “Why me?” Then say a silent prayer of thanks.

Following reading this passage Mom listed many of the things she was thankful for which included having her family by her side at every point during her journey. She always knew what to say.

I would now like to share some of the reasons Mom continues to be such a blessing to us.

Dad would often tell Mom “You’re a good woman” and he was right.

A good woman is proud. She respects herself and others.

She is aware of who she is. She neither seeks definition from the person she is with, nor does she expect them to read her mind.

She is quite capable of articulating her needs.

A good woman is hopeful. She is strong enough to make all her dreams come true.

She knows love, therefore she gives love.

She recognizes that her love has great value and must be reciprocated.

A good woman has a dash of inspiration and a dabble of endurance.

She knows that she will at times have to inspire others to reach their full potential.

A good woman knows her past, understands her present and forges toward the future.

A good woman does not live in fear of the future because of her past. Instead, she understands that her life experiences are merely lessons meant to bring her closer to self-knowledge and unconditional self-love.

Mom was intelligent and resilient. She was strong willed and had an unfailing work ethic. If you were going to lock horns with Mom you better come with both guns blazing because she would be ready, and you could be sure she’d have her facts straight and written down!

At times Mom’s matter of fact manner and drive to get things done may have made her seem aloof but that could not be further from the truth. Her thoughtfulness and compassion for others was unwavering. When we were feeling disgruntled with someone Mom would allow us to go on for awhile to blow off steam and then she would tell us, “Now you need to say something nice.” Her positive attitude always shone through. Mom’s all around good nature allowed for a quick wit and there were many times we high fived over the table when someone came up with “a good one”.

I think there comes a time in your life when your mother ceases to only fill the role of mother and you start to see her as a friend and confidant as well. We were only in the beginning stages of this relationship with Mom but we treasured discovering this new relationship with her.

A family friend recently shared some parenting advice Mom had given her. It was, “Stay calm, don’t raise your voice, and always stand your ground.” This could have been Mom’s parenting mantra. She had a poem she had saved for me on a day I was quite disgruntled with Dad and her parenting attempts. It goes like this:

I loved you enough to let you discover your friend was a creep.

I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours while you cleaned your bedroom, a job that would have taken me 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to ignore what every other mother did or said.

I loved you enough to let you stumble, fall, hurt,

and fail.

I loved you enough to accept you for what you are, not what I wanted you to be.

But most of all, I loved you enough to say no when you hated me for it.

At her core Mom was truly a teacher. She didn’t tell you what to do but led you to believe that it was the only thing to do because it was what was right. She had a strong set of core values and she did her best to pass that on to her children. Jeff, Laurie, Scott and I were fortunate enough to have the greatest mother you could ever wish to have and we will always treasure the time we had with her.

Dad enjoys pestering Laurie and I about why we don’t have boyfriends and is quick to blame the entertainment industry and our love of romantic comedy movies. He says that we have unrealistic expectations of being swept off our feet.

Reflecting on our lives, I have decided he is mistaken. We have had the opportunity to be raised by two people who are solely devoted to each other. We have been witness to a marriage of mutual respect and admiration, of equal partners in all aspects of their lives, whether it be raising their children or running their business ventures. Our parents cherished the time they spent together and lived their lives as not only husband and wife but as best friends. So Dad, we are holding out for true love because we have had the opportunity to be raised by two people who are its definition.

We will miss Mom everyday for the rest of our lives. But in time the pain will slowly fade and the memories will shine through. Rest peacefully my mother, my friend, my inspiration in life.

Timothy James Mock

(April 12, 1978-Feb. 22, 2012)

Timothy James Mock was born in Consort, Alberta on April 12, 1978, the second son born to Roy and Maryetta Mock. He attended school in Consort, where he completed his grade 11. Tim later received his grade 12 Diploma through ICS Distance Learning.

Tim was born and raised north east of Consort on the family ranch. He loved where he lived, the ranch was his life. He grew up farming and working with his brother and family alongside of him. He was always a jolly guy, so kind, and generous. There wasn’t a thing he wouldn’t do for you, and everyone knew that.

Tim worked off the farm for a few years. He worked at the local UFA, was a welders helper, farmer’s hand, and worked in the oilfield for a short time. He had a family and lived in Consort while he worked off the farm. He had a son born to him on March 31, 2006; Mathew Karl Mock. Tim loved his family especially Mathew, he was his whole world, the light of his life. He also was a stepfather to Kasandra and played a real role in her life. She really loved him.

Tim had a love for hockey, and baseball; he was a sports fanatic. He collected pins for many years, he enjoyed Rodeo and farming, and he was an active member in the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo Association. He loved fishing, camping, and showing Matt how to fish at the local trout pond. He did anything and everything with Matty. He checked cows, went gopher hunting; they went everywhere together.

He spent time at home being a stay at home dad; which he loved and cherished. He got to spend time with Matty and watched him grow into the little man he is today.

Tim is predeceased by his mother Maryetta; grandmothers Mary Morris; Mary Mock; grandfathers Ralph Morris; Gotlob Mock. He is survived by his son Mathew, stepdaughter Kasandra and their mother Sarah; father Roy; brothers John; Cory (Nicole); sisters Tammy (Terry) and Sasha (Aaron). Tim also has two nieces Sarah and Arianna, and a nephew Liam. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many friends who cared for him, and miss him dearly.

The funeral service to honour Tim Mock was held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at the Knox United Church, Consort, AB, with Reverend Pauline Bell officiating. Tim’s sisters, Tammy & Sasha Mock shared the eulogy. Tim’s step daughter Kasey Langstaff read a letter she wrote to her dad. Tributes and fond memories were shared by Bonnie Simon and Angela Morris, Tim’s cousins. Special music played for the service was “Missing An Angel”, “Amazing Grace”, and “Leave Here Dying Young”. A video tribute was played during the service. The interment followed the service at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta, where Tim was laid to rest beside his mother Maryetta. Honorary Pallbearers were Mathew Mock, John Wayne Mock, Craig Mitchell, Don Stenbeck, and “Everyone Who Touched Tim’s Life”. Active Pallbearers were Cory McWhinney, Terry Clark, Aaron Wittkopf, John Short, Robbie Morris and Burdette Dempsey. Lunch and fellowship was held in the Lower Hall of the Church which was prepared and served by the Knox United Church Women. Memorial donations may be made in Tim’s honour to the Trust Fund for Mathew Mock, Consort ATB Financial, Box 70, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

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

Eulogy

by Tammy & Sasha Mock

Timothy James Mock was born to us on April 12, 1978, the second son to Roy and Maryetta Mock. Most of you know Tim as Timmy, Tooter or Toot.

Tim was born and raised on our family ranch. He grew up working and farming with his brother and family alongside of him. Tim loved where he lived; the ranch and his family was his life.

At an early age, Tim was a real go getter. He was always a jolly guy; a kind generous kid, so polite, sweet and had a heart full of love for everyone.

Tim had a passion for hockey and baseball; he was a real sports fanatic. We knew when the sports channel was on, there was no chance of us getting the remote. He was an active member of the Gooseberry Lake Rodeo Association. He loved fishing and camping.

He started a family and had a son born to him on March 31, 2006. Mathew Karl was Tim’s whole world; he brought light into Tim’s life. He was also a stepfather to Kasandra and played a real role in her childhood. She really enjoyed him, as he did of her. He enjoyed his time when he was a stay at home dad. He cherished their time together, and got to watch him grow up into the little man he is today. He was so proud of him. He was his pride and joy.

Tim was such a teddy bear, a guy you wanted to wrap your arms around and give a big hug to. He was so quiet, loving and gentle. He was always friendly, so kind and special to everyone. He was so sincere and compassionate. He had a smile that would melt your heart, and a laugh that would fill the room.

He grew up in a big family who loved and cared for him so much. People used to tell us we had one of the closest families they every knew.

These last few days as we were all sitting around remembering Tim, one story came to mind:

One time our grandma had bought Tim and John toy hammers to play with. One day John hit Tim on the forehead with his hammer. So off went Tim to the shop; he was going to get John back. A few minutes later here comes little Tim dragging the biggest sledge hammer he could find across the yard. A few minutes later John ran into the house screaming, “Mom, Mom. Tim’s gonna hit me, Tim’s gonna hit me.” Turns out grandma’s little hammers were a real hit.

There are so many stories we could tell you today that fill our hearts with remembrance but are hard for us to say.

We will wear your memory proudly, brother . . . our true friend. May the music of angels be the sweet sounds you hear and our love for you reach heaven above until we meet again.

Poem of Life

(A Poem for Tim)

Life is but a stopping place

A pause in what’s to be

A resting place along the road to sweet eternity.

We all have different journeys

Different paths along the way

We all were meant to learn some things

but never meant to stay . . .

Our destination is a place

Far greater than we know

For some the journey’s quicker

For some the journey’s slow

And when the journey finally ends

We’ll claim a great reward

And find an everlasting peace,

Together with the Lord.

Cleo Marguerite Long was born on her parent’s homestead near Veteran, on November 6, 1927. She was the youngest child of Charles and Rosetta Long and the last of her siblings to go home to heaven.

She worked in the Consort Hospital before marrying Forest Garbutt on October 15, 1955. He had been raised in the Neutral Valley district, north of Consort. They made their home in Edmonton where they raised their four children, Cheryl, Kathy, Greg and Kelly.

Cleo was a nature lover and enjoyed the beautiful sunrises and sunsets. She especially loved Calling Lake and spent many happy hours there.

She was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Rosetta, her siblings, Ray, Esther, Ralph, Don, Madeleine, Blanche, Rita and Arlos (Joe).

Left behind to celebrate her life, are her loving family, husband Forest, Cheryl (Keith), Kathy (Fred), Greg (Angie) and Kelly (Mike); also Billy and Jimmy Dragatis, and most importantly, Miss Molly. Cleo leaves behind her eight grandchildren, Kimberley, Amber, Kaila, Jaclyn, Melanie, Joanne, Dyllon, and Scott and many great family members and friends.

Cleo passed away March 1, 2012. The Memorial Mass was held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Edmonton at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 10, with the Rev. Father Jim Corrigan as Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society, 13620 – 163 St., NW, Edmonton, AB. T5V 0B2 or to the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society, Box 3045, Athabasca, AB. T9S 2B9.

Cecil Vern Ward

(Sept. 29, 1921-Mar. 22, 2012)

Cecil Vern Ward of Stettler, passed away on March 22, 2012 at the age of 90 years. Cecil was born September 29, 1921 at Kirriemuir, to Vernal and Mary Jane Ward. He grew up on the farm south of Kirriemuir in the Dry Lake district, where he also attended school.

On April 7, 1945, Cecil married Margery Laing. They farmed at Kirriemuir for the next thirty years, where they raised their only daughter. In 1975, Cecil and Margery retired to Stettler.

Cecil will be sadly missed by his daughter, Dianne (Rod) Andrew of Tees; grandchildren: Ryan (Jo-Ann) Andrew of Tees and their sons, Colton and Brody, Trina (Brian) Knight of Tees and their children, Erica, Kaya and Josh, Kyle (Andrea) Andrew of Tees and their daughter, Addison; brother, Lawrance (Eileen) Ward of Three Hills, sister Ruby Aizzier of Three Hills, brother, Ray (Margaret) Ward of Three Hills, brother, Milo (Doreen) Ward of Lacombe, brother, Lenard (Beryl) Ward of Provost, brother, Lloyd Ward of Kirriemuir, as well as many other relatives and dear friends.

The funeral was held March 26, 2012 at Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home.

Wm. Kleinschroth

(June 9, 1928-April 3, 2012)

Word has been received of the passing of William (Bill) Harry Kleinschroth, in his sleep, on Tuesday, April 3rd at Smithfield Lodge, Westlock.

He was born June 9, 1928 at Naco, the son of Henry and Ollie Kleinschroth who predeceased him, as well as siblings, Art, Katherine, Marion, Fred and Elmer, and granddaughter, Jodi Rae.

Left to mourn his passing are his wife of 63 years, Muriel and his five children, Dale (Ladine), Daniel (Beverley), Judy (Peter Hansen), Roger and Wayne (Gail), and many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his sister, Harriet (Roy Rogers) and brother, Gene (Cecile).

The funeral took place Monday, April 9th at Westlock Funeral Home with interment in the Westlock Cemetery.

Emma Harriet Hoffmann

(Sept. 16, 1924-April 7, 2012)

Emma (Padberg) Hoffmann was born on September 16, 1924 in Oyen and passed away peacefully in the Big Country Hospital on April 7, 2012.

She was the fourth child of the five children born to Ida and John Padberg. Her parents farmed in the Hudson Heights School District near Esther, Alberta. She attended the Hudson Heights School which was only about a mile west of the farm. Emma always remembered the fun times at school, especially the sports days and concerts.

After completing high school in 1943, she attended Normal School in Edmonton. She received her teaching degree and taught at the Vernon School, which was about five miles from her parents farm, for two years before moving on to a school near Delia, and after that to a school near Aldersyde. She enjoyed spending time with her sister Therese, who was also a teacher.

She wanted to see the country, so in the fall of 1947, she and her cousin Dorothy went to Stettler to visit family. She liked the area and found a job working as a store clerk and then as a waitress at a café owned by Ron Nighswander. She went to college and took a business course. She later taught at that same college. When the college closed, she worked for a lawyer for a short time, but she really wanted to teach young children again. There was an opening at the Stettler Elementary School, so she applied and was hired to teach grade four, then grade five and later grade two for many years. She continued to teach until 1985 and then subbed until 1988.

She and Ron Nighswander were married in 1952. At that time, he had sold the café and was working as a parts manager in the Ford Garage. Together they had three sons, Russell, born in 1953, Barrie in 1954 and Leonard in 1957. Ron passed away in 1981.

Emma enjoyed travelling, gardening, golfing, floor curling and disking. She liked doing volunteer work in the community. She loved to spend time with family and friends, and especially with her grandchildren.

She later renewed her childhood friendship with Ted Hoffmann and they were married on August 31, 1996. Together, they moved to Oyen. Ted and Emma enjoyed many hobbies, such as golfing at the Oyen Golf Course and travelling.

Emma will be loved and remembered by her husband of sixteen years Ted; three sons Russell, Barrie (Margo), and Len; and grandchildren Tammy Nighswander (Wes Ehler), Cindy (Chris) Schultz, and Wojtus Trzebaniak.

She was predeceased by her parents John and Ida Padberg; sisters Alida and Therese; brothers Lawrence and Henry; and first husband Ron Nighswander.

Funeral Service was held Friday, April 13, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Oyen, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke. A tribute was given by Murray Woods. The organist was Marvel Jorgenson and special music was “One Day at a Time” by Ralph Jorgenson. Hymns were “Just A Closer Walk With Thee”, “Amazing Grace” and “Whispering Hope.” Honorary Pallbearers were Murray Woods, Gary Woods, Jim Woods, Randy Woods, Clark Huston, Wayne Hoffmann, Russell Hoffmann, and Reg Hoffmann.

Memorial tributes may be directed to World Vision, 1 World Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5T 2Y4; or the 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 Esther Community Club and Oyen Seniors Association in the Oyen Legion Hall.
MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.

William John Thornton

(Jan. 13, 1931-April 9, 2012)

Bill Thornton passed away quietly surrounded by his family on April 9, 2012 in the Oyen Hospital at the age of 81. He was born on his cousin Leta Rambo’s farm, south of Consort on January 13, 1931. He attended school at Butte Vale for grade one to nine and completed his high school by correspondence. He married Hilda Kroker on a rainy day, June 23, 1951. They left the family farm in 1957 and he went to work for the next five years as a clerk in the Bursar’s office at the jail in Fort Saskatchewan. The family moved a few times, spending many years farming north of Ardmore, Alberta. In 1976, they returned home to the Sedalia area. In 1979, Bill took over as the manager of the Sedalia Co-op where he joyfully served the community until 2005. He never really retired, as working at the store was an expression of his love for the people in his community. He spent many hours at the store even after his son, Edward, took over as the manager in 1996.

Bill loved to garden and invested many hours tending his vegetable garden, flowers and fruit trees. He and Hilda would camp and fish at Blood Indian Reservoir for days at a time. He was a great handyman, helping many people with construction projects, shingling, plumbing, and drywalling. He would build cupboards or anything else that might be needed, always being generous with his time and his skills. These talents were put to good use during the construction of the church in Sedalia.

His passion for doing God’s work was recognized when he received certification as a registered clergy in 1993 from the ACOP. He faithfully led the congregation at the Sedalia Full Gospel Church for as long as he was able. He found great joy in officiating at a number of weddings, including the weddings of three of his granddaughters. Bill said that two things are important in life-to know that you are going to heaven by accepting God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, and then to take as many people with you as you can. His hobby was people and he invested most of his time in his family and friends providing wisdom and advice, and support and encouragement.

Bill will be sadly missed by his wife Hilda; brother George (Edna); children Peter (Melody), Bill (Laurie Anne), Edward (Heather), and Clara (Merlin) Peterson; fourteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild as well as numerous nieces, nephews and a host of people in the community who cherished their “uncle Bill”.

Bill was predeceased by his son, Kenny (1989); mother Clara (1939); father Earl (1959); father-in-law Peter Kroker (1982) and mother-in-law Elizabeth Kroker (1999).

Funeral Service was held Saturday, April 14, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Oyen, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Reverend Bob Stone. Bill’s grandchildren gave a eulogy. Marilyn Long was the organist and also sang “He Is Our Peace” and “I Will Serve Thee.” Hymns were “Old Rugged Cross” and “It Is Well With My Soul.” Pallbearers were Earl Thornton, Kirk Thornton, Brett Peterson, Bill Rumohr, Steve Rude, and Donald Blair. Honorary Pallbearers were all of Bill’s family, his many friends and neighbors 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; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

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

Gaston (Gus) Alfred Poisson

(July 19, 1929 – April 26, 2012)

Gus passed away peacefully on April 26, 2012 at the age of 82 in Consort, AB, where he has resided for the past 53 years.

Gus was born in Shaunavon, SK on July 19, 1929 to Paul and Corrine (Sicotte) Poisson. Gus leaves to mourn his wife Margaret, daughter Corrine Pelletier, sons Roy (Linda) and Evan (Sonia), granddaughter Christie (Rob) Rodriques and great-grandson Aiden. He is also survived by his brother Donal, sisters Julie Mearns and Elayne Fischer, as well as by numerous other relatives throughout AB, SK and BC. Gus was predeceased by his parents as well as three of his siblings Edward, Marcel, and Genene.

Thank you to the staff at the Consort Hospital & Care Centre as well as to Elaine Mouly for all your care and support during the past few years.

There will be no funeral service at Gus’s request. Arrangements were in care of the Coronation Funeral Home.

Addendum – The following information is taken from the Consort History Book, The Sunny Side of the Neutrals:

In 1957, the Poisson family moved to Consort, as Gus was employed by Tri City Drilling, who were drilling gas wells for Dome. They left again to follow the rigs, but in November of 1959, moved back to Consort when Gus went to work for Chieftain Mac Gas south of town, and for local farmers during layoffs. In October, Gus went to work for the Village of Consort as maintenance man, holding that position for eleven years. In 1974, Gus bought a gravel truck and started working for the Special Areas, and continued trucking as Gus Poisson Trucking, until his retirement.

Raymond John Grocock

(Nov. 20, 1946 – May 15, 2012)

Raymond John Grocock was born November 20, 1946 at Consort, Alberta. Raymond was the second son born to Tom and Agnes Grocock. Raymond went to school in Consort. His father Tom passed away on November 25, 1959 and Raymond remained on the farm with his mother Agnes. When Agnes sold the farm to Arley Kelts, she and Raymond moved to 104 Lucknow Street in Veteran.

In the early years, Raymond worked in the oilfield and helped local farmers in the area. He liked to go fishing and he would spend hours fixing up his old cars. Raymond did odd jobs around Veteran and often worked for Mel & Betty Healy. Mel & Betty appreciated Raymond’s help so much they bought him the old teacherage across from the school. Raymond lived there for a while before he sold it to Ben Kary.

When Agnes moved into Long Term Care in Coronation in 2001, Raymond moved out of Agnes’ house and moved to Coronation. The house was then rented out. Raymond moved around a lot, living in Stettler, Castor and Coronation. Eventually, in November of 2007, he moved back into Agnes’ gray two-storey house at 104 Lucknow Street. Raymond remained in this house which he inherited.

Agnes’ love of cats was passed on to Raymond as he always had a cat or two. He always made sure the cats had a warm place to sleep, and plenty to eat.

Raymond was predeceased by his father Thomas and mother Agnes. He is survived by his brothers, Lawrence (Ida) Grocock and children Robin and Roberta of Kitscoty, Alberta, Leo (Sharon) Grocock of Mission, B.C. and Merlin (Letecia) Grocock of Coronation, Alberta and his children, William Grocock of Red Deer, Alberta and Alyssa (Aaron) Miller of Provost, Alberta.

Raymond passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at the Coronation Hospital and Care Centre, Coronation, Alberta at the age of 65 years.

The memorial service to commemorate Raymond’s life took place at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Darrel Durksen of the Veteran Full Gospel Church officiating. Raymond was laid to rest with his mother Agnes. In Ray’s honour, memorial contributions may be made to the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

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

Dallas Edward Simons

Dallas Edward Simons passed away suddenly on Friday, May 18, 2012 at the age of 26 years. He is survived by his loving wife Kaley; two sons Chase and Kestin; his parents Bill and Denise; his older brother Ryan and his younger brother Mikel; maternal grandparents Martin and Shirley Halseth; father-in-law and mother-in-law Kevin and Carol Dagg; sister-in-law Darci Dagg; many aunts, uncles, cousins and one great great aunt and uncle. Dallas was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Edward and Mary Simons.

A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5, 2012 at the Killam Community Centre. Memorial donations may be made to “CASDDA” Canadian Search and Disaster Dogs Association, Camrose Fire & Rescue, Trust Account for Chase and Kestin at the Battle River Credit Union or ATB Financial.

~~~~**~~~~

Dallas Edward Simons was born March 16, 1986 in Daysland, Alberta. We remember Dr. McKinnon telling us by the heart beat and her gut feeling we were having a girl, then we heard her say, “Oh my goodness, it’s a BOY.” Well we were thrilled. We had picked out the name Dallas months ahead of time after meeting our baby sitter “Dallas”, Ryan called him baby Dallas when I was carrying him.

Dallas was an excellent baby; content, only crying when he needed to be fed,or his diaper changed. He never cried to be cuddled because no one could keep their hands off him he was so happy and cuddley. He quickly picked up the nick name Dal, or D or later in life Dallie.

Even as he got older, we could have a house full of kids and Dallas would all of a sudden disappear; he would go climb into his bed and be fast asleep. He always was one that needed to get his sleep.

He took all his schooling in Sedgewick from playschool to grade 12. He never really liked school other than to socialize. He was even known to use our typewriter to change a few of his marks on his report card, it didn’t type the same, but I’ll give him an A plus for effort!! Grade 10 he had an opportunity to go to Minnesota with Ryan to help mechanic, but after a month of being on the road with Ryan he was ready to go back to school to get caught up on socializing. His first jobs were working at Watkins Diesel, Kal Tire, Cross Country Sales, then he went on to get his first year auto body while working at Killiam Autobody. As his life went on, he tried many different things; maintenance trucks, carpentry, oil rigs but decided he wanted to be at home more so his last job was siding houses.

He got into Racing Moto- Cross at the young age of 7 which took us all over Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, where he met all kinds of new friends. We quickly found out how competitive he was as he grew and went through the different classes. He won a trophy at just about every race; whether it was 1st or 3rd he was always excited and thinking of his next race, how he could practice at the track at home or Kinsella to be faster. Then Ryan got the idea to get into Sno cross and of course Dallas and Mikel were right behind. Dallas wanted to do whatever Ryan did. And as a family we loved to snowmoblie so it sounded like a great idea. Off we were to the sno cross races that took us all over Alberta, Saskachewan, and into the United States where we met a lot of wonderful people and he had a lot of new friends. Dallas was a very competitive rider and would push the limits at every race.

Dallas loved his brothers Ryan and Mikel; he was always there to help when they got hurt or if they wanted help to build a fort, play in the sand box, build a go cart, work on a bike, snowmobile, or vehicle.

Dallas worked with our family’s company doing things, from helping wash trucks, helping dad with mechanical things, to swamping on the picker trucks.

Dallas loved to go fishing, quading, snowboarding, camping, wake boarding, knee boarding, which we did as a family. He was fortunate enough to have friends that loved to hunt, fish and spend time outdoors too, which he did as much as possible.

Lots of times we wouldn’t see or hear from Dallas for a few days then there he was. First thing he would do when he came was holler “HELLO!!” and head to the fridge looking for something to eat, and always saying “no I’ll make it mom” which was usually a sandwich that included a cheese slice and lots of mayonnaise.

On October 12, 2007, a handsome son “Chase” was born and we saw a side of Dallas we hadn’t seen. Just like any father he couldn’t have been more proud of his new son, and worried about him all the time.

Then, on September 24, 2011, he married ”Kaley” which he loved very much and together they have a very handsome son “Kestin” which again he was very proud and protective of.

We are very lucky to have the wonderful memories of Dallas that we do, but they will never replace the real thing. As all parents, we worry about getting that “phone call” from a police officer telling you something has happened to one of your children, but I guess you never know. Dallas and Everett weren’t doing anything wrong, just an evening fishing trip, and a horrible accident.

We truly believe they are HEROES!! Neither one of them would have left the other, even if it cost them their lives; that’s just the kind of people they were. “We will always love you and miss you Dallas”

Memorial donations have been made in memory of Dallas to “CASDDA” Canadian Search and Disaster Dogs Association, the Camrose Fire Department and Rescue, and to the trust funds at the Battle River Credit Union and the ATB that were set up for Chase and Kestin.

Thank You

We would like to say a heartfilled “THANK YOU”!! to EVERYONE for their help, support, hugs, words of kindness, restaurants, church groups, relatives, friends and strangers, for all the food and beverages, and to the ladies who spent days organizing food and making sure there was hot coffee and food from early morning till late at night, gas stations who donated gas and gift cards, that were used for gas to help all the people who brought their boats, argos, watercrafts, canoes, motorbikes, quads.

Individuals who flew their planes over the lake searching, and all who helped search on foot, time and time again, water, sewer and porta potties, phone booster, under water camera.

Family and friends who looked after Kestin and Chase, and friends who looked after our yard and animals. Camrose Fire Department / Rescue who put in long hours and never stopped looking or offering to help in any way. The RCMP and the search and rescue helicopter.

And a to “Bob and Brenda” a very special couple from Edmonton who we had never met. They learned about the boys missing in the newspaper, drove out not once, but twice in one day to tell us, and help us to get in contact with “CASDDA” an organization that helped them recover their son “Jeremy” two years ago.

We are very overwellmed with the kindness and generosity from all. It’s been a family’s worst nightmare but we know in our hearts we all tried everything to find Dallas and Everett.

Thank You All So Much!!

Bill, Denise, Ryan, Mikel, Chase, Kaley, Kestin Simons

Gustave Oscar Hemke

(June 26,1920 – May 24, 2012)

Gustave Oscar Hemke was born June 26,1920 in Beechy, Saskatchewan and passed away May 24, 2012 in Consort, Alberta

He is survived by his loving wife Shirley, daughter Judy, son Keith (Jane); grandchildren Trevor (Bridget), Michelle (Dustin), Sarah and David; great grandchildren Miya, Ayva, Skye, and Jaxx. He was pre-deceased by his four sisters and two brothers.

Gus was born in Beechy to John and Julia Hemke where his family had homesteaded. When he was seventeen the family moved to Idamay (SW of Consort) where they farmed. Gus spent the rest of his life in the Consort area. Here he met and married his wife Shirley (Redel) and they shared their lives for 64 years.

Gus was a quiet man with strong integrity. His two greatest joys were his family and his many friends met through square dancing. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and many friends.

Funeral services were held at Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Pauline Bell officiating. Tributes were given by Keith Hemke and Ben and Shirley Klumpenhower presented their gift of music. Lori Ference played for the service. Private interment was held at Lakeroad Cemetery with Trevor Smith as Urn Bearer. Family and friends gathered in the Lower Hall for a time of fellowship and a luncheon by Knox U.C.W.

Memorial donations may be made to Knox United Church Memorial Fund or to Association of Consort and District Seniors. Condolences may be forwarded to the family at www.parkview funeralchapels.com

Parkview Funeral Chapels and Crematorium entrusted with the arrangements.

Our Grandfather

– presented by Michelle

Our Grandfather was someone who was so special to so many people. Not only was he a Grandfather, but a great granddad, husband, dad, uncle, cousin, nephew, brother, son and friend. All of these roles he carried with great honor and it was a true blessing for all of us that he did.

I know I can speak from experience when I say he was the best grandfather anybody could have ever asked for.

He put a lot of effort into all of his grandkids, he always tried his best to be there, supporting all of us through our experiences in life. I remember when he became a great granddad and how proud he was to hold that first great grandchild, letting her hold his finger as he smiled down on her. Or even not too long ago at the hospital, where he put all his efforts forward to throw a ball to his great granddaughters. You knew from his smile that it made him so proud to play that game of catch with them.

Our memories of our grandfather are so plentiful and filled with so many wonderful and joyous times. I think the part that makes those times so great is our grandfather was… always… smiling. No matter what, that smile was genuine, even when Grandma was telling him what to eat, he just kept smiling.

Our grandfather lived a remarkable life doing great things with amazing people and he did it smiling. If I have learned one thing from my granddad, it is to appreciate what you have and to do it with a smile.

His life was a life well lived!

We love you Grandpa, and always will!

Family Tribute

– presented by Keith Hemke

A tribute to a husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Gustave Oscar Hemke was born on June 26, 1920, in Beechy, Saskatchewan to the proud parents of John and Julia Hemke. His father emigrated from Prussia to the USA and later traveled up to Saskatchewan where he was joined by his wife and dad’s older siblings. Here, they homesteaded with other family and the youngest four children were born.

They were true pioneers. They broke the land, raised the crops and tended the livestock.

During the depression, the family moved to Idamay, SW of Consort. Dad and his father, rode in a cattle car for two days, bringing their livestock and personal possessions. Here they farmed and my Aunt Susie ran the post office.

Dad worked with his brothers farming and working for other farmers in the area. He began trucking and then bought his own farm. Later on he worked for the Consort Machine Shop as a welder, and drove school bus for over 17 years.

One of the farmers Dad did some work for, was Art Redel. While working on the Redel farm, he spotted a beautiful young lady named Shirley, who he would later go on to court and then eventually marry in July of 1947. Mom and dad spent over 64 wonderful years together.

The story of how this happened was told by dad many times, with a few different versions. One version being, that he was delivering something to the Redel farm, and there, peering over a wagon box, was the cutest girl he had ever seen. So he made up his mind, at that moment, he would marry her. Version two was, she crawled up into his wagon and wouldn’t get out, so he had to marry her.

Neither version is the same as moms.

In 1950, Judy arrived and I followed in ’53.

Our dad was a man of integrity and patience. He was hard working, loving and the ultimate handy man. He could either fix anything, or else build something to replace what was broken. We never heard dad say anything bad about anyone and he was always there to lend a helping hand.

Dad was the most wonderful husband, grandfather and great grandfather. When the Hemke women went shopping for hours on end, dad would patiently find a chair and carry the parcels, and eventually mom’s purse. We would always tease him about his purse but he never complained. In fact, several times I remember him having to turn around and drive an hour back to retrieve mom’s purse that she had left behind after a dance or visiting. He truly should have received an award for having the patience of a saint.

Dad was a hard worker who always provided for the family. He looked after us kids when mom was working and always had a smile on his face.

My best Christmas present I ever received was a cowboy fort that he built from cardboard. He spent many hours gluing and painting the stockade, buildings, and other parts. I noticed a couple pieces still in the toys in the basement after 50 years of use. A true labor of love.

Even when times were tough, come August, dad would hook up the tent trailer and off we would go to Penticton for the big Square Dance Convention. He spent hours on the beach with us, even though he didn’t swim. Mom and dad went 49 years straight before they stopped, due to the distance.

The story of the tent trailer is a good one to show his handy man ability. Dad and a friend, Butch Halvorsen, decided they couldn’t afford to buy tent trailers so they would instead build them. Dad built the frames and chassis and Butch built the wooden parts, they ordered the canvas. They were probably the two best built tent trailers on the road.

I remember never having to throw away anything as dad always fixed them one way or another. Today when Trevor and I were looking at the ironing board with the metal legs we counted 4 welds and a piece he built on them. That is probably the strongest ironing board in existence! Judy and I always saved the hardest repair jobs for when dad came visiting.

Later, they upgraded to a motorhome. Mom and dad spent many years camping with friends. Dad was always ready to load the motorhome up and head out for a campout and square dance.

They also spent many wonderful years in Mesa, Arizona with their trailer. The first couple years they gave us several scares when we couldn’t get a hold of them for a day or two. When we finally did, they would list off all they had been doing which would include; square dancing, visiting, square dancing, picking oranges and grapefruits, square dancing, hiking in the desert, going to movies, meeting many new friends and for something different, square dancing.

Another story of dads patience is the Sibbald sports day wreck. I was the designated driver but was running late. Dad and I were pouring cement in the car port. When we finally finished I picked up the boys and headed out for Sibbald at a pretty great rate of speed. We hit the correction line, in sight of Cereal, and flew through the ditch and out the other side. The tires of the car were now attached at a 45 degree angle. We had the walk of shame home. Dad didn’t say a thing. He drove us back to the car, loaded it up, then spent a week straightening out the frame. The old station wagon never drove the same again.

Dad always listened to what mom told him to do, to a fault. One night when we were leaving on holidays we were driving through a terrible rain storm. It was raining so hard dad could hardly see the road. Mom was to watch for the campground turn-off signs to tell him where to turn in. Mom hollered turn, turn here! So dad did. Right into the ditch. Car, trailer and all. Mom said why did you turn into the ditch. All dad calmly said was, you told me to turn here, so I did.

Dad’s love for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren was played out in many ways. As kids growing up, he was there to support us at every event. I don’t think he missed a single game of ours till we left the community. With his grandchildren, he tried to attend all of their special events, driving miles to be there to see them. Even this past Christmas in Edmonton, he spent time teasing and playing with his great grandchildren. He enjoyed every minute.

One Christmas, Trevor decided he wanted to try tobogganing down Old Baldy. Grandpa and Trevor loaded onto the toboggan and away they went. Flying over a big bump, they became airborne. Dad ended up with a cracked tail bone, Trevor ended up with a great memory of his Grandfather and wanted to go again.

Trevor remembers how proud he made him feel when camping with grandpa. Dad would always introduce him to the adults with pride as his grandson. Michelle remembers on the same camping trips how she learned to square dance and grandpa told her she was the best dancer. Michelle also remembers Grandpa and Grandma taking her golfing with the old wooden golf clubs. This is the only time I ever knew Dad went golfing. He was always willing to try anything especially if it was with his family.

David and Sarah remember their grandfather for, the jokes he used to make, the funny little stories he’d tell sitting in his easy chair watching baseball (more than anyone I know), and his signature belt buckle with the American coins.

He enjoyed escaping to Phoenix most winters and avoiding the cold.

He was a man of integrity, he fixed everything, he was an unwilling gardener, he was interested in sports, a collector of the odd and unusual, he was funny and had a great sense of humor, and on top of that he was very caring and loving. But, he had one terrible fault. He had dreadful taste in hockey teams. Try as I might, I couldn’t get him to see the light and he remained an Oilers fan for all his days.

Dads love for life and everything in it was his strongest strength. He loved to square dance with his number one choice. Mom and dad made many friends and made countless memories dancing across Canada from Newfoundland to Yellowknife.

Dad had a good life and together with his soul mate, mom, were able to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest.

We feel great comfort in knowing that dad has probably already found a square dance to join in.

The family would like to thank the Consort community for all the support given to Dad over the last few years. In particular we would like to thank all the staff at the Consort Hospital, Sandy Kelts, Bill and Joan Welsh, UCW women, Lori Ference, David Bell and Rev Pauline Bell. Shirley Hemke, Keith, Jane and Family, Judy and Family.

(Feb. 17, 1917-June 2, 2012)

Henry Maron passed away peacefully in the Long Term Care at Consort Hospital, Consort, Alberta on Saturday, June 2, 2012 at the age of 95 years. Henry was born February 17, 1917 in the Wiste District; which was about 12 miles south of Loyalist.

Henry is lovingly remembered by his wife Ida (26 days short of 72 married years); daughter Carol (Roland) Roberge of Beaumont; sons Dennis (Lucille) of Ponoka and Ron (Nancy) of Consort; 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; 1 brother Ernhart (Lil) of Edmonton; brother-in-law Chester Mullback of Spruce Grove; sister-in-law Cathy Alm of Bonnyville; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Henry’s life was held on Wednesday, June 6, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta with Reverend Pauline Bell officiating. Pianist, Marilyn Long, played for the congregational hymns “I Have Called You By Your Name” and “In The Bulb There Is A Flower”. Tributes were shared by Charlene Trembicki (Granddaughter) & Justin Trembicki (Great Grandson). Soloist, Gary Ulseth sang and played “Suppertime”. The recessional recorded song was “Grandpa”. Active Pallbearers were Bob McAllister, Carter Stickel, Ervin Fawcett, Gary Ulseth, Jim Hutchings and Steve Pfisterer. Honorary Pallbearers were “All Henry’s Family and Friends”. A family interment followed the service at the Lakeroad Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Rebecca Maron (Great Granddaughter) shared her tribute at the interment service at the cemetery. Following the interment, lunch was held at the Lower Hall of the church which was prepared and served by the Knox United Church Women. Memorial donations may be made to Consort Hospital Auxiliary Society, Box 233, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to The Seniors & Community Recreation Centre, Box 220, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0.

You may send your condolences by email to corofuneral home@xplornet.com. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

A Tribute to Henry Maron

– by Charlene and Justin

Welcome, and thank you for coming today to pay tribute to our Grandpa… Henry Maron (he’d be proud, and of course it’s a “social” gathering … something he was always eager to attend)

I’m Charlene, the oldest of 6 grandchildren, and this is my son…

… Justin, and I’m the oldest of 6 great-grandchildren

Henry, Pa, Grandpa, Gaaga

Born February 17,1917 to Christina and John Maron, the 6th child of a large farming family that would eventually see a total of 11 children raised. Henry was raised along with his siblings in the Wiste district, just 12 miles south of Loyalist.

YES, farming was in Henry’s blood, it was his passion, but not his first. His first passion began while he attended Siverdale School at the grade 6 level and she in grade 3, and her name as we all know is Ida.

Now Ida’s route to school took her straight through the Maron family farm, AND… on one particular day as the Miss Ida on horseback was making her way en route to Silverdale school, was knocked off her horse by the attacking Maron family dog.

It was Henry who would come to her rescue that “FATEFUL or LUCKY DAY”, helping her back to her feet… brushing her off and calming her down… and from that day on, Henry made it his DILIGENT responsibility to escort that “BEAUTIFUL BLUE EYED GIRL with such pretty WHITE HAIR” through his yard.

Well the seasons passed and the months turned into years and Henry now at the age of 18, made it his responsibility to see that his beautiful young interest, who was so musically talented would be safely escorted to and from all her social performances to entertain the local folk in the surrounding communities with her musical attributes.

– During the summer it was by car and in the winter…by sleigh

On one of their apparent dates, Ida asked Henry to write in her autograph book and he signed like this:

– I love you lots

– I love you mighty

– I’d like to put my pyjamas next to your nighty…

– Now don’t get excited and lose your head

– Because I mean on the clothes line and not in bed

Farming was second nature to Henry… and he would go on to help his dad out, on the family farm. He also would lend a hand on the Adolph Wittmack and Jake Suchotzky farms.

AND… in 1939 at 22 years of age Henry made his first, of soon to be many, purchases of his very own piece of farm land

In 1940, after four years of serious courtship, Henry formally asked Miss Ida Aim to become Mrs. Henry Maron, and on June 28th, 1940 they were wed. They would together make their homestead just 1½ miles south of Loyalist.

After two years of marriage Ida blessed Henry with a beautiful blue eyed baby girl, they named Carol, followed by 2 brown eyed boys (just like his)… Dennis and Ronnie. It was during the raising of their new young family that Henry changed his “BLUE EYED BEAUTIES” name to “Ma”.

The first few years of farming, Henry spent behind a team of horses and then, in 1945, he purchased his first tractor.

In 1948 they would take their first trip to Banff and also take-in the festivities of the Calgary Stampede. And in 1965 they would take their first official “tropical” vacation to Hawaii.

Henry was instrumental on the organizing committee for Pemacola (this was an organization created by the area farmers). And in 1952 he was influential at seeing that electricity was brought into the area for the local farmers.

He also served as a member of the Consort Lions, where he helped to see that many changes would be made to the benefit of his community as well as other needy organizations.

In 1975 Henry and Ida decided that they needed to slow down from farming and with the sale of the farm they made a new home for themselves, in the village of Consort.

But not a day went by without a call… to or from the “boys” and after a brief explanation of how he was still “needed” off he went to lend his hand on their family farms.

Oh he did enjoy the “town life”… going for his daily coffee run to play the numbers game… afternoon happy hour… and a fun game of cards with close friends were all treasured.

It was on one of his apparent coffee trips that Henry was spotted and followed by son Ronnie, and when stopped and asked by Ron as to “why he was not using his signal lights?” Henry replied with… “well I’m going for coffee, and everyone knows that!”

He and Ida enjoyed many camp-outs with family and friends, and that “orange Citation motor-home” saw its share of miles.

OOOhh and he loved to drive, and he made it his duty to see that each of his 6 grandchildren learnt how to drive also… you know just like him… “THE RIGHT WAY!”

In 1982 Henry had a hip replacement that seemed to take away some of the pain from his ailing signature limp caused from years of aching arthritis… BUT, nothing seemed quite as soothing to him as those winter vacations spent down south with Ma, in Phoenix, Arizona at the Lost Dutchman Resort in Apache Junction.

In 1998 he earned the “Melvin Jones Award”. Named after its founder, this is the highest recognition of a commitment to the humanitarian services of a Lion’s member committed to improving the quality of life for people locally and around the world

AND… It was shortly thereafter that he would attempt to give up his position as Lions member, but was requested back on several occasions by local members, even for nothing more, than to… “PLEASE liven up the meetings!”

In January 2003 we almost lost Grampa to a horrific diabetes attack, but he fought back with the grateful help from family, Uncle Ron, Aunt Nancy and a wonderful team of health care staff

But, this is where life would come to change drastically for Henry and Ida, as Henry NEVER wanting to move to the Lodge, was inevitably forced to.

BUT, as fate or luck again would have it, they would still be together another 4 years in that little room at the Consort Lodge, where Ida with her failing eye sight caused by aggressive macular degeneration did her best to care for beloved Henry.

Then in June of 2007, Henry and Ida would come to face their toughest decision of all… Henry would require more help than his beautiful Ida could provide him, and this would ultimately see them separated for the first time in 67 years, as he was moved to the extended care of the Consort hospital, where a most loving staff would now take the place of his sweet Ida.

Daily visits would have to suffice, and now Ida would have to be safely escorted to and from the hospital with the help from family and friends to visit her Henry. I recall Gramma telling me that they would still cuddle up on Grampa’s hospital bed for their afternoon nap and during one of these encounters he whispered in her ear if it was not too late for them to “get a small place that they could once again be together?”

And they would be blessed with another 5 years together… and continued to see their family grow… and now to a total of 6 great-grandchildren.

Then on June 2, 2012, Henry could wait no longer, as he was called to heaven where he now waits for his “BEAUTIFUL BLUE EYED GIRL”

So we gather today to pay tribute to a most wonderful gentle man who has touched so many lives with his acts of kindness, quick wit, and generosity, through his love for life, family and friends… his love for all of “us”

Our Grampa… Father… Husband… Uncle….and Friend… HENRY HERBERT MARON

Tribute at the Cemetery

– by Rebecca Maron

Hi everyone, I’m Rebecca and I would like to share some words. I have loved my Great Grandpa and always will. I remember when mum, my sister and I went to see Grandpa and he was asleep so we wrote a note saying – We love you Grandpa from: my name in huge letters, Leeanna in medium and Shantell in hearted and flowered letters. I also remember singing to everybody at Christmas when I was four and my sister three. We sang, hi my name is Joe and I work in a button factory. I also remember writing my name on his calendar every time we visited. On the last time we saw him was the week before he died. I thought wow, this guys old but not only did I realize that, that was what made him so special. When we went to see Great Grandpa all the times before I was always like why do I have to do this on the weekends when all I’ve done is sit on the couch and play my laptop and my dad would come in the house and say, “I’m going in to town, would you girls like to come with me to see Great Grandma Ida and Great Grandpa Henry.” And I would always say no. But now I’m thinking this question, what’s more important . . . playing on my laptop or visiting grandparents? All those times when I had the choice to go in to town I wish I could go back to that moment and just say yes. But I guess like they say you don’t realize what you have till it’s gone.

Card of Thanks

The family of Henry Maron wishes to extend a thank you to all those in our wonderful community for your support and comfort. We especially want to thank Reverend Pauline Bell for her words of comfort and her many prayers, David Bell for your prayers and compassion, Marilyn Long for playing the piano, Gary Ulseth for his solo, the Lions Honour Guard, the active pallbearers and the ladies of the Knox United Church for the delicious lunch and for the flower arrangements on the tables. Many thanks for making the funeral service so comforting and special.

Sincere thanks to the staff of the Consort Hospital & Care Centre, Long Term Care Unit as well as Dr. Raath for all your loving care, compassion and support. Thank you for the care they both received from the Lodge staff and the Home Care staff, and the extra care given to them both. Thank you for the hugs, the food, offers of help, donations, cards, floral tributes and your kind words, and for honouring Henry with your presence at his funeral service. Last but not least thank you to Coronation Funeral Home for their compassion and support and their attention to detail.

Living in our small community makes us so proud to call this home. Thank you again. –

Ida, Carol & Roland & Family, Dennis & Lucille & Family, Ron & Nancy & Family

Thomas Brent Kroeger

(Feb. 3, 1943-June 22, 2012)

Thomas Brent Kroeger passed away peacefully, surrounded by love on June 22, 2012 at the St. Mary’s Hospital in Camrose at the age of 69. Beloved partner of the late Peggy Sodeman and son of Henry and Cleona Kroeger.

Tom is survived by his son Christopher and partner Lisa and his daughter Cheryl and her partner Louie and their mother Paulette Kroeger; grandchildren, Riley Burnside, Aedan, Liam and Kiana Kroeger. Lovingly remembered by his brother, Brian Kroeger, Kerry and Brandon and families; sister, Debbie Sullivan, husband Bill, Brady and Ginger, Mike and Chad Kroeger and families. Fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

The Memorial Service paying tribute to Tommy was held at the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Pauline Bell officiating. Tributes were given by Tommy’s children, Cheryl Kroeger and Chris Kroeger. Debbie Sullivan, Tommy’s sister, gave the eulogy. Special recorded music played was “The Rose”, One More Day”, “Hallelujah” and “My Way”. Urn Bearer was Chris Kroeger, with the interment at Lake Road Cemetery. Following the memorial service family and friends gathered in the Lower Hall of the Church for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A delicious lunch was prepared and served by the Knox United Church Ladies. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society in care of Coronation Funeral Home, Box 35, Coronation, AB TOC 1C0. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@ xplornet.com.

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

Tribute by Cheryl Kroeger

My Dad was many things to many people. He was a loving father, devoted son, protective brother, a giving friend and a teammate. To me, he was my Dad. I can only speak to what he was to me and the many things I love about him.

I love the way he danced. We called it the TK. I’m not sure if you’ve seen his best move before but you clap your hands, raise one knee and you give a little twist. It always made me laugh. Some kids are embarrased by their Dad’s dancing….I thought it was awesome. The man had moves.

I love the way my Dad would tell jokes. Sometimes it would take 20 minutes to tell a joke. He would have these long, long pauses. So long that you thought he forgot what he was talking about. But then he’d just start back up again right where he stopped. Sometimes we’d even have a side converstation mid joke because he paused so long. Then he’d pipe up and say, “Hey! I’m telling a joke here!” Eventually he’d get it out. No one told stories and jokes like he did.

I love that my Dad always wanted people to laugh and smile. He was a relentless flirt…especially with waitresses and in the last week, nurses. It didn’t matter if they were 20 or 65…he was always trying to get their number. He was harmless and just loved to have a laugh. Dining with Dad was never boring. He once convinced a waitress that his tooth was broken on the soup he ordered. She was horrified and about to get the Manager before Dad started laughing and said he was pulling her leg. He loved to have fun with people.

I love that my Dad called me every name but my own. Sweetheart, Honey, Red Head, Kiddo and his favorite daughter were a few but it was mostly Pumpkin. I was called pumpkin so much that my Brother’s friends started calling me Pumpkin. I loved being my Dad’s little Pumpkin.

I love that my Dad and Mom were such good friends. Even though my parents were separated they both made Chris and I the priority. It was so easy for us that we never had to choose which parent to spend holidays with. We had Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, Birthdays and summer BBQ’s together. Even when they had other partners, we were all still together. Waking up Christmas morning and having coffee and opening presents. They were the best separated parents. It wasn’t strange for me to go to Mom’s and she would be talking to Dad on the phone. They made our long distance family a close family.

I could go on forever about all the things I love about my Dad but I just wanted to say that my Dad was a funny, kind and caring man who will be missed by many, especially his Pumpkin.

Tribute by Chris Kroeger

My Dad

I have many memories of my dad and appreciate each and every one of them.

Everyone assembled here today has a story about Tom Kroeger. Some of them you shared, some you couldn’t and some that were shared by my dad with everyone else.

My dad taught me a lot in the time he was here. Throwing a football, putting skates on for the first time, and not using too much Brut aftershave.

I was lucky enough to get to curl with my dad on 3 occasions and went 2-1; best curling I ever had.

My dad, as mentioned by my aunt and sister, loved his family and always had kind words when speaking of his friends.

Let’s celebrate Tom Kroeger’s life and thanks for the memories.

Hurry hard, Dad. Hurry hard.

Eulogy by Debbie Sullivan

Well now. We didn’t see this coming, but here we are. Thank you for joining us in the celebration of Tommy’s life.

Tommy has been making me plan his funeral for about 20 years, even though I didn’t want to hear about it. It really mattered to him, so I let him coach me on the do’s and don’ts. I told him repeatedly that his funeral was going to be the one that I may not navigate too well, but he told me I was going to have to take a run at it. So, if I don’t want him annoyed with me when I see him next, I’ll give it a try. I wish he were here today, making somebody laugh, (at a FUNERAL, for Heaven’s Sake..) because that’s how he got himself through them, teasing and cracking someone up, or raising a few eyebrows in the process. Not today. Not directly anyway. He is here, but far too busy taking it all in to pull one of his famous pranks. Tommy’s humour and wit were razor-sharp. Once in a while his timing was off, but it was usually funny later. Sometimes, MUCH later.

I don’t have all (or any) of the protocol for a eulogy, so my version will have to suffice.

Tommy was born in Consort in 1943, to Henry and Cleona Kroeger. Brian followed a few years later, and I arrived 6 years after that, rounding out the family. We grew together, and set out on our grownup lives.

Tommy and Paulette have two gorgeous children; Chris and Cheryl. Don’t even get me started on how he feels about them…

Last year we all said goodbye to his loving partner, Peggy Sodeman. This was very difficult for all of us, but especially so for My Brother. He became very lonely, but persevered day by day, trying to make sense of it all. He even managed to keep Peggy’s plants going, much to his own amazement.

I know that everyone in the room will have a dozen or so funny “Tommy stories”, but I will leave most of them until later, and tread lightly down the other road.

Family, Family, and Family. Those of us who make up our family were first and foremost in his heart. Always. Family mattered most, and time together was precious. Never enough time.

As far as I know, Tommy never gave out much “free advice”, but got lots of what he called “feedback”. If he did have something to say, it was priority, but never accusing, and never any harm intended.

He was extremely sensitive, and his feelings were easily hurt, which was usually covered by a joke or a smile. Unless it was family, in which case, his tears flowed freely, and often.

When it came to athletics he excelled at many sports; hockey, curling, golf, and any others he had time to try out for. When he was in High School, his curling team won the Canadian Schoolboys Curling Championship, and went on to win many other titles and prizes.

All through school, (and then some..) the girls loved Thomas Brent, and he whirled many a date around the dance floor. His dance moves are legendary, smooth and fun, with him smilling his twinkly smile straight into the eyes and hearts of every partner. I know this for sure, because I was one of them. He caught my heart, and refused to return it nearly 6 decades ago, and he still has the part that has always belonged to him. He handled it with great care.

He took great pride in his appearance, and was none too pleased when his scalp began to peek through his hair. Not really such a big deal, because it meant he had to spend less time at the barber.

He loved to laugh, and loved to make the rest of us laugh whether it was funny or not. He did this regularly, despite the fact that there were many stops and starts and long pauses before he finally got the story out. He gave the gift of laughter, sometimes to the point of tears, and it always felt good. Clever, sharp, personality, and charisma, that was Our Tom.

He had one more rule of “funeral etiquette”; NEVER use the word “lost” when referring to the departed. When I’d forget this rule, and tell him that someone had lost a loved one, he would take exception to my wording, and remind me that people aren’t car keys, and no one is ever “lost”.

Tommy LOVES his family, and always will, as we will always love him. We wish him safe travels on his new journey; there are quite a number of folks who will guide him along his way. We pray for him, and we pray that God knows Tommy well enough after all these years, to not take him too seiously. Surely, Thomas Brent Kroeger will treat God to a smile.

Thank you, My Brother, for your love, for your appreciation of us, and for all the smiles and belly laughs, and all the big hugs. We miss you, but promise to carry on the smiles, not the tears. For today, emotions will come and go in waves, so Note to Tom: “It’s Your Party, and We’ll Cry if We Want to. You would cry too, if it happened to you”.

James Norton Hanna

(Nov. 14, 1941 – May 4, 2012)

Eulogy

by Edwin Hanna

My name is Edwin and I am the eldest of Dad’s five children. On behalf of the family, I would like to thank each of you for coming today and for your support and prayers.

Dad was born on November 14th, 1941 at the family residence in Winfield, Alberta. He was the fourth child in five years born to Orton and Eltha. The first child was Velma; followed by Ken; Darlene; my Dad; and finally, Don.

Dad was pre-deceased by his son, Darrin, on April 6th, 1977; his sister, Velma on December 6th, 1991; his mother, Eltha, on June 3rd, 2003; his father, Orton, on February 10th, 2004; his brother, Ken, on August 11th, 2011; and his sister, Darlene on August 14th, 2011. It has been particularly difficult losing three members of the Hanna family in less than one year.

Dad started working at an early age around the home by assisting with farm chores – feeding and caring for cattle and horses, cutting wood, hauling wood and milking cows. He enjoyed his involvement in a few sports and loved to brag about his championship win in ping-pong over his rival, Chucky Berg. He also enjoyed playing broomball.

Dad left home at the age of 16 to work on a farm near Alix, Alberta. Dad loved talking to people. On one of his many journeys, he met up with someone who convinced him to come to work in Vulcan, Alberta. In 1961, Dad moved to this community where he worked on a farm for a man who was the uncle of his future bride.

My mom, Pat, and Dad were married on July 27th, 1963 and started their married life in Red Deer. Dad worked at the gas company as well as at a dairy farm at Penhold – a job he really enjoyed. He eventually worked at Intercontinental Packers as a butcher.

Their first four children were born in Red Deer: I was born on November 13th, 1963; Kevin, on January 29th, 1965; Lori on June 10th, 1968; and Darrin, on May 5th, 1969.

In 1969, the family relocated to Edmonton where my youngest brother, Shawn, was born on November 9th, 1971.

Dad started work for Gordon Riley Transport and this was the beginning of his extensive career in the trucking business. This new venture gave him ample opportunity to happily meet and talk with lots of people. Dad loved to talk to anyone – rich, poor, young or old – it didn’t matter. He also loved to tease.

Many a story came out of Dad’s trucking journeys. One time, he met some American truckers in Nojack, Alberta. Dad said that in Canada, they would have to use chains to go uphill because even the billy-goats ‘doubled up to climb the hills. My brothers and sister, as well as his youngest brother, Uncle Don, have many fond memories – and also some scary stories to tell – about adventures with Dad on some of his trucking trips.

Even when he was driving a car, we recall harrowing experiences; like the time we were riding with Dad in a convertible and he would hit a bump so we would catch some air – making us feel like we were going to fly out of the vehicle. This was long before the use of seat belts was enforced.

Dad would often participate in car races with his brother, Uncle Kenny, and he was usually the winner. When he realized Uncle Kenny wasn’t going to catch up, he would pull over along the side of the highway and wait until Uncle Kenny stopped to find out what was wrong. Then Dad would step on the gas – and the race was on!!

Dad loved taking chances, but one instance in particular worked in his favour. While working at Norman Wells, Dad missed the plane that would take him to the job site. This was very fortunate as the plane crashed and thankfully, Dad’s life was spared.

Over the years, Dad’s numerous jobs and out-of-town travel took a tremendous toll on his family life. In 1975, Mom and Dad’s marriage ended.

Dad gained a great deal of experience operating a picker, and in 1975, he started a new business called Jim’s Picker Service. He had a lot of stickers made up – you may recall having received one (or ten)…

My Dad often took me on his jobs and by working alongside him, I gained knowledge and experience for my own career.

Dad had an excellent memory for numbers and dates. He particularly loved the New York Islanders and could recite hockey stats by heart. He regularly called in to the radio station to challenge Bryan Hall or John Short on their statistics. He also loved music. He went to school in Winfield with Ray Griff, a country songwriter and singer, who’s music he loved. This may have fuelled his passion for country music. He was often heard whistling the old country music tunes. Dad was very proud and often bragged about being chosen CFCW’s Trucker-of-the-Day.

One of Dad’s favorite past-times throughout his life was playing cards and he taught all of us how to play.

Dad’s three grandchildren, Jessica, Robert and Aaron, remember riding in the truck with Grandpa; going to the Muttart Conservatory Pyramids; and also a memorable trip to an Airplane Museum.

In 1987, Dad met my step-mother, Evelyn, and they were married on September 5th. On November 7th, 1988, their son, James Russell (better known as JR), was born.

JR also went on numerous trucking ventures with Dad and has many fond memories to recall. When JR started playing hockey, Dad took him to the practices and games and was his biggest fan. Dad would brag to others about how proud he was that JR was pursuing his journeyman ticket as an electrician.

As Dad was on the road much of his life, when he was not working he preferred to stay close to home; however, Dad and Evelyn did enjoy trips to Toronto to visit family and friends. He so enjoyed spending time with the people he loved.

Some of the things that Dad loved about Evelyn were how warm and inviting she kept their home, her ability to manage finances, organize appointments, schedule activities and above all, kept Dad looking great! Dad was particularly impressed with Evelyn’s great cooking skills – although there was always some rivalry over whose turkey dressing was better!

In the last five years, Dad’s health and mobility deteriorated quickly. Although he loved visiting people, he was unable to leave his home and spending many months in the hospital, restricted him even further from getting out to visit with family and friends.

Evelyn, Dad’s wife of almost 25 years, worked tirelessly as she lovingly cared for Dad and the family. As Dad’s health declined, Evelyn continued to look after him and kept him at home for as long as she could. It was only recently that Dad was moved to a care facility and even then, Evelyn continued to visit and care for him on a daily basis until Dad’s passing on Friday, May 4th.

As a family, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Evelyn for her strong commitment to Dad, especially when his needs increased because of his medical conditions and physical challenges. Thank you, Evelyn, for your love, dedication and support.

Rest in peace, Dad…

~~~~~**~~~~~

The funeral service paying tribute to Jim was held on Sat., May 12, 2012 at Hainstock’s Funeral Home, 9810 – 34 Ave., Edmonton, Alberta. Officiating clergy was Rev. Patrick Lashley. Hymns were “Amazing Grace” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”. A Eulogy was given by Edwin Hanna and a Tribute was given by Martina Achelson. Following the service, family and friends gathered for a time of fellowship and refreshments upstairs in the Reception Room.

Hainstock’s Funeral Home & Crematorium, Edmonton in charge of arrangements.

Margaret Myrtle (Mitchell) Gudim was born Dec. 24, 1920 in Monitor, Alberta. She grew up on the family farm north of Monitor.

Margaret was the youngest daughter of John and Jane Mitchell. She had six older siblings: Bill, Mary, Ethel, Jackie, Olive and Violet. She married Walter Gudim in 1942 and they moved their family to Rimbey in 1946 and later to Red Deer in in 1963. They eventually had six children: Carol (Art) Pratt of Rocky Mountain House, Terry Abrams and John Kendall of Calgary, Rosemary (Colin) Dent of Queensland, Austalia, Robert (Heather) Gudim of Strathmore, Fae (Allan) Roberts of Calgary and Bruce (Diana) Gudim of Calgary. Their family gew to include 18 grandchildren and 22 great grandchioldren.

Margaret’s family and friends were very important to her and much treasured. Her beloved husband Walter predeceased her in 1991. Margaret passed away peacefully on June 14, 2012 at Sunset Manor, Innisfail, Alberta.

“They Are United Again”

The funeral service was held on Sat., June 23, 2012 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 3002 – 47 Ave., Red Deer, Alberta. Officiating clergy was Bishop Cal Stangier. Interment was at Alto Reste Cemetery in Red Deer County. Following the interment, family and friends gathered together for a time fo fellowship and refreshments in the Church Hall.

THE FAMILY

by Margaret Gudim

The family is god’s gift to man.

Dispute this, those who think they can.

You could not find a greater plan,

if you were all the worlds to scan.

Parenting teaches us so many things.

and oh, the sweetest joy it brings

to feel the ties of wonderous love

each new baby brings from heaven above.

We have this need for one another.

It is so good to have a brother

who can help and cherish in this life.

One to share our burdens in times of strife.

To have a sister, whenever we call

Who is always glad to give her all.

Whose love and tears in times of grief

Comforts our hearts to give relief

To top the list, there’s no greater thing

than godly parents to make your heart sing.

To guide you firmly to choose the right,

So you will not fear the darkest night.

Parents learn through love and sacrifice

Patience to teach, to guide and compromise

Their spirits can grow with each child given

as faith in God builds a stairway to heaven.

Parents, great great right back to Adam

The wonder is too much for me to fathom.

I am so grateful for this wonderful chain.

I must find every link to bind us again.

Russell Bower

(Sept. 10, 1916 – July 2, 2012)

Russell Bower was born in Veteran, Alberta on September 10, 1916 and entered into rest on July 2, 2012 at Langley, British Columbia.

A service of remembrance was held Tuesday, July 17th at Henderson’s Dignity Funeral Home in Langley, B.C.

TRIBUTE TO DAD

by Jim Bower

Good afternoon, everyone. On behalf of my sisters Barbara and Margaret, my brother David, and myself, I’d like to thank you for coming out this afternoon.

Approximately two weeks ago, an era that lasted nearly 96 years came to an end, the era of Russell Bower, my Dad. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.

My Dad was born in the prairie town of Veteran, Alberta. It was a different world in 1916. World War I was raging. People cooked on wood burning stoves. Electricity hadn’t come to many small towns. Vintage cars drove on dusty roads. Railroads were supreme. I could go on.

Russell Bower was the son of Ed and Bertha Bower and he grew up on a farm near Veteran with the family which included his older sisters Jessie, Ida and Chloris, who have all since passed on, and younger sister Olive, who is with us here today.

As kids we often heard stories from Dad and Mom of what life was like on the prairie during those years, much of it during the depression. There were the scorching prairie summers, and raging winter blizzards where, in the latter case, according to my dad, one had to follow a rope from the house to the barn in blinding snow just to avoid getting lost. During those winters, when he was in high school, he also did the janitorial duties at school and had to rise at 2 a.m., go to the school and fire up the furnace. As for those hot prairie summers, while everyone around him would be sweltering they would comment of my Dad that he seemed to thrive on the summer heat. As a teen he liked to go camping out in the wild of the prairie, often with a friend or a cousin. It is well known that during an electrical storm he would sit outside his tent and, without fear, watch the show of lightning. In fact, as many of us know, he did that all of his life. Even recently, he could be seen standing outside on the front porch watching yet another display of lightning. As my sister Margaret said, “you can take the boy out of the prairie, but you can’t take the prairie out of the boy”. I guess lightning knew better than to mess with my dad.

The Bower family was acquainted with many other families in Veteran. One of those was the Jones family, and one of their four children was a young girl named Violet. The story goes that as they grew up young Violet had her eye on young Russell. More on that later.

My dad’s father was a carpenter by trade. Dad learned much of the that trade from him and throughout his life he was handy with tools of all kinds. But he also had a passion for electronics, namely radio, and he always seemed to be on the leading edge of the technology of the time. He got into ham radio as well, and he communicated with people around the world using morse code of which he was very proficient. And he’d kept up his ham license to the present day.

With the outbreak of WWII in 1939, my Dad joined the Navy and served in the Pacific as a telegrapher aboard the HMCS Edmunston. He also served at the naval base in Esquimalt and was stationed at other locations, including Prince Rupert.

Now, by this time the Jones family that I mentioned earlier had moved to High River, then to Calgary, then to Vancouver. While my Dad was stationed in Prince Rupert his mother wrote to him from Veteran telling him of this, suggesting that he might go to Vancouver to see Violet, perhaps thinking that Vancouver was only a short hop from Prince Rupert. Well, my dad did correspond with Violet and he did eventually make it to Vancouver where he began courting her, often taking her out for a spin on his motorcycle (And you’ll see a few pictures of that later). On Feb. 14, 1943, they were married in Vancouver at the home of the Jones’s. After a brief honeymoon in Vancouver and Victoria they took up residence in Victoria and Barbara was born there over a year later. Shortly after the end of the war they moved to Vancouver where in 1946 he became a member of staff with Department of National Defence in Matsqui in the Fraser Valley, as a communications technician. A year later he was with Kelly’s pianos in Vancouver servicing radios and appliances. From 1949 to 1953 he worked in the appliance department at Forst’s Ltd. on east Hastings. Between 1946 and 1953 he furthered his education at the Vancouver School of Art. It was also during this period, in 1948, that the family moved to North Burnaby, where I was born that year. Margaret was born in 1954 and David in 1959. North Burnaby was home for the family for the next thirty years and where we all grew up and went to school. Going back a bit, after he left Forst’s in 1953 he worked for a while for Admiral TV. And then with this relatively new burgeoning media called “television”, along with his long-time passion for electronics, it led him to a long career as a technician with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation starting in 1954.

I can say confidently, from first-hand observation, that Dad was highly respected at the CBC. If something went wrong everyone went to him. I believe he could fix anything. There were many times at home during the evening, when the phone would ring for my Dad and he’d be on the phone with someone at work, sometimes for over an hour, trying to help them solve a technical problem. This happened many times over the years and my mom often swore that the CBC wouldn’t have stayed on the air if it hadn’t been for him.

Further to that, my Dad often amazed visiting relatives and friends by taking small groups on tours of the CBC studios in Vancouver, both the original maze of small buildings at Georgia and Bute Streets, and later the new studios on Hamilton Street. I always went along, and it was always an eye-opener. And as we toured from one section of the studios to the next, we often heard “Hi Russ” from employees on shift, and often someone would stop him and say “Oh Russ, I just want to let you know we did such-and-such with such-and-such . . .” and my dad would listen then nod quietly with approval and we’d move on with the tour.

In 1978 my Dad, along with a fellow employee, was flown to Ottawa where he received the “Presidents Award” from the president of the CBC, for designing a new upgraded telecine chain for the network. Now if my Dad were here now, he would just love to explain to you what a telecine chain is, but my brief layman’s explanation is that it is the process of transferring motion picture film into a video image that can be broadcast onto a TV screen.

Frankly, if it isn’t apparent by all I’ve said so far, I’d have to say, in all modesty, that my Dad was a genius. It seemed he could build anything, fix anything. If a toy was broken, or a household appliance, he could fix it. When I was a kid I could go to him with just about any idea I could concoct and he’d find a way to make it a reality. Once it was an arcade-style baseball game that he made from plywood. Or a miniature trolley overhead for some toy buses I had. Then there was the model railroad we worked on together. Whatever wild idea I might have had as to where the track should go, he’d find a way to build the woodwork to make it possible. Model trains were my hobby but we enjoyed it together and this brings back to me a memory I have when my dad and I went on a camping trip to the B.C. interior and we lay awake late at night in the tent as he told me of his rail travels through the mountains during the war. I will always remember that evening.

My dad dabbled in many things through his life. He played at the violin, he played one-handed tunes on the piano, he bought a flute and played at that. Long ago he built an electric organ in our basement in Burnaby which members of the household played and practiced on. He assembled model planes and boats. He did wood carvings. He built coffee tables, cabinets, and a beautiful streamlined wooden car-top carrier for our old ’58 chevy for our family camping trips—using a steaming process to curve the thin plywood sheets. When I was thirteen, he painted and lettered some plastic model locomotives in Canadian Pacific colours, then gave them to me for Christmas. He was into photography and home movies and filmed weddings for several friends and relatives. He assembled and finely finished a grandfather clock. He was an ice skater, and legend has it that, as a youngster in his home town of Veteran, he was regarded the best skater in town. He continued ice skating well into his adult years, and in fact we were all a family of ice skaters. He took a course in the German language so that he could read the instructions on some of the German-built equipment at the CBC.

In the late 1960s when he was now in his mid-fifties, he joined the Vancouver Soaring Association, flying gliders—sailplanes that is—headquartered at the airfield near Hope, BC. He logged many hours in the air, including some long distance flights, acquired many merit badges, and eventually became an instructor himself, and made many lasting friends.

In the mid 1970s Dad and Mom travelled to Mexico, but before going, they both took a night course in Spanish so they could speak some of the language there. A year later they traveled to Hawaii.

Shortly after his retirement, Mom and Dad left North Burnaby and moved to Langley in 1980 where they spent their remaining years. But that was hardly the end of things, rather a new beginning that would continue for another thirty years. Always active, Dad and Mom did volunteer work for the transportation museum in Cloverdale, with dad doing a considerable amount of restoration work, winning the respect and gratitude of those running the museum, while mom worked in the gift shop. On at least one occasion they drove a vintage automobile in a parade to Fort Langley. They also did volunteer work for the Flight museum in South Surrey.

And one quiet day during their retirement years here in Langley, possibly when life was getting just a little bit too comfortable for them and while they were sitting in their back yard having tea, two young children from next door, who had just moved into the neighbourhood, poked their heads over the fence (as Mom had put it), and introduced themselves as Bonny and Warren, eventually involving themselves and their family in each others lives, and introducing my parents to the complexities and perplexities of yet another generation, mentoring them, and watching Bonny and Warren grow up as their “unofficially” adopted grandchildren, seeing each of them graduate and get married, and have children, and helping to keep my parents … young. Warren and Bonny are both with us here today.

Dad and Mom enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Sadly, mom passed away six years ago and though it certainly was a blow to my dad, and to all of us to be without her, he continued being active and independent, still living in his own home, still driving his car and still with his mind as sharp as ever. Now in his nineties, in 2006, one of the first things he did alone was drive all the way from Langley to Duncan on Vancouver Island to attend Warren’s wedding and then return the same day. That worried everyone a little bit — everyone except Dad of course. He continued with projects such as when he rigged up a video process in the basement in order to transfer his old 8mm movies onto DVDs, and he did a better job of doing it than most commercial services. And in keeping up with technology he recently bought himself a new high-definition TV.

Less than two years ago he returned for a visit to the Vancouver Soaring Association and, after an absence of close to 40 years, was taken for a ride in a sailplane as a passenger, into the air once again. And once the glider was in the air, the pilot turned the controls over to him and Dad flew the plane on his own for well over an hour, among the knolls and cliffs in the mountains around Hope. He had forgotten nothing of flying the plane, or of the surrounding terrain, knowing exactly what to do the whole time. To borrow from the old phrase “Oh to be young again”, here he was young once again, although perhaps, in spirit, he always was.

My dad was a quiet, reserved man, and very modest. He never complained. And was always concerned about imposing on others, although no one ever thought for a moment that he did.

And so now my Dad—Russell Bower, and my Mom—Violet Bower, are both gone. And they will be missed. But the two of them are together again and perhaps they’re enjoying afternoon tea on a back patio somewhere. Or perhaps I should think younger as it may just be that my Dad is again flying a sailplane between some mountain peaks. Or perhaps I’m still not thinking young enough as it may be that a young Russell Bower is taking young Violet out for a spin on his motorcycle. It all depends on how we want to remember them.

Elaine May Durksen (Nee Thornton)

(July 3, 1923 – July 18, 2012)

Elaine May Durksen (nee Thornton) was called home to Our Lord on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of 89 years.

Elaine was born in Cereal, Alberta on July 3, 1923 to Ralph and Anne Thornton. She was raised on the family farm near Sedalia, Alberta with her two sisters and one brother. She married Henry Durksen in 1945 and moved to Calgary where they raised their five children.

Elaine’s passions included her family, caring for her home, traveling to Arizona and Radium and spending time with her faithful canine companion, Blue. Her door was always open to share a cup of coffee and treats with family and friends.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Gary Durksen (Sue), Dennis Durksen (Sharon), Janet Durksen (Randy), Joanne Hudson, Debbie Cyr (Sylvain); as well as her siblings, Shirley Sortland (Don) and Ralph Thornton (Jean). She will also be sadly missed by Susan Durksen; numerous nieces and nephews; grandchildren, Jackie Dietrich (Don), Liesa Evans (Jim), Chris Durksen (Tammy), Amanda and Stephanie Hudson, Patrick and Rebecca Cyr; great grandchildren, Amber, Jennifer (Mike), Gage Copeland, and Erik Anderson; as well as her great great grandchild Matthew.

Elaine was predeceased by her husband Henry Durksen; her sister Eileen Carless; and her niece Dallas Craney.

A Prayer and Eulogy Service was held at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Friday, July 27th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass was held at Our Lady of Grace Italian and English Church, 1714 – 14th Avenue NE, Calgary on Saturday, July 28th, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. If friends so desire, memorial donations in Elaine’s name may be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, NWT and Nunuvut, 100-119, 14 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1Z6. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via the website www.fostersgarden chapel.ca.

Foster’s Garden Chapel Funeral Home & Crematorium, in charge of arrangements.

Thank you again for coming and I hope to see all of you later at my dad’s house.

David A. Young

(Aug. 30, 1936-July 31, 2012)

David Arthur Young was born on August 30, 1936 in Consort, Alberta to James and Patricia Young. He passed away peacefully on July 31, 2012 at the Provost Health Centre at the age of 75 years.

In 1952-53, Dave attended the Agriculture program at University of Saskatchewan. While there he was on the university water polo and boxing teams. Then Dave returned to the family farm. In the winter he went to a baseball training camp in Florida. He also completed flight school and got his pilot’s license. Besides flying, Dave really enjoyed playing baseball and hockey and taking in some hunting. He also looked forward to putting on the Coates Lake fly-in every August. There were many afternoons spent at the Consort Gun Club enjoying food and camaraderie as well as shooting contests. He was also an avid reader and vintage car enthusiast.

In 1965, he married Elaine Trautwein and they raised three kids together. Dave was a very devoted husband and father. He genuinely enjoyed spending time with his family and there are many happy memories because of that. In the last year he would frequently be up visiting Elaine in the Provost Nursing Home taking her for drives and to get soft ice cream. In the evening he would walk with her and then when it was bedtime he would tuck her in. His deep devotion to her touched us all.

Dave will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 47 years, Elaine; children, Joan Young of Calgary, Alberta, James Young of Calgary, Alberta and Rob (Tina Wolfe) Young of Calgary, Alberta; brothers, Ed (Irene) Young and Alan (Thelma) Young; sister, Bobbie (Harold) Hougen; sister in law, Margaret Young.

David was predeceased by his brother, Jim.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are gratefully accepted to: S.TA.RS., Building 16, 29 Airport Road Edmonton, Alberta T5G 0W6.

A Celebration of Life for the late David Arthur Young was held at Compeer Community Hall on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at 10:30 a.m., with the Rev. Greg Parker officiating.

The Eulogy was given by Doug Lee and special music was by Alan Young, “Man of the Land” and “Farmer Standard Time”.

Pallbearers were Joan Young, James Young, Rob Young, Ed Young, Bobbie Hougen, Alan Young, Ken Evans and Clint Moylan

Interment took place in the Dorcas Cemetery followed by a reception and fellowship in the Compeer Community Hall.

Eulogy

On behalf of Dave’s family, I would like to thank all of you for coming here today to say goodbye to an old friend.

My name is Doug Lee. I got to know Dave about 20 years ago through the gun club at Consort.

Dave was such a big, athletic, and vigorous man, that it’s difficult to accept the fact that he’s gone. He left us too suddenly and he left us too soon.

It’s a worn out cliche to say that a person lived their life to its fullest, but Dave Young really did. He lived his life to its fullest. He worked hard and he played hard, and he never slowed down until the end.

Dave was born in 1936, in the depths of the depression. Life wasn’t very easy on a farm at Compeer. The history book tells that 1937 was the worst year of the depression for them. The dust storms were so severe that Dave’s mother Pat had to bundle the new baby down to the basement to avoid the dust and the pneumonia it could cause. Often the dust in the house was so thick that you couldn’t see the pattern or the color of the bedspreads.

But hard times make strong people, and Dave Young was proof of that.

As an athlete, he was exceptionally gifted, playing on local baseball and hockey teams into his 70s. Just this past winter Dave told me he had gone into Compeer for a skate. I think his skates are still hanging in the rink. Dave took his hockey pretty seriously. One young fellow I know, told me about playing hockey against Dave, who was 35 years older than him at the time. He said “playing hockey against Dave Young is like playing hockey against a snow fence, you just can’t get around him. And if you ever do, he gets mad, and you don’t get around him again! One of those big paws comes out and swats you down!”

As a farmer, he lived on his grandfather’s homestead his whole life, and carried on his family’s tradition of working and caring for the land and the animals. He was justifiably proud of the crops he grew and the cattle he raised. Dave struggled through many years of drought and poor crops, and left us in one of the greenest years we have ever seen. Dave was never a supporter of the wheat board, and once told me he stopped growing wheat because of it. He died one day before the market opened up on August 1st.

Dave met a young girl from Leader named Elaine Trautwein, and after a period of courting, he proposed. When she accepted, Dave said OK, let’s go down to Medicine Hat and get married – tomorrow. They arrived in the Hat, and Dave dropped Elaine off at her aunts, so she had all day to find a church to get married at, and a wedding dress to get married in. Dave drove off to do some shopping of his own.

Elaine and her sister were waiting at the church when Dave arrived. He walked through the front door in his suit, carrying several grocery bags filled with bread. He set the bags down on the back pews of the church and stepped forward to marry Elaine. Dave had found a sale on bread!

The newlyweds settled down on the farm, raising kids, crops and cattle. They raised three fine children. Joan, Jamie and Bob are with us today. Your dad was very proud of you, and he was proud of your accomplishments over the years, although he could never understand why anyone would ever want to move away from Compeer!

Dave and Elaine camped together for 46 years, through hard times and good times. In recent years, when Elaine became ill, Dave became a caregiver for her, as well as looking after the farm. He became a housekeeper (more or less successfully) but he never complained. I know I’m not the only person who wondered how he could do both jobs so well for so long. Finally, last year he had to place Elaine into long term care.

Although her illness has taken many of Elaine’s memories, she still remembers Dave. The kids told me of the last time he visited her, just like every time before, Elaine’s face lit up when Dave walked in the room.

Long hours on tractors and years of shooting without ear protection made Dave a little hard of hearing.

I remember him at the Saskatoon gun show trying to visit with the gunsmith Dale Friesen. The only problem was that each one of them was deafer than the other fellow. Friesen had two hearing aids and Dave needed two. He never did get one.

One of Dave’s favorite events was the Coates’s Lake fly in breakfast that he hosted every year. Dave did virtually all the work himself, from mowing the strip and campsite alongside of the lake, to hauling the grills and tables down to the site.

Dave paid for everything at the event out of his own pocket, from all the food, the commemorative coffee cups he ordered every year, to the utensils and propane. Many people offered to chip in to defray the costs over the years, but Dave always refused. This was his contribution to the community, and he wanted to do it himself.

The only money he would accept was a donation for the jar for STARS air ambulance. All he wanted was for people to get together, visit, and remember the Coates family that homesteaded there. Over the years, the fly ins saw nearly two thousand people, uncountable plates of breakfast and cups of coffee, hundreds of aircraft attending, and as far as I know, just the one fistfight!

I never lived close to Dave, I only knew him through our mutual interest in guns and shooting, and the fly in. I did not have land across the fence from him, never worked back and forth with him on farm machinery, fencing or cattle. I think maybe that’s why I got along with him so well.

Dave was a great guy, but every once in a while, he could be just the tiniest bit exasperating!

Elaine used to complain when the kids were little, and she finally got all three of them to bed and starting to go to sleep, Dave would grab his latest gun, head out the door, and start shooting. In the front yard, close to the house. Back to square one.

Dave always liked shooting, and was constantly after people to come out and depopulate his gopher patch. One time, some friends came out from the city to shoot gophers, and one of them brought a professional grade video camera to film the action. The video turned out very well, and Dave proudly showed it to us. The camera would zoom in on a gopher, and soon it would disappear with a bang. The only thing that was missing was a soundtrack with dueling banjos. Dave was really getting into the video, telling us when the best parts were coming. The gophers were in front of a barbed wire fence, and just behind it, was a grassy, well mowed slope leading up to what looked like asphalt. Someone finally asked Dave, “what is that just behind the fence you guys are shooting at?”

Dave replied, “Oh, that’s just highway 12, now watch this next gopher blow up!”

Dave had a rather dry, mischievous sense of humor. Every once In a while, he would bring a bottle to the gun club, for when we were finished shooting, it was always some kind of strange stuff, we had never seen before. It was, without a doubt, the worst, foulest, most evil rotgut we had ever seen. Nobody could drink much, but Dave made us all have a taste. Every few months, he would bring another bottle. Every time it was different, and every time it was worse than before. We would ask him, “Where are you getting this stuff?” He would reply, “Oh, the kids brought it from the city” or ”Monahan brought it up from the states.” None of this was true. We didn’t find out until years later, that Dave had been scouring the bargain bins at the local liquor stores for the cheapest, foulest rotgut he could find, and bringing it up to us!

Another time, at the gun club we were sitting In the clubhouse when someone slammed the door and a light bulb shattered, the pieces failing to the floor. Instantly, Dave said, “Quick, turn off the switch, before the whole place fills up full of electricity!”

Looking back at Dave’s life, his achievements, and what he meant to us. To me, Dave stood out in the crowd.

Dave’s family and friends grieve for him, but in time the pain will pass, and the good memories will remain. Even now, whenever I think of him, I have to smile.

Goodbye Dave. I am going to miss you. I am going to cuss you for leaving us too soon, and for leaving such big shoes for us to fill, but I am never, ever going to forget you.

Thank you very much.

Lyle Melvin Rude

Jan. 2, 1960 – Aug. 6, 2012

Lyle Rude passed away suddenly August 6, 2012 at the age of 52 years, in Edmonton, Alberta. He is survived by his wife Audrey; children: Kyle, Sarah, Christina, Andrew, Gavin and Naomi; his brother Rodney (Carmen) Rude, their children Sylvianne and Marc; brothers Doug Rude and Les Rude; his sister Joan (Bill) Walsh and their children Donnie and Joseph; Uncle Dennis Dahl (Norma) of Oyen, Alberta; Aunt Barb (Jim) Fairbrother of Coquitlam, BC; Aunt Maureen Rude of Cereal, Alberta; numerous cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his father Melvin in 1988 and mother Patricia in 2002.

Lyle was born Lyle Melvin Rude on January 2, 1960 coming in as Consort’s New Years Baby; he was the eldest of 5 kids. Always the big tease.

He took his schooling in Consort. For spending money he delivered newspapers, babysat and picked bottles; this is how he paid for half of his first bike, a brand new red ten speed. As a teenager, Lyle went to work for Len Schaffer, then Ken Williams as a plumber’s helper. But by the age of 18, he went working rigs, working his way up to driller. In his early 20’s Lyle went back and finished his plumber/pipefitter apprenticeship and continued in this field until his death. In 1987, his son Kyle was born. Seventeen years ago he met Audrey Flynn and three years later they began their life together. With the kids grown and on their own, Lyle and Audrey were looking forward to their time together as empty nesters.

Funeral services were held at Knox United Church in Consort on Monday, August 13, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Several close friends, Jay Kurek and Rob Wiltse and his wife Audrey Flynn gave touching tributes and read tributes by family members, to those in attendance. Robbie Knight played for the hymn “In the Garden” as well as prelude music. Pallbearers were Kyle Walker, Donnie Walsh, Joseph Walsh, Andrew Flynn, Gavin Flynn and Allan Schetzsle; as he was taken to Lakeroad Cemetery for burial with his parents. Family and friends gathered for a time of fellowship in the lower hall of Knox United Church and refreshments served by the U.C.W. Memorial donations may be made in Lyle’s name to Alberta Cancer Foundation. Condolences may be sent and viewed at parkviewfuneral chapels.com.

A Letter to Lyle

by his wife Audrey Flynn

We must be hurt in order to grow,

Fall in order to know and

Lose in order to gain,

Some lessons in life are best learned through pain.

Lyle was a son, brother, father, lover, provider and soulmate.

I met Lyle in July of 1996 through a third person. We talked over the phone and finally arranged to meet. A belt in my car needed to be fixed so I brought my car over to him. Lyle fixed it and asked me out for supper. I remember thinking how sexy his voice and appearance was in a rough biker way. I told him straight away I had five kids and that didn’t scare him off. I think the more you get to know someone, the more beautiful they become to you. Sure the mystery goes away but when you see something deeper that means you’ve connected with them and they become a part of you.

Christmas of 1996 Lyle was going back home to Consort. I couldn’t afford a Christmas tree. I remember him saying to me that I couldn’t have a Christmas for the kids without a Christmas tree. He left and brought back a tree along with all the decorations and he and my kids set it up. You would swear Santa had already arrived. He also bought presents for all six of us – that was Lyle.

I and my five children moved into Lyle’s home a year later. Needless to say my hun had to make major renovations in the basement to accommodate us.

My first meeting of Lyle’s family terrified me but a no truer and closer family I could have asked for as they all welcomed us with open arms and hearts. Lyle’s mom Pat affectionately became known as Grandma Pat, thank you Pat, Rod, Joan, Doug and Les. Lyle said, “see, I told you you would be a part of my family”.

We survived the turmoil and hectic lifestyle of raising the kids and running around for them. Finally, they grew up and moved out about two years ago. Oh my goodness it was wonderful, the peace and quiet was deafening! Our relationship started all over again. It was like being given a second beginning. We would lay down on the sofa with his arm affectionately around me, very comforting.

The big tough Lyle was such a softie. I was one of the lucky few that saw this side of him. I had to give him Kleenex for the sad movies as it was him that would cry! Sorry babe but not to ruin your image, he even enjoyed painting my toenails.

Lyle was very well respected at work. He took the time to teach the rookies how to do things right. Being a pipefitter a lot of people always wanted to work with him. He was a perfectionist and believed in doing it right. Although he worked for McSween Fabricating, a lot of companies like Momentive, Inland Cement and Agrium would request him directly to do their maintenance.

I miss our good night ritual of me snuggling into him and he would grab my arm into his body and say, “good night dear, sweet dreams,” I’d say “you too, I love you” and he’d reply “I love you too.”

We had so many plans for the future, saving for a small house, getting another Harley and going for a visit to Ireland to name a few.

It’s sad when the person who gave you the best memories becomes a memory. But sometimes you have to stand alone to prove you can still stand.

Sweet dreams my darling, you will always be in my heart.

A tribute from Joan Rude, Lyle’s sister

My brother Lyle, what can I say about him?

He was a big tease especially with me . He said to me once “do you know why I bug you so much?”

?No, why?” I asked.

+use I’m a bugger.”

Lyle had lots of interests when he was a teenager. He used to draw race cars, he was an avid bowler, he played hockey, and on Saturday game day Rod and I would have to deliver the paper so Lyle could go play hockey. With his paper money, babysitting and bottle hunting, Lyle bought his bike, a brand new red 10 speed he was very proud of. I was the recipient of a double home at lunch one day which of course he hit every crack on the sidewalk. Of course I tattled and mom let him have it. A few years later he bought a motor bike and gave me a ride to school so I wouldn’t be late, of course finding every pot hole up our back alley with mom yelling in the background “slow down, don’t hit those bumps!” I just hung on.

Later on when our parents split up, he bought her for Christmas that year a dishwasher. Every year no matter where he was, Mother’s Day, her birthday, a phone call always came putting a smile on her face and if possible flowers arrived.

I remember him in the driveway changing out motors and transmissions in his vehicles on a regular basis, he was very hands on.

Lyle was very excited when Kyle was born, always asking me about him and talked often about him.

When my son Donnie was born I stayed with Lyle in Edmonton and when we got out of the hospital I can still see him sitting there holding him on his knee with a big smile talking to him.

When Audrey came along he welcomed her kids with open arms and enjoyed taking them to soccer, hockey or whatever activity they were into at the time. I remember their first summer they spent in Consort for 2 weeks. Christina was scared to go off the diving board so after 2 weeks of swimming lessons Lyle and Audrey arrived to pick the kids up. Nothing would do but Lyle and Mom had to come watch something at the pool. Well when she took that first dive Lyle’s face broke into a big grin and he yelled out, “I told you you could do it.”

My brother wasn’t perfect. He came accross often as a grump but he had a kind heart and if he could help you he would.

We will miss him terribly.

Memories of Lyle

By Les Rude

There are many emotions in this room. Sadness, shock, disbelief, bitterness and even anger to name a few of them. There has been, and will continue to be, a lot of media and public attention in the weeks and months to come directed at our shared tragedy. While these feelings and emotions are natural and expected, I ask that we all leave our discussions about the legal system and police procedure outside these walls and take this time to share our memories and love of my brother so that our combined experiences with him continues to enrich our lives today and for many days to come.

Today we are gathering together to remember my brother Lyle. For some he was an acquaintance, for others a friend, for some our brother, for a few, uncle, to my parents, a loving son, to six very special young people, dad and to Audrey, a loving husband.

For me we are not here to mourn, Lyle wouldn’t want that, Monday morning we all lost someone very dear to us but we should not mourn, let’s all join in remembering Lyle for what I remember him to be. A happy go lucky guy who lived for today, for Lyle, yesterday was over and tomorrow was not guaranteed, if you didn’t live today you were missing out. Let’s all take the time to remember the goofy grinning guy that would always have a smile to remember and really only wanted to enjoy the time he had with whoever he was with, whether he was working, playing or just hanging out.

Since Monday morning I have been thinking a lot, as I am sure many of us have, about my time and experiences with Lyle. Because I am the youngest of five and there are nine years between us I didn’t have as many experiences with Lyle before he left home but I feel I can share some life lessons with you from some of my time.

1. Make your own fun. Back in Consort where we grew up there was not a lot to do. One of our regular activities I remember was taking advantage of the street side hill at our house and either sticking one another in a tractor inner tube and pushing for a wondrous ride down to and likely across the street to Rumohr’s hill or two of us would be locked on top of each other and we’d roll down that way. I suspect that likely happened after we had a few runaways in the tube and I can just see Lyle laughing as he chased it down the hill toward the highway because he was likely at the root of more than one run away.

2. The lesson of a 9 year old, beer and orange pop are not a good mix. Trust me. Christmas time when I was about 9 we were playing a game in the living room and my loving brother decided to spike my orange pop with his beer and of course my dear sister Joan was in on it and said “it tasted fine”. It was really quite horrid. Mom agreed with me however and had a few choice words for them both. On the upside, that experience I think is at least partially why I don’t drink, beer tastes horrid enough and the orange pop did nothing to help it but then again I rarely drink orange pop either.

3. Try. Throughout Lyle’s life he was always creative. Whether it was the art work you’ve seen samples of here, building and flying his model planes to fixing or tweaking several cars, motorbikes and various other constructs throughout his life. I don’t honestly remember Lyle taking a vehicle to a mechanic or autobody unless he absolutely had to. Rarely did you see Lyle not give a good honest effort in tackling something new and he took great pride in his successes, no matter how large or small.

4. Test the waters. I remember a story from Lyle’s 20’s. He and a group of friends were having some evening festivities and someone decided it was hot outside. It was the middle of the night but hey, it was still hot somewhere so someone had the wonderful idea of going for a swim in our fine small town outdoor swimming pool, it was right there after all. So over the six foot chain link fence the group goes and into the water. Now I must back track briefly, I have never known Lyle to get into water deeper than a bathtub, although he may have hit a hot tub occasionally. Needless to say, being that at the time my brother Doug and I were the only ones of us five that could swim, Lyle didn’t fare well in the ten foot end, which is where he landed. Fortunately one of his fellow rejoicers figured this out and got him quickly to the side before he had too much trouble and life carried on.

5. Be there. Lyle was like all of us, his life was busy. He wasn’t always able to be there for everything but when it mattered most he was there. I remember watching him hook up the water and sewer to both my mom’s and older brother Rod’s new homes, when I needed to replace the furnace in my house, not only did he arrange a supplier for all the stuff we needed but he came down to Consort with me and for two days he and Bill and I put a new heating system in my little house. There are probably many more stories of Lyle helping others in and out of his family that I don’t know about, but he did it because it mattered and he could.

Saturday we had a Memorial in Edmonton for Lyle. Many people came from his work and his past. Some of the stories from the open mike session we had were very interesting and quite enjoyable to hear, they include in no specific order;

Lyle’s previous upstairs neighbor Mardy talking about how he put her bed together after she procrastinated on it for some time and insisted on her getting better screws to put the frame together because the stuff she had just wasn’t good enough. He went to work, predrilled all the holes and now the bed is so solid she is a little concerned she may not get it apart if she moves again. Interestingly enough, she laughed when she related that near the end of construction Lyle was fighting with a particularly stubborn screw and in the process of the battle one thing fell down then the post of one of the four posts fell and hit him on the head and he was bleeding and of course he became quite angry and that she thought the bed may die. She later related this story to Audrey and Audrey surprisingly said, “he didn’t throw any tools?” She further commented that Lyle left his mark all over the yard, fixing things just so and making everything just right, little Lylisms if you would. Mardy said one thing she learned from Lyle was “just do it, get it done!”

• The safety man from Lyle’s current employer related a few interesting stories. Brian is his name. His first encounter with Lyle was rather unspectacular in the eyes of a safety man with a not so stellar hazard assessment card and Lyle working away in a manner that maybe wasn’t the absolutely safest procedure but over time Lyle came around and soon was asking him “wanna see my card?” Apparently Lyle racked up a large number of safety awards in the form of Visa and Tim’s cards, he actually stated that he thought Lyle had “coffee coming out of his butt.” Apparently shenanigans were not lacking either, at one point he pulled his own prank,“

Lyle, the cops are here.

The cops, who are they here for?

You.

Me?

Ya, you. They got a warrant for you and everything.

What?!

Ya, something about a bad Mick Jagger impression or something!!!

At this point apparently, Lyle said something like, “Run you fat bastard!”

Two of the statements I found to be very honoring of Lyle were, “it’s a true testament to Lyle when even the non-smokers stop at the smoke pit to talk to him.” The other even more honoring comment I feel, at the time of Lyle’s passing he was on his way to work. His company was working on a shutdown at the Agrium plant outside Fort Saskatchewan. When the news arrived of Lyle’s death and was confirmed, the men were told and barely a word was heard, little jobs were concluded, larger jobs stopped and 400 shutdown workers on a stat holiday were sent home out of respect for their brother in the trades. Lyle’s chair in that room now stands as a memorial, no one is allowed to sit in it until the shutdown is over and his access card to get on site is now a memorial placed on the wall in the office.

Another gentleman from Lyle’s work related how he himself was working his way down the path of enlightenment in Buddism. While he only met Lyle in November he commented how Lyle seemed a better Buddist in ways than he was. After the service he related to me how it was often a competition to work with Lyle, he was not only appreciated, he was deeply loved and respected on the Agrium site and probably many other sites he worked on.

As we all well know, Lyle at first glance can come off gruff and angry. The people that spoke of Lyle at the Memorial in Edmonton spoke of this but then spoke of how they found that was only an appearance, once they began to get to know him he was happy, he had hopes and dreams for the future and he became a fast friend, a trusted colleague and a greatly respected and loved man.

My brother had many things in life he enjoyed, many things he treasured and most of all, many things he loved. December 31, 1987 three days before Lyle’s own birthday, Lyle’s son Kyle was born. The picture on the table at the entry of Lyle feeding a newborn baby is Lyle and Kyle. Any time I saw him he would ask “how’s Kyle doing”, I don’t doubt he asked everyone he spoke to from home, “How’s Kyle doing?” Since the day that picture was taken, despite the physical distance between them, Kyle has never left Lyle’s heart or mind.

Fourteen years ago, Lyle and Audrey came together. Lyle soon welcomed five young people into his life, his home and his heart. Those five young people and their mom soon became a part of our extended family and even though there is no blood between us, you are and always will be our family and Lyle is our bond. Let that bond never be broken.

Kyle, Sara, Christina, Andrew, Gavin and Naomi are all out finding their own way in the world now. I hope Lyle’s influence helps you grow into the exceptional young men and women I know you all can be. I have no doubt though he likely rarely said it, Lyle, as he did Audrey, treasured and loved you all, all six of you and whether you knew it or not I know he was proud to be your dad. You were a shining light in his life and always in his heart, don’t ever forget that.

Lyle was taken from us far too soon, no one will dispute that. We now have to rely on our memories of him and the support of each other to get us through these times. Most of you in this room know I am a Paramedic in my day job, unfortunately I have been the one helping families like mine through the early stages of these kinds of troubled times. As I told one little boy and his even smaller sister when their father passed suddenly a few years ago, so long as your dad is in your hearts, he truly has not died, he will be with you forever. So for all of us here, so long as we keep Lyle in our hearts, though his body may have died, his spirit will be with us forever.

That being said, I believe Lyle is with his friends, our parents and grandparents watching over us from above, and I think I have just a little bit of proof. This may sound crazy but no one has ever accused me of being absolutely sane at all times so hear me out. Monday night, the day of Lyle’s passing all those thunderstorm watches we have all become so accustomed to this summer turned into a warning. For most of my three and a half hour drive home to Rocky Mountain House I watched the development of one of the most active and downright cool thunderstorms I’ve seen this summer. Were they celebrating Lyle’s arrival? You decide for yourself but I think the timing is just a little bit suspicious.

Thank you for coming to share our memories today. Thank you for listening. Please come forward and share your stories, we want to hear them.

Lyle’s family would like to thank all our friends and family, near and far for all their support through this trying and difficult time. We have received many messages of condolence and hope as well as caring donations from people too numerous to name as a result of Lyle’s passing and at times have been overwhelmed by the numerous shows of support for us all. We are truly grateful for all your efforts to make this time less difficult for us all and will forever appreciate your efforts and kind words.

Thank you to Pastor Fred Marshall of the People’s Church in Edmonton for officiating over Lyle’s service on Saturday, August 11 and to Pastor Darryl Durksen of the Veteran Full Gospel Church for officiating over the service on August 13 at the United Church in Consort. Special thanks to the United Church Women in Consort for the lunch afterward and to everyone that came out to both services.

Donations in Lyle’s memory can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Yesterday is history

Tomorrow is not guaranteed

Today is a gift

That’s why it’s called the present

Live for today, Lyle did.

Thank you.

Audrey and family

Rod and Carmen and family

Joan and Bill and family

Doug, Les and Kyle

Andrew Miller

(Oct. 12, 1920-July 2, 2012)

Andrew Miller was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 12, 1920 to Stephen and Barbara (Feser) Miller.

Andrew was pre-deceased by both of his parents; his brothers, Henry (died in infancy), John (Annette), Edward and Steven. His sisters, Mary (Barney) Dolan, Barbara (Leo) Schulmeister and Catherine (Merritt) Kropinske; brothers-in-law, Barney Dolan and Leo Schulmeister and sister-in-law, Annette Miller.

Andrew is survived by his brother-in-law, Merritt Kropinske and numerous nieces and nephews.

In the 1930’s, the family moved back to Altario to farm. Andrew attended the Blarney School not far from their farm. The family lived in a sod house until the wooden house was built. Andrew and his brother, John, farmed for a few years south-west of Altario at Pemukan.

In 1953, Andrew moved to Red Deer to live with his sister, Mary Dolan and her family. He started working for the City of Red Deer and worked there for approximately 25 years. During that time, he witnessed a lot of changes in relation to the job. He started out using a pick and shovel and ended up using the loader, for many years. After retiring, he moved to Consort for a few years and then moved back into the Piper Creek Lodge in Red Deer. Andrew was a member of the Moose Hall in Red Deer.

Although a quiet and shy man, he did enjoy the company of his friends and family. He always kept in touch with his friends in both Altario and Red Deer and always knew what was happening within the Miller family, even when the nieces and nephews were grown-up.

Andrew Miller passed away July 2, 2012 at Red Deer. A celebration of Andrew’s life was held July 11, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium. Musical selections included “The Old Rugged Cross”, “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” and “Shall We Gather at the River”.

Gary Wayne Durksen (Papa)

(1946 – 2012)

Gary Wayne Durksen (known as Papa to all) passed away on July 31, 2012 in Buffalo, New York, at the age of 66 years.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Elaine Durksen of Calgary. Both Henry and Elaine (nee Thornton) were raised in or around Sedalia, Alberta. Gary often returned to the area with his children to visit his Nana and Pop Pops, Ralph and Anna Mae Thornton (nee Uffken) at Thornton Corners. Later, he would come out with his grandchildren to visit his Uncle Ralph and Jean Thornton, as well as his many other loved ones in the surrounding area.

Gary spent most of his life in his hometown of Calgary, Alberta where he and his wife of 42 years, Susan Donald, raised three children. During this time, he maintained a career as a pressman working for companies such as North Hill News, Perry Graphics, Transcontinental, and the Calgary Sun. He had a passion for the Canadian Rockies, and spent many of his days off out fishing and camping. Gary also devoted time to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their adventures together included cheering on monster trucks, swimming in Sheep River, telling ghost stories around campfires, sailing on ships, touring Alaska, fighting croc wars, hunting the witch at the farm, and hanging out with furry pals Ziggy and Gunner.

In 2011, Gary retired and settled in Cheektowaga, New York with his second wife, Sue Tavernese. He enjoyed visiting Niagara Falls, camping, and walking along Buffalo Creek. Gary was also a member of the Winchester Rifle & Gun Club.

Gary will be lovingly remembered by his wife Sue Tavernese, his children Jacqueline Dietrich (Don), Liesa Evans (Jim), Chris Durksen (Tammy); his stepson Joseph Benczkowski; his grandchildren Amber Copeland, Jennifer Copeland (Michael), Gage Copeland, Erik Anderson; his great-grandsons Matty and Jason; his siblings Dennis Durksen (Sharon), Janet Durksen (Randy), Joanne Hudson, Debbie Cyr (Sylvain); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

It was Gary’s wish that there be no funeral. Instead, a memorial picnic will be held in Calgary on Saturday, August 25, 2012. All friends and family are welcome, and should RSVP to receive the chosen location. You can RSVP by phone to 403-244-8108, by e-mail to GarysMemorialPicnic@ hotmail.com, or by joining the Gary’s Memorial Picnic Facebook group.

If friends so desire, memorial donations in Gary’s name may be made directly to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, NWT and Nunavut, 100-119, 14 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1Z6.

James Stephen Letniak

(July 23, 1918 – Aug. 15, 2012)

James Letniak was born south of Loyalist, Alberta on July 23, 1918 and entered his rest on August 15, 2012 at the Coronation Extended Care Center at Coronation, Alberta.

James is survived by his loving wife, Mary of Lacombe Extended Care Center; children: Ron (Connie) Letniak of Hemaruka; Darlene (Paul) Karmy of Texas; Ellen (Bob) Bell of Lacombe, AB; Lawrence (Debbie) Letniak of Hemaruka; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; as well as many other relatives. James was predeceased by his parents George and Bessie (Warchomika) Letniak and his two brothers, Bill and Andrew Letniak.

Those wishing to may send memorial donations to either: World Vision, 1 World Drive, Mississauga, ON L5T 2Y4, 1-866-595-5550 OR Three Angels Broadcasting, Mailing address: Three Angels Christian Communications, P.O. Box 2369, Abbotsford, B.C. V2T 4X3 1-604-850-5600.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, August 23, 2012 at the Full Gospel Church in Veteran, Alberta. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.

At the service, the following Tribute to Dad was presented by his son-in-law, Bob Bell, on behalf of his children.

Tribute to Dad

James Letniak was born July 23, 1918 south of Loyalist, Alberta at the homestead of his parents George and Bessie (Warchomika) Letniak. He was to call this area of Alberta home until his passing on August 15, 2012. He was 94 years old. He was the eldest of three brothers; there was James, Bill and Andrew.

Dad had an interesting childhood with many stories to tell. His children clamoured for these stories of when you were a little boy.” One such story told of him using grama’s laying hens for target practice. When brothers Bill and Andrew saw the fun he was having, they wanted in on the action. Or they threatened, “We’ll tell on you!” Pretty soon there were 3 dead chickens. Round #2 started and then there were 6 dead chickens. Realizing this number would surely be noticed by grama, they cut short the fun and buried the tell-tale evidence in the manure pile. Several days later, as grama walked past the manure pile, she noticed some feathers sticking out and quickly summoned the guilty parties. Corporal punishment quickly ensued.

In his early school days, Dad had an unruly mop of hair. Brylcreem was unknown in those days so being resourceful, Dad used the sweet cream they had on hand to manage his hair. As the sun shone on his head, the sweet cream turned sour, and with the change came the smell.

From his earliest years, Dad was learning to be a farmer. From his many stories, being a farmer in the 1920’s and 1930’s was a tough education. But his inquisitive mind and his desire to learn was a strong, personal characteristic throughout his life.

In 1941, at the age of 22, Dad married Mary Tym. At his passing, they had been married 71 years. In 1943, they acquired land and started to raise cattle and grain on their farm. They were blessed with four children who were born in the seven years from 1944 to 1951: Ron, Darlene, Ellen and Lawrence. All four of his children are here today with their spouses and children. The land Dad purchased in 1943 is considered by all the family to be “the home place.” Dad lived there for 69 years.

Dad became a man who was very action-oriented with many abilities and many interests. Through experience, he learned skills such as carpentry, welding and mechanics.

At one point many years ago, Dad was reported to the Department of Labour for doing mechanical work without a license. He was summoned to appear before the Board in Edmonton. “Do you have a licence?” he was asked. “No, but if I take the licensing exam, I’ll show you I can do the work.” “Where did you apprentice?” asked the examiner. “On the farm,” he responded. The examiner looked at him and said, “Young man, it costs $20 to write the exam. Don’t waste your money.” Dad put the money on the table and took the exam. He passed with a score of 98%. He immediately then asked to take the licensing exam for welding. At the end of the day, he went home a licensed mechanic and welder.

Dad was an inventor. His sons can give a long list of tools, implements and devises that he designed and created. Even new machinery came under his close inspection and it was common to hear him say, “What were they thinking?” and, immediately set about to redesign or improve some aspect of the new machine.

Dad had a grade 8 education but that was only the beginning. He was endlessly inquisitive and wanting to learn. He read books to learn, he travelled to learn, he talked to people to learn, and he involved himself in many boards and committees to learn. He was an excellent example of a life-long learner.

It was important that his children receive the education they needed for their chosen careers. He was so pleased when his two sons Ron and Lawrence joined him in running the family farm. He was especially interested that his two daughters be educated for careers so that, as he put it, “If you marry a bum, you can look after yourself.” One potential candidate that was considered, never made the family list after Dad paid a visit to his parents’ home. Later, Dad said, “Donnichka, (Ukranian word for daughter), do you think you’d be happy in a home where the grass grows as high as the windows and it’s a treasure hunt to find vegetables in the weedy garden?” His point was well taken and the search for Mr. Right continued.

In the end, Dad was satisfied when Darlene became a nurse, Ellen became a teacher and both married fine, upstanding gentlemen!

Dad had a great love of music. In his younger years, he would frequently be heard singing and strumming his guitar. At times he’d sing and conduct with his hand like he was conducting a choir. He made sure that piano and/or accordion lessons were available for his children. He bought a big console organ after the children left home. Although he didn’t play it himself, he looked forward to his children or grandchildren coming home and playing it for his enjoyment. In later years he could be heard singing his heart out as he soaked in the tub sometimes for an hour or more. Or he could be heard singing along to Wilf Carter or hymns by Wayne Newton or other artists as he put in his miles on the treadmill.

Dad was a contributor – a giver – a man engaged in his life. While at times he talked about what might have been, if this or that had been different, it never distracted him from the path that was his. He was fully engaged with his family, his work, his church and his community.

For 22 years, Dad was Chairman of the Neutral Hills School Division. He also served on the board for ADC (Alberta Development Corporation) for 14 years, part of which time he was board chair. For a number of years he also was part of the Special Areas Board, CARA (Chinook Applied Research Association) Board, and the Consort Hospital Board. He was an active member of his local church and served on church boards,and committees both at the provincial and national level, including Canadian Union College in Lacombe.

In 1996, he received the Honorary Alumni of the Year Award for his commitment and contributions to Canadian Union College.

If there were two elements central to Dad’s life, they would be his love for God and his love for his family.

He was a spiritual man who asked difficult questions but maintained a firm faith in God. He would engage anyone in spiritual conversations because he thought it was so important. In later years, he would video tape religious TV programs which he especially liked, and give them to friends and family and then engage them in discussions about the content of the video.

Dad loved his family. At first, it was Mom and the children. It was this love for his children that urged him to teach them values – the value of work, to do a job well, to be honest, to “go the second mile,” plus many other virtues. The greatest gift he ever gave them was the assurance of his love.

The children grew up. Potential mates started showing up. Each of the children wanted to know what Dad thought and what he would advise. Dad would meet the potential mate and proceed to, as he put it, “Psyche them out.” The four of us who survived this “psyching out” process and married one of his children were then welcomed into his family and loved by him as one of his own. Soon grandchildren and later great grandchildren arrived. His original 4 children have turned into 30 of his children that he enjoyed, advised and loved.

In 2007, because of failing health and dementia, Mom was moved to the Lacombe Extended Care Center to be able to receive appropriate care and to be near to their daughter Ellen. Dad experienced loneliness when she left, but continued to live at the home place until mid-May of this year at which time declining health sent him to the Coronation Hospital and then on to the Coronation Extended Care Center.

Throughout his life, Dad was involved in actively bringing in the harvest or actively questioning his sons about the harvest. Harvest was his favorite season.

It is harvest time again. But the harvest will happen without him now. His work is done, his contributions have been made and now he is at rest. For those of us who knew and loved him, his influence on us will continue throughout the remainder of our lives.

Though we grieve deeply today, at the same time, we can be so thankful that he was such an important part of our lives for so long.

We can also be thankful that as Christians, many of us believe, as did he, that there is a better time coming and a better place to be.

We look forward to that day.

Card of Thanks

The family of James Letniak wish to thank:

– The Doctors and staff at the Coronation Hospital

– Coronation Extended Care Staff

– Those who provided food for the luncheon

– Veteran Full Gospel Ladies for providing and serving the funeral luncheon

– Neighbors who brought food to our homes

– The Veteran Full Gospel Church for the use of their facility for the funeral

– Pastor Darrel Durksen in a very special way, for officiating on such short notice when the designated pastor fell and broke his elbow just hours prior to the service

– Anyone else who helped in any way with the funeral service

– Everyone for their many acts of kindness and condolences and sympathies extended

– Those who attended the funeral service

– Those who have made memorial donations

– Heather Caseley and the Coronation Funeral Home Staff for the professional and caring service provided.

Timothy Robert Laughlin

(Jan 9, 1973 – Sept. 1, 2012)

Timothy Robert Laughlin was born January 9, 1973 at Hanna, Alberta. Tim passed away September 1, 2012 doing one of the things he loved, biking.

Tim rode bikes his entire life and became a Harley man about 5 years ago….for those of you that don’t know Tim’s newest hang out on Sundays was biking to church with the guys to a little shack in the middle of no where by Talbot; where bikers from near and far show up for a brew or two, a BBQ and most of all a fair bit of BSing. Once a year they have a bikers bash and Tim was proud to be able to help in any way he could being one of the newest volunteers. He was more than happy to show off his expertise running his skid steer, digging dirt, planting trees, mowing grass and setting the stage in place this year and of course leveled perfectly into a side hill without the use of a level….Tim was a skid steer god! He told members they should be glad he didn’t live closer or they’d be sick of him.

Written By Stu Tilbert

Tim’s other passion was sledding in the mountains. He started many years ago with one sled and by the end of last winter acquired a fleet of some of the most hopped up sleds anyone has seen! There was not much that could keep Tim off the mountains besides his family, which toned him down quite a bit! Even eight hours away from home there was never a time that someone didn’t recognize him at the cabins. His riding style was one of a kind, like anything the speedometer was at its max off the start. It was his job to always make the highest mark but by the end he was quite content to have a beer at the bottom and watch. It was not all about sledding it was about a vacation and just hanging out with friends. The mountains will surely miss you and sledding will never be the same.

Written by Russ Lyons

Tim grew up on the family farm south of Youngstown, Alberta and started working at the family farm supply during his junior and high school years. He attended school in Youngstown completing the remainder of his high school in Sundre, Alberta. After graduation in 1990, Tim continued to work at the family business whenever he could between his studies; successfully completing his journeymen certificates in Machinist, Automotive, Heavy Equipment, and Auto Body Technician as well as becoming a certified welder. Tim also obtained his class 1 license working in the trucking industry for several years doing long hauls across Canada and the US hauling cattle and heavy equipment which included operating winch and picker trucks.

Tim has worked in the above trades since 1999 starting his career in the oilfield as a field supervisor with Chevron, then deciding to venture out becoming a private independent contractor in the construction, oil and gas industry with Wurbak Contracting. Tim realized Wurbak was growing at a steady rate requiring him to hire more and more employees and invest in additional equipment to meet the industrial demands.

Tim was predeceased by his grandparents Kelly & Beatrice Laughlin, grandfathers Bob Lynn and Henry Post; grandparents Louie & Helen “Molly” Berg.

Tim will be sadly missed by his spouse Cindy, their three children Miss Liberty Cora Mae, Master Lincoln Kruze, Princess Zara Adyson Paige Laughlin; stepson’s Kyle and TJ Rohl; mother Judy (Hugh) Bonertz; 4 siblings Kelly (Grant), Jeff (Bev) & Shelly; half sister Sherry (Joey); grandmothers Esther Lynn and May Post; father-in-law and mother-in-law Karl and Dianne Berg; Dave Nichelson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and extended family.

Remember me in quiet days

While raindrops whisper

on your pane,

But in your memories

have no grief

But let the joy we knew remain.

Remember me when evening stars

Look down on you with gleaming eyes,

Remember me when you awake

To catch a glimpse of red sunrise.

And when you thought do turn to me

Know that I would not have you cry,

But live for me and laugh

for me

When you are happy,

so I am.

Remember an old joke shared.

Remember me when spring walks by.

Think once of me when you are glad,

And while you live I shall not die.

Written by Deb Berg (1978)

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. at the Youngstown Community Hall, Youngstown, Alberta. Officiating was Bruce MacArthur; The eulogy was given by Stacey Parsons and the tributes were given by Ellery Nabe, Mark Ross, Gary Mainhood, Dewy Beebe, Zane Andrus, Clint Walker, Dallas Doirin, Deb Stenger and Cindy Beattie. Special Recorded Music was “Angels Among Us”, “Like A Rock”, “Daddy’s Hands”, “When I Get Where I’m Going”. The Video Tribute was by Leah Walker. Honorary Pallbearers were Stu Tilbert, Gary Mainhood, Chuck King, Lenny Chalifoux, Ellery Nabe, Russ Lyons, Zane Andrus, Dallas Doirin, Dean Malyk, Mark Ross, Brian Kreiser, Myles Kreiser and “All Who Knew Tim and Shared in His Life”. There was a special farewell outside after the service as nephew Damien Berg and Cindy Beattie did several fly bys in an airplane paying tribute to Tim. Fellowship & Refreshments were prepared and served by the Youngstown and Big Stone Communities. Memorial donations may be made in Tim’s honor to The Trust Fund for Liberty, Lincoln & Zara Laughlin, Youngstown/Hanna ATB Financial. Condolences can be e-mailed to the family at corofuneralhome @xplornet.com.

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

Norma Lynn Astley

(April 3, 1954 – Sept. 10, 2012)

Norma Lynn, the youngest child and fourth daughter of John and Margaret (Peggy) Walker was born April 3, 1954 in Consort, AB. She passed away peacefully on September 10, 2012 in Red Deer Regional Hospital following a brief illness.

Norma took all of her schooling in Consort. On August 28, 1971, she was united in marriage to Rhyce Astley of Ponoka, AB. Two children were born to this union – Kimberly and Heith.

Norma was a longtime employee of Ponoka General Hospital until poor health forced her to give up a job she loved. She was well respected among her peers and developed many great friendships. She was a courageous fighter with a positive attitude as she learned to live with Romberg’s disease, blindness and a bout with breast cancer. She was an avid reader and with the help of a CNIB reading machine, she continued to explore the world of books up until her death.

Norma is survived by her husband, Rhyce; daughter, Kimberly (Peter); son, Heith; grandsons, Logan, Ethan and Reid; brothers, Jim (Peggy) Walker and Wayne (Carol) Walker; sisters, Carol (Brian) Walker and Marie (Neil) Joel; sister-in-law, Neana Walker; brothers-in-law, Gilbert Liknes, Jack (Babe) Astley, and Miles Astley; Aunt Alice McFadyen and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Norma was predeceased by her parents, John and Margaret Walker; brother, Dennis; sister, Dianne Liknes; in-laws, Bud and Marguerite Astley; sister-in-law, Yvonne Linnen.

Norma will be greatly missed by all her family and many friends.

As per Norma’s request no funeral was held and cremation took place in Parkland Funeral Home in Red Deer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the CNIB, #4 5015 – 48 St., Red Deer, AB T4N 1S9 or Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (Alberta Chapter) #700 10665 Jasper Ave. Edmonton, AB. T5J 3S9.

Wendy Joan Whitlow

(April 20, 1951 – Sept.10, 2012)

Wendy Joan Whitlow was born April 20, 1951 in Calgary, AB and passed away September 10, 2012 at Our Lady of the Rosary Hospital, Castor, AB at the age of 61 years.

Wendy was raised mostly in the Calgary area; she started working at the racetrack when she was 16. She was a barn boss and trainer for several decades.

She raced horses throughout the western provinces. Then she moved on to owning restaurants and raising cattle. The last several years of her life she operated the concession booth at Capt Ayre Lake in the Provost area. She loved her booth and the people she got to know at the lake.

She was predeceased by her parents Alan and Mary Whitlow. She is survived by her sisters Beverley Cawthorn, Marilyn (Don) Gilkyson, Linda Whitlow, Cindy (Lorne) Spady and a brother Craig (Laura) Whitlow. She also has nieces Jolene (Chad) Weber, Ashley Gilkyson, and Allie Weber, nephews Kenny (Melisa) Gilkyson, Todd Beveridge and Ethan Weber.

There will be a celebration of Wendy’s life at Capt Ayre Lake Hall, located just south of Hwy #600 between Hwy 41 and Cadogan, AB in the MD of Provost #52 on Sept. 22, 2012 from 1 to 4 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Wendy’s memory to the Alberta Lung Cancer Association or the S.P.C.A.

Condolences may be sent to the family through the website at www.parkview funeralchapels.com

Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium.

Lillian Audrey Gibson

1921 – Sept 7, 2012

On September 7, 2012, Mrs. Lillian Gibson of Edmonton, Alberta passed away at the age of 91 years. She will be missed by her loving family and friends.

A Celebration of Lillian’s Life was held on Friday, September 14, 2012 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 18407 – 60 Avenue, Edmonton, AB.

In lieu of floral tributes, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, #150, 9405 – 50 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6B 2T4.

Words of Remembrance for Lillian Audrey Gibson

Good afternoon and welcome to this celebration of my mother’s long and interesting life.

Just over a month ago a few close family members joined Mom at the Hospice to celebrate her 91st birthday. She really enjoyed the birthday party and visit!

I’d like to share some of her life story with you.

Mom was born in 1921 in Rossburn, a small town in Manitoba. Her parents, Mary and Joseph Urbanowski, were Polish and she had two older brothers, Michael and Lawrence.

Mom grew up speaking Polish and learned English when she started school. She was brought up in the Catholic faith and was a devout Catholic all her life. Her father was a barber and her parents owned and ran the town’s movie theater.

After graduating high school, Mom took teachers training in Winnipeg and taught in a Catholic school for two years.

When Mom was 23 she gave up teaching, moved back to Rossburn and started working in a bank, to be with her parents while her brothers served overseas in the war. At age 24, after the war ended and her brothers returned, she transferred with the bank, to Oyen, Alberta. There she met George Gibson who she married a year later, in 1947.

In the 1950’s they adopted two sons, Gerry and then Jim.

The family moved to Consort, Alberta, in 1963 when Mom was 42 and she went back to teaching.

Although Mom always said the years living in Consort were her best, during this time Mom was afflicted with M.S. and her life was completely turned around! The disease came on quickly and she managed with a cane and walker for a couple of years and then was in a wheelchair at age 57. She spent the next 34 years of her life confined to the wheelchair.

Mom and Dad moved to Winnipeg in 1979, (Mom was 58), so she could be near to her mother and two brothers.

In 1989, when Mom was 68, they moved to Edmonton to be closer to their two boys and their families. She eventually had six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Sadly, her husband George and youngest son Jim both passed away before her. In fact, Mom out lived all her immediate family except for me.

Mom passed on peacefully, in her sleep, a week ago today, at St. Joseph’s Hospice here in Edmonton.

Now I would like to share a bit about how Mom lived her life and the things she loved and enjoyed doing.

Mom always had God and the Catholic faith at the center of her life. She was a very active and devout Catholic. Her strong faith made the good things in her life better and maybe more importantly, all her hardships and challenges were more manageable because of it. She attended mass regularly and was a member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) for over 40 years. She was so proud to have been made an Honorary Life Member of the Good Shepard CWL in 1992. I can’t remember her complaining about anything and I never heard her swear.

Mom’s family and friends were very important to her! She was very close to her parents, especially her mother, and she was very close to her two brothers and their families. Mom spent family time with many of her Aunts and Uncles and was very close to many of her cousins. She loved George and her two boys! They had a great family life and did everything together when the boys were young. Mom especially enjoyed the family time spent in the mountains and camping in Banff. Later in life, Mom loved the times when the boys and their families would come to visit. She really enjoyed the grandchildren and great grandchildren!

Mom also developed great friendships wherever she lived! She had a circle of wonderful friends and acquaintances. They were all very important to her and made her life full. She loved to have pictures taken of family, friends and special events and she kept them all. She also kept many of the letters and cards she received over the years. She had a guest book to record who visited and the highlights of each visit. She captured and saved these memories as they were very special to her!

Mom was a very intelligent lady! She was well read and always kept interested in world news and current affairs. She was a good listener and could make conversation on most any topic. She had a sharp mind and great memory! She could remember the smallest of details even of events long past. She was very organized, always kept lists and planned everything ahead of time. She really enjoyed teaching and seeing her students succeed!

She lived a healthy lifestyle and always took care of herself! Mom liked to have her nails and hair done and she was a sharp dresser. She liked broaches, necklaces, scarves and earrings. Even at her age she had beautifully smooth skin and no wrinkles. The other ladies in our family have never discovered Mom’s skin care secrets.

Mom also liked to have a neat, clean home with everything in its place. She displayed pictures and items that were important to her and she often had a bouquet of flowers in the house which she liked very much. She loved visitors and to entertain. You could stop in anytime and find the place clean and welcoming. She had wonderful caregivers over the years and they took very good care of her and her place.

Good food was a big part of Mom’s life! She loved to cook, bake and eat. Food was an important aspect of every celebration, family event or visit. Mom loved the smell of chicken, turkey or roast beef cooking in the oven. She liked to prepare and serve special Polish dishes to her family and guests. She wasn’t big on fish or seafood but she loved fresh pickerel! When there was a feed of pickerel it was hard to get her away from the table. She wasn’t a drinker but she enjoyed a tiny glass of Bailey’s Irish Cream on special occasions. She could make a tiny glass last for hours! She really liked ambrosia salad. For a special outing Mom liked a nice steak dinner at the Keg or having lunch out with her friends. She enjoyed homemade nuts and bolts, short bread cookies and After Eight Mints at Christmas.

Speaking of Christmas, Mom loved to decorate the Christmas tree! She would take days doing it as she would hang icicles individually, properly spaced, the full length of each branch. At the end of the season she would remove each icicle and store them all for re-use next year. Mom’s apartment didn’t have a fireplace and she really liked that Shaw television Christmas Log and had that TV station on all the time at Christmas. I remember one time while that log was burning on the TV she looked at it and said “It sure is getting warm in here could someone please turn off the TV”. We all got a good laugh over that! Mom loved to laugh!

Mom really enjoyed playing games! Her favorite card games were rummy and bridge and she loved the word game ‘Scrabble’. If you went to visit Mom the odds were high that the games would be on. She was a serious gamer and she was good. You really had to work hard, be very smart or very lucky to beat her!

Mom always watched her afternoon soaps and she loved the TV miniseries the Thornbirds and North and South. She liked a variety of music, watched classic movies and was quite a sports fan too! She watched hockey, football and baseball. Her favorite teams were the Montreal Canadiens, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Toronto Blue Jays.

She liked dogs and horses and had several pet dogs over the years. Her favourite was a big black lab named Bullet. She thought butterflies were beautiful and elephants brought good luck!

Well I hope this information painted a picture of my Mom and how she lived her life. She was a very caring, special person and I’m glad for the time I had with her! I’m grateful for all she did for me and our family!

I know she would be extremely happy this celebration of her life is taking place in her church and attended by those who meant so much to her. Thank you all for taking the time to come and for being part of my mother’s life! Thank you!

Message delivered by a loving son, Gerry Gibson, on September 14, 2012.

We regret to announce the passing of Pauline (Knorr) Vogel. She died surrounded by her loving family at the age of 90 on the 16th day of September, 2012.

Born in the Balliol district near Kerrobert, Sask., on November 26, 1921 to Philip and Elizabeth Knorr, Pauline was a treasured wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Pauline was a strong woman of Catholic faith; John and she faithfully attended daily mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Provost. Pauline was a devote and involved member of the CWL.

John and Pauline owned a farm eight miles north of Compeer, Alberta. Pauline was a wonderful gardener and continued planting, harvesting, and canning vegetables until moving into the Provost Senior’s Lodge. She was known and admired for her baking skills, especially pies, buns and cinnamon twists. Pauline had a passion for crocheting, knitting, and quilting, which she continued into her eighties. Upon their retirement, John and Pauline were active card players at the Provost Drop-in Center. Pauline had fond memories of all the children she cared for and babysat over the years; for many, she was known as another grandma. Pauline cherished the time shared with her own 13 grandchildren.

She is survived by John, her loving husband of 62 years; Brenda of Calgary; Loyed (Joan) of Calgary and their children Paul (Sonja), Gillian and Bryan; Evelyn of Calgary; Daryl (Lorraine) of Foremost and their children Mark, Deanna (Mark) and Michael (Laura); David (Audrey) of Red Deer and their children Adam (Kate), Sara and Eric; Grant (Selma) of Compeer and their children Christopher and Matthew; Elaine (Richard) Atkins of Hayter and their children Nicole (Nicholas) and Michelle; Valerie of Calgary. Pauline was great-grandmother to Adelle, Kate, Isabel and Scott.

Pauline will always be remembered for her warm and nurturing spirit, her kind and generous heart, and her joyful and ready laugh. She was a selfless women with wonderful wit, and she loved to sing, dance, and tap toes to the beat of the John Vogel band. Her gentle, fun loving, and easy going personality was highly admired. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff at the Hillcrest Lodge, the Alternate Housing, the Nursing Home and the Hospital. We are especially grateful and indebted to the attentive care she received from Dr. Malan and Dr. De Flamingh.

We would like to thank Father Mahesh for all the visits with Pauline and the support given to the family. Thank you to the St. Mary’s Folk Choir who sang at the prayers and mass. Thanks to Caroline Doetzel for all her help with the prayers and funeral mass. We would like to thank the CWL for the wonderful lunch and for all their help. Thank you everyone for the food, flowers, cards, prayers and generous donations that were given, they were very much appreciated during this difficult time. We wish to thank the staff at Gregory’s Funeral Home for their excellent care, compassion and support during this time.

John Vogel and families

In Loving Memory of

Trevor Jones

(Sept. 9, 1970 – Oct. 15, 2011)

It’s odd but there is one thing most people like to do.

To spend a while beside the grave of someone that they knew.

You do it when you’ve time enough to make a quiet ride.

To see the fleecy clouds above and watch the shadows glide.

You think of things he did and said, and of the ways he had…

And when at last our strength has failed we make our last long ride.

We leave the world and take the trail across the great divide.

So when it’s time to make the change we’ll go where they have gone.

We’ll meet them on another range somewhere in the beyond.

– Henry Herbert Knibbs

One short year ago you left our lives; leaving us with heavy hearts and great sadness. There is no way the void of our empty hearts will ever be filled again.

That sorrowful week showed how deeply you were loved in your community and in the cattle industry, by the presence of so many people.

I have cried a million tears and think of you every single day; when I am driving down the road, doing chores, at nighttime before bed and especially when I am on the back of a horse, as that reminds me of you so much.

I know in my heart that you are with us. There are special things that let us know, like a special star in the night sky, the great eagle and the raven and the beautiful butterflies.

You are the twinkle up above

The wings silently spread

The breeze in our hair

The flutter of a butterfly

going by.

On silent wings you soar.

I miss you so terrible much and I will always love you.

Your sister,

Deborah and Roger

Amanda and family

Stacey and family

James Harvey Doherty

(Dec 15, 1941 – Sept 25, 2012)

James Harvey Doherty passed away at the age of 71 years on September 25, 2012 at 100 Mile House, B.C. He was born in Consort, to Vernon and Gert Doherty on December 15, 1941 and was their eldest son.

Jim was raised in Consort where he got his schooling. He was always interested in the world around him and ventured into many fields during his lifetime. He loved music and was a great dancer and musician. He established a Barber Shop in Veteran and spearheaded the very successful Gymkhana Club there. Following his marriage to Sharon Dahl in 1965 they moved to 100 Mile House, B.C., then to Leduc where he worked for relatives, the Molsberrys, then to Calgary where he worked for Wayne Boyd and City Wide Towing, then back to B.C. living at Port Kells with their two children, son, Rick and daughter, Roxanne.

When their marriage ended, Jim moved to the Island and established an auction barn between Ladysmith and Victoria. He had learned the trade of auctioneering and this proved to be a very successful venture. In the later years he settled down in Ladysmith, then moved back to Consort and into the Lodge where he met a friend and together they moved back to Ladysmith. She died soon after, leaving Jim on his own again. As his health failed, he decided to move to 100 Mile House where he was residing at the time of his passing.

Left to mourn are son Rick (Tammy) of Bassano; daughter Roxanne (Dave) Sopracolle of Consort; sisters Pat (Wayne) Boyd of Salmon Arm, and Betty (Ron) Rockey of Consort, and brother, Bill (Rose) of Bassano. Also four grandchildren: twin boys, Gary and Kyle Doherty, Bassano and Jarek and Tyson Sopracolle, Consort.

At Jim’s request, there was no funeral. His son, Rick, went out and took his ashes to Ladysmith, where they were sprinkled in the ocean he loved.

Ruth McAreavy

(April 28, 1926 – Oct. 27, 2012)

God was gracious enough to bless our family with one of His finest creations and now it’s time to give her back. On October 27, 2012 Ruth McAreavy – Devoted Wife, Loving Mother, Understanding Grandmother and Great-Grandmother went home to be with Jesus.

She will be missed by her husband Joe, her twin sons, Don (Heather) and Dennis (Mary) and her daughter Lorinda (Brian Morse) along with their families.

Ruth was born in Consort, Alberta to George and Lilly Ann Sherritt. She was very proud of her home town. At age thirteen, Ruth became a big sister to Joe Spencer Sherritt and enjoyed showing him the ways of the farm. In 1944 she came to Calgary and was hired at Burns where she cultivated many lifelong friends. Ruth met Joe when her car got stuck and he rescued her and then promptly asked her for a ride to work. Soon, marriage and children followed and Ruth, Joe, and the boys headed to Yellowknife where Joe was transferred. Yellowknife afforded a life of adventure and carefree hospitality that forged many fond memories. From Yellowknife they bought their home in NE Calgary and daughter Lorinda arrived. Mom suffered from hearing loss all her life but never complained. Learning was difficult yet she succeeded in life with a quiet resolve and a cheerful outlook. Her generosity and loving spirit has enriched those who have had the privilege of knowing her. She has left a rich legacy on how one should live and love.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway’s, Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North, Calgary) on Thursday, November 1, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. Condolences may be forwarded to www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association, CHHA National Office, 2415 Holly Lane, Suite 205, Ottawa, Ontario K1V 7P2 Telephone: 1-800-263-8068, www.chha.ca. Our family extends a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful staff at Chinook Hospice for their compassionate care.

In living memory of Ruth McAreavy, a tree will be planted at Big Hill Springs Park Cochrane by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells.

Neale Guy Charlton

(Nov. 5, 1920-Sept. 25, 2012)

Neale’s paternal grandparents were married in Kentucky and crossed the plains in wagons to western Idaho in the 1880’s. They were farmers there for twenty years before coming to Alberta to homestead in 1910. His maternal grandparents emigrated to Canada from Daisy, Washington and also homesteaded in the Czar area.

Born on the farm south of Czar on November 5, 1920 to Willa and Eldon Charlton; the third of five children (Erma, Velma, Neale, Margaret and Dale) Neale attended Horsehaven School starting in September 1927 and graduating from Grade 12 in Czar in 1940. Neale and big sister Velma batched together in Czar while they attended school in Czar.

For a while Neale dreamed of becoming either a teacher or a journalist. His dreams became short lived as history in the form of World War II held a different path for him. When World War II began, Neale tried to enlist but was rejected for active duty and so went to school in Calgary to become a machine specialist working first in Hamilton making anti-aircraft guns and then to Calgary making navel guns. The machining experience helped him throughout his life.

In 1942, Neale purchased an old truck and trucked along the Alaska highway; trucking aviation fuel in particular to supply the Americans because of the ongoing Japanese threat in the Aleutian Islands. He described the roads as a nightmare with few places to eat, and no accommodations. After eight months of trucking, at the wise old age of 22, Neale no longer trusted everyone he met and had learned that a dollar for an ounce of whiskey was for someone else; not for him.

In 1945, Neale bought his Dad’s place and married Doris, the love of his life. November 3rd, 2012 would have been their 67th wedding anniversary! His three sons brought Neale great joy as they all grew up, going to school in Czar and Hughenden, helping on the ranch and spending many a summer Sunday at ball tournaments – often times with Neale as the coach and Doris as their biggest fan. All three sons went on to college and came back home to join in the family ranching operation.

Once all three sons were taking on much of the farm work, Neale took up fishing and enjoyed trips to many lakes near and far with friends. He loved to ice fish just as much if not more than ‘boat’ fishing. Although fishing was a hobby Neale developed later in life, he developed a great love for its equal measures of frustration and fun.

Neale and Doris also enjoyed many trips together with friends old and new travelling to many U.S. destinations, including re-visiting the Alaska Highway, many places in Alberta and B.C. and also a big adventure to Australia, and the South Pacific.

Grandpa’s proudest years came with the arrival of grandchildren. His eight grandchildren were all blessed to have him living close by and able to spend many hours with them as they grew up. All enjoyed pancake suppers in the playhouse he built for them in the yard, fishing trips, camping trips, and especially exciting games of hide and seek. He wiped their tears, taught them many life lessons and looked the other way when they ate all of the marshmallows he had brought along for bait! Each one of them felt his immense love for them and his pride in their many accomplishments.

To quote Neale, “I have made many mistakes in my life but coming back to Czar to live was not one of them. It has been a pleasure to spend most of my time in this area, where a friend is a friend; a neighbor is a neighbor — not for what you have, but for who you are!”

Neale died on September 25, 2012 at Provost Health Centre at 91 years of age.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Doris; sons Richard (Cathy) and their three children, Jesse, Scott and Bridey (Phillip); Daryl (Dagmar) and their two children, Keeley and Morgan; Maurice (Brenda) and their three children, Corbyn, Coleman and Callahan; three sisters Erma Hill of St. Albert, Velma Landvatter of Edmonton, and Margaret Loiselle of Edmonton. Neale was predeceased by his brother Dale.

* man’s got to believe in something; I believe I’ll go fishing!”

Stephen Douglas Utke

(July 27, 1947-Oct. 26 2012)

Steve was born at Maple Creek, Saskatchewan to Reinhold and Catherine Utke. Throughout his school years Steve loved to hunt, fish and play hockey and was a member of the NRA Safe Hunters, the Archery Club and the Army Cadet Corps. As an adult he served for two years in the Reserve Army. After High School he joined his father and began his lifelong career in construction. He completed his apprenticeship and became a Journeyman Painter.

Steve came to Consort in 1970 where he met the only love of his life, Carol Walker. They returned to Maple Creek where their two girls, Bobbi Jo and Tia Marie, were born. Steve became actively involved with the Saskatchewan Metis Society and later became the Provincial Housing Construction manager. He eventually brought the girls back to Consort and was so proud when they both graduated High School here.

He worked with many guys over the years and drove nails in many new homes, shops and barns in the district. When he could no longer do the big jobs he became an all around handyman who could fix just about anything, and anyone in the country with an overhead door has probably had Steve over to work on it.

Rapidly declining health sent Steve to Indian Head, Saskatchewan to Bobbi and her husband Shaun Williamson. He spent his last few years able to look out his window and see his grandchildren Jarron, Clay and Bailey every time they came out of their door to play or go to school. He was surrounded by love and support and told us just five days before his death how thankful he was to have Shaun for a son-in-law. His last day was spent with Bobbi and Tia and Shaun. He chose not to have a funeral and donated his body to science for research.

Cheri and Charlotte and their families would like to thank everyone for the cards, calls, flowers and hugs.

Special Thanks to Dale and Joan Bousquet and John Gattey for going way beyond being good neighbours. Your many kindnesses to Steve will never be forgotten.

Jack William Walsh

(Jan. 19, 1938 – Oct. 28, 2012)

The first chapter of the life of Jack Walsh, began when he was born in Rocky Mountain House to Bill and Thelma Walsh. A sister, Vivian, arrived three years later.

Jack’s father, Bill, struggled to earn a living for his family, clearing bush for crop land, gaining very little return for all his efforts.

Rumours of a coal mine in Nordegg, open to the hiring of a large number of workers, appealed to the Walsh’s. In addition to a regular pay check, the mining company supplied living quarters and houses for the miners and their families. Hopes high for a promising, secure future, the Walsh’s made the move. In the beginning, all was well, but before long, Thelma began to see a seamier side of a rowdy, rough, hard-drinking town. She couldn’t tolerate this life for herself or her two children. She and Bill decided to part. Packing up six year old Jack and three year old Vivian, she boarded a train for Langley, B.C., where her parents lived. After a few years, she remarried. During the years to come, the new family moved to various towns around B.C. as the step-father worked at an assortment of jobs.

After Jack got his grade nine, he began life as a deck-hand on a fishing boat. By and large, this was where he developed his love of the ocean, boats and fishing.

Around the age of nineteen, Jack had a pocket full of money from a good fishing season. He decided to come over to Alberta, planning a visit with his dad, who he had not seen since he left Nordegg, so many years before. Compatible from the start, it was a wonderful reunion. His dad, living at Alix with a second family, encouraged Jack to stay in Alberta for awhile, even to the point of finding him work as a painter with the C.N.R. This job meant travelling all up and down the C.N.R. rail lines painting section houses. As luck would have it, this is how he ended up in little old Youngstown where I lived. Shortly after we met, we began dating; a classic “love at first sight” story. Eventually we decided to get married, October 10th, 1959. Since his dad lived at Alix, we thought that’s where we wanted to put down roots, as well.

After a while, an opening for a butter maker came up in the Alix Creamery. Without hesitating, Jack stepped into the position. This meant he could be home with his growing family – by this time, we had two boys and a little girl.

Jack prided hijmself on his butter making. Each year, he was presented with awards and certificates of merit. He has a drawer full. He worked so hard for us those years, as he professionally painted houses for people as a second income.

About this time, a friend introduced him to the game of golf. He would hit the green at 4:00 and get a game in to start his day. During some of this activity, he got two holes-in-one. Golf remained his passion until the last year of his life.

Ultimately, my dad, a long time Special Areas fellow, phoned with the news SAB was searching for a grader-operator right away. The pay was triple that of the Creamery. Not surprisingly, we made the choice to move.

Jack loved his new job right from the beginning. The boys he worked with are life-long friends.

Music and jamming was a huge part of our lives. We lived for our get-togethers. It goes without saying, Jack was gifted – a very talented musician, especially with the accordian. Never in all these years have I ever heard anyone play with such brilliance. It was pure magic.

Unfortunately, in these later years, Jack suffered some small strokes, all causing him loss by gradual degrees, of his mobility. He was so discouraged by this, as one would expect.

Jack passed away peacefully October 28th – the way he would have wanted – in his own home.

He leaves to mourn his loss: wife Leona; sons Bill and Terry and daughter, Kathy; step-mother, Dora, Red Deer; sister Vivian, Campbell River, B.C., sister Maureen, Lacombe, sister Wendy, Red Deer, brother Tracy, Red Deer, and step-brother, Ron of Grande Cache.

Also, he is survived by four grandsons and four granddaughters, plus two great grandsons, Aidan and Liam. Of all things in his world, these grandchildren were the light and loves of his life.

Jack’s wishes were for a memorial at a later point in time.

If anyone feels inclined, donations can be made to STARS.

Our family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the ambulance staff, our wonderful R.C.M.P. friends who gave us strength and courage to make it through a very stressful time.

The calls, cards, baking, floral arrangements, each of these precious gestures that seemed to come just when I most needed them.

Thank God for Heather Caseley of the Coronation Funeral Home. I believe she is placed just where she is meant to be in this life, doing what she does best – a friend helping and taking our hands as we make that last walk in saying farewell to our loved ones.

Leona Walsh

Beverly Anne Walker

(July 20, 1954-Oct. 26, 2012)

It is with sadness but gentle relief that we announce the passing of Beverly Anne Walker on October 26, 2012. Bev is survived and remembered by her mother, Evelyn; her brother Kevin (Bonnie); nephew Allen (Penny) children Boston and Hudson; niece Sandra (Tanner) children Kara and Tyson; and Benson, who was so special to her, as well as other family members and many friends. She was predeceased by her father, Bill.

The family would like to thank everyone for their kindness and prayers, especially the staff at Grey Nuns Palliative Care Unit #43.

A celebration of Bev’s life was held on Sunday, November 4, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at the St. James Catholic School gym, 7814-83 Street. Interment will follow at a later date in Veteran, Alberta. Donations may be made in memory of Bev to the charity of one’s choice. To express condolences to Bev’s family, visit www.trinityfuneral home.ca

Card of Thanks

Thank you so much for the acts of kindness, cards and prayers, during Bev’s illness. We appreciate all of the thoughts and support during this difficult time.

Evelyn

Kevin and Bonnie

Alan, Penny, Boston and

Hudson

Tanner, Sandra,

Kara and Tyson

Edith Mary Mitchell

(Nee McClure)

(Feb. 26, 1917 – Oct. 2, 2012)

On Tuesday, October 2, Edith Mitchell quietly passed away in Consort, Alberta at the age of 95.

Beloved wife of the late Jack Pullar Mitchell, Edith will be lovingly remembered by Dr. Robert (Helen) Mitchell of Calgary; Joan (Lorence) Isaman of Consort, Alberta; and Dr. David B. (Maureen) Mitchell of Canby, Oregon. Much loved Grandmother of Dr. Andrew (Marissa) Mitchell; Dr. Patrick (Jacquelyn) Mitchell; Courtenay (Andrew) Lyons; Diane (David) Sandbrand; Janis Isaman; David (Holly) Isaman; Erin Mitchell; Graeme (Molly Williams) Mitchell; Scott (Kansas) Mitchell; Ian Mitchell. Adored Great-Grandmother of Luke, Maya and John Mitchell; William and James Lyons; Halle and Hunter Mitchell; Rebecca Sand-brand; Edwin Isaman. Edith will be missed by her nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her parents David and Eva McClure as well as siblings David (Mildred) McClure; Andrew “Drew” McClure; Dr. Ruth McClure; Laura (Albert) Cameron; Grace Smith; survived by her brother-in-law Arnell Smith.

When Edith was born February 26, 1917 in Edmonton, her father owned and operated McClure Groceries. She taught in one-room schools outside Edmonton, worked at The Edmonton Journal as well as at Watson Lake’s US Army Air Base during WWII.

Edith married Jack Pullar Mitchell in 1946 and raised three children in the house that Jack built her. They moved to Victoria, BC in 1985, then due to health issues, to Consort in 2001.  After the death of Jack in 2007, Edith moved to Trinity Lodge in Calgary, finally returning to Consort in 2010.

We will miss her kindness, her intellect, her never-ending human interest stories, and primarily her generous heart. She dedicated much time to compiling hand-written family history books and writing newsy letters to friends and family around the world.

Edith’s wishes that she be remembered for her generosity will endure through Serenity Hill, the garden area she and Jack funded, which is located at the Extended Care Facility in Consort. Special thanks to Dr. Raath and the staff at Consort Hospital who took such good care of Edith and who treated her like their much loved grandmother.

A Service celebrating Edith’s life took place at South Calgary Funeral Centre, 12700 Macleod Tr. South, Calgary, Alberta on Saturday, November 10, at 2 p.m.  Her cremated remains will be interred beside Jack at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Edmonton.

In lieu of flowers a donation to Serenity Hill Garden at the Consort Hospital, c/o Box 233, Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium, Castor, Alberta entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Lorena Louise Scheffelmaier

(Dec. 29, 1956 – Nov. 6, 2012)

Lorena Louise Scheffel-maier passed away Tuesday, November 6 at 4 a.m. in the morning at the Coronation Hospital at age 55.

Lorena was born in Coronation on December 29, 1956, and went to school in Veteran, and then went on to Beauty School in Calgary. Many people have said that she was the best hair dresser that they had ever had.

On November 29, 1975 Blaine and Lorena were married at the Veteran Full Gospel Church and settled on a farm outside of Brownfield, and in May 1988 their daughter Jill came along.

Lorena was an entrepreneur at heart. And in 2001 her dreams were realized with the opening of the Heart Tea Lunch and Hearts Delight Bed and Breakfast. Her dreams continued to grow and blossom with more Bed and Breakfasts going up and then the opening of Expressions of Honor.

Not only was she an entrepreneur but she was a woman of passion. She had passion for her family, her town, and most of all for her Lord. She loved her family and would settle for nothing but the best for them. She was her daughters biggest fan.

She served on town council for two terms and was proud of Coronation and had dreams of what it could become.

If you couldn’t find Lorena you could be sure that she was somewhere with her Bible as the Word of God was her most prized possession. She always said “if you have Jesus you can just hang on a hook anywhere.” Her faith was something that never left.

Lorena is survived by her husband Blaine, her daughter Jill and husband Matthew; siblings Ray (Marlene), Beverly (Gordon), Clinton (Dianne), Myrline (Larry); Mother-in-law & Father-in-law, Marie and Richard Scheffelmaier, In-Laws, Michelle (Kevin), Greg (Karen); numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives as well as many dear friends.

To commemorate Lorena’s life a funeral service was held on Saturday, November 10, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at the Coronation Community Centre, Coronation, Alberta with Pastor Terry Belcourt officiating. Jeff Jarvis gave a loving tribute in honor of his aunt. Clint Cornelius gave the eulogy. Special music was by Sandy Foster and a trio Cathy, Laura, Rose singing “Jesus Loves Me”. There was a video tribute played during the service. Special recorded music was “The Irish Blessing” by Debbie Zepick. The congregational hymn was “It Is Well With My Soul” accompanied by Judy Heistad. Honorary Pallbearers were Ray & Marlene Cornelius, Beverly & Gord Hart, Clint & Dianne Cornelius, Myrline & Larry Tollefson, Michelle & Kevin McLean, Greg & Karen Scheffelmaier & Jeremy Scheffelmaier. The interment was immediately following the funeral service at the Coronation Cemetery. Lunch was prepared and served by the Coronation Evangelical Free Church Ladies. Memorial donations may be made to The Coronation Hospital Foundation, Mail Bag 500, Coronation, AB, T0C 1C0, Cross Cancer Institute, 11560 University Ave. Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@ xplornet.com

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

Albert Fischer

(Oct. 11, 1917 – Nov. 2, 2012)

Albert Oswald Fischer of Red Deer, Alberta passed away suddenly on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the age of 95 years. Albert was born in Veteran, Alberta on October 11, 1917 to Christine and Oswald Fischer. He grew up in the Veteran area where he met and married Frances on October 11, 1945, at which time they began farming near Consort. Together, they farmed and raised their family on the same farm near Consort for nearly 60 years, until they moved to Red Deer in May of 2005.

Albert’s loss will be deeply felt and mourned by his children; daughter Sheila and son Rob (Brenda), as well as his loving and precious grandchildren; Chloe and Nash. Albert will also be lovingly remembered by two sisters; Alvina and Alice and one brother; Wilfred. Albert was predeceased by his loving wife Frances, parents Christine and Oswald and siblings; Emelia, Arthur, Eleanor, Edmond, Gertie and Esther.

A Prayer Service took place on the evening of Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at Parkland Funeral Home, 6287-67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 5508-48A Avenue, Red Deer, on Wednesday, November 7, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. with Father Martin Carroll, Celebrant. Interment was at Alto Reste Cemetery following the reception.

Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parkland funeralhome.com

Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, AB.

Tribute

By Rob Fischer

First of all I would like to thank everyone for being here with us today.

It isn’t easy to summarize 95 years of someone’s life in a few minutes but that is what I will try and do now. Many of you will have your own memories of dad but I will share a few of mine as well.

Dad was born October 11, 1917 in Veteran, Alberta, the first of 10 children to Oswald and Christine Fischer. After dad there came Emelia, Alvina, Alice, Art, Eleanor, Gertie, Wilfred, Edmond and Ester. Auntie Alvina and Alice are both in their 90’s and still with us. Uncle Wilfred is as well. Dad always looked forward to his phone calls and visits.

Being the oldest, dad helped on the farm. Grandpa told him one day that if he didn’t smoke he would give him a horse. Although dad never saw the horse, he also never smoked so it worked out well!

Dad worked at home and for a few farmers in the area until 1945. In 1943 he got up the courage to ask mom out. They were married on October 11, 1945, his 28th birthday. Mom was working in the Consort hospital at the time and she heard that the Lou Deagle place was for sale. Dad bought it on a handshake with payments to be taken out of the crops that were produced over the next few years. After two good crops he was able to pay for it completely.

Dad continued to expand the farm and his cattle herd through his strong work ethic, yet he always had time for Sheila and I. As a small boy when I had early games on Saturday mornings, dad would get up in the dark and finish chores before he would take me in to hockey. I could count on one hand the number of games he missed over the years. I suspect it was the same for Sheila, although hockey was definitely dad’s sporting passion. He was well known in town for being a staunch Edmonton Oiler fan. The first Stanley Cup in Edmonton was something that he always talked about. We would work hard until about 1:30 in the afternoon, go home and change and head to Edmonton. Mom would pack a lunch; we would meet Sheila in the parking lot, eat and go watch the game. Returning home that night we would start the same cycle the next day.

Dad was extremely organized, whether it was in his day to day farming activities or in anything else that he did. One time in the evening, mom came into the kitchen and found dad’s shredded wheat already crushed with sugar on it. When she asked dad about it he replied that he was helping Donald Day wean the next day and needed to eat quickly in the morning. Right up to the time dad passed away, he would get one weeks supply of his pills ready in 7 separate containers.

There were only two times that I can remember that dad did not feel like working. In 1978 I was going to play baseball in Winnipeg at the Western Canadian Championships. It was the long weekend in September and dad had not planned to go as there was harvest work to be done. When he came into the house in the afternoon mom asked what was wrong. He simply told her that they had to go to Winnipeg the next day, the work could wait. They were on the bus the next morning.

The other time was when Sheila had her first surgery. Mom had already gone up to be with her and dad and I were in the field. He looked at me and said, “I can’t do this. Let’s go to Edmonton,” and off we went.

I asked dad recently if he had any regrets. The only thing he could come up with was that he wished he and mom would have gone to Europe with me in 1982 with the Camrose College hockey team. For a person who lived to 95 that was a pretty short list of regrets, and unusual for someone who didn’t like to travel!

Dad was so proud of Chloe and Nash. He would watch Nash play hockey and say how much he thought he was improving. He would marvel at some of the things Chloe would do or say. In his mind, they could do no wrong. They loved him and really thought he would live until 100.

As mom and dad got older, dad was still very capable but mom was failing due to the Alzheimers. In 2005 it was decided that the best thing for them was to move closer to family and they moved to Red Deer. Dad became more and more of a caregiver for mom. This was hard on him as he went many nights with little or no sleep. When mom was finally moved to a nursing home dad would visit every day. He was at her side when she died and a piece of him went with her that we were never able to replace. Every day after mom died, dad would watch the mass on TV and when it was time for the sign of peace he would take the service folder from mom’s funeral and kiss it. You can still see the edges, not frayed or torn but worn from the tears as they fell.

Dad told Sheila recently that the two best things that happened in his life were meeting and marrying mom and becoming a catholic. When Sheila looked at him he said, and you and Rob and Chloe and Nash would be right after that!

I think dad is with mom now and smiling because they are back together.

Edna Kathleen Dempsey

(Oct. 26, 1936-Nov. 27, 2012)

Edna Kathleen was born in Aldergrove, B.C. on October 26, 1936 to Mary Regina Margaret and Charles Karl Kuhar.

In 1942, Edna and her family moved to Rodchester, AB. As the years went by Edna grew into the beautiful lady she was. She moved to Hemaruka in 1957. Edna worked in a store for the Pidhiney’s, where she first met Hughie Dempsey. Soon after they fell madly in love and shortly after that they were married on December 24 in Naco, AB.

Edna and Hughie started their marriage off in Youngstown, AB. They then moved to the Hemaruka farm where they started their family.

Jack Lane was their first born on May 13th, 1959. Two short years later Brent Hugh was born on January 1st, 1961. After a short break Beverlee Ione was born on September 1st, 1964. And to complete their family Karl Robert was born on September 18th, 1965.

After Edna and Hughie completed their family, they moved to the Sedalia farm in 1972 where they raised their children.

Edna loved to work on the farm with the kids and her husband and decided to work outside of the home as well. She started working at the Consort Lodge, then went to work at the Consort Café until she retired. Edna and Hughie moved to Youngstown in 2001. A while later they decided that it would be best to move to Veteran in 2008.

In Hughie and Edna’s retirement years they loved to be with each other. They enjoyed fishing, camping, and traveling around from house to house. They also really loved spending time with their grandkids as well as their kids.

Edna couldn’t wait for Wednesday to come. It was BINGO night. No matter the weather; rain, snow, or shine she was always there. Edna loved bingo and spending time laughing with her bingo friends, as gram would say “the bingo gals”.

When she wasn’t with her bingo friends or other friends, she loved spending her time with her dear friend Denise Moldowan and her husband Andy.

In Edna’s free time she loved to crochet for all of her grandkids, from making hats to whatever they asked for, she would make it. When it came to her grandkids, there wasn’t much she wouldn’t do for them. She had to work fast as the orders came in from eleven grandkids.

In 2007, Edna’s oldest granddaughter, myself (Theresa), started her own family, blessing Edna with four beautiful great grandsons, who she loved spending time with.

Even up to the day of her passing Edna loved to be able to help, anyone in any way. From running errands for us, to babysitting her grandkids and great grandkids.

Edna also really loved to bake. She was known for her homemade bread, apple pies and the list goes on. She also enjoyed sitting at home watching her sports, baseball and curling especially. And don’t forget her soap opera, The Young and the Restless.

Edna enjoyed family functions, they were always entertaining, whether it was watching all the kids run wild or just chatting with the adults. Edna truly lived for her family.

In the last years of Edna’s life, Hughie moved to a long term facility in Stettler, AB. While she was recovering from her knee surgeries she lived with myself (Theresa) and her daughter Beverlee. Edna decided it was time to move back to Veteran where she peacefully passed away.

Edna will be missed by many people but never forgotten. The love she had for life will forever be carried through her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Edna is survived by her husband Hugh Dempsey of Stettler; her children, Jack (Lori) Dempsey of Consort and Beverlee (Gary) Hyggen of Consort; grandchildren, Travis, Theresa (Michael), Johnathan, Jessica, Robert, Delray, Aaron, Codie (Tasha), Burdette, Samantha and Shannon; great grandchildren, Ryan, Riley, Tanner and Brody; sisters, Caroline and Ila; sisters-in-law Esther; brother-in-law Marvin; daughters-in-law Diane & Marcia; as well as numerous brothers & sisters in law & several nieces, nephews and many dear friends. Edna was predeceased by her parents; 2 sons, Brent & Karl; brother, Albert & sister Iola.

Memories of Grandma

Travis- every year at Christmas in Hemaruka, I would coincidentally get locked out of my truck because Grandma and Grandpa would always lock their vehicle and somehow it locked up my truck with the keys inside. After an hour of all our cousins trying to help me get in we finally broke in my truck. This happened every year. Also remember grandma would say to me “Travis you are always welcome in our home”

Delray- I loved the way that I wouldn’t even have to say anything to grandma just give her a glance and she knew what I was thinking and would start an uproar of laughter. When we would go to Blood Indian to go fishing they would always fish in this one certain spot no matter what.

Burdette- I remember when grandma made us boys winter hats and scarves. I still wear mine when I am working.

Samantha- I will always remember grandma’s amazing laugh and her heart warming smile.

Robert- My best memories with grandma would have to be fishing for trout, she would always take the fish so I didn’t have to eat them. Another good time with grandma was playing tile rummy. I don’t think she realized how much I had to cheat to even have a small chance of winning. Even though I was cheating she would still end up winning most of the time.

Johnathan- Grandma would call me and ask when I was bringing her over a bottle so we could have a night cap. I also remember going in to the café for breakfast and she would make me Mickey Mouse pancakes. One night I came home drunk with a bunch of my friends and started yelling “Grandma.. Grandma..Grandma get up and have a whisky with me!” and she did. After having a drink with us she looked at me and told me to keep it down she was going back to bed.

Shannon- Grandma would help me with my math and my reading. I loved it when she would take me to the ladies supper in veteran.

Aaron- just knowing that she loved  me the best.

Jessica- one night at bingo Gramms sent me up to get nevadas for her and myself. I came back and gave Gramms her stack. As we started to rip our nevadas Gramms won $100 and I didn’t win anything. After all was said and done she never even shared her winnings with me.

Cody and Tasha- Grandma made us laugh like we’ve never laughed before. We loved it when she would scream at the top of her lungs. One late night she was in bed yelling at us because we were making too much noise. “Shannon! Be quiet out there. There are people in this house trying to sleep, now shut up.” And Shannon was asleep on the couch next to her. Codie and I would just burst out into laughter because Shannon didn’t do anything in the first place. We love you Grandma.

Ryan, Riley, Tanner and Brody- we loved when great grandma would babysit us.

Ryan- great grandma would help me do my dot to dot books to help me learn how to spell.

Mike- I would always be in trouble with Theresa and Bev because Grandma and I would be drinking in the middle of the day during the summer.

Theresa- when I was younger I would go and stay with Grandma and help her clean the house. Grandma and I could spend hours on the phone talking about the boys and our soap opera.

To commemorate Edna’s life a memorial service was held on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, AB with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Theresa Hyggen gave the eulogy. Theresa Hyggen, Jessica Dempsey and Delray Dempsey shared words from the grandchildren. The congregational hymns were “The Old Rugged Cross”, “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace”, accompanied by, Pat Durksen, Carolyn Devereux, Nils & Jeanette Berg. A video tribute was played during the service. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Edna’s Family & Friends and The Bingo Gals”. Lunch was prepared and served by the Veteran Full Gospel Church Ladies. Memorial Donations may be made to the Alberta Lung Association, Box 4500, Station South, Edmonton, AB., T6E 6K2.

You may send your condolences by email to corofuneralhome@xplornet.com

Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

“Knowledge, Experience And Professionalism With A Personal Touch”

Daisy Constantinoff

(Dec. 1919-Oct. 2012)

It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother, Daisy Constantinoff. Mom passed away peacefully at Saskatoon’s St. Paul’s Hospital surrounded by loved ones. She was predeceased by her parents, Theodore and Netty Toneff, husband Stan and three sons Donald, David and Terry.

She leaves to mourn, her children Doug (Mary Ann), Glenn (Betty), Dianne, Sandra and Tim (Shirley), grandchildren Kyle, Tobi, Treena, Shauntese, Cole, Kayla, David, Lisa, Dallas, Leah, and eight Great-Grandchildren.

Born in Monitor, AB., and settled in Luseland, SK., Mom was defined by her generosity of spirit, humour, and love of her family. She could usually be found with a smile, tapping her toes to her favourite music, and cheering on the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Grandma was gifted with exceptionally creative talents and abilities, and her accomplishments were many. In memoriam of all that she was, there will be a family gathering in the Spring celebrating her gracious sharing.

We cherish the memory of her beautiful soul.

Gwendolyn May Rice

(Sept. 14, 1940 – Dec.13, 2012)

Gwen was born September 14, 1940 in Virden, Manitoba. She was the second of three girls born to Arthur and Maud Patrick. Her courageous battle with cancer ended on December 13, 2012 in Oyen, Alberta with family by her side.

Gwen’s mother passed away when she was only eight years old, leaving her older sister Betty to raise her and baby sister Gail.

Gwen and Ed were married May 30, 1964 in Wawanesa, Manitoba. This union created an instant family with Wendy, Shelley and Tim. Dawne was born in 1965, and Lori in 1968. Ed and Gwen moved their family to Cereal in the winter of 1970 to take over the Gulf Service Station from Bill Adams.

Gwen started working with John Halpenny in 1976, which began her career as an insurance broker. She became the owner of Halpenny Agencies in 1981 until her retirement in April of 1989. She was now free to travel.

Their holidays included several winters in Arizona, a winter in British Columbia, and four trips to Europe. Travelling to Manitoba to visit family was always on the schedule. They also followed grandchildren all over Canada and the United States.

Gwen was active in the community, volunteering with many organizations, starting with the Cereal Board of Trade. She was instrumental in forming Monday Night Bingo. For twenty years she was proud to be a member of the Royal Canadian Legion. She was an active member of the Cereal Golden Centre, serving as treasurer for many years. Gwen spent countless hours organizing casinos and preparing the paper trail, which always followed. She enjoyed her visits to the Cottages, which always gave her an opportunity to brag about her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gwen began her crusade against cancer in 2010. With her positive outlook, she took on each challenge with strength and courage. Her commitment and determination was an inspiration to her family.

Gwen was predeceased by her parents Arthur (1993) and Maud (1949) Patrick; brothers-in-law Del Rice (1993) and Fred Henderson (2001); and sister Gail MacKay (2005).

She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband Ed; children Wendy (Carl) Dziatkewich, Shelley Brown (Reg Gerein), Tim Brown, Dawne (Kent) Beaudoin, and Lori (James) Ford; sister Betty Henderson; brothers-in-law Bob (Jackie) MacKay, Clark Rice, Ron (Noreen) Rice; grandchildren Stacy (Darcy) Sorensen, Brandon (Kim) Dziatkewich, Cole Dziatkewich, Ashton Dziatkewich (Wyatt Thurston), Chase Dziatkewich, Travis (Tracy) Clow, Trista Clow, Trevor Brown, Kari (Jason) Hall, Curtis Beaudoin (Ashley Penner), Tenille Beaudoin, Tyson Ford (Alyson Bennetto), and Sierra Ford; great-grandchildren Kruz & Jagr Sorensen, Carter & Warren Dziatkewich, Reid & Hayden Clow, Theoren Brown, and Leah & Raya Hall; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A private family funeral service was held Tuesday, December 18, at the Cereal Golden Centre in Cereal, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Rev. Helen Reed. Hymns were “Amazing Grace” and “Old Rugged Cross.”

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society, #102 – 1865 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 1Z8; Cereal Golden Centre, Box 187, Cereal, Alberta, T0J 0N0; Joel Toth Memorial Fund, c/o Prairie Rose School Division, Pat Cocks, 918 – 2 Avenue, Dunmore, Alberta, T1B 0K3; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

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