2015 Obituaries

Erna Lorraine Krauss

Aug. 4, 1927 – Jan. 11, 2015

Erna Lorraine Krauss passed away peacefully on January 11, 2015 at the age of 87 years. She was born, the third of 4 children, to Gustav and Helene Roesler in the house that she was to reside in for the next 84 years. She attended Grade School 2 ½ miles from the farm at Burnbrae Country School and attended High School in Compeer. After graduating in 1946, she joined the workforce and spent the next 2 years in Saskatoon. She returned home the summer of 1948, met and married the love of her life Rudy Krauss on March 12, 1949. After her parents sold out, Erna and Rudy took over the farm and over the next 25 years raised four children, Dwight, Jaline, Myrna and Bevin.

During the children’s early years (the 50’s) time and money (even in tough times) was set aside each and every summer for trips to Kelowna visiting Erna’s parents or tenting/fishing trips to the many beautiful sites across Saskatchewan. Erna took great pride in her vegetable garden and flower beds. The cellar for preserves and the freezer were always full to overflowing. The Compeer United Church always full of flowers. The church was a large part of Erna’s life. Attendance at church was not an option. Continuous support was provided for the yearly rotation of student ministers and included more than one meal for the poor waifs. Erna enjoyed the after church activities, particularly the family Sunday afternoon picnics in the trees of the south pasture. Games of cards with friends and Square dancing occupied much of the long cold winters. Erna, always a lover of music, played banjo in the family orchestra, sang energetically in church and into her fifties learned to play the trumpet in the local marching band.

During the early 1960’s Erna held the fort while Rudy, earning his mechanics license, attended school each winter for 3 weeks over 4 years. Not to be outdone, in 1966 Erna upgraded her Grade 12 alongside her oldest son, attended the University of Calgary for 2 years and realized her dream of becoming a teacher. She taught in Altario, 10 miles down the road, for the next 13 years. Later on, her literary skills allowed her to occupy many spare hours as the local correspondent for the Consort Enterprise. Erna was an avid sports fan and conversations could always be struck around her Blue Jays or curling.

The love of travel led Erna and Rudy to Europe, the Caribbean and points throughout Canada and United States, including the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Alaska. Beginning in 1985, they were able to spend 14 winters in Apache Junction, Arizona. Over the last number of years, their travel provided Erna and Rudy with many happy hours of remembering places, travel partners and new friendships.

Erna was predeceased by her parents, older brother Elvin and sister-in-law Shirley, sister Eara and brother-in-law Eddie Shultz, younger brother Irvin and sister-in-law Lauria, and youngest son Bevin and daughter-in-law Debbie. She is lovingly remembered by her husband Rudy, Dwight (Gisele), Jaline, Myrna (Nancy), and grandchildren Erika, Meghan, Graham, Rachel, Richard, Rebecca, Pamela, Kristen and Bret, 4 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Private Family Memorial Service and Internment will be held later in the spring.

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, memorial donations may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Thank You – The family of Erna Krauss wishes to extend a thank-you to everyone who provided thoughtful cards, letters, photos and visits over the last 4 ½ years since her debilitating accident of June, 2010.

Rudy Krauss wishes to extend a special thank-you to Mary Readman and the “Coffee Ladies” (they know who they are) who helped Erna celebrate her 85th birthday on August 4, 2012 at the Kerrobert Integrated Health Care Facility. They provided her with her special cake (Angel Food), strawberries, ice cream, tea and coffee. A day that she fondly remembered and that she would often revisit through conversation with Rudy, caregivers and other visitors.

Kenneth Robert Edwards

Jan. 9, 1945 – Jan. 15, 2015

Kenneth (Ken) Robert Edwards passed away with his family by his side on Thursday, January 15, 2015 at the Wetaskiwin Hospital after a brief battle with cancer. Ken turned 70 on January 9, 2015, and his family and friends held a birthday celebration in his honor at the hospital. He will be forever loved and remembered by those so very dear to him.

Ken was predeceased by parents Job Alfred and Doris Alberta and two brothers, Gerald and Leonard.

He will be lovingly remembered and forever loved by his special friend Maryna Yushchenko; his daughter, Lisa; grandchildren Michelle, Jacob and Amber; his son Alfred, grandchildren Sherry and Steven and great grandchild Ayden; siblings Edith Helm of Red Deer, Audrey Banks of Oyen, Donna (Art) Plante/Dahl of Red Deer, Lois Steinley of Red Deer, and Ronald (Rosemary) Edwards of Veteran, sister-in-law Arlene Edwards of Camrose, numerous nieces and nephews, and his extended family at the Manor in Millet, Alberta.

Ken was very gifted with words and poetry; please find comfort in his message;

So after saying all this

I think I can take a rest

And now it’s your turn to do your best

I love you and everyone

The prayer in my heart is that

God will bless and keep you one by one

Love Ken

Ken’s family celebrated his life at the Veteran Community Hall on Sunday, January 18, 2015. The afternoon was spent reminiscing and sharing memories about their dear father, brother, uncle and friend. The interment took place at the Veteran Cemetery.

As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Ken, memorial contributions may be made to STARS in care of Coronation Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Coronation, Alberta T0C 1C0; Heather Caseley has been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.coronationfuneralhome.ca.

Noel (Nellie) Sodeman

July 10, 1920 – Jan. 18, 2015

A long-time Consort resident, Nellie Sodeman, passed away January 18, 2015, in Consort Hospital, following failing health. Before entering the hospital, she had moved from her home to the Consort Lodge, but was only there for a short time.

Noel (Nellie) Funk was born July 10, 1920 on the farm at Main Centre, Sask. She was the daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Funk and had five sisters and four brothers.

After working in Saskatoon and owning a restaurant in Swift Current, Sask., she came to Consort in 1952, to visit her brothers Henry and Dick. It was here she met Eugene Sodeman and they were married July 23rd of 1952. Eugene and his father owned and operated Jerry’s Meats, so it was in Consort that Eugene and Nellie established a home for their children, three boys and one girl. Eugene passed away suddenly on January 2, 1964, leaving Nellie to raise their little family. She was a hard worker and had different work throughout the coming years. One of her main jobs was helping Kelva Gattey at the Cross Bar Ranch, but she also acted as janitor at the Medical Centre and hotel.

Nellie was predeceased by her husband, Eugene and eldest son, Jerry, as well as all her sisters and three brothers. Left to mourn are her daughter, Barbara Zieger (Barry), of Stettler, sons, Michael of Red Deer and Harvey (Silke), of Lethbridge; granddaughter, Meghan Zieger of Stettler, and grandson, Conor Sodeman (Harvey’s son), of Lethbridge; and her brother, Dick Funk of Stettler.

At Nellie’s request, there will be no funeral service.

Melvin John Herron

Oct 13, 1926 – Jan 23, 2015

Melvin was born in Oyen on October 13, 1926. He was the eldest of four children born to Myrtle (Sheppard) and Robert Herron. The family farmed between Esther and New Brigden and resided in New Brigden. From the beginning he learned the value of hard work and perseverance.

In 1954, he met and married the love of his life, Lucia Margaret Smith. Together they built up a farming legacy for their four sons – Leslie John, Dean George, Robert Alban, and James Melvin.

Over the course of the years, Melvin was involved with raising purebred polled Herefords and enjoyed owning and racing thoroughbred horses.

Melvin enjoyed playing cards (especially crib and poker), curling, hockey, and baseball. He also was an avid gardener and took pleasure in sharing what was reaped every fall.

His family was always a source of pride for Melvin. He spent countless hours cheering them on at sporting events and inquiring about what was happening in their day to day lives.

In his quiet, gentle way, Melvin has touched many people in the course of his life.

Melvin was predeceased by his niece Anita Munroe; nephew Brian Hanson; sister Darlene Wagstaff; brothers-in-law Bud Wagstaff, Roald Hanson, Mervin Munroe; great-grandson Charles; and niece Bonnie Aaserud.

Leaving to cherish his memory is his wife of 60 years, Margaret; children Leslie (Marilyn), Dean (Cheryl), Robert (Tammy), and James (Lorie); grandchildren Kevin (Cher Seenum), Joanne, Bradley (Ashley), Ryan (Emily), Jessica, Stephanie (Kieran), Melinda (Tyson), Ashlyn, Michelle, and Joel; great-grandchildren Carlene, Johnathan, Janette, Violet, Carter, Charlotte, and Edward Herron-Lomond; sisters Kathleen Munroe and Reatha Hanson; brother-in-law Alban Smith; sister-in-law Trudy Smith; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service was held Saturday, January 31, at the New Brigden Community Hall in New Brigden, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke. A eulogy was given by Brad Herron. Marvel Jorgenson was the organist and special music was provided by Ralph Jorgenson. Hymns were In the Garden and How Great Thou Art.

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

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

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

Ronald Dwight McGregor

1946 – 2015

Born January 6th, 1946 at Gull Lake, Sk.

Left this world to be at peace January 10, 2015 at Cereal, Alberta.

Ron leaves to mourn his immediate family, Tim, Jeremy and Krista, Jennifer and Sharon. His grandchildren, Jordyn, Shayna, Pyper, Austin, Alyssa, Matthew and Kylie. His brothers, Orville, Malcolm (Rosealie). His sisters, Lois, Vangie (Rudy) and Doreen. His nieces and nephews. His best friend from childhood Jack O’Connor, and his companion and old school friend Karen Bauman.

Ron and family came to Consort in 1989. He had started Ronwood in Olds, in 1976 and continued with it here. The business is still in operation. In 1984, they left Olds for five years in Kelowna, B.C., where he coached kids baseball teams, was President of Kelowna Minor Baseball and hosted the Western Canada Bantams. He also coached hockey (Rep team) that Tim played on in Kelowna and was coach for Jennifer’s Ringette team for a year. He was always interested in sports, and after coming here, again got involved with baseball and along with Garth Gress and Leroy Dixon, coached his son Jeremy’s team that won the Bantam A Provincials in 1990.

He enjoyed music and while still in Gull Lake, as a 16-year-old, played bass guitar with Jack O’Connor and the band “Jack and the Rippers”. They played for many dances in the early 1960’s.

Ron’s love of writing, which eventually culminated in his book, “Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep”, found an earlier outlet in his column, “Pipeline”, which ran regularly in the Consort Enterprise. His first book had great success and he was at work on his second book, “Ribbon of Darkness”.

CARD OF THANKS – We would like to thank everyone for the kind thoughts, cards, hugs and support through this tragic time in all our lives. Funds received will be given to STARS, as would be Ron’s request. To all our friends, thank you for all your help in the Celebration of Life for Ron and special thanks to Dave Bruha for being Master of Ceremonies and doing such an awesome job.

The McGregor Family

Tim, Austin, Alyssa

Jeremy, Krista, Jordyn,

Shayna, Pyper

Jennifer, Matthew, Kylie

Sharon

Margaret “Jean” Lawrence

Oct. 16, 1928-Feb. 8, 2015

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret “Jean” Lawrence of Edson, Alberta on February 8th, 2015 at the age of 86 years.

Jean” is survived by her loving husband Jim of Edson, Alberta, her family, son Jack (Charlotte) Lawrence of Edson, Alberta, daughter Wendy (Roger) Huitema of Whitecourt, Alberta, son Ron Lawrence of Houston, Texas and son in law Walter Arndt of Peers, Alberta.

Also surviving are twenty-seven grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren as well as numerous other relatives and a host of friends.

Jean” was predeceased by her daughter Shirley Arndt, grandson Raymond Arndt and great grandson Jonathan Stad as well as her parents, her father Raymond Massam in 1970 and her mother Pearl Massam in 1984 and her brothers Robert, James and John Messam.

Prayer service took place on Friday, February 13th, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Edson, Alberta followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by Father Josilito Cantal on Saturday, February 14th, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Edson, Alberta.

Interment followed in the Glenwood Cemetery, Edson, Alberta.

In lieu of other tributes, donations if desired may be directed to The Cross Cancer Institute, Care of The Alberta Cancer Foundation, 11560 University Ave., Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1Z2 in memory of Margaret Jean Lawrence.

To send condolences on line, please visit our website at www.edsonfuneralhome.com

The Foothills Memorial Chapel. “Serving West Central Alberta for more than 65 years”

Frederick James Evashkevich

Sept. 23, 1924 – Jan. 30, 2015

Frederick James Evashkevich was born in Kirriemuir, Alberta on September 23, 1924 and passed away peacefully at the age of 90, surrounded by his immediate family on Friday, January 30, 2015 at the Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary.

Fred was the tenth child of fourteen children of whom there are four children remaining: Toots (AM), Anne (Ken), Mary (Albert), Paul (Coreen), and sister-in-law Dorothy (Frank). Fred is survived by his loving wife Pauline of thirty-eight years; sons, Jim (Trish), Chuck (Marcine) and Brian; daughter Patti (Neil); and step-children, Dana, Danny, Paula (Brad). Fred loved his many grandchildren, Jennifer, Jaime (Darrin), Grant (Kelly), Melissa (Corey) and Danielle (Rob), Kristopher, Sarah (Henry) and Kelsea, Jessica and John (Alex), and Kiara and Kayleb. Fred was always happy to have visits with his great-grandchildren: David and Madison, Gavin and Shelby, Greyson and Hunter, and Isaiah. Fred was predeceased by his father Alexander and his mother Anna; five brothers, Charlie (Nora), Bill (Alice), Joe, Alex, and Frank (Elsie); and four sisters, Caroline (Vic), Lillian (Al), Rosie (George), and Martha.

Fred loved his life on the ranch and enjoyed many years tending to his cattle, riding his horse Trigger and growing his crops at Grassy Island Ranch. Fred was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge and was also an avid hunter. A special remembrance was hosting a goose hunting party at his ranch for the Governor General, His Excellency Roland Michener.

A Celebration of Fred’s Life was held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Sunday, February 15, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Calgary, Suite 201, 222 – 58th Avenue S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 2S3, Telephone: (403) 290-0110, www.alzheimercalgary.com. In living memory of Frederick Evashkevich, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Eulogy

By Chuck Evashkevich

Welcome family and friends, thank you for coming to celebrate the life of Fred Evashkevich. My name is Chuck Evashkevich and Fred was my Dad.

Dad was born September 23, 1924 to Alexander and Anna Evashkevich on the family farm south of Kirriemuir. Dad was the 10th child of 14 children. He was raised on the farm with brothers Charlie, Bill, Joe, Alex, Frank and Paul and his sisters Caroline, Rosie, Lil, Toots, Annie and Mary. He attended Dry Lake School which was a couple of miles north of the homestead that he either walked or rode to every day.

Dad attended school until grade 8 and then helped on the farm. In 1946 Uncle Alex and Dad purchased the home quarter, and they farmed there together until 1952 when they purchased more property. Uncle Alex then moved to the new farm and Dad stayed on the home place and started Grassy Island Ranch.

Dad married Gertie Arthurs June 19,1953 and their first home was a 10 x 14′ granary purchased from Joe Spooner. In September of the same year they purchased a house from Neil Mitchell in Kirriemuir and moved it out to the farm. Fred and Gertie were blessed with four children: Jim, Chuck, Brian and Patti. Grandma and Grandpa Evashkevich lived in the same yard until Grandpa’s passing in 1960. After that, Grandma moved to Uncle Albert and Aunt Mary’s home where they took on the responsibility of Grandma‘s daily needs, as did all the brothers and sisters.

Dad loved Grassy Island Ranch, as did mom, and they worked very hard to make it one of the best, they were both so happy they could build their new home in 1965. Dad loved his cattle, and at one point had upwards of 400 head, making Grassy Island Ranch one of the bigger ranches in the area at that time. Dad had great foresight when it came to cattle and he was among some of the first ranches to import purebred Charolais cattle.

Dad and Mom spent a lot of time and effort planting trees around the home place and it had to have been quite a task. The reason I know that is because Jim, myself and Brian spent a lot of time pulling weeds around them and that burnt up a lot of playtime on the weekends.

Among Dad’s other loves were: Trigger, a horse he’d trained and always rode; the lake, which was a big part of him because of the bird hunting, a tap and die set which Grandpa Arthurs gave to him and the big hill south of the ranch, in the close pasture, that had a great view. He loved this spot so much that one of his finals requests was to have some of his ashes placed there.

I can remember years ago, when I was a kid, a hawk had swooped in and got one of our chickens. Dad came running out of the house in his sock feet with his Browning Auto 5 and blew the hawk away without harming a feather on that chicken. He handled his shotgun with the expertise of a surgeon with a scalpel. In 1973, the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency Roland Mitchener accepted an invitation for a goose hunt on the ranch – a very special remembrance for Dad. I remember on one of his birthdays – he came home with 30 geese and the only reason there weren’t more is because he ran out of shells.

I remember times when we had vicious thunderstorms, in the middle of the night. We would come out of our bedrooms – a little scared, and there would be Dad sitting on the carpet in the living room, in the dark, watching the lightning – he was totally fascinated by that.

I can also remember as a kid hiding in the back seat of the car when Dad was heading to Consort, or elsewhere for business, and when I felt we were far enough from home I would pop up and say “hi Dad”. It scared the crap out of him a couple of times, but you could tell he didn’t mind. One time I jumped out a little too soon and got a quick ride home.

Another time, Brian and myself, took the old ’51 two ton to the lake bank, about a half mile west of the yard, with some rough 2 x 4’s which we were using to build our rendition of a small cabin. Near dark he heard some rustling in the tree, so he hi-tailed it back home. A little later Dad came in, he had a half smile on his face, and we knew it had been him. I said – Dad you were lucky, we had the 22 and we were going to shoot towards the noise in the trees. The smile, and the color, left his face in a hurry.

On Sunday afternoons, with Mom playing the piano, we’d all sing songs that we knew. Other times, we’d tackle Dad in the living room and try to take him down to the floor, but we would laugh so hard that all our strength would be gone, and Dad would have us all pinned down to the floor. Once in awhile there would be a tear, but it would never take more than 5 seconds to rejoin the fight.

I could go on and on as I have a ton of these memories. I hope I can leave as many memories for my kids as my Dad left me.

In 1974, he purchased 80 acres from Ed and Audry Boon five and a half miles from Calgary. For awhile Dad travelled back and forth between Calgary and the farm, farming and dabbling in real estate. Sadly Mom and Dad divorced and went their separate ways.

In 1976, Dad met Pauline Cook and her children: Dana, Danny and Paula who all became part of our family. Pauline is a very generous, loving and caring woman. Dad was very lucky to have her in his life, as were we. They were married May 26, 1989 and were together for 38 years until his passing.

Pauline and Dad retired on the acreage at Chestermere, and like his farm he tended his trees and love of gardening making it a beautiful place. He loved to read in his spare time staying up to the wee hours of the morning and then enjoyed sleeping in. A very knowledgeable man that could carry on a conversation about many different topics. He worked at subdividing his acreage calling it Hilltop Estates. He did very well in this venture, like many other projects he set his mind to.

Pauline found their dream home on Chestermere Lake and in 2006 they purchased it. Once again making a beautiful home for Pauline and him to enjoy. In 2012, Dad‘s health made it hard for him to stay at the lake and he moved to the Beverly Health Centre. In September 2014, he moved to the Bethany Care Centre where the care was more suited to his needs. He celebrated his 90th birthday in September with all his family to enjoy it with him.

A day and a half before Dad’s passing, Pauline, myself, Marcine, Brian, Patti, Neil and all his grandchildren gathered in the room with Dad and we all had a chance to hold Dad‘s hand, kiss him, comfort him, and say our goodbyes. I was so proud of all the nieces and nephews and my girls for being there when he needed it, and when I say I’m proud it comes from my heart.

Through the last few years Dad had a little harder exterior, but if you were smart enough to see through that, you saw the man, for those who weren’t smart enough to see through his exterior, they only saw what they wanted to see.

My Dad was there for me when I came into this world and I was privileged to be with him as he was leaving this world, to comfort him, tell him I loved him and to hold his hand.

I would like to end with this short poem.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back

May the sunshine be warm upon your face.

May the rain fall soft upon your fields,

and until we meet again

may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Poem

By Melissa Jones

The sun will continue to rise and set.

The moon will come out at night.

Rain will still drop and snow will still fall.

Darkness will transform into light.

Every time I watch a

thunderstorm I know I’ll feel you near.

Even though I cannot see you I’ll know that you are here.

When I see farmers working their land I‘ll think of you.

I’ll never forget your

cowboy hat.

And the next time I go

fishing I‘ll smile

Because Grandpa you taught me that.

I’ll cherish holding your hand and being with you those last 2 days.

Being able to tell you how much I loved you, that I

was there and I would stay.

You’d be so proud of our family all together when you needed us the most

to be.

We laughed and cried, shared memories and

I’ll hold dear you shared that time with me.

I know life doesn’t give you enough time to make sure all things are said.

But I love you with all my heart and soul.

My Grandpa.

My Papa Fred.

Thank You

On behalf of the family, we would like to thank McInnis & Holloway funeral home for their help in what can be a very hard time. For the lunch and power point presentation, all very well done. To Chuck Evashkevich who wrote and read the eulogy for his dad, and to granddaughter Melissa for the wonderful poem she wrote and read. Both of you did a great job. Thank you to those who sent cards and expressed their sympathy.

Pauline

Jim, Trish and family

Chuck, Marcine and family

Brian and family

Patti, Neil and family

Dana and family

Danny

Paula, Brad and family

Nora Pearl Cuthbert (Nee Simpson)

April 9, 1916 – February 1, 2015

Nora passed away peacefully at home with her family present on February 1st, 2015 in her 99th year.

Nora was the first child of John A. and Clara Simpson. She was born in Consort, Alberta, where her father was one of the first settlers. Consort has always remained a special town for her. She was accepted into nursing at the Edmonton General Hospital and graduated as an RN in 1939 with a special prize in Theory. After graduation, she returned to the Consort Hospital to help nurse her ailing mother. She moved to Chilliwack to continue nursing and enjoyed the roller skating rink at Cultus Lake where she met Gordon. They were married in August 1946 and lived in Jordan River, where she volunteered as a public health nurse. In 1971 they were transferred to Duncan where she kept busy with her garden and painting, and was active in the Manzanita hiking group. She enjoyed the outdoors and the special adventures with her naturalist son. She loved music and when Gordon passed away in 1986 she joined the Scottish country dancing group. She danced with them for her 76th birthday on the Great Wall of China where they had cake and all the trimmings. She enjoyed travelling to Hawaii, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and later enjoyed cruising. Her life changed in 2008 when she fell and broke her neck, but with sheer determination she began to walk again.

Nora was predeceased by her sister Olive and brother Ralph. She leaves to honour her memory: daughter Donna and son Jim (Ferne) and her two special granddaughters, Bonnie (Niklas Kankkonen) and Michelle (Brenon Perry), and her new great grandchildren, Leah Nora and Jacob, who recently visited from Finland at 8 months of age. A memorial service was held at the Duncan United Church, on February 14. Those who wish to do so may make a donation to the charity of their choice or to the Gordon and Nora Memorial Bursary at the University of Victoria, Development Office, Box 1700, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2.

Eulogy by daughter

Dr. Donna Cuthbert

Nora was a fifth generation Canadian born in Consort, Alberta, where her father was one of the first settlers. They were going to name the town Simpson, but decided to name towns along the railroad after royalty – Castor, Coronation, Consort. In 2012 Nora was able to attend the centennial celebrations for Consort. It always remained a special place for her.

She was the first child of John and Clara Simpson, and had a brother Ralph and a sister Olive. She went to school in a horse and buggy. She helped her mother sell rhubarb and butter. She excelled at school – she was the top of her class and skipped a grade. She was active in sports and especially liked being chosen for the basketball team so she got to wear shorts.

She wanted to become a teacher but the family couldn’t afford normal school. She worked for a short time as a maid for the dentist in Coronation, where she met the grocery delivery boy, Gordon. Then her aunt, who was working in Toronto, lent her $25 to apply for nursing, and she was accepted to the Grey Nuns School of Nursing at the E.G.H. She missed the freedom of home and experienced their curfews and rules, such as not walking in front of anyone her senior in training, and to see all the nuns in their habits seemed so strange to her. Unfortunately, during the first three months she dropped a tray of thermometers, so she owed them money. It meant she couldn’t travel home for a visit. However, she won a prize in theory at graduation, allowing her to pay for the broken thermometers and buy a suitcase. She worked at the Consort Hospital, where she helped to care for her mother, who was ill with ovarian cancer. She worked twelve-hour days, seven days a week, with no days off. These were the dirty thirties, with dust storms and high unemployment. After her parents died, her sister Olive was still in school, so Olive left for Guelph to stay with her grandparents for schooling.

Nora became engaged to a long-time family friend, Alex Sterrenberg, but she was interested in travelling, so she gave his ring back. Nora and her good nursing friend, Charlotte, then headed west. They arrived at Chilliwack and loved it there. They worked shorter hours and had a day off. She especially enjoyed the roller skating rink at Cultus Lake, where there were lights and music, and they spent many evenings. There she met Gordon again, who was stationed at the nearby army base.

After the War, they were married and moved to Jordan River, with no house, no car, no grocery store, but some lovely people lived there. They stayed at the superintendent’s house until they got a home and later a car, and then two children, Donna and Jim. Eight years later, her sister Olive phoned and asked them to take Olive’s grand-daughter who had just been born. This lovely baby, with beautiful brown eyes, arrived and Cindy (Carmen) was loved by everyone. After a year, her Mum came and took her home to Red Deer. We all missed her, but it was most difficult for our Mum — it was as if she had lost her own baby.

She then got busy with different activities – she took piano and organ lessons, and oil painting. She learned to drive, and she and Gordon built a trailer and boat where she did all the upholstery. She tutored all the family in mathematics, and we considered her a math genius. She kept the family well fed with home-made meals. After school we would open the door at home, and the whiff of home baking made going to school all worth while.

As the Jordan River community became smaller, they were transferred to the BC Hydro station in Duncan in 1971. At that time, it was difficult to find a house, but they found one being built on Drinkwater Road, so they stayed in their trailer down at the river until it was finished. Then they kept busy putting in a lawn and garden.

She joined the Manzanita Hiking Group, where she enjoyed the companionship, exercise and the outdoors.

In 1979, Jim married Fern and they had Bonnie and Michelle – two very precious granddaughters for Nora. She encouraged them to play the piano and enjoy music. She taught them to paint and sew. She helped them to make waffles and bake cinnamon buns and lots of scones.

In 1986, after Gordon died, she joined the Scottish country dancing group. Having lived next to a power plant, she was hearing impaired, but she enjoyed the peppy music. Her partners had a lot of patience, but she had rhythm, which helped. Besides being athletic, she was a good sport and continued to join family camping adventures, water skiing and some snow skiing.

She enjoyed travelling and celebrated her 76th birthday Scottish country dancing on the Great Wall of China with her dancing group, and they had a cake and all the trimmings there. Being a people person, she mixed well, and she would join the Chinese locals doing their tai chi in the square, and she would dance with them in the parks. Even though they couldn’t talk to each other, they all had fun.

Nora accompanied her brother Ralph to Europe to join in on the Veterans celebrations in Normandy and Holland.

In New Zealand we were camping, and one of the locals asked her where she was from – Canada, she replied. They said “Are you from Consort?” She was so surprised and replied “Yes”. They stated that is where k.d. lang is from. k.d. lang certainly has put Consort on the world map. You will hear k.d. lang’s version of Hallelujah as the background music to Michelle’s photoslide presentation.

Later Nora had to deal with developers who wanted her property. Because of her age, she stayed in the only home she had owned and endured the blasting and construction. Being right beside the mall made shopping more convenient.

In 2008, on a camping trip to Long Beach, Jim took us for a hike on Meares Island near Tofino. For those who haven’t gone there, it is very rustic, Jim had to carry the dog on the trail, while his mother fell and broke her arm. Two months later, while at Mill Bay watering rhododendrons, she fell down the bank and fractured her neck. Despite being 92, she learned to walk again but her balance was lacking, so she appreciated someone’s arm support.

This last October, she was still walking with the assistance of arms, but then she lost the strength in her legs. She never complained and kept her lovely smile, and was always gracious. She often expressed her thanks to the home care workers. This Christmas it was an exciting time when Nora was able to meet her new great grandchildren – twins Leah Nora and Jacob, who at 8 months of age arrived from Finland with Bonnie and Nik.

On February 1, just before supper, she peacefully passed away.

As one of the home care workers said recently, “She must have been a super Mum”. She certainly was, and a very warm, kind, generous lady full of vitality. She was a bright light in our lives; we felt blessed and we will miss her.

Eulogy by granddaughter Michelle Perry

My name is Michelle and I am one of Nora Cuthbert’s granddaughters. I feel honoured to speak to you now and do so on behalf of my sister, Bonnie, who unfortunately couldn’t be here as she lives in Finland. But as you will see in the slideshow, was able to see our Nana one last time this past Christmas, and introduce her to her two great grandchildren, who are now 10 months old.

My sister and I had the pleasure of growing up quite close to my Auntie Donna and Nana. We would spend holidays and birthdays together, amongst other special occasions. Because my nana, sister, and I all have birthdays a few days apart in April, we would come to Duncan to celebrate them. I remember being so excited to go to my Nana’s for our birthdays, because it meant that: 1) I would be getting three different types of cake, 2) I was going to get waffles at least one time during the weekend – Nana’s waffles were THE best waffles in the world, my sister and I would eat like 17 waffles each then be out of commission for the rest of the day – and most importantly, 3) I would get to see my Nana and Auntie Donna, who were to me, by all accounts, extensions of my mom and dad, but better, because they weren’t my mom and dad.

I remember associating Duncan with paradise, because that’s where Nana lived.

Some of my fondest memories with Nana included

– doing gymnastics down her back lawn

– working in her garden

– cutting her lawn with her ride on mower

– painting with her

– playing piano with her

– cooking and baking with her; along with waffles, she also made the best fresh buns and cheese scones in the world

– my sister and I putting on plays for her and the rest of the family – we could rummage through her house to find props for our play. They always ended up being momentos and treasures from her travels; she would never mind that we used them, and probably not with the greatest care either

– camping with her and my auntie Donna

– going to Joy and Glen’s property to ride their horses

– riding in my Nana’s boat, called the Nora, and tubing and waterskiing – 1 will always remember the last time nana waterskied – she was 80 years old, we were all in the boat tubing and waterskiing and she was humming and hawing whether it would be safe for her to go or not. She ended up going, and fell really hard and knocked the wind out of her; she ended up having to be hauled up into the boat and had to breathe through a paper bag for 10 minutes

She taught me how to paint, play the piano, sew, knit, crochet, can fruit and vegetables, make the best waffles, buns, and cheese scones in the world, I could go on . . .

She taught me how to do so many practical things, but looking back to it, I’ve realized that she taught me so much about how to be a strong woman, and a disciple of Christ; not be preaching at me, but exemplifying those things in her everyday life.

I think that Proverbs 31 in the Bible sums my Nana up quite beautifully, and I’ll end with this:

“She is clothed with strength and dignity. She can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband, also, praises her. ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’”

Eulogy

by friend Terry McMahon

Memories of Auntie Nonie

My name is Terry McMahon, nee Hunter. My sister and I grew up in Jordan River. We knew Nora and Gordon Cuthbert as Auntie Nonie and Uncle Gordie. We had many of our own uncles and aunts, but for a variety of reasons they were not really in our lives. So we had adopted ones.

I have always taken great delight in telling people that Auntie Nonie had known me since before I was born. When they would look at me oddly, I would explain that she gave my mother monthly injections during her pregnancy with me. And Auntie Nonie used to be pleased that she gave me my first bath when I came home from the hospital. It is truly a lifelong bond.

My mother was very artistic and musical just like Auntie Nonie, and they were good friends. I remember the two of them working frantically together, late at night, on a retirement project for a friend. One of the losses I feel is that Auntie Nonie is really one of the last people, last connections with my mother.

My mother died when I was 11 and my sister 7. Growing up with Donna and Jim, I loved being around their home. There was always a good “Mom vibe” there. I remember Auntie Nonie supervising Donna and I practicing our duets. And I was always welcome, felt comfortable, cared for. She was what is now called the “gold standard” for being a mother.

I grew up and went into nurses training, another bond between us. She hosted a wedding shower for me with all the Jordan River ladies. Years went by, and as often as I could, I stopped by the house in Duncan. She had a little wooden box by her front door. If she wasn’t there you could leave a note, and that usually resulted in a phone call from her. If she was home, no matter what she was doing, she welcomed you inside, and there was always tea and home baked goodies. Or a meal if it was that time of day. Always so gracious, generous and kind. We would sometimes stop by with the kids, and they always knew there would be home baked goodies.

I visited often while she cared for Uncle Gordie at home until he passed away. What a difficult time for her.

I always admired her beautiful and bountiful garden. I admired her strength and ability to get on with a very active, independent, productive life; Scottish country dancing, hiking, travelling, gardening, camping, always involved with her family.

I visited while she was in hospital with her broken neck, watching her recover enough to go home. I visited her at home in Victoria, when she moved in with Donna, taking her for walks in the area, celebrating her birthdays. Even as she slowly starting deteriorating, she always made the effort to smile and say hello. It was hard to watch her fade and weaken, but thanks to Donna, she was able to stay at home until the end.

Auntie Nonie was a very special, ever present and life-long influence on me. I loved her so much, and I shall miss her. Always. My world will forever have a little gap where she used to be, but all the amazing things about her will live on in my heart and memory.

Robert “Bob” Lewis Early

May 15, 1944 – Feb. 24, 2015

Bob was born on May 15, 1944 in Calgary, Alberta to Harold and Daphne Early, and grew up in Monitor, Alberta.

In 1968, he moved to the Camrose area where he worked at Byers Feed Mill and also on their farm.

In 1969, he married Martha Banack, his wife of 45 years. Their family tree grew to include three children and their spouses and 10 grandchildren.

Over the years, Bob had a variety of jobs including farming, elevator agent, UFA Agent, Installing Fibre Optic Lines, and working on the pipeline.

Bob will be remembered for his love for his family, his pride in his work, tending to his tomatoes, as well as his quick wit.

He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Martha; children Denise (Russell) Hawkins of Camrose, Arlene (Dale) Bujold of Barrhead and Harvey Early (Iris Scherger) of Bonnyville; 10 grandchildren Lynaya, Aiden, Brett, Bradley, Brayden, Brendan, Morgan, Kayln, Avery and Spencer; and sisters Helen (Raymond) Tkach of Veteran, Margaret Smawley of Kelowna, BC, and Sharon (Morris) Thompson of Provost.

Bob was predeceased by his parents Daphne and Harold.

A Celebration of Life was held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2015 from the Camrose Regional Exhibition (4250 Exhibition Drive) with Rev. Bill Harder officiating. Inurnment has taken place in Valley View Cemetery, Camrose.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to St. Mary’s Hospital Palliative Care Television Fund. To send Condolences, please visit www.burgar funeralhome.com

Robert Gustave Graefer

Oct. 30, 1930 – Feb. 20, 2015

On Friday, February 20, 2015, Mr. Bob Graefer of Forestburg, Alberta passed away at the age of 84 years.

He is survived by his loving wife Anne, four children Valerie Wetherell (Jim Sloan), Rob Graefer, Bill Graefer (Michelle), Jody Johnsey (Tim), eight grandchildren, four great grandchildren, his sister Margaret Graefer and numerous other relatives and friends. Bob was predeceased by his parents William and Gladys and two brothers Gordon and Jack.

Eulogy by Jim Sloan

Robert Gustave Graefer was born in Teulon Manitoba on October 30th, 1930 and passed away in Daysland, Alberta on February 20, 2015 at the age of 84. Bob grew up on the family farm in Winkler, Manitoba, completing his high school education there. He worked for Manitoba Power and Telephones, then Hamilton Hydro-Electric Systems before moving to Alberta in 1953 to work for Canadian Utilities Ltd.

Bob’s next move, in 1955 to Consort, Alberta, turned out to be the best move of his life as it was there he met and married Anne Fawcett on November 16 1957. Due to the nature of his job they lived in several different towns in Alberta and due to their active and social nature Bob and Anne met many people who became life long friends. They had four children: Valerie, Rob, Bill and Jody. They finally settled in Forestburg in 1968 when Bob took the Senior Serviceman position with ATCO Power from which he retired after 38 years of service, in 1990.

Bob was a dedicated Forestburg community member serving on the Village Council, Master of the Masonic Temple, Fire Chief, CPR Instructor and Emergency Medical Responder with the local ambulance service.

Bob was predeceased by his mother Gladys, his father William as well as his two brothers Gordon and Jack. He will be sadly missed and forever loved by his wife, 4 children, 8 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, other family members and many, many friends.

Bob was a man who enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved his family dearly and never failed to show it. He enjoyed showing them life outside of Forestburg by packing up the car with Anne, 4 kids, all their stuff, sometimes a dog, and taking them on a long summer holiday every year. Those trips included a trip to Spokane, Washington for the worlds fair, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Radium as well as home to Winkler, Manitoba to visit family. His weekends and evenings would find him driving his children to their extra curricular events such as hockey, basketball, baseball, choir, to driving lessons and many swim meets. When Bob wasn’t climbing poles and fixing power outages, he was spending time with his family teaching the kids to build and ride unicycles, and build forts and rafts. And then he repeated the process with his eight grandchildren, who he was fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time around.

One of Bob’s favorite activities was skiing whether it be downhill, cross-country or water skiing. His children and many of their friends were taught to water ski on the Battle River, towed behind the legendary Ark and subsequent ski boats. Many years ago, combining his talent for fabricating things and his passion for water skiing, Bob and his brother in law Ervin built and tested the famous but quickly abandoned “tandem water ski project”. So 2 skis, 4 boots – one man in front and one in back. Some fine tuning definitely needed to be done on weight distribution and presumably how to thread the tow rope to go past the front skier to the rear skier. But the crashes were spectacular and the story, retold, never fails to evoke gales of laughter.

He loved to travel the world visiting Mexico, Belize, Hawaii, Switzerland and Australia to name a few.

Maybe due to his work at the Power Company Bob was very safety oriented. For a 3 hour trip to Calgary, it seemed he could pack a truck with enough thoughtfully selected and carefully organized emergency gear to survive WWIII. But he also had a bent for adventure and risk taking. Relatively late in life he purchased and rode a motorcycle, and was determined to, and finally did bungee jump, with Anne‘s opinion of OB YOU’RE CRAZY” still fresh in his ears. He also became certified to scuba dive and didn’t waste it, diving with his son Rob in many parts of the world.

Bob was a confident man and comfortable in his own skin. He didn’t mind wearing his winter toques in warm weather when everyone else wore ball caps, didn‘t care how a 75 year old man looked riding around town on a girls bike with baskets. And I doubt he worried much about the psychological damage he did to the people of this town by mowing his lawn, glistening in suntan oil, wearing only workboots and a Speedo bathing suit.

Here are some memories about Bob that illustrate what he was like, the things he did and the impressions he left. They are from the people that knew him the best and loved him so much…..his wife, his childen and his grandchildren: Maybe one or two will spark a memory of your own, and make you nod your head and smile.

Bob had a great laugh… Loud in a crowd, from his belly, unique, genuine…oh and again in case you missed it…….LOUD. He loved life and showed it with his laughter .

a Son In Law…I Love How he greets you when he hasn’t seen you for awhile …. he shoots out of his chair at you, big paw extended, grinning from ear to ear….He always made you feel that he was genuinely glad to see you.

a Daughter In Law….I remember the place on his chest he reserved for each of his 8 grandchildren to sleep on when they were little.

I REMEMBER water skiing and wakeboarding on the Battle River with a Grampa who was over 70 years old.

another GRANDCHILD….my best memory is his smile.

Grampa always had a hard time telling me he loved me, but I always knew he did by the things he did for me and with me.

a SON……throughout my life my Dad provided me with endless, unwavering support, faith, love, acceptance and guidance.

from ANOTHER GRANDSON….before seatbelts gramma and grampa would let me sit between them and rest my head in grampas lap as he drove.

I’ll always remember my Father In Law’s integrity and selflessness.

he was the only Grampa that volunteered to come on my grade 5 ski trip…..before that I THOUGHT he was the coolest grampa in the world, after that I KNEW he was the coolest Grampa in the world.

A GRANDSON…My Grampa was patient, and strong and wise. And I always knew he would defend me. And a couple of times he had to.

Grampa was handy and could fix anything …. I remember him repairing a snow ski that had snapped in half with some flatbar, and teaching me to ride a unicycle he made in his garage.

Now Bob always said one thing he hated about funerals was that they almost always made the person sound perfect, they only say good things. So for Bob I’m going to tell you this… You kids and grandkids always thought Bob was so strong and brave. But Margaret his sister told me that she had to fight all his schoolyard fights for him until he was 10.

The family would like to thank everyone for attending, your kind words, messages, phone calls and gifts of food.

Also thank-you to today’s pianist Dianne Jahns, soloist Carl Jahns, and to Reverend Crewe for visiting the family and taking the time to get to know more about Bob.

A heart felt thank-you is given to the staff at Daysland hospital who did everything possible to care for and comfort Bob and his family.

Sincere appreciation is exended to the United Church Women for preparing the lunch to follow this Memorial Service. The family welcomes all of you to remain here afterward to enjoy it and visit.

I have one Final Thought for you: All of us can honor Bob best by keeping his memory alive. Bob was a unique and very interesting man. So go on telling your stories; tell them over and over; they’ll never get tired or dusty or faded. Tell them to your children and to their children and to each other and to people who never met him. Remember his smile and the sound of his laugh. And remember the things he taught you to do and what a person can grow up to be. That would make him very proud.

Gilbert Heatherington

Aug. 16, 1924-March 16, 2015

It is with deep sorrow and much love that the family of Gilbert Heatherington announce his passing at the Stettler Hospital on March 16, 2015 at the age of 90 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children Diane (Dwight) Dehne, Gayle (Gordon) Johnsen, Allan (Barb) Heatherington, Dale (Shaunna) Huston, and Blair (Kim) Heatherington; as well as fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife Doris; daughter Shelley Huston; and sisters Violet Hart and Lucile Blair.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.

MacLean’s Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Mike Sirman

Nov. 17, 1927-March 14, 2015

Mike Sirman passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at 1:30 p.m., at the Royal Alex Hospital in Edmonton. He was 87 years of age.

Mike was raised in the Hemaruka area, where his family farmed. He has lived in Edmonton for many years.

Mike leaves his wife of 63 years, Helen; his daughter Patricia Friesen (Dennis), Les Stewart (son-in-law) five grandchildren, Calley (Jason) Williams, Elana (Jason) West, Mike (Sarah) Friesen, Matthew (Allarua) Friesen and seven great grandchildren. Mike also leaves one brother John Sirman, and two sisters Madeline Worobo and Jesse Skurhan and many nieces and nephews.

Mike was predeceased by his daughter Gail, her husband Garth Thorp and one of their daughters Alison. Also his parents John and Pauline Sirman, his siblings Dave Sirman, Ann Hertzog, Bill Sirman, Edna Stefanuik, Mary Panteluk, Doris Schieble and Kay Overton.

A memorial celebration of life was held on Friday, March 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Evergreen Funeral Chapel, Edmonton. In lieu of flowers, please support a worthy charity of your choice.

Walter “Bud” William Knudson

Dec. 17, 1925-Mar. 21, 2015

Walter William Knudson, known as “Bud” was born on December 17, 1925 in Camrose, Alberta. He has lived all of his life in and around Consort taking his schooling at Willowbrook and in Consort.

Bud went to BC in his early teens to work in his Uncle’s lumber camp during the winter months, then in 1946 he went to Whitehorse, Yukon to work as a fireman on the SS Klondike riverboat travelling to Circle, Alaska. When he returned to Consort in 1948 he met and married Joyce Bishell. Bud worked on the farm for Lester Isaman and later he worked as a mechanic for Kroeger Brothers in their garage in town.  In 1951, they bought the James Boswell farm and moved there to make their home for 58 years. Bud drove the school bus for ten years to make ends meet. During that time he always loved to play horseshoe, playing at every Sports Day he went to and usually won enough money to buy their supper!  Bud was a member of the snowplow committee in that area, and was kept busy with his tractor and snowblower, clearing the roads after the prairie snowstorms.

In 1952, Bud and Joyce’s family was started, being blessed with four children: Grant Walter, Deborah Louise, Sheila Joyce and Janice Dianne.  Bud and Joyce  recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary.

In 1977, Bud joined the Consort Lions Club and was an active member for over 35 years. In 1980, Bud and Joyce made their first trip to Arizona in their motorhome.  They travelled with Losings, Robinsons, and Verne Bishell’s, all who had never been to Arizona.  They officially became “Snowbirds”, returning each winter for 25 years.  Bud played horseshoe in Apache Jct, Mesa, and Las Vegas, winning many trophies.  In the summer, Bud and Joyce followed the horseshoe circuit from Victoria, B.C. to Regina, SK, north to Ft McMurray, south to Gillette, Wyoming. They were gone most every weekend taking along the  family dog, Perky. Those were good days making many lasting friendships.  In 2005, Bud played horseshoe in the World Tournament in Red Deer. Bud and Joyce went on several enjoyable holiday trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Yukon, Nashville, Tenn., Rosine, Kentucky to name a few.  In 2009, Bud and Joyce moved to their new home in Consort that their son-in-law, Pat and his family built.  They have enjoyed living there for the last 5 years.

Bud lived his entire life with great strength and honesty. He was a loving husband and father. His helping hands will be missed by many.

Bud is survived by his loving wife Joyce and their family: Grant (Myrna) of Mirror, Alberta, Debbie (Ted) Deagle, Consort, Sheila (Pat) Gramlich, Consort, Janice Spelrem, Phoenix, Arizona; nine grandchildren, Jennifer, Daryl, Chad, Travis, Jay, Richele, Paula, Cassidy, Amy; seven great grandchildren, Tyler, Tyson, Kayla, Talon, Connor, Avery, Seth; brother, LeRoy (Jean) Knudson, Oyama, B.C., brother-in-law Alvin Bishell, Consort,  sister-in-law Edith Smiley, Athabasca, sister-in-law Ruth Oswald, Leduc;  thirteen nieces, six nephews, and numerous cousins.

Bud was predeceased by his parents Roy and Martha Knudson, brother Warren Carlyle, sisters Louise Kroker and Joyce Hayworth.

A memorial service was held Saturday, May 28, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at the Consort Sportex, Consort Alberta. Interment was held following the service at Lake Road Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Bud’s memory to Alberta Heart & Stroke Fund, 100-119 – 14 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1Z6, or to Consort Hospital Auxiliary, Box 233, Consort, Alberta, T0C 1B0.

Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Coronation Funeral Home.

Tribute

by Jay Gramlich

Good afternoon everyone. So I’d just like to start today sharing a story behind one of Grandpa Bud’s many mannerisms that were original and unique to him alone. This particular memory of Grandpa is of a certain thing that he would do quite regularly. Something that would scare the pants off of anybody who didn’t know him enough to expect it, whereas it didn’t startle us family and friends…. As much! But anyways, we’re gonna go back to my childhood; I couldn’t have been more than 5 or 6. I distinctly remember how hot of a summer it was, and so most of the yardwork would get done in the evenings. Paula and I were playing in the living room, windows open to release some of the day’s heat. Living on the same acreage as Grandpa and Grandma, we could hear the old mulcher running clearly in the distance so we knew Grandpa was spending some time on the annual garden that they put so much effort into. – A sidenote on this OLD mulcher… I emphasize old because this thing was a beast! I’m not sure if the whole ‘environmentally friendly’ thing was around at this time but I’m sure even if it was Grandpa would not have had his equipment modified because, “That crap doesn’t do any good anyhow”. So the old mulcher was really noisy, like you couldn’t even stand to be around it. Ok, so we’re playing in the living room, mulcher roaring in the distance, and out of nowhere we hear a AAAAHECHAAAAAA! Clear as a bell, from the opposite side of our ten acres, across the barnyard. Over his 89 years of living in the Consort area I would put money, a LOT of money, on betting that not one Albertan could unleash a sneeze like Grandpa Bud… I don’t know the exact stats but I’m sure a sound decibel meter would rank his sneeze in the same category as a skill saw screaming through plywood or a passenger jet taking off.

Grandpa Bud was without a doubt the most stubborn, opinionated and toughest old sumbitch I know. Examples of that are plentiful and would take a long while to go through. But a couple include:

–Trapping hundreds of magpies and just reaching in, grabbing one at a time and wringing their necks, not even noticing his arms bleeding from their sharp claws slicing into him.

–As a 42 year old, getting ran over by a combine right across the chest, then walking home from the field.

–Stepping onto a PTO shaft at the back of the tractor, normally people lose limbs from this, or worse get flung around and die. Grandpa held on to the seat tight as he could and after breaking his leg, he actually stalled the tractor engine because it couldn’t turn as hard as he was holding it!!

–Shoveling out a big schoolbus that was buried up to the roof after a snowstorm with just a scoop shovel, before the school day started because he had to get the kids there in decent time.

-Being too stubborn to ask my Dad or I for help to adjust the quonset door track 16 feet above the concrete floor. He climbed a ladder to the top and it slid out from under him, and he fell straight down onto the concrete. After his face and ribs healed up, about a month later, he gave us another scare. He started acting funny and lost his sense of balance and upon seeing a doctor, was rushed to Calgary. While still awake, they used a huge drillbit and literally drilled a hole into his skull to relieve the pressure on his brain. I was still mad at him for not letting us help him.

It was at that point though, I realized to get a point across to him you needed to be blunt, just as he was with his opinions. So when they got home from the hospital I asked him, “So Grandpa did they have to use a titanium bit to get through that thick skull??” He got the point, and made a full recovery. That was 8 years ago by the way… He pulled that stunt at 81.

Grandpa also had a sense of humor that was second to none. Last week when I was with him at the hospital he made a point of telling the nurses, “I used to be really good at insults.” I had to laugh, because he truly was. He had perfected the art of insulting people. He did so in a teasing way so people wouldn’t get offended cause they knew it was his way of joking with you, because he liked you. He would always poke fun at sides of family, like if us kids were acting “GOOFY” as he said, he would say it must be the Gramlich side of the family. Or if I won an award at school or hockey or something, “Not bad for a mixed up kid.” Or when Grandma or Mom would make one of her unbelievably delicious meals and he would try it and say “gee that’s not too bad”, or “it’ll do”. And that reminds me of the time Grandma made a mouthwatering carrot cake that she’s famous for. First mouthful he goes “Hmm… That’s not bad cake… Be better if it didn’t have all them carrots in it though.”

I like to think that foods he enjoyed really reflected on his overall character…Strong. Whether it was his homemade horseradish that cleared sinuses better than any prescription, or eating onions like apples, or you know, the two minutes he spent before meals shaking pepper over his plate until it was evenly coated, or until he let out a ferocious, window rattling sneeze again. Its just who Grandpa was as a person through and through, unfiltered, strong and hardworking. I respected him a ton and really appreciate ways of life he’s taught me over the years.

We always joked that he had no filter, but what better way is there to live?? Straight up, no bullshit, he would tell you what he thought. He was also the hardest worker I know, giving it 110% at everything he did in life. A week ago sitting at his bedside I admired the size, strength, and power remaining in his hands, reflecting a life of hard work.

I feel extremely fortunate and grateful having been able to grow up in such close proximity and close relations to my grandparents. In my childhood, getting in trouble wasn’t even that big of a deal, we would just go over to Grandpa and Grandmas. We would watch pirated American cartoons on their dish from Uncle Lorne and always get a delicious meal out of the deal…. Nah, who am I kidding, that only ended a couple years ago.

Though he was a thoughtful and caring man on the inside, his kind-of abrupt personality made him a little hard to figure out until my teenage years. I was happy when I finally found a topic that we shared a common interest in and we could talk about as peers. Grandpa loved The Ultimate Fighting Championship, and he knew more about stats, UFC fighters, titles and fights going on than I did, hands down. I always looked forward to the time of the month when a fight card came up – we would each alternate buying beer and appy’s or the PPV event, although Grandpa would always pull the “Listen to your elders and take the damn money” card on me.

It is an absolute honor to be able to speak in front of Grandpa Bud’s family, his friends and anyone who had the good fortune to have met him. It meant a lot to me to be able to spend those precious last few hours with him. It was pretty emotional to hear him tell me how proud of me he was, and in the next sentence ask how “I” was feeling. Typical Grandpa, always worrying about others first…

I said to him, “You know what, I feel appreciative. I am appreciative of everything you have taught me. I am appreciative for the time we’ve got to spend together since I was born. And I’m appreciative that you got to meet my son and he got to know his Great Grandpa for past last year.”

Cheers Grandpa, I Love You and this vodka-water is for you.

Memories

The Grandkids Remember

Avery and Seth (16 months) – remember trying their hardest to get off of Grandpa’s lap during their Christmas picture! Great-Grandpa laughed so hard!

Connor (3 ) – likes getting sticks and walking around with them pretending to be “old Grandpa” with his cane.

Talon (7) – remembers how fun Grandpa was!

Kayla (17) – Grandpa Bud, You always had the biggest smile on your face when your grandbabies and family were around and you could literally make anyone laugh. You were always full of love and kindness and that’s the man I will remember you as. God gained another angel, so forever rest in paradise grandpa. Miss you already!

Tyson (18) – Grandpa always had a smile on his face whenever I’d see him.

Amy (19) – Something I am so grateful for is being able to grow up just a few steps away from my grandpa and grandma, and being able to run over to their house whenever I wanted. I’d watch grandpa building his puzzles, almost a new one everyday, or I’d follow him out to the quonset where he’d be working on his newest project. I have a fond memory of sitting on grandpa’s stool while watching him practice throwing horseshoes, never even realizing at the time how outstanding of a player my Grandpa was. I thought it was normal for everyone’s grandpa to have rows upon rows of trophies dedicated to 1st place championships. I have many memories of my Grandpa I will cherish, and I will never forget the sound of his voice calling me “goofy” or his wonderful smile when he laughed. Funny, witty, intelligent and loyal, I couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful grandpa.

Cassidy (20) – remembers being with Grandpa and Grandma in Apache Junction. She can still see Grandpa sitting there with the most giant jar of pistachios and eating them all the time!

Tyler (23) – Grandpa was a smart ass but it was always a positive thing because it always filled the room with laughter.

Paula (23) – I will always remember and be grateful for growing up across the yard from Grandpa and Grandma. I remember seeing him hard at work around the yard and in the Quonset – always fixing something (even when our Barbie toys broke he would fix it for us!) I remember going to their house to watch Grandpa play solitaire, he was very patient and taught me this important virtue. I will remember his humour, his kind greeting “Hello Sweetie” and his smile.

Richele (24) – When I think about Grandpa I remember the times spent with him at Apache Junction. I remember the man who was the life of the party, amazing horses, always working on a puzzle, and if I’d ever want to watch TV it would most often be boxing! My fondest memories of Grandpa as a kid were playing 5 in a Row. Grandpa always treated me like an equal competitor. He was an amazing man with a heart of gold, I only wish I could have spent more time with him back in those days. I will always be reminded of him when I’m enjoying bread and cream, or watching Dr. Phil as Grandpa says, “that Dr. Phil is a very smart man!!”

Jay (25) – Bob Cornelsson came up to Grandpa and Grandma’s house for a drink on Grandpa’s birthday. He brought a mickey of vodka in a paper bag, pulled it out and poured Grandpa Bud and himself one. A couple swigs into the drink Uncle Grant phoned to wish Grandpa a happy birthday. While Grandpa was sitting there occupied on the phone, Bob reaches over and says “This drink just ain’t cutting it” and pulls out the mickey, tips it back and damn near polishes it off!! The look of disbelief and confusion on Grandpa’s face was priceless. We all shared a good laugh after learning Bob had brought up a mickey of water to play a birthday joke.

Travis (28) – One time Chad and I were hitting a dead tree with sticks for 2 days!! Grandpa saw this, walked over to the tree, broke it with his bare hands and carried it away to the coulee. We thought he was just incredibly strong! and were completely shocked something like that was even possible! I also thought it was pretty badass how he wouldn’t waste bullets on the magpies in the traps. He’d just reach in, grab them, tear off their heads and throw them down the coulee.

Chad (31) – One of my favourite things I liked about Grandpa was he was always willing to teach you something if you were willing to learn. He taught me card games, how to shuffle cards, horseshoes, everything I know about boxing, and being a handyman helper. I always liked to hear his opinion or view on a topic. He would always start out by saying “Oh, I don’t know” and then give his clear cut take. He was an interesting man who lived an eventful life.

Daryl (39) – It was Grandpa’s sense of humour that was hilarious to me.

Jennifer (42) – My earliest memories of Christmas, trying so hard to get to sleep, listening so hard for the sound of reindeer hooves on the roof of the house at the farm. Bread and cream, horseshoes, family meals together, the big garden and him eating raw green onions and radishes. Loving memories of a good man who worked hard and loved his family.

Remembering…

Our Friend Bud Knudson

December 1925 – March 2015

Age 89 is a special milestone and we’re paying special tribute to our dear friend with thoughts of him. There’s something sacred about a friend, someone close to your age, someone with whom we’ve shared many special moments and shared a passion for the sport of horseshoe pitching. Knowing Bud for 37 years, he was someone we began to associate with as we broke into the serious side of horseshoes, a person whom we admired and trusted greatly. Cool, calm, totally professional, completely genuine and always playing the sport fairly. That was Bud!

Yes there are the memories – plenty of Bud memories, which we will cherish the rest of our lives. They are the events that support us in this difficult moment and beyond.

We recall these special highlights:

1977 – Red Deer, AB. – Alberta Summer Games, our first introduction to Bud and his wife Joyce and many new fellow players.

1979 – Caroline, AB. – Provincial Championships – Doubles with close friend Orval Kelts.

Bud and Orval Kelts were doubles partners for many years.

Bud excelled and placed well in various classes in his endeavors during his years of pitching. Provincials – Mens A Doubles – Bud and Casey partnered up in many Alberta Provincials and won Mens Championship Class for many years, also at many Club tournaments in various towns. One couldn’t ask for a better partner and friend, a true gentleman!

Among these special achievements, there were many others, local, and club level tournaments, league play that Bud participated in Alberta and also the USA where he spent winters in Apache Junction, AZ., for many years. As the years of competitions continued… the best memories that Casey and I have shared with Bud and Joyce were among the many adventures we took on our journeys to the many Cities to participate in the sport of horseshoes from Regina, SK. to Victoria, B.C., also many towns in between that hosted these special events. After many tournaments there was much fun and laughter, card games, story times and also he did pranks like rocking our camperized van in the early morning as we were sleeping. Those times we remember and cherish!

In the past few years, Bud was unable to attend and participate in the sport as well as he wanted to, due to health issues. Thank you for sharing many years with us. We had the good fortune of knowing you and thank you for being a true friend. Bud… this is just for you, “it’s not whether you win or lose, its how you play the game”. You played the game well! Although this is written by Eve, these thoughts are shared by many horseshoe pitchers who were part of his life.

We will never forget you. Our thoughts are with Joyce and her families as they celebrate Bud’s life… A generous life, well lived!

Friends Always…

Casey & Eve Vander Linden

From the Consort Lions Club

Bud joined the Consort Lions Club in 1977. Over the next 35 years, Bud proved himself to be a hardworking, dedicated Lion. A couple of years before he joined, the Lions started the Gun Show. We needed a lot of tables, so a group of four or five members (one of them being Bud) would get together every afternoon for a week or two building tables. Over the next 5 years, they built approximately 150 tables which are still being used every year at the Gun Show. Every year Bud would be there to set up for the Gun Show and then put everything away after.

At the Mother’s Day breakfast, Bud’s job was to cook sausages on a propane grill outside. Over the years he cooked thousands.

At Bingos, Bud could be found behind the counter selling Bingo cards, joking with every customer that went by.

He sold more than his share of 200 club tickets and delivered calendars to all of his neighbours south of town. It would take him and Joyce nearly a month because he had to have a 2 hour visit with every customer, drinking coffee and at times a drink or two of vodka.

Bud was the ‘Lion Tail Twister’ for one year, collecting and joking with the members.

Bud and Joyce also attended a Lion’s convention in Sylvan Lake.

Bud we will always remember you with fond memories.

From the Bingo Group

Oh we will surely miss old Bud. He was such a loving man in the way of bugging each one of us at Bingo. He always thought he could play for free and insisted on that but he always paid in the end. If Bud and Joyce beat me to the hall he had something to say about that too because the Bingo shift started promptly at 6:00 p.m. He always got a hug and a kiss out of the blue from us and thoroughly enjoyed it and wouldn’t let go.

So Bud, we are sending you a huge hug and many kisses to enjoy on your last visit with us.

Love from

the Bingo Group

Sharon, Ruth & Elaine

From the Coffee Gang

Coffee at 9:30 a.m. was too early, Bud only came in the afternoons.

Bud was always a jokester. When the game started he would do his best to yak and try to confuse the guy running the game to make a mistake and have to pay. His favourite saying as the numbers were narrowing was, “I can’t afford to lose, I forgot my wallet!”

One year, just before Bud and Joyce were leaving to go south for the winter, Pat Wiese was bugging Bud to leave a cheque at the till to treat the fellows at coffee. So Bud mailed Pat a cheque signed with an X. Can you believe Pat tried to talk the bank manager into cashing it, needless to say the answer was no.

Another day Pat found a large wheel nut on the road and slipped it into Bud’s coffee. When he got toward the bottom of the cup he turned green and gagged. Is it any wonder?!

Sadly the Coffee Gang will miss you, Bud.

From the Card Players

Bud was raised through the Depression, when there was no money for anything. Just surviving, was a major accomplishment in itself. Kids had to make their own entertainment, so we skated on the slough, in winter, played Fox and Goose in the school yard, or tobogganed on an old hunk of cardboard. In summer, we swam in the slough, rode our ponies over the countryside, drowned out gophers, and played Cowboys and Indians, or other games. We didn’t have T.V., or cell phones or even bicycles, but one thing we did see, was our folks playing cards. Even though everyone was broke, they still needed entertainment, so cards filled that bill. There were Bridge tournaments, Crib tournaments, Whist drives, with lots of people turning out for these events every week. And the kids watched. It didn’t take long for them to learn and be able to play the various games.

Now, in our Golden Years, we gather every Tuesday at the Seniors Drop-In Centre for an afternoon of Trump Whist, or Cribbage. Bud was always there. He loved cards and since their retirement to Consort, Bud and Joyce have been regulars at the Drop-In, as well as many afternoons and evenings of cards with friends. They were/are both shrewd players and Bud was a worthy opponent or a welcome partner. When he won, it was, “Well played”; if we won, it was, “Well, any damn fool can take tricks if they have the cards!” There was little praise in his vocabulary, but we had lots of laughs, as he’d observe that I was a ‘slow learner’, when trying my luck at solitaire. And if you really wanted to get him going, make sure there was a raisin or two with his cookie or cake. He hated them and didn’t hold back when telling you about it.

We all looked to him for fun and laughter – and for some good card-playing, as well. His passing leaves an empty spot in our group – we’re sure going to miss him.

CARD OF THANKS

We want to thank the whole community for their caring words of sympathy, the bountiful food and beautiful flower arrangements that were sent to the house during our difficult time. We also appreciate all the phone calls, visits, cards and donations. A special thanks to Dr. Usher and the Coronation Funeral Home staff for their compassionate care. We are so proud to live in a small town where friends and family are so important.

Joyce Knudson

and Family

Gary Maurice Ulseth

April 11, 1952 – March 23, 2015

Gary passed away surrounded by his loving family on March 23, 2015 in the Red Deer Hospital at the age of 62 years.

Gary is survived by his wife Dianne,

Daughter: Carla (Brad) Sparks and their children Dylan, Sydney & Pacey,

Sons: Kelly (Andrea) Ulseth and their children Kendra and Kyle,

Kevin (Lisa) Ulseth and their children Taniell, Taylor, Bryson & Jackson,

His mother-in-law Ruth Tellier,

Siblings: Susan (Jim) Schetzsle, Wendy (Marv) Pixley, Colin (Barb) Ulseth, Brenda Smith (Randy Tellier), Corinne (Gaston) Gill, Kelly (Brian) Richter; sister-in-law Dolores  (Ken) Neal, brother-in-law Bryan (Betty) Tellier; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many dear friends.

Gary was predeceased by his sister Gayle in 1980, brother-in-law Danny Smith in 1996, his parents: Dean in 2000, Joyce in 2002 and his father-in-law Louis in 1990.

The funeral service to honour Gary Maurice Ulseth took place at Coronation Community Centre, Coronation, Alberta on Wednesday April 1st, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. Officiating was Pastor Darrel Durksen. Musicians were Carolyn Devereux, Nils & Jeanette Berg; they played for the congregational hymn “Amazing Grace” as well as a special musical tribute “Danny Boy”. Gary’s sister Susan Schetzsle gave the scripture readings. Soloist Bob Hocking sang “Suppertime”. Long-time friend Dan Gorcak shared a tribute. Family memories were shared by Gary’s sons Kelly-Dean & Kevin Ulseth. A video tribute was played prior to the service. Honorary Pallbearers were “All of Snowball’s Friends”. The Active Pallbearers were Leslie Elliott, Archie Merchant, Dwayne Glasier, Lorne Anhorn, Gerald Anhorn, Jim Smith, Dale Brigley, Carter Stickel, Elden Stickel and John Simkin. Family and friends gathered in the Community Centre for a luncheon prepared and served by the Coronation Funeral Lunch Committee. The interment followed the lunch at the Veteran Cemetery, Veteran, Alberta. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made in Gary’s memory to The Veteran Minor Sports, Box 639, Veteran, Alberta T0C 2S0 or to the Village of Veteran Cemetery Society, Box 589, Veteran, Alberta, T0C 2S0. Heather Caseley has been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements; Coronation Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Coronation, Alberta T0C 1C0. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.coronationfuneralhome.ca.

TRIBUTE

by Dan Gorcak

Let me begin by thanking Dianne and the family for asking me to share a few words about my good friend. I am both humbled and honored.

Gary Maurice Ulseth joined our world on April 11, 1952. He was the third child of Joyce and Dean Ulseth, following Gayle and Susan. After Gary, came Wendy, Colin, Brenda, Corrine and Kelly to complete their family of 8 children.

The Ulseth’s were farmers and Gary’s early life was pretty similar to any other child raised in a rural setting. Values were straight forward and simple. The farm was a few miles south of Veteran, where Colin still resides. The family lived across the street from the school in Veteran but would move out to the farm in the summer months. Dean also operated South Side Service in Veteran and Gary often could be found at the garage helping out in various capacities.

Gary and I became friends when we started school, so that puts our friendship in the 55 to 56 year range. Gary attended school in Veteran from grades 1 to 9 and then in Coronation for grades 10 through 12. As we grew older and into our teens we began spending more time together which resulted in a pretty close friendship.

His passion in early life was definitely sports. Oh how he loved to participate and talk about sports. In his early years he was a Maple Leaf fan and I was a Canadien fan so we had quite a rivalry going. Gary (or Dean as he was known in his early years) was skilled in sports, whether it be hockey, baseball, basketball, volleyball or whatever sport he tried. He might not have been the most athletic specimen created but he made up for that with his knowledge of how to play the game. He just knew what to do and when to do it. He was always a great teammate, not just because of his loyalty to the team, but because of his passion for winning. Losing really wasn’t on the radar. He knew how to exploit the opposition’s weakness and didn’t hesitate to share this with his teammates. He wasn’t always right but that really didn’t matter.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that also at this time Gary already had his love of music. He would play the piano and sing at every opportunity.

After his school years, Gary went to work on the rigs, mainly with Precision Drilling. We still kept in contact, but he was away quite a bit so we didn’t see each other as often. Many friendships developed for him while he worked the rigs and I know he kept in touch with many of these people. He shared many stories with me and others of his rig working days; they were good times for him.

About this time or probably a bit earlier, he began dating Dianne Tellier. They made a nice couple right from the start and Gary would have liked to ask her to marry him after about half a dozen dates. He loved her dearly – I know this because he told me many times. So after they had dated a couple years, he caught me one day and said he was going to propose that evening. I thought great, until he told me he was nervous and would I mind coming along. I suggested that it was probably a bit of a more intimate moment than I wanted to be part of. So off he went, but he chickened out that night anyway. Shortly after, however, he did propose and Dianne accepted. That same evening, at about 2:00 a.m., I heard my bedroom window open and as I awoke I could see legs coming through the open window. I jumped up and grabbed the legs and Gary said “It’s just me.” I asked him what the hell he was doing and he said he didn’t want to wake my Dad so he thought he would use the window. He then told me Dianne had agreed to marry him and he wanted me to know as soon as possible. So we sat on the bed talking. He was on cloud 9 that night, as happy as a man could be. As we sat there talking, he says, “Are you going back to sleep?” I said I was and he said “mind if I crawl in, I’m kind of tired.” So Gary and I slept together the night he proposed to Dianne, and as any of his sisters can attest, of course, I had to scratch his back before he went to sleep.

Gary and Dianne married on July 27, 1974 and were blessed with three children: Carla in 1975, Kelly Dean in 1978 and Kevin in 1981. Oh, how he loved and was so proud of you three.

He ended his rig working days shortly after he and Dianne were married, and began his farming life of working as a hand and then farming on his own. As the children grew, Gary and Dianne always lived in and around Veteran. He had to, because his love of Veteran and the surrounding area was intense. He couldn’t comprehend why anyone would want to live elsewhere. He kept track of people better than anyone I know. His visits were legendary. If you had an open door and a cup of coffee, you were on the hit list. He came over often to visit and sometimes the visits got quite long. One particular evening we both fell asleep while watching TV. When I awoke I told him to turn off the TV when he left and I went to bed. He just said “yeah, OK” and went back to sleep. He was gone in the morning.

I know that as I speak about Gary, who had by this time become “Snowball”, everyone here has been thinking about a time, an incident or a favorite Snowball story, and there are a lot of them. This is a good thing. It is important that we share and reminisce.

Who else but Snowball would stop at Daysland on his way to Edmonton, because there were cars around the community centre, and lo and behold if there wasn’t a pancake breakfast to join in on.

Who else would go to the lodges, the assisted living, or the long term care regularly to play the piano and sing. The residents loved and adored him for that.

Who else but Snowball would suggest, after he and I woke up, having spent the night sleeping in his yellow Mustang because we consumed about a dozen bottles of wine, that we should slip over and have coffee and a visit with Mrs. Kennedy (an elderly former Veteran resident). Not only did we do this, but she was elated to see these two hung-over gentlemen.

Who else would give up many evenings during the Christmas season and even Christmas Eve to make sure the young and elderly alike would get a chance to experience Santa. He absolutely loved being Santa and as I think about it today, maybe, just maybe he was Santa.

As Gary and Dianne’s family grew into fine young adults, the next step was to leave home, get married and have their own children. Carla married Brad Sparks in 1998 and they have 3 children: Dylan, Sydney & Pacey. Kelly Dean married Andrea Scheffelmaier in 2004 and they have two children: Kendra and Kyle. Kevin married Lisa Benedict also in 2004 and they have four children: Taniell, Taylor, Bryson and Jackson. These nine grandkids made Gary so very, very proud. Grandpa loved you kids dearly.

Sometime ago Gary and Dianne relocated into the house where he grew up, across from the school. They instantly began a yard transformation, or should we call it a beautification program. Gary and I would talk often about what looks good where, how to trim trees and grass, how to grow vegetables and so on. It didn’t take long and they had their yard looking great. They were both so proud of what they accomplished, as they should.

Gary loved to entertain. There was no predicting when he might throw a wiener roast, a BBQ or just a real good meal. They would cook up meals and the range of people he would invite was as wide as a prairie skyline. I have to also mention that these meals would often have “crub” on the menu. He was “the master crub chef”.

A few years ago Gary began employment at M&N Construction and you guys, who I know are here, should be proud because he spoke highly of your operation and really enjoyed his time with you. His M&N stories were always very positive in nature.

I also have to mention Gary’s love of the Edmonton Oilers. Even though that love has been tested severely the last few years, he always remained loyal. He knew what was wrong with them; he just never got to tell the right people.

A few years ago, Gary started a custom farming operation – mainly swathing and baling. He really enjoyed that. I think it kept the farming blood flowing through his veins.

As I start to wind down, I just want everyone to remember that this was a man who would do anything for anybody – you might have to return the favor, but that is what friends do for each other; they give and they receive.

In the last couple years Gary’s diabetes was gripping him more and more; but never did he complain. He always told me he felt fine but that he just needed that kidney. Even then we spent time driving the countryside sharing thoughts, reminiscing, trying to figure out what was wrong with the world, even though neither of us really knew what was happening outside the Special Areas.

Five or six weeks ago Gary fell ill and was admitted to hospital. His illness was more severe than his body and medicine could overcome. Even the love and prayers of his family and friends were unable to strengthen him enough to recover. On Monday, March 23 with his family close by, he left us. Gary would be overwhelmed by the people who have gathered here today. It is a tribute, not just to Gary, but also to our community, that so many would come to support Dianne and the family through this difficult period.

Until we meet again; rest in peace my friend.

Card of Thanks

We cannot begin to express our sincere thanks for all the comforting words and generous donations we have received from the surrounding communities. Gary knew community mattered and giving back was always on his radar. This is evident in all the love and support we have received in the past weeks.

Dianne Ulseth

Carla & Brad Sparks and Family

Kelly & Andrea Ulseth and Family

Kevin & Lisa Ulseth and Family

Elizabeth Bernece Mouly

March 9, 1926 – March 26, 2015

Elizabeth Bernece Mouly (nee Robbins) known as Bernece to everyone, passed away peacefully at the Provost Hospital Long Term Care with family by her side.

Bernece is survived by her six children, Faye (Johnny) Kloberdanz, Gary (Joy) Mouly, Shirley (Ken) Harper, Brien (Elaine) Mouly, Carol (Harry) McIntosh, Marcella (Perry) Thomas, forty Grandchildren, and thirty-nine Great Grandchildren. As well as nieces & nephews and many great friends.

Bernece was predeceased by her husband Rene (1973); brother Allen (Mary) Robbins; sister Faye (Alex) Vert and fiancé, Jim Degenstein.

The funeral service took place at Kirriemuir Community Hall on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. Officiating was Reverend Susan Bowyer. Music was played by Sean McCormick. Songs were done by Eddie Ference “Where the Roses Never Fade” and “What a Friend we have in Mother” and Dawn Laybourne “Dancing in the Sky”. Words of Remembrance were done by Bernece’s oldest Grandchild Jennifer McCormick. Readings to Mom were done by Terry Mouly & Susan Bowyer. Pallbearers were Bernece’s Grandchildren, Zane Kloberdanz, Terry Mouly Dwayne Harper, Michelle Mouly, Gabe McIntosh & Patrick Thomas. Honorary Pallbearers were the rest of Bernece’s Grandchildren. Interment was at Kirriemuir Cemetery, Kirriemuir, Alberta, where a team and wagon driven by George Paillard and accompanied by 3 outriders: Brien, Gary and Angela, was used to transport Bernece to her final resting place. Following the Interment family and friends gathered at Kirriemuir Community Hall for a beautiful luncheon prepared and served by the Kirriemuir Community Ladies. Memorial donation may be made in Berence’s memory to Kirriemuir Cemetery or Kirriemuir Community Hall, Box 731, Kirriemuir, Alberta T0C 1R0.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Gregory’s Funeral Home Inc., Box 1079, Provost, Alberta.

Words of Remembrance

by Jennifer McCormick,

granddaughter

Today we are gathered here to celebrate the life of one of the dearest people to me: my grannie, Bernece Mouly. This is probably one of the most daunting tasks I’ve faced: to sum up the life of someone so special to me in the span of a few words. Grannie was born on March 9, 1926 in Reseda, California to Clara and Delver Berdette Robbins. When she was two, the family (including her older brother Allen) moved back to Kirriemuir, as her grandfather, Frank Robbins needed help to build the Kirriemuir Hotel. Although the Robbins’ intention had been to move back to California when the job was complete, luckily for around ninety descendents of Grannie’s, the little family stayed put. It was also here that Grannie’s younger sister Faye was born. The Robbins flock lived in a little house that stood on what is now just south of second base on the ball diamond over on Main Street.

Grannie lived here until her marriage to my grandfather, Rene Mouly, on October 25, 1944. The two then moved to the Mouly homestead twelve miles north of Kirriemuir, where their oldest children, my mom, Faye and my uncle Gary were born. In 1949 they moved south to rent the Nick Worobuff farm which they later purchased. It was here that they welcomed more children to their family: Shirley, Brien, Carol and Marcella. Gary and Brien both still live on the Mouly farm, and share the original homestead up north.

Even after Grandpa passed in 1973, Grannie continued to live on the farm, until 1979 when she moved into Consort. It is here that her green thumb really took hold with her using every square inch of her yard to grow arm loads of pink flowers and buckets full of ripe tomatoes, all of which she freely shared. It constantly amazed me that she could squeeze in just one more fuchsia-coloured geranium or one more pink pansy.

When she wasn’t in her garden or her kitchen, Grannie could be found dancing. Her love of old-time music and dancing was passed along to her children and grandchildren. She attended many of the dances in the area, and it was at one of these she met Jim Degenstein. She and Jim became very good friends, and spent many happy years together.

Grannie’s greatest love was always her family, and she was never happier than when any and all of us gathered so she could fuss over us, making tea and visiting. Every event was a visit, and every visit was an event. For us grandchildren, there were always extra squishy hugs, scotch mints surreptitiously snuck to us from the candy dish when our parents weren’t looking, a mean game of crib, an open ear to hear all about whatever we had to tell her, and ‘I love yous’ at the door on the way out. She always loved to see us come and hated to see us go.

Grannie loved the gathering of her family. Whether we congregated at a hall, or squished up into her home, it didn’t matter to her. She loved to see us all together. There would be the bounty of food, the visiting, the laughter, usually a game or two of crib, and the bottomless pot of tea. Some of my happiest memories were the family Christmas and Easter gatherings, many of which happened right here in this hall. Grannie would be pleased as punch to see everyone visiting, and if we went away hungry it was our own fault.

Grannie was also known for creating much out of very little. This stands to reason as she was a child of the Depression era, so she had to learn to make her own fun and to make do. She could take balls of crochet cotton and create intricate doilies and afghans, which not only turned into gifts but also won her many ribbons at the local bench fairs. She could take a few ingredients and bake fabulous cookies and birthday cakes. She could take small plant clippings and create beautiful pots and flower beds. She could take a visitor and make them the centre of her attention. Her quick smile and lively laugh were magical.

Not only was Grannie a creator, but she was also a nurturer. Whether it was feeding the blue jays peanuts from her back deck, taking in a stray cat because it looked hungry (of which now currently resides with my family), tending her flowers, feeding flapper pie to grandchildren, or making tea and a lunch for whomever dropped by, Grannie always made sure that whatever or whomever needed feeding would be fed.

She was also very generous, often sharing whatever she had with whomever she could. She took great pleasure in making sure that each of her kids, their spouses, and the grandchildren had just the right gift. As a young girl, I always had a great anticipation for the ‘Grannie box’ at birthdays because there inevitably was a treasure trove of the neatest little things that seemed tailor-made for me, and in fact just might be as she crafted many of the presents in our favourite colours. That, coupled with the beautiful birthday cakes (or when we were older, the ice cream buckets of favourite cookies), made us feel very special. Whenever anyone might protest over the bounty she gave, or allude that she might be spoiling us, she’d just smile and say, “I can’t spoil you. You are perfect just the way you are. Just take it. It makes me happy to give it to you.” How does one argue with that?

Grannie can best be described as a hug waiting to happen. She would be tickled pink to see everyone gathered here today, and if she could we’d all be getting hugs whether we wanted them or not. However she might have been known to us: Bernece, Mom, Grannie, Great-Grannie, Auntie or friend, she has stitched into our lives her love of family, her generous spirit, and her joy of life. She will always be missed, but I know that she is only as far away as a cheerful robin’s song, a fragrant pink rose, a slice of cold flapper pie, a cup of hot tea, or an old-time waltz.

Words of Remembrance for Mom

by her family

Elizabeth Bernece Mouly (nee Robbins) was born March 9, 1926 in Reseda, California to Clara and Beretta Robbins. In 1928 mom and her family moved to Kirriemiur, Alberta to help her grandpa Frank Robbins build the local hotel. Mom and her family stayed in Kirriemiur where she attended school. Mom lived with her Mom Clara, brother Allen, and sister Faye. Mom lived in Kirriemiur until she married her husband Rene Mouly on October 25, 1944. They moved to the Mouly homestead 12 miles north of Kirriemiur where the first two children, Faye and Gary were born. In 1949 they moved to the “Mouly Farm” as know today, and were blessed with four additional children, Shirley, Brien, Carol and Marcella. Mom continued to live there until she moved to Consort in 1979 where she made a beautiful home. She grew high tomatoes and lots and lots of pink flowers.

On the farm she raised the kids to live off the farm. Growing a huge garden, chickens, pork and beef. Mom was a great baker. There was always fresh bread, cakes, cookies, donuts, cinnamon buns and flapper pie. She made sure that no one went hungry. If someone dropped in she always had something to feed them; from her great baking, to cheezies, served with coffee or tea and a peppermint to go. Mom always said she wanted to be a teacher so she made sure her kids got their education. She also taught us to be loving, giving and caring.

Mom loved gardening, flowers and growing things. Mom loved feeding the blue jays and we will always be reminded of her when we do the same. Mom worked for many years at the Meier Variety store. Mom loved to do crafts, crocheting, knitting, and make special items for all her family. We all have many of these items in our homes. Mom loved music and dancing and taught all of her kids. We used to spend many nights dancing around the house. Mom played many games with us. Mom met Jim Degenstein at a dance and they spent many happy years together. Mom loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and everyone had a special place in her heart. She loved holidays and birthdays. She made sure everyone got presents and a beautifully decorated cake for their birthday. Her smile and giggles where infectious making everyone around her feel truly loved in their own special way.

Card of Thanks

We would like to thank the communities for all their caring words of sympathy, food and flowers. Thank you also for the phone calls and visits. Your kind words and support have helped us get through this difficult time.

We would also like to thank all the staff at the Provost Hospital and LTC for the great care and support you have given our Mom and us these last years of her life. We would like to thank Dr. Erasamus for all the support and care you gave to Mom to make her comfortable. We would like to thank Kirriemuir Community Hall for the set up at the hall and for serving a beautiful lunch after the service. Thank you so much to Gregory’s Funeral Home & Chery for doing such a wonderful job of making Mom so comfortable and all the support you have given our family.

A Mother’s love must always be strong, her work is hard, her day is long. But all in all, she is truly blessed, for there is nothing so warm as a crowded nest.

Faye (Johnny) Kloberdanz & Family

Gary (Joy) Mouly & Family

Shirley (Ken) Harper & Family

Brien (Elaine) Mouly & Family

Carol (Harry) McIntosh & Family

Marcella (Perry) Thomas & Family

Albert” Friebel

Oct. 22, 1917 – Feb. 9, 2015

Albert” Friebel passed away at the Battleford District Care Center, Battleford, Saskatchewan on Monday, February 9, 2015 at the age of 97 years.

Albert is survived by: his four daughters: Pearl (Keven) Ulrich, Carol (Ross) Burns, Esther (The Late Joseph Forest) Delainey and Rachel (Harry) Dinisyk; grandchildren: Dan (Julie) Carey, Marv (Terri) Carey, Lee (Christine) Burns, Donna (Steve) Burns, Jonathan (Christel) Delainey, Dustin (Lori) Delainey, Clayton (Leanne) Delainey, Beverly (Chris) Oborowsky, Kenny (Ashley) Whittle and Anthony (Danielle) Whittle; great-grandchildren: Megan, Breanna, Christian, Cole, Adam, Hailea, Morgan, Lawrence, Marshall, Shayne, Sharla, Sharmaine, William, Alexander, Logan, Brooklynn, Blake, Chloe, Philip, Keisha, Daygen, Callie, Kenny (Ashley) and Anthony (Danielle); sisters: Elizabeth Wilson and Ruth Farnham and brother Jack Friebel, sisters-in-law, Emelia Friebel and Marge Friebel and numerous nieces and nephews.

Albert was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Antonia Friebel, brothers, Kurt, Reinhard and David, sister, Erika Schmitt, sister-in-law, Helen Friebel, brothers-in-law, Ralph Schmitt, John Wilson, Roy Farnham and granddaughter, Kimberly Delainey.

The eulogy was given by Beverly Oborowsky. The soloist was Doreen Klatt. The pianist was Sandra Babcock. The hymns were: “Precious Lord Take My Hand”, “He The Pearly Gates Will Open” and “In The Garden”.

The honorary pallbearers were: Dan Carey, Marv Carey and Kenny Whittle. The active pallbearers were his grandsons: Jonathan Delainey, Lee Burns, Anthony Whittle, Clayton Delainey, Dustin Delainey and Chris Oborowsky.

The interment was held at the Paradise Valley Cemetery, Paradise Valley, Alberta.

Donations in memory of Albert may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Charity of Choice.

McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements.

Anne (Annie) Johnson

Dec. 28, 1923-Apr. 13, 2015

Annie Johnson was born on December 28, 1923 in Consort, Alberta. She was the daughter of Polish emigrants, Jacob (Jake) and Antonina (Anne) Wiechnik. She was their sixth child and joined her brothers Joe, John, Edward, Thomas and sister Phyllis. Leonard and Cecelia were born later and completed the family of 8. Annie grew up on a farm south of Monitor along highway 41. The house her parents built before moving to Consort still stands.

With a family of 8 there was always lots of work to be done. Annie helped out around the house doing chores around the farm, helped with the garden, milked cows and even did some work in the field during harvest time. This began her strong work ethic one which she carried with her throughout her life.

They were fairly isolated on the farm but Annie recalled enjoying getting together with neighbor kids on Sunday to play ball and have a special treat of homemade ice cream.

She attended Stonelaw School to grade 10 and walked 1½ miles to and from school each day. After finishing school Anne worked doing housekeeping jobs in the Monitor area and in 1942 she began working as a clerk at the General Store in Monitor owned by Elmer Johnson. She remembered sharing a portion of her wages to help her parents out with the family.

During this time Anne was part of a ladies group in Monitor and remembered knitting socks and mittens to be sent to the soldiers overseas during the war.

On December 18, 1953 Anne married Elmer Johnson at the Coronation United Church Manse. This was the second marriage for Elmer and he brought a son, Roger, with him to the relationship. The three of them began life together and on October 3, 1954 Linda arrived. Gordon was born on May 4, 1957 and Gail followed on July 9, 1965.

As the Wiechnik siblings raised their own children they were a close family and would often get together for family dinners and visiting. Mom was devoted to her parents and she was by her Mother’s side for a long time as her health failed.

Anne was a very capable woman. While raising the family she worked in the store for a number of years and was able to look after the business. She did the books and ran the household as Elmer was involved in various business ventures.

Anne was a member of the Monitor L.A.C.C when they under took to publish the first Monitor History book in 1975. She was also on the organizing committee for Homecomings. She was a member of the United Church of Canada and taught Sunday School at Monitor United Church until it closed. She also enjoyed singing and sang in the choir. It was not uncommon for her to be singing around the house as she was working or baking.

Curling was a favorite sport of hers and she enjoyed curling at the Monitor Rink. And in the later years watching curling on tv was a favorite past time.

Anne lived in Monitor until 1992. She was not very fond of driving and felt a bit isolated in Monitor and the house and yard became too much for her. She sold the home and moved to Paragon Place in Stettler. She was still able to enjoy cooking and baking in her apartment. Then in 1998, Anne moved to the Consort Lodge. During her time at the lodge she enjoyed nightly games of canasta and playing bingo. As her health declined she moved to Stettler Heritage House in March of 2010. She enjoyed her time at Heritage House and the staff did an amazing job of having activities for the residents which Anne always took part in. Then as the Province restructured their extended care system she was found to be in too good of health to be there and was moved to Points West in July of 2013. This was a very hard move for her and was not comfortable in this new setting.

Anne will be lovingly remembered by her family Linda (Len) Day and their children Joel (Sheila) and Reid (Teri), Gordon (Ann) Johnson, Adreyan and Amy, Gail (David) Taylor and their children Megan and Robert, Roger (Dona) Johnson and Roger’s children Brenda (Mark Gross) Jayden and Devin, Cindy (Todd) Lorenz, Ashley and Logan, sister Cecelia Simkin, sisters-in-law Sylvia Wiechnik and Catherine Wiechnik.

Anne was predeceased by her parents Jacob and Antonina Wiechnik, her husband Elmer in 1984 and her brothers Ed, John, Joe, Tom, Leonard and sister Phyllis as well as her sisters-in-law Ethel Noble and her husband Jim and Mable Nichol and her husband Ross.

Funeral services to honor Anne were held at Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta on Thursday, April 16, 2015 with Reverend Susan Bowyer officiating. The UCW prepared and served a lovely lunch following the service. Memorial donations may be made to Knox United Church in Consort in care of Parkview Funeral Chapels, Box 186 Castor, Alberta T0C 0X0, 403-882-3141. To send or view condolences to Anne’s family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com

Tribute

One of the fondest memories about Mom was what a wonderful cook she was. She enjoyed cooking and it brought her pleasure as well as being a way she showed love to those around her. She had the ability to make a plain weeknight meal taste great. And it was always a balanced meal. She really did like vegetables at one time even though I don’t think one has crossed her lips for some time now.

I remember getting off the bus after school and coming home to the smell of fresh warm buns and cinnamon buns. She made the lightest, fluffiest, tastiest buns I have ever had. She enjoyed canning food and her canned peaches were the best. Food was always important in the Johnson home. Mom was asked recently what her favorite meal was. Her reply – steak . . . and flapper pie. Linda has learned the art of cooking well and recently brought Mom a piece of her favorite flapper pie. Another of Anne’s favorites was a vanilla milkshake and she would enjoy it as a treat when someone brought her one in the lodge. Even before supper!

She was very involved in her community and would often take food over for events at the hall and as kids we remember her preparing the food and wanting to keep those delicious goodies for ourselves. She was a great baker and used to make Chiffon Cakes for bake sales. She would make an angel food from scratch like it was simple as anything. And if any of you have ever tried, I can tell you it is not simple as anything.

She loved to offer people food and even during her stays in the lodge and continuing care would offer visitors whatever she had . . . ginger ale, candies, chocolates, the cookies she had won playing bingo. I remember her feeling badly when she didn’t have anything tasty to offer Megan and Robert when they came to visit.

Mom and Dad enjoyed playing cards and dancing in the early years and would often have card parties and square dancing with friends Tony and Katy Sieben in the kitchen on a Saturday night.

In her late 50s Anne broke her hip and it might have been while she was dancing in Monitor or a few days later when she fell off a sidewalk and it really broke. It needed surgery in Edmonton and took three surgeries and lots of physiotherapy before it was right again. Amazingly that hip has lasted her all these years.

While she was in hospital in Edmonton she enjoyed all the activities they had to offer. She joked that they offered her a job there as their social activities coordinator. A job I am sure she would have loved.

To say Mom was particular would be accurate. Even right until the end she knew what she wanted and what she didn’t. Don’t mess with her bed or move her things around. She wanted them a certain way. This served her well throughout her life though as she always made sure she was well turned out and her family was well dressed. Linda remembers having a new outfit for Church on Easter Sunday. A dress and at times even a new hat. Clothes were always immaculate and well pressed. She perfected the art of ironing and I think even enjoyed it. She had lots of practice ironing Elmer’s dress shirts for work every day. And Linda would always make sure Mom’s pants had the crease in them just as she liked.

Linda and Len had been visiting Mom on Good Friday and Teri had asked Linda what she should wear to Church on Easter Sunday. Linda decided it would be a good idea to ask Mom her opinion. Mom replied . . . a dress. Linda tried to joke with her a bit and said . . . jeans . . . Mom said No . . . Linda said pants . . . Mom said no . . . a dress. She was traditional.

There were always pets in the Johnson home but Mom was never very fond of them. She may have softened a bit in recent years though. Megan and Robert brought their dog Louie in to see her . . . one of the nurses asked Mom if she liked dogs. Mom’s reply was. . . I like THAT one. She knew what she liked and what she didn’t.

To say Mom was a home body would almost be an understatement. Mom was happiest being at home and running after her family. That was where she seemed most content. Travelling was never something that was important to her. I don’t think she ever would have ventured on an airplane had it not been for Gordon’s boating accident.

Even though she preferred to be at home, the family enjoyed camping and fishing with many trips to Muriel and Moose Lake. One trip Anne would often talk about was when they ordered a car from the factory in Oshawa, Ontario. They took the train to Ontario and she remembers Roger falling asleep and hitting the bell for the porter to come. This was a fond memory of hers. Once the family purchased a motor home many other trips followed to B.C., the Yukon, and Expo.

Retirement was not an easy state for her and it seemed like she almost felt a bit lost. She worried about her family. When everyone was safely at home her mind was at ease. Within the last couple of weeks I asked her what she felt her greatest accomplishment in life was. Her reply was . . . raising my family.

With Easter approaching she told us she wanted company, she wanted to see her family and in essence the fruits of her labor.

Small things in life brought her pleasure right until recent weeks . . . having her nails painted . . . sips of ginger ale . . . and fresh flowers.

Lawrence Wayne Liknes

June 20, 1949-April 10, 2015

Lawrence Wayne Liknes was born in Consort, Alberta June 20, 1949, and passed away April 10, 2015 at Coronation Hospital and Care Centre, Coronation, Alberta at the age of 65 years.

Laurie was the first of three sons born to Leonard and Marion Liknes. He grew up in Monitor and attended school there, as well as in Consort and Altario, where he graduated. He was known as being very mechanically-minded and helped his dad in the service station in Monitor until it burned down in 1967.

Following high school, Laurie spent a winter in Victoria, British Columbia, which he really enjoyed. Throughout his life, Victoria was always a favorite place of his and he travelled there many times. Despite failing health, he was able to make a final trip to Victoria late November of 2014, which he enjoyed immensely.

Laurie had a strong faith in the Lord, and he knew he would be at peace and would reunite with his family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Leonard and Marion, in 2002 and 2008, and by his brother, Richard, February 25, 2014.

Laurie will be lovingly missed and remembered by his brother, Terry (Cathy); nephew, Trevor (Breanne); nieces, Lesley and Kayli; and many relatives and friends. Rest peacefully, Laurie.

Funeral services were held Saturday, April 18, 2015 at Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alberta with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Congregational hymns (chosen by Laurie) were “The Old Rugged Cross”, “Mansion Over the Hilltop” and “What a Day That Will Be”, accompanied by Pat Durksen and Carolyn Devereux. Words of Remembrance were given by Bob Murphy. Pallbearers were Stan Weiss, Ken Dykstra, Denis Wiechnik, Rick Strankman, Ron Bosh, and Larry Parkin. Honorary pallbearers were all who shared in Laurie’s life. Following the service, lunch was served by the Veteran Full Gospel Church ladies. Interment was at Monitor Cemetery. Gregory’s Funeral Home of Provost was in charge of arrangements.

Memories of Laurie Liknes

By Bob Murphy

My cousin Laurie has always been very carefree. Laurie had a few girls whom he showed some interest in, but he never found one he liked enough to trade his freedom for.

Back when Laurie and I were entering the work force, most people found an occupation and clung to it until retirement. Laurie would fit better with the present generation, where most workers are likely to have 6 or 7 jobs before retirement.

I can recall Laurie doing these things to make a buck:

– Selling agricultural

machinery

– Selling used pipe

– Dealing in used cars

– Driving a school bus

– Purchasing a stretch

limousine and operating it

for a few years.

Laurie was a truck driver hauling oil, cattle, water, gravel, hay, grain and other commodities. He owned a skid steer loader for a few years and operated a small paving company. He worked construction for a time operating many earth-moving machines. He worked in a service station in Victoria, B.C. pumping gas and fixing cars.

Laurie always had a good sense of humor. He seemed to have no sense of fear and would try anything once.

Laurie was mechanical and loved machinery. He believed that anything that needed doing could be done with a machine.

Laurie could never see any reason why he should walk where he could drive.

By the time computers were invented, Laurie’s patience had been all used up. He couldn’t take the time to figure out how to run one of them.

Interests other than work that Laurie pursued were:

– Playing guitar and singing

country music

– Square dancing

– He was an avid reader

– He loved flying small aircraft. In spite of his hatred for school he even took flying lessons for a time while he was in Victoria.

– He enjoyed fishing

In the 1970’s, Laurie decided to try drinking Canada dry.

In the 1980’s, he decided drinking wasn’t for him and he joined AA. Laurie quit smoking about the same time he quit drinking. He told me quitting drinking was hard, but not nearly as hard as quitting smoking. Laurie has been a committed member of AA for 23 years.

When Laurie and I were children, the Liknes and Murphy families spent a lot of time together. At least once a week our parents would get together to play cards. Almost all our holidays were spent together. At times it seemed that we were one big family – Leonard, Marion, Laurie, Rick, Terry, Joe, Emelia, Lynn, Bob, Frank and John.

Here are some recollections from our early years.

Skating down Sounding Creek in the winter and boating down the same creek in the spring in a little plywood boat that Laurie’s dad had made.

I recall Laurie falling through the ice at Uncle Joseph’s. Laurie went running toward the house, wet to his knees and his boots full of water. Lynn and I chased and caught him, convincing him to come to the south side of the barn with us so he could dry out in the sun, rather than face the music, if it were found out that we had been playing on the ice.

I remember playing “Knock Down Ginger” in Monitor. We had sent Laurie to knock on one of the neighbour’s doors. He was hastily retreating before they could answer the knock, when he ran full speed into a barbed wire fence. He was screaming loudly and heading for home leaving a trail of blood. Lynn and I were in hot pursuit trying to catch him before our parents found out about our shenanigans. Had we caught him, I am sure Lynn and I would have probably sat on him until he bled to death. Luckily he was faster than us and he got to the safety of his mother who took him to Dr. Knight in Consort to be sewn up.

I remember my sister Lynn, Laurie and I sitting in Leonard’s 1956 Mercury. Laurie had found some cigarette papers. The three of us emptied the car’s ashtray. We rolled cigarettes using the best unburnt tobacco from the butts. I guess Lynn and I have to take some of the blame for Laurie’s smoking habit. But he had to quit by himself, there was no help from us.

I think Laurie has always had some lung problems. I don’t think all his lung issues were caused from smoking, but surely smoking didn’t help.

In the past few years, Laurie has been forced to quit strenuous work due to poor health.

Since his forced retirement, Laurie has spent five winters in Arizona in the same trailer park that Lynn and Herb and Rosemary and I are in.

He’s been on an Alaskan cruise.

He’s been to the Grand Ole Opry.

He’s toured the Boeing factory in Seattle.

And he found his one true love – a Mustang convertible.

Although Laurie never married or had children of his own, he has always belonged to a large and caring family. He had a wonderful mother and father, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, and many friends.

Laurie has been extremely lucky to have Terry and Cathy. They have always been very good to Laurie and they have taken care of him through his many traumatic health issues during the past months.

I don’t think it is possible to sum up a life of 65 years into a few short paragraphs. We will all leave here today with memories we have of Laurie, memories of fishing, hunting, memories of games we have played, laughs we have shared, work we have done together. It’s these memories that make a life worthwhile.

Last fall Laurie asked me if I would write his eulogy. Many memories of times the Likneses and the Murphys have spent together have occupied my mind since Laurie made his request. I have spent much more time laughing than crying, reliving the past, and it has been good therapy.

To quote the poet Robert Service:

“A friend’s last need is a thing to heed and I swore I would not fail.”

There, Laurie, I have done my best. Thanks for the memories! We will miss you!

Thank You

We sincerely thank everyone for your caring and thoughtfulness during this sad time. Laurie’s struggles were many, with the past year and a half being especially difficult. To each one who expressed a kind word, extended friendship and support, please know he did truly appreciate it. He was very grateful for every visit and phone call.

Thank you to all who expressed condolences and visited us. Thank you for the food, flowers, cards, and donations in Laurie’s memory.

Thank you to Gregory’s Funeral Home for providing excellent professional services with caring and compassion.

Thank you, Pastor Darrel, for being there for Laurie, and for us, and for delivering a comforting message and tribute to Laurie. Thank you, Carolyn and Pat, for the music at the service. Thank you, Bob, for the wonderful memories; thank you, Clay, for your technical expertise; thank you to the pallbearers, and thank you to the Veteran Full Gospel Church ladies for the wonderful lunch.

A sincere thank you to Drs. Usher and McConnell; and to Drs. O’Riordan, Thompson and McKenzie and all the staff at Coronation Health Centre for your care of Laurie throughout his many stays with you, and for your care of us.

To the Tony Roma’s group – thank you! Although Laurie’s appointments were not something any of us would choose to go through, they did provide the opportunity for some great visits. We know the timing wasn’t always convenient, so those get-togethers are very cherished. We are grateful to Laurie for organizing those “dinner dates.”

Sincerely,

Terry, Cathy

Lesley, Trevor, and Breanne

LeRoy Knudson

July 1, 1919-April 17, 2015

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of LeRoy Knudson on April 17, 2015 in Oyama, B.C. at the age of 95 years.

Born in Consort, Alberta, LeRoy was the second son of Roy and Martha Knudson. He spent his adult life working alongside his father Roy on the family farm and pursuing his enduring love of designing and constructing his various inventions. LeRoy met and married Jean Racknor in 1957 and together they raised their two children Karen and Reg, in the very house he was born. In later years when he no longer farmed, he continued to invent and create after ‘retirement’, a word LeRoy never really understood. Jean and LeRoy moved to Kelowna, B.C. in 2001 to be closer to Karen, son-in-law Ben, and granddaughter Emily. He continued to be productive even after moving to the city, creating smaller projects; always finding a way to be active, even into his nineties. LeRoy and Jean moved in 2007 to Oyama to share a home with Karen, Ben, and Emily. Friendly neighbors who marveled at his energy would often joke about how LeRoy might be counted on to help out with their yard work. His response was to fashion a snow plow out of his scooter as well as various other yard work machines and gadgets. His drive and creativity were an inspiration to everyone around him. He showed by example the value of hard work and to always do what you love. His quiet wry humor and gentle soul will be missed by all who knew him.

LeRoy was predeceased by his parents Roy and Martha Knudson, son Reg Knudson, siblings Warren Carlyle, Louise Kroker, Walter ‘Bud’ Knudson, and Joyce Hayworth.

LeRoy is survived by his loving wife Jean, daughter Karen, son-in-law Ben, and granddaughter Emily, all of Oyama, B.C., sister-in-law Joyce Knudson, six nieces and three nephews, and several cousins.

At LeRoy’s request there will be no funeral service.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com, 250-860-7077.

Ray Schiltroth

Nov. 28, 1951-April 12, 2015

Ray Schiltroth was born November 28, 1951 at Tisdale, Saskatchewan, and passed away April 12, 2015 at Red Deer, Alberta.

Ray will be lovingly remembered by his wife Ruth, son Dan (Lisa), daughter Karen, son Mike, his mother Mae, sister Debbie (Don) and family, brothers Bill (Shirley), Gerry (Carol) and families.

A memorial service was held April 17, 2015 at the Sheraton Hotel in Red Deer, Alberta with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Tributes were given by Dan Schiltroth, Don Lane and Grant Carl. Recorded musical selections were “Pancho & Lefty” by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard and “Let It Be” by The Beatles. An Honor Guard was formed by Glen Young, Glenn Hughes, Peter Hansen, Hughie Furber, Garth Gress, Gary Long, Tim Smawley and Shane Wiltse. Following the service, a luncheon was served.

THE STORY OF RAY

Ray was born in Tisdale, Saskatchewan and spent his early years on the farm with his parents Mae and Russ, his two grandmas Mary and Ruth, his big brothers Bill and Gerry, and his little sister Debbie. Ray started school on the prairie in a little one room schoolhouse, continued his lessons first at the kitchen table in the bush camp where his dad was working, later in the big city of Edmonton and finally taking high school in Fort McMurray, Alberta where his story really begins…….and where he meets his wife!

Ray loved high school. Not the schooling so much, but the social experience where he really shone. Having spent a significant portion of daily class time catching up on his sleep – he was always refreshed and game for whatever ‘extra-curricular’ activities were on offer…….especially – riding in cars. Saturday night in Fort McMurray in 1968 was much like a scene from the classic movie ‘American Graffiti’ with every teenager in town packed into the few vehicles available to them, driving up and down main street, casually acknowledging one another as they passed………again, and again….and again. One of Ray’s finest high school moments was purchasing his first car for $50, a ‘54 Ford from a friend of his brother Gerry, with the front seat held up by a block of wood and only the driver door working. Those were golden days and even then – Ray loved Fords.

Ray met Ruth in high-school when they were a mere 16 years old and they have been … virtually inseparable …. ever since. Starting their family young, they had Dan and Karen within two years of marrying and had their ‘life plan’ all set. They would raise their children, be done parenting by forty, liquidate all their assets and spend their lives roaming around Europe and living each day as it came. It’s not hard to tell they were married at nineteen and just a tad naive about life… Ten years into the first scenario Mike arrived, the world got even brighter, and ‘Life Plan B’ was initiated.

As a family, we spent the next years, travelling with school sports, family ski or snowmobile trips in winter and camping, fishing and kids baseball in the summer. Grandparents lived close at that time so some adult motorcycle trips, fishing with Ray’s high school buddies and brief getaways for Ray & Ruth were in the mix, especially quick trips to Vegas with Deb and Don. These were good family times ….. and Ray was driving a Ford.

During this period of time the family moved around a bit. From Fort McMurray where Ray had worked for GCOS, owned Little Oak Landscaping with his brother Bill and then worked for Young Motors, to St. Paul where he worked for Zarowny Motors and we met our lifelong friends Judy and Gary. Then finally in 1987, to the Village of Consort in Alberta…….and guess what was for sale there……that’s right…….a Ford Dealership!

Well, before we knew it, we had our belongings loaded into Terry Crisps’ new farm truck and we were on our way. Consort was a new experience for us, the rural life fosters a closeness and caring on a community level that clearly had a huge impact on who we became while under that influence and where we met more lifelong friends Garth and Sandy.

Ray loved living in Consort, he was surrounded by a loving family and good friends with similar interests to golf, fish, and play poker with on Monday nights. And of course, he could surround himself with Fords! ………. and people who liked Fords ……. and people who bought Fords! ….. and this he did for 27 years.

Ray had the best role model in the world for making ‘life decisions’, whenever he was at a moral or ethical crossroad his ‘go to’ mantra was always “what would Dad do?” and the answer was immediately clearer. mily First” was a way of life for Ray and his dedication and love will make him always be remembered by us as “Our Knight In Shining Armor”.

We leave you with a few of the many things that brought joy into Ray’s world:

– His mother

– Golfing the ‘Old Course’ at St. Andrews

– Camping with Karen and watching her finish her hike of the Grand Canyon

– Fishing trips with Dan & Mike

– Fishing trips to Kelly’s cabin with the DF’s

– Doing ‘anything’ with Glen, Glenn, Peter and Hughie, especially fishing!

– Being in the same room with Shane & Laura’s girls Mya & Lila

– Holidaying with Garth & Sandi

– Having real and honest conversations with Don

– Listening to Gary play guitar

– Willy

– Travelling Europe

– Any part of Italy, but especially Positano

……… and most of all, loving and being loved by his wife Ruth.

Tribute by Don Lane

I met Ray 30 years ago when I married his sister Debbie. A couple years later he bought Pioneer Ford in Consort and he became my vehicle provider. He said he gave me the ‘brother in law’ deal. After every purchase or lease of a new vehicle Ray and Ruth went on a nice trip. They said it was just a coincidence.

Over the past 30 years I have felt very fortunate to know Ray. We became great friends. Ray was honest, thoughtful and had great work ethic. I had great admiration for him because he had immense pride, integrity and principles, which he lived by. He also could be stubborn and his temper could get the best of him especially on the golf course.

Bill and Shirley, Jerry and Carol you have lost a good brother. You will remember him for all the stories that were shared at family gatherings and your personal experiences with him. Debbie and Ray had a special bond. Ray was the measuring stick Deb used to judge other men. I was never jealous because I figured that was a pretty good measuring stick. Whenever Deb would disagree with the way I was doing something, I would say “I know that’s not how Ray would do it but it will work out okay”. Rays passing has left a huge void for Deb and I, as it has for everyone who knew and loved him, but we have so many great memories of such fun and laughter and those are the times we will remember.

Ray had so much love and respect for Russ and Mae and they thought the world of him. Up until Ray got sick, Deb was the golden child in the family. From that point on Ray was the new golden child. Whenever Ray and Ruth came to visit Mae, there would be goodies put out and almost always a bowl of chocolate covered almonds on the table. If you took some, Mae would say don’t eat those I bought them for Ray.

Daniel, Lisa, Karen and Michael, when it comes to parents and mentors you are very fortunate. I know how much you loved and respected your Ray. He loved you all and was so proud of you.

The one on one trips and adventures with your dad such as Karen’s camping in the Grand Canyon and Dan and Mikes fishing trip meant so much to Ray. In future I hope you draw on those memories to get you through a tough day.

Ray and Ruth were so good for each other and what they accomplished as a couple. They got to experience so much in their travels and adventures. They were obviously meant for each other. The one thing that stood out was their mutual respect for each other. I knew Ray pretty well and I think he would agree with me when I tell you Ruth how grateful Ray was for your love, caring, strength, compassion, understanding and dedication to him. So, on behalf of Rays friends, the Schiltroth family and especially Ray. Thank you Ruth.

Tribute by Dan Schiltroth

Thank you all for being here.

I know that’s just what you say on a day like today, but please know that it’s more than that. You haven’t just attended Dad’s memorial. You have come and taken a little piece of sadness and said, ‘Here, let me carry this for you’. It may seem simple, but it’s a caring, selfless gesture that all of us here are offering to one another, and the special nature of that can’t be overstated.

I wrote a speech for today. It talked about what kind of father Dad was, and husband, and friend, and man. And it was great. And I threw it away.

– I know what a caring father he was. And so do Karen, and Mike, and Lisa.

– And Mom knows what a devoted, loving husband he was.

– And the men in the front row know what a loyal friend he was.

– And all of you here know what kind of man he was.

As much as those sentiments are wonderful, they seem to emphasize our loss, and that is not what I wanted to accomplish here today. I wanted instead to use those same points to highlight our good fortune for having had him in our lives. So I wrote another speech, and was far more celebratory of Dad’s life. It talked about how everything he taught us and the gifts he gave of himself, to us, are ours to keep forever. And therefore, he will never actually really be gone.

And that speech was even better. And I threw that one away, too.

I realized that regardless of all the things I could talk about, what I really wanted to express could be condensed down into one single sentiment. It’s a thought that gives me comfort, and leaves me at peace when I look back at Dad’s life. I want to share that sentiment with you in hopes that it provides you with the same sense of peace.

And it is this……

Imagine for me, that we were here today to say goodbye to Dad, just as we are, but that Dad had lived to be 100 years old. We would still be sad of course, because we would still miss him. However, far more powerful than that would be a sense of contentment, and comfort, that would come from the knowledge that someone we cared about had received 100 years worth of Love in his life.

I want you all to picture Dad in your minds.

– on the golf course (to Don)

– in a fishing boat (to Mike)

– on a snowmobile (to Glen, Peter, Hughie)

– in Italy (to Mom)

– growing up on the family farm (to Mae, Bill, Gerry, Deb)

– asleep on the couch (to Karen)

– wherever (to all)

Can you see him? Now, take him and wrap him up in 100 years worth of Love, caring, compassion, pride, joy and happiness. Wrap him up in that tight, and maybe tuck it under his chin.

Can you see him? Is he smiling? How does that make you feel? I know it makes me feel – Good.

I want you to hang on to that, and take it with you when you leave here today. And whenever we think of Dad, whenever we speak of him, from today until forever, we can each call upon that thought, and take comfort in it, and nurture the hope that we will all be so lucky.

So friends, it’s OK to be sad, and it’s OK to miss him, but more importantly, remember to be glad for him, too.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, and let me correct you….

My Dad absolutely DID receive 100 years worth of Love, and caring, and compassion, and pride, and joy, and happiness in his life.

It’s just that my mother was able to give that to him in only 63.

Thank you, Mom. For that is the greatest gift you will ever give our family. And now it’s our turn to give that gift back to you.

Thank you all for being here.

Tribute by Grant Carl

It is an honor and a privilege to have been asked by Ruth and the family to say a few words about the Ray we all knew and respected. But, it has been a greater honor and privilege to have had Ray as a friend.

It was 1987 when Ray and Ruth moved their family to Consort and purchased the Ford dealership in town. This began their 27 plus years relationship with our community. Of course the usual buzz went around town about the NEW guy … where was he from, what did he have for a family, and what kind of fellow was he? My first recollection of Ray was what a great guy he was, down to earth and a straight-shooter. He was just a likeable fellow. Not quite what I had pictured of a used car salesman!! But, as I got to know Ray better over the years he was everything I initially thought plus a whole lot more.

He was first and foremost a great family man. I don’t believe I have ever witnessed a couple more devoted to each other. Still totally in love with each other now as they have been for the 47 years they have been together. They completed each other. And from this love, they have raised 3 amazing children: Dan, Karen, and Mike. I was always impressed at how Ray could just say the right thing to his kids to teach them a valuable life lesson, or to just steer them in the right direction. He did it with love and respect for the individuals that you are. He was so evidently proud of each of you for the incredible adults that you have become. His family was the most important thing in the world to Ray.

Ray, the business man. Ray was an astute and creative businessman. Together with Ruth they hand in hand ran a very successful business for 27 years. He was always thinking of a new angle, a better way to present the business, and improve the customer experience. When I dealt with Ray, he made me feel that I mattered to him as a person, not just a sale for the business. He tried a satellite dealership in another community; a showroom on main street; one fall they hosted a gala event at the Sportex introducing the new vehicle lineup for the coming year complete with champagne, although I’m pretty sure that was Ruth’s idea; these are just a few innovative ventures he experimented with to expand the business. And in typical Ray fashion, when the business closed in 2014, it was his employees and the community that Ray was concerned about. Pioneer Ford was an intregal cornerstone of Consort’s business community.

Which brings us to Ray and the community. A number of years ago there was no Board of Trade or Chamber of Commerce in Consort. Ray recognized that this was a critical need for the village and he spearheaded the formation of the new Chamber of Commerce. He worked tirelessly to get it off the ground and continued to be a driving force in its infant years. Ray just “got it”. He also donated his time to sit on the medical center board for a number of years. So dedicated to the medical community’s needs he also drove for meals on wheels. Whenever Ray was approached about donations for community events and fundraisers he was there to answer the call. Whether it was to run the bar for the Chamber party, organize or help with a work bee at the golf course, come & run the concession at the ballpark so the parents could watch their kids in the provincial baseball final, or to provide a financial donation, Ray was there. He donated often and abundantly. A generous man with a big heart.

Ray, the driver. Although it was cars and trucks where Ray made his livelihood, outside of work they maybe weren’t always his best friend. Although I’m sure many of you have heard these tales, I would be remiss if I didn’t share a couple of them with you today. There was the time he went to Calgary to bring back a new white Explorer for Terry Poulton on a car trailer. So there he was on Hwy 2, motoring along when the trailer started to sway. He lost control and the Explorer and trailer hit the ditch and were smashed up. He had totaled the Explorer even before Terry had a chance to do it himself! And then the incident when Ray and Ruth were in Edmonton and Ray had picked up a truck load of plywood for some project he was working on. They had just pulled onto the high level bridge and he gave the truck a little gas and every sheet of plywood went sailing out of the back of that truck like cards being dealt from a pro dealer in a Vegas casino. Then they were serenaded by horns honking all around while they picked up the debris. Or how about the time Dan came home late one evening after, how shall I say this, socializing with friends, and he parked in the driveway. Ray got up in the morning and on his way out promptly backed into the side of Dan’s truck. But then he continued on to work thinking he would tell Dan when he saw him. Well, Dan arrived at work quite distraught, pleading his case to Ray, that it must have happened at his friends ’cause he was sure he hadn’t caused the damage. Ray let him sweat for a bit before finally telling him to relax, as it was indeed Ray himself that had done the damage! Or my personal favorite, is the time they pulled up to the front doors of the Red Deer Lodge, got out their luggage, went to the front desk and checked in. After check in they went up to their room, settled in, relaxed and went to bed. About 3 in the morning they were rudely awakened by a phone call from the front desk inquiring as to the make and model of the vehicle he owned. When Ray told them what he was driving they said, ‘perhaps you could come down and move it’. It was still outside the front doors, keys in the ignition, engine running, lights on and all the doors wide open!! This could only happen to Ray!!

Ray had many interests: He loved his golf and his game could best be described as inconsistent. He was ecstatic when he shot a 36 on the first nine at Gooseberry Lake, only to go out and follow it with a 63 on the second nine. Only Ray. He enjoyed curling for many years and had lots of fun with buddies during Oilmen bonspiels each year. He was an avid woodworker and was very meticulous with every project he undertook. Being a woodworker myself, I was somewhat envious of Ray’s workshop out in the garage … pretty well the best of everything. Ray also loved his Monday night cards but maybe not as much as the guys loved having Ray there to be a part of their Monday night crew. When playing cards, everyone has a TELL of some description. In the game 3-3-3 if Ray was standing pat and raising from the get-go, he was usually bluffing. And everyone knew it! It was always more fun when Ray was there and we will miss the comradery we shared.

Ray also relished every opportunity to go camping, while maybe Ruth was more into RVing. Ray was most comfortable while cooking a steak on the BBQ, a refreshment in his hand with family and friends sitting in the lawn chairs beside him. They enjoyed many hours with family and friends at their beautiful lot on Gleniffer Lake resorts.

We all know the long and courageous medical battle Ray has fought. He faced it with dignity, grit and an unequaled determination, and not once did I ever hear him complain. He dearly loved his family, he loved life, and fought for that life until the very end. And there again, that was Ray. I imagine Ray, you are sitting in a lawn chair by the camper, BBQ going, drink in hand, and a peaceful smile on your face. Godspeed my friend, we will all miss you.

Card of Thanks

Heartfelt thanks go out to all our dear friends and family for joining us in Red Deer to say goodbye to Ray. Your presence brought us unimaginable comfort which will always be remembered. Gratitude to Pastor Darrel Durksen for being there for us and putting our hearts into words so beautifully. For all the cards, flowers, donations, food, hugs and caring we thank you all.

Ruth, Dan, Karen, Mike

and Lisa

John Hugh Polson

Nov. 30, 1924 – May 6, 2015

John Hugh Polson was born in Consort on November 30, 1924 at the Consort Hospital, to Annie and Jack Polson. His formative years were spent on the family farm, attending Whitton School with his friends and siblings, Robert, Margaret, Helen and Roger. Dad loved horses and he had some favourite horses, like Trixie. He also loved one of the fastest teams of horses he ever had that would take them to school in Consort. He could get from home to Consort in 25 minutes flat, cutting across the fields and ending up at Tainsh’s!

John’s dad told him that he needed to get a trade and he headed off to Tech in Calgary, graduating as a machinist. It was in Calgary that he met Shirley Frost, who would become his wife on October 2, 1949. John and Shirley made their home in Calgary in the early years of their marriage, and they had two children, Douglas Neil in 1953 and Debra Lynn in 1957. In 1959, John’s brother Robert helped Dad to create Consort Machine Shop, first on the site on the Denny’s garage, the current Day’s Tire Shop. They built Consort Machine Shop on its current site in 1963, and Dad was never more proud to see three generations of machinists, and to be able to know that Neil took over the business when he retired.

John was widowed in 1977 following a tragic accident that took Shirley and Robert. But as life paths go, John was the luckiest man alive to be introduced to Emelia Osetsky and she became his wife on Feb. 15, 1979. Over 36 years, they enjoyed the company of friends and family as they pursued their hobbies – golf, fishing, and travelling, old-time dances and watching their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow. John lived a long and full life, enjoying good health until his passing.

Predeceased by his parents Annie and John; first wife Shirley; sister Margaret (Gordon) Rutledge; brothers Robert, Roger, and Jim (Edith); brother in law Art Spencer; mother and father in law Myrtle and Philip Frost; John is lovingly remembered by his wife Emelia; children Neil (Sandra) Polson of Consort, Debbie (Stuart) Russell of Calgary; Emelia’s children Bob (Roxanne) Osetsky of Coronation, Leanne (Donald) McLean of Coronation; sister Helen Spencer of Consort; and sister in law Jean Polson of Lacombe as well as many other relatives and a host of many friends.

John passed away after a brief illness at the Coronation Hospital on May 6th in his 91st year, surrounded by the love of his family members present. Thank you to the nurses and Dr. Walters for the compassionate care.

A funeral service for the late Mr. John Polson was held on Friday, May 8, 2015 in the Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta with Reverend Susan Bowyer officiating. Loving tributes were presented by Debbie Russell and Leanne McLean. Linda Kneeland, Charlotte and Pat Gilmer, Marvel and Ralph Jorgenson and the Knox United Church Choir shared their gifts of music with selections How Great Thou Art, The Old Rugged Cross, Sentimental Journey and Gone Home. Following the service family and friends joined together for a time of sharing memories with a luncheon prepared and served by the Knox U.C.W. Robert Polson, Russell Polson, Graham Russell, Matt Collett, Steven McLean, Ted Osetsky and Cody McKibbon served as pallbearers as John was laid to rest in the Lake Road Cemetery, Consort, Alberta. Donations in memory of John may be made to Consort & District Senior’s Association in care of Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium, Box 186, Castor, Alberta T0C 0X0, who were entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. To send condolences to the family please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com

Tribute by Debbie Russell

Thank you so much for joining us this afternoon to remember our Dad, John Polson. On behalf of our large family, we thank you for honouring him and for your support of Emelia and all of us during this emotional time.

Thank you also to all who are participating in this service with their gift of music.

As with most lives well lived, it was very challenging to summarize in a few minutes what this unique man meant to us. He had so many roles – brother, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, uncle, friend, neighbour, and active community member. Each of you had a connection with John or Johnnie as many of you called him, and each of you will have your own favourite memories that stand out. Over the past few days we have told some of the many stories that will stay in our hearts forever, and individually we have also quietly reflected upon the many ways we have been touched by his presence in our lives. During the lunch that follows this service, we look forward to hearing some of your fond stories about this remarkable man.

Dad was born November 30,1924 at the Consort Hospital, one of the many babies delivered by Doc Day and Auntie May, as that nurse was known. From his humble roots, he created an amazing life. He was raised in Consort on the family farm that is now the home of Neil and Sandra. He and his siblings, Robert, Margaret, Helen, Roger, were raised with solid values instilled by their parents, Annie and Jack. Some of those values were to be honest, kind, respectful, and to live a Christian life – and Helen, the only remaining sibling now, reminded us that they had to behave themselves – or they were in trouble! We think Dad applied that in his parenting ways too, and I am certain I was the better- behaved one, although Neil may beg to differ!

His hardy Scottish heritage kept him well for his 90+ years, fighting till the end, amazing the Doctor and nurses with his incredible strength of mind and will to live. Dad was a horseman and loved all his horses, but Trixie was his favourite! He might have been the original horse whisperer, as he could ride any horse. He attended the Whitton School, along with so many of the pioneers here and later he attended high school in Consort. Dad also loved Peggy and Chub; Peggy was a saddle horse and slower than molasses but once she was in the harness on the cutter, she was a racehorse! Helen would have to hop in the cutter before Dad finished hooking up Chub, as that team would just blast off, tearing across the fields, coming out by Tainsh’s in 25 minutes flat! During those early years he made lifelong friends. As family friends, the Polson’s and the Coulton’s spent so much time together that Bill was like a brother to Dad and all of his siblings, and we are honoured that Bill and Marion could be here today.

Those depression years of the 1930s meant hardships for many families, and Dad was shaped by those early experiences. He told us that his father, Jack Polson, told him he had to get a trade, and off he went to Tech along with many of his friends from Consort. Just 4 weeks ago, Dad was in Calgary for Easter, and able to show us the house where he boarded during that time, and where he met our mother, Shirley. The house is still standing and we loved Dad’s stories about those young adult years. During that weekend, Dad also had a wonderful visit with his cousins, Dave and Maxine Polson, once more sharing his memories about the dances that they attended, the adventures of Dad at Tech and Mom at Mount Royal College, meeting each other’s parents for the first time, and so on.

Mom and Dad were married October 2, 1949 and lived in Calgary for a few years, where Dad worked for Paragon Machine after graduating and drove taxi on the side. Neil and I were both born in Calgary, and after 11 years of city living, Dad longed for his prairie roots. His brother Rob helped Dad to create Consort Machine Shop in 1959, which was on the site of Denny’s garage down on the highway, and in 1963 he was able to build his own shop, with the help of a lot of friends. Dad ran a very successful business and he also went on to earn additional journeyman tickets as a welder, automotive mechanic, and heavy-duty mechanic. For 7 years he was the Case Dealer, even teaching Mom how to drive a Case 830 tractor so she could pull the Kinettes float in one of the parades. It always made him so proud to know that Neil and Russell have followed in his footsteps and are the finest of machinists and the business carries on today in the Polson name.

We lived with Wray Emmett in the Wheat Pool house during the first few years in Consort, as there were no other houses available in Consort. Wray, the bachelor, knew Rob, the bachelor, but he didn’t know Dad, but nevertheless he took us in for 5 years before Shannon built our house. Well, that brought two jokers together who became life long friends. Maybe that is where Dad mastered some of his better pranks, Wray? Wray quickly became family, and when he convinced Edie to marry him, then we were lucky enough to have both of them as family.

Dad repaid Wray’s generosity often, opening his home to others, like when Consort recruited their first Doctor from England – Dr. Edwards who lived with Mom and Dad for several months before a home came available. And in later years, he and Emelia had Dad’s nephew Charles Polson who lived and work with them. Charles and Dad spent their free time restoring the car that he fondly called his honeymoon car with suicide doors.

Dad was actively involved in the life of this community – both he and mom took on leadership roles in Kinsmen. Dad served as President of the Kinsmen and judging from the photos we saw earlier, this group of friends was a great source of fun and laughter amidst their service to others. The Kinsmen conventions have been the fodder for many life long friendships and the colourful stories we have heard have made some of our teenage antics look tame by comparison!

Dad and Mom were also active in the Anglican Church and Rev. Bowyer was our minister during those years, so it is so fitting that Rev. Susan Bowyer is conducting today’s service – there could be no other to do so. Thank you, Susan.

Dad also served as the Mayor of Consort for some 16 years – and for those of you who have done those volunteer roles you know that politics, at any level, can have its challenges, but Dad managed them well. He believed in democracy and took his civic duty seriously – when he woke up early on Tuesday he reminded all of us that it was election day, and that we needed to get out and vote. One of the great things was that he was able to cast his last vote at the hospital, and he asked all day about the results. We gave him the results as they were coming in and while he would never let on whom he voted for, it seemed like his blood pressure went up sharply for the first time in 3 days with the results!

He believed in being part of the community, whether that was building playgrounds, organizing race meets, saddling up his horse to be the Parade Marshall, or maintaining the water pumps with Herman at the golf course. His leadership style was quiet, focused on doing and action, not just talking about what you might do. The word “I” was not one he used, he always said WE did that. He loved curling in those early years and he helped to raise funds in order to rebuild the arena and curling rink here in town after both burned down.

He was always a hard worker, whether it was building a life for his family through his business or building the community he had loved since birth. His sharp mind meant he could fix absolutely anything and build anything. Dad rarely took a break but two holidays stand out – travelling out to Victoria, where we eventually ended up in Campbell River to meet with their good friends Dave and Rosemary Proctor, whom he worked with at Paragon Machine in Calgary. While there he, Neil, and Dave took two of Dave’s cars – a 23 Dodge and a 27 Studebaker and drove them in the Easter Parade in Vancouver. Then there was that trip to Cypress Hills – with that 67 Dodge. I don’t have the mechanical mind of Neil and Dad, but something went wonky and the car couldn’t go up hills unless it was backing up the hills! So we backed up MANY hills on that trip! Later, he and Mom began to travel enjoying Hawaii and Las Vegas, with Elwood and Yvonne Williams. My last family vacation with them was in England, meeting Mom’s relatives, and once more there is a car story – Dad and I went to pick up the rental car at the airport, and it was the first time Dad and I had seen a roundabout, well, we went around and around for about 40 minutes before we figured out how to exit that darn thing! But it didn’t take long for Dad to master driving on the wrong side of the road, winging his way through those circles, and managing those narrow trails called roads over there! Dad loved driving, and was driving just last week before he fell ill, and judging from the mud on his truck he might have been doing a bit of springtime off-roading!

Tragedy struck Dad’s life in 1977 when we lost our mother, and his brother, Rob, in a car accident. But, fortunately he was blessed and lucky enough to have found love not just once in his life, but twice! Through his friends Vic and Len Shaffer, he got to meet Len’s sister, Emelia, one of the most loving, phenomenal woman any of us will ever meet. With Emelia, they balanced work and play, with Dad’s playful spirit coming out in spades. He and Emelia enjoyed running Consort Machine Shop together, taking holidays with friends, going south for the winters, camping and fishing with friends and family, catching the big ones in Dad’s 14 foot aluminum boat in some of the many lakes in Alberta, flying in a float plane to fish in the NWT when we lived in Yellowknife. And no matter where he fished, the fish stories grew bigger and bigger by the time we got around the campfire. Dad loved golfing, old fashioned dancing to the music out at Gilmer’s, and most of all, spending time watching his grandchildren grow. They joined in on many of the ball trips, hockey games, dance events, and their photos show the happiness and laughter that crossed multiple generations and hundreds of miles! They modeled for us how to be a wonderful blended family, Dad embraced Leanne and Donnie, and Bob and Roxanne, and every member of Emelia’s family became their family, and vice versa. Each of the grandchildren has only known Emelia and Dad as grandpa and grandma and Neil and I have been blessed to know Emelia longer than our own mother, and Leanne and Bob have also known John longer than they had their own father with them. Thank you to Bob and Roxanne and Leanne and Donnie for sharing your mother with us, and for loving Dad as only daughters and sons can.

Dad was famous for driving Old Faithful, his trusty Dodge truck on every back road within 100 miles of Consort, with his binoculars and camera by his side. He loved history, and he photographed so many homesteads and barns in our area, retelling the stories of who lived there, typing out the details on his typewriter and getting it into albums. And that camera probably kept him from getting shot at, because if he was stopped and asked what he was doing on their land, he would pull out the camera, smiling, and say “Do you mind if I take a photo of you on your homestead?” Always the diplomat!

He valued the pioneer spirit of the tough and hardy settlers that formed the backbone of this country. We will miss the “little drives” – especially chasing the infamous Albino Moose and how those 30 minute gravel runs would turn into 3 hour adventures, but most of all, we will miss his stories that taught us about what he valued, as people were always the centre of the stories.

His love of land and nature was clear – spotting geese in the autumn, feeding and watching his birds, enjoying the calving season, watching the crops grow. Combining season was one that brought him happiness and he could spend hours out on the combine or tractor. He loved the old fashioned threshing experience and thanks to Doug Fawcett he got to have some fun with that year after year!

Dad was a Dodge man through and through, and his vehicles all had names. He made an exception with his beloved, his 1924 Model T Ford and could tinker with it till it ran as perfectly today, as it did when it came from the factory. He was an excellent scavenger, too, and we have several antiques, and how would we say, items of curiosity that he dragged out of the dump and restored. He was a collector and we have all loved looking at his lighter collection, and hearing about who gave him which lighter, or where he and Emelia picked up each treasure. An appropriate collection for someone who was such a professional chain-smoker in the early years of his life!

We learned so much from him. There are many characteristics that describe the man, and one of those traits is that he avoided lots of attention and would not be happy with a long service today! Each of the family members had special lines and stories that they remember of Dad – he was fond of saying, “You’re a good kid”, his way of thanking us for doing something, including the nurses who cared for him over the past few days. It was very comforting for him to have his granddaughter Christie, as part of that nursing care team. How about his trademark fedora hat with the feather? Handsome, distinguished, classy, and Dianne mentioned yesterday that he looked like a movie star in those earlier days, almost a gangster look, and most recently in the Consort Enterprise we saw the photo of Dad with a touch of the Louisiana gambler thrown in! In later years he adopted a love of baseball caps – like that black Wells Fargo hat that seemed to be attached to his head. He loved playing cards, and going to the Drop In Centre was a highlight of his week. After the recent passing of Bud Knudson, Dad was the only guy at the Tuesday regular card games and the gals referred to him as The Lone Ranger, which he always got a kick out of. He had a famous two finger wave, barely lifting them from his steering wheel, as he passed a vehicle. Apparently his ability to flick the last drops of water out of his glass at anyone who was near was something his Dad did, and all of us have experienced those surprising drops! We will remember his laughter, his pranks, his ability to build the smartest mouse-trap – only his was for catching those pesky pocket gophers at the golf course; or the way he tickled the grandbabies and then managed the squeals of laughter and noise levels by turning down his hearing aid! He was an ace napper – professional in fact! He could catch a little snooze at the drop of a hat, a little trick he learned from his father after a long day of harvesting. He loved watching Matlock, Colombo, Murder She Wrote, helping them solve their mysteries and the sports channel. There would be no talking during a Blue Jays game or the Brier, and he was clearly in control of the remote – so much so that he could wake from one of his power naps clicking the channel even when it wasn’t in his hand! His wood working projects spanned 70 plus years and all of us who are lucky enough to have been the recipient of his handiwork will treasure those forever. While he could be the strong silent type, when he spoke there was always something worth listening to.

It was the simple things of life that brought him pleasure – teasing Emelia about her numerous flowering plants, yet he was the first to MacGyver a solution for her to cart her plants around the yard, being able to drive himself to his 90th birthday party, having his version of Schnapps at 4:00 p.m., making sure every Wednesday to drive down to pick up the mail, so he could read the Consort Enterprise from cover to cover, completing a Sudoku puzzle, playing a hand of hearts or Lamsie, or just keeping an eye on the comings and goings of Consort. From his spot on the couch he keep his eye on his neighbor Gordie Schetzsle’s coming and going, and if he didn’t catch him leaving, he would say “Darn, Gordie left again without telling me”. He was a trend-setter with his snappy suspenders and his fabulous tie collection, and he is going home today wearing his special knit tie that he bugged Emelia for some 30 years to make him! And each of our pallbearers and the men in the family today are wearing one of Dad’s ties. And Graham, who forgot his belt, is wearing a pair of his grandpa’s suspenders! He was always looking for trouble – was his middle name mischief? Even the last day he told the nurses that the purple bruises on his hand where they had taken blood were really marks from Emelia pinching him!

Dad was kind, loyal, intelligent, quiet, humble, inquisitive, a gentleman, who was much loved and respected. Everyone was comfortable in his presence and he comforted us just sitting next to him. He gave us comfort in good times and in bad, throughout all of life’s events. One example of that is how Jenna took comfort from Grandpa when she and Matt lost their twin boys. Dad left us on his terms, and while we thought we would lose him last September, he rallied back to enjoy another 8 months of good health. We often said he was better in the past months than he had been in the past couple of years. Quality of life was important to him and we are grateful that Dad was healthy for his entire life, never having to live in long-term care, living in his own home and puttering in his cherished garage, and only being hospitalized for 3 days prior to his passing, remaining sharp as a tack till the end.

He left us with so many gifts and while we will miss him like crazy, we know that he is at peace, having lived a very full life. To Emelia, we love you so much, and thank you for the love and care you showered on Dad. His life was so much better for loving you for the past 36 years. It is said that grief and love are just two sides of the same coin. So today our tears represent our love and gratitude for a man that has left us with an enduring legacy, and we will hold fast to that gratitude and the love that binds us all together. We were so fortunate to have had the world’s greatest father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great grandfather. There are likely many men in this world who are equally as great, but none greater to us.

Dad, we love you so much and you will remain in our hearts forever. We promise your great-great grandchildren will come to know you through our photos and stories. Farewell, Dad, Johnnie, John… and thank you for all of the memories. Happy Trails to you and May God bless.

Eileen Janet MacKinnon

(Maiden name: McCuaig)

It is with deep sorrow and loss that our family announces the passing of our mother and grandmother, Eileen Janet MacKinnon, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She will be greatly missed by her daughters, Evelyn Myles and Sandra (Charles) O’Toole; grandchildren, Alyshea, Conor, and Erin Myles (and their father Terry Myles) and Sean, Kiera, and Ryan O’Toole.

She will also be lovingly remembered by her brothers and sisters: Marty Gordon, John (Dorothy), Kathleen (Alan Gordon), Neil (Irene), Gordon (Teresa), Allan (Muriel), Marjorie Brosinsky, Bill (Fran), Norah (George Greenfield), Rod (Carol); sister-in-law Ruby McCuaig; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Janet was predeceased by her parents, John and Evelyn McCuaig, husband, Greg MacKinnon, brother, Don McCuaig, and brothers-in-law Jack Brosinsky and Heath Gordon.

A Funeral Service was held at All Saints Anglican Cathedral, 10035 – 103 Street, Edmonton, at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2015, with The Very Reverend Neil Gordon officiating. Cremation to follow.

If desired, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta & Northwest Territories, High Park Corner 14925 – 111 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M 2P6.

A special thank you to the staff at Capital Care Grandview (Unit 2CD) for their wonderful care and comfort to Janet, and all others who cared for her.

Terrence Gordon Kokesch

Oct. 14, 1962-April 5, 2015

A golden heart stopped beating,

Hardworking hands at rest;

It broke our hearts but proved to us

God only takes the best.

Terrence Gordon Kokesch (Terry or ‘Koke’), 52 years, of Stettler, passed away at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute in Edmonton, Alberta, after a valiant battle.

Terry was born in Consort, Alberta to Gordon and Eileen (nee: Brosinsky) Kokesch, the third of four children, and the only son.

Terry grew up in Compeer, Altario and Stettler. As a boy, he adored horseback riding, hockey, baseball, slowpitch, anything ‘sportsy’ and outdoorsy. He graduated from Wm. E. Hay Composite High School in Stettler. After high school he attended Red Deer College and became licensed as a heavy-duty mechanic, as well as attaining many additional certifications. He worked 32 years in his trade and in associated oilfield production for several central Alberta companies. Terry worked most recently for Vortex Production Services of Stettler. Terry’s favourite things included his enduring and cherished friendships, anything associated with rodeo and horsemanship, country music and festivals, RV camping, the outdoors, sports, and ‘automobiles-with-character.’

Terry was a tremendously loyal and much-loved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. He was also generous with his love, kind, fun-loving, extremely likeable, and a very hardworking man. Terry was part of every family celebration, travelled to cheer at his niece and nephews’ sports, and joined many friends at many rodeos. He gave respect and earned it in return. Terry will be heartbreakingly missed by family, relatives and countless friends.

Terry was pre-deceased by his parents, Gordon and Eileen Kokesch, and his nephew, Riley Campbell.

He is survived by sister Lori Ann (Dalin) Woolley and their children Zachary, Joshua, Jeremy and Melissa; sister Kym (Wesley) Walstrom and their children Kirby and Bailey; sister Kelly (Trevor) Campbell and their children Alex and Taylor.

A memorial service was held at Stettler Funeral Home, 4707 – 70 Street, Stettler, Alberta, at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 9, 2015. A light luncheon was followed by the interment (Lake View Cemetery, Stettler).

In lieu of flowers or other tributes, Terry’s family encourages memorial donations to support the CVICU (Cardio Vascular Intensive Care Unit) at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, c/o the University Hospital Foundation, 1H1.91 WMC, 8440 – 112 St. NW, Edmonton, AB. T6G 2B7.

Colleen Yvonne Harris (Schetzsle)

May 28, 1957 – May 18, 2015

Colleen was born in Consort Hospital on May 28, 1957, the fifth child of Pat and Francis Schetzsle. Terry, Sharon, Jim, and Sandra were her older siblings. Danny completed the family a year and a half later.

Colleen lived with her family on their farm at Little Gem. While her Mom taught school in Hemaruka and later in Veteran, Aunt Olga (Manion) and Grandma Schetzsle helped with the babysitting. Colleen started school at Veteran School at 5 years of age. She spent one year attending school in Calgary as her Mom went to U of C to complete her Bachelor of Education Degree. She continued on in Veteran and then Coronation – Graduating from Coronation High School in 1974. She worked as a STEP student, was on the staff who first published The Veteran Eagle, and enjoyed hanging out in the “den” with her many friends. After Grade 12, Angus Anderson asked her to work at the Alberta Treasury Branch in Veteran. She really enjoyed working with Angus and was able to gain experience to transfer to the ATB in Coronation. Kent Harris came into her life at this time and they were married for a time.

Colleen was a clever, hard-working, attention-to-detail person and her banking career took her to Stettler, Edmonton, High Prairie, and McLennan. Along the way, she met many new friends and had so much fun with them. She travelled to Phoenix in the heat of the summer with her Mom and Sandra, she travelled to New York and to Paris with Aunt Aggie, and made many happy/crazy memories with family and friends in Las Vegas. When visiting in Edmonton, Colleen would stay with Aunt Lois, Uncle Gusty and Cousin Joyce. Joyce and Colleen started their love of Denny’s where Denny’s served breakfasts 24-7!

In 1990 Colleen enrolled in the two year Business Accounting at NAIT graduating in 1992. Here Colleen met many new friends, reconnected with cousin Allen Schetzsle, and learned the benefit of ear plugs (the bus barn was close to her apartment). This “benefit” stayed with her the rest of her life! After graduation Colleen put her accounting skills to work at several Shoppers Drug Marts in Edmonton. Her niece, Tracy was in Edmonton at this time and they enjoyed going to the Moose Factory for the weekly steak special!

In the fall of 1997, she moved back to Coronation. She worked at Jacobsen’s Pharmacy and admitting in the Consort and Coronation Hospitals. She continued working in admitting in Consort Hospital until last December. In Coronation, Aunt Loretta, Colleen and her Mom had many good times together eating out at Howard’s and generally taking care of each other. Miss Kitty” found a home with Colleen and her Mom. In 2000 Henry and Colleen connected, perhaps part of the attraction was Henry’s cooking skills! Colleen enjoyed the food he brought to the hospital right to the last week. Colleen and Henry enjoyed trips to Manitoba to visit Henry’s family and also the fishing. Henry’s two daughters added a wedding in Mexico when Michelle and Dustin got married, a step grand-daughter Jerzie, and the wedding of Alicia and Raymond last fall. Colleen enjoyed the fishing, “Miss Kitty”, and all animals. She really liked to ride horses, dancing, and was an avid reader her whole life. She always liked her T.V. shows such as Criminal Minds, The Big Bang Theory, and nothing like an old movie! Colleen had an elephant collection with all sorts of small, large and unique elephants.  She was the Loretta of the family for remembering dates, names, and events.

After some health concerns, Colleen was diagnosed as being bipolar in the fall of 2009. This was a very traumatic time but also a time of learning and healing. She was very focused to do things as directed by her doctor, e.g. her medication was always taken on time and she had routine for every day. She was diagnosed with gynecological cancer in 2013 – she had radiation, chemotherapy and contacted C-Diff spending 4 weeks in the Cross Cancer Hospital. She vigorously rang the “Bell of Hope” after her last radiation treatment in March 2014. She thought she was cancer free at this time. In January of this year Colleen was diagnosed with primary small cell lung cancer. This time after her radiation treatments she was not ready to ring the bell. She accepted her diagnosis and returned to the “Home away from Home” room in Coronation Hospital. She had many friends and relatives visit her with hope, prayers, food, courage, laughter, many reminiscing stories, and large doses of love. She passed away peacefully early Monday morning, May 18th, after a brave and courageous struggle with the effects of cancer.

Colleen is survived by her spouse Henry Chartier, her sister Sandra Johnstone and her children Randy (Debbie) Johnstone, Julie Schroeder, Candy (Cameron) Brown, and Patty (Kelly) Shaw, her brother Terry (Linda) Schetzsle and their children Paula (Travis) Galenzoski, Nancy (Kurt) Ashbaugh, and Graham (Jen), and her brother Jim (Susan) Schetzsle and their children Rhonda (Shane) Doyon and Ryan (Jocelyn Foster), her sister and brother-in-law Sharon and Larry Wilson’s children Greg (Kim), Tracy (Glen) Anhorn, and Sandy (Steve) Kohm, Henry’s girls Michelle (Dustin) Zubach and their daughter Jerzie and Alicia (Raymond) Cook. Colleen is also survived by her Uncle Gordon (Bernice) Schetzsle and her aunts Aggie Rumohr and Delia Sorensen, and 23 great nieces and nephews, many cousins and many truly amazing friends. Colleen was predeceased by her parents Francis (1986), Pat (Siama) 2009, brother Danny (1962) sister Sharon Wilson (2007), brother-in-law Larry Wilson (2012), and brother-in-law Harvey Johnstone (2013).

A Memorial Service was held at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, on Friday, May 22, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. with the Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating.  The eulogy was shared by Susan Schetzsle and the scripture readings were read by Julie Schroeder. Linda Schetzsle played for the congregational hymn “In the Garden”. Special music was by Julie Schroeder and Candy Brown and also a duet by Nils & Jeanette Berg. Honorary pallbearers were Maureen & Alf Hudgeon, Joanne & Wes Sieger, Beryl & Jim Smith, Betty & Dave Jones, Tammy & Barrie Pengelly, Dolores & Pat Cuthbertson & Rowena Swahn. Urn Bearer was Henry Chartier. The interment took place at the Veteran Cemetery. Family and friends gathered at the Veteran Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A lovely lunch was prepared and served by the Full Gospel Church Ladies. As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Colleen, memorial contributions may be made to the Village of Veteran Cemetery Society, The Canadian Cancer Society or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.coronationfuneralhome.ca.

Eulogy written and read by Susan Schetzsle

Sandra and Henry asked Jim and me to do Colleen’s eulogy. We hope it honors Colleen and shows our love for her.

Colleen and I have known each other for a long time. We have been sisters-in-law for over forty years. We have cared about each other and for each other, not always agreed with each other, respected each other and been part of a family together.

Colleen grew up with a family anyone would be proud to call their own. Her parents were kind, caring, loving, and intelligent folks that would go to great lengths to help their children have the same qualities. Faith in God was practiced daily. No forgetting the “Bless us oh Lord”. No problem asking the Lord for help when life was not going as planned, like where is that rain that we need? And are you sure this is how things should unfold? Colleen was the youngest, the baby so to speak, and that gave her a bit more leverage at various times throughout her life. Sandra used to sing Nashville Girl to Colleen when she was about 6 years old. Sandra laughed when she told the story to me as the words are not so good, but Colleen liked the song and when they were driving along, Colleen would always ask Sandra to sing it and sing it she did. Colleen, her Dad, and Karen Dean had a near miss at the Gray’s Lake run bridge after the big rain in 1962. The bridge was washed out and her Dad got the truck stopped on the front axle with the wheels over the embankment! Every time we go over the bridge we remember the story. There were many stories where her Dad’s help was needed – helping with the flat tires, oil changes, and even picking up a group of young people after a roll over. He was just there for her. When Colleen was growing up, the relatives and neighbors would visit back and forth. Everyone knew or learned about Aunt Helen’s white cake with caramel icing, Aunt Loretta’s stern but genuinely kind demeanor, and Aunt Olga’s fondness for Colleen. Animals were always part of the family, horses, donkeys, dogs and cats. Later, Miss Kitty was a great companion for Pat and Colleen and Henry.

Sandra and Harvey and their family of Randy, Julie, Candy, and Patty were truly Colleen’s family too. Colleen had a special bond with them sharing in all the Easter, Christmas, birthday and other special celebrations. Colleen knew what the puffed wheat cake house looked like at Christmas and how good Candy’s Asian salad tasted. She loved Julie’s imitation of Sue Wiggins. We both laughed when we recalled a young Patty hitching a ride to town by lying on the floor in the back of the car. When the car stopped she popped up and said “boo to you” to her parents. When Randy was about 6 years old, he rode the train along with Grandma Pat, Colleen, and Sandra to Vancouver. Along the way, he lost his cowboy boots and he was very sure Colleen had stolen them. It ended up Sandra had left them behind in the hotel closet! Colleen had nicknames for Jewels (Julie) and Candles (Candy). They were really terms of love that you could feel when Colleen said them. Colleen was part of their camping expeditions, babysat them and was part of their activities whenever she was there.

Colleen knew and cared about all her nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She remembered little things about each of them that made them individuals. In turn, Auntie Colleen was special to them. Nancy and Graham called her Auntie Leenie and she liked that, it was part of her face book name when she joined up for about 3 days! She was a person all of them did confide in right to the end. I noticed she would ask them direct questions that needed direct answers.

Colleen was gifted at caring for people. Caring about others was just part of her. It may have started with having three favorite cousins. She always claimed Ralph Healy, Greg Kelts and Allen Schetzsle were her favorite cousins. When Ralph and Sarah came to visit Colleen in January at the Cross Cancer, Colleen said Ralph came in saying loudly, I love you, I love you, I love you. Doesn’t it make you feel good just hearing that? When someone came to visit Colleen, when she talked on the phone, or even when the doctors came to visit, first the person would ask about Colleen and after a short conversation, Colleen would be asking them about something in their lives. How is your work going? How is your family? Colleen had so many friends. She started with her Hemaruka friends, and then added her Veteran and Coronation friends. When she moved to different places she was just a good person to have as a friend – she was intelligent, hard-working, had a great sense of humor and was very generous. I didn’t meet many of her friends, but I knew all about them. I would save newspapers for her teacher friend so her students could raise money for activities, one friend and her husband had a baby that weighed one and a half pounds and we followed that little baby’s growth as she grew, Kerry was working to get an accounting designation and we cheered her on through the final exam, we met Albert at the coin and stamp store at West Ed and Colleen and he carried on a conversation like they were both still working at ATB. We toured Jasmin’s house before Christmas and found little space for eating Christmas dinner as she had so many Christmas villages and decorations. Colleen stayed at Aunt Lois’ many times over the years. Cousins Joyce and sometimes Grace were there. That led to a whole group of their friends. Colleen was so special to Aunt Lois and Uncle Gusty. Aunt Lois would cook up her favorite foods like fish chowder and baking soda biscuits. During these years, Joyce and Colleen started their get-a-ways for the Denny’s All American Slam. This continued right to a last stop at Denny’s in January. Colleen cared about the children too. She listened to them and they felt good being with her. You could see their eyes light up when they talked to her. She knew the girls who like to hunt, the boys that could talk all about fishing, about all their different sports and about the girls who liked dancing and the ones that were unteachable. Colleen was very smart and had a memory, as Jim says, like a steel trap. I remember playing trivial pursuit with her and she knew books, movies, actresses, songs and words and all sorts of things. I wondered how a person could ever remember all that information. She was an avid reader all of her life. In her work, paying attention to detail and getting things correct was important to her. When out for a tour in the Coronation Hospital, she was the tour guide pointing out that the cat usually sleeps at the bottom of Edith’s bed, that lady works here, but doesn’t get paid, and she called most of the people by name.

Colleen enjoyed the fun and good times on the trips to Las Vegas. The “Four Queens” (Colleen, Sandra, Sharon, and their Mom) made some trips together and would stay at the Four Queens. The Four Queens at the Four Queens. I know Aunt Evelyn and Aunt Theresa were both instigators in the beginning trips. Colleen went with many different family and friends over the years. There were many great memory moments along the way – the changing of clothes or not, Grandma would change her earrings if need be, the meals together hopefully at Tony Roma’s, but for sure in Magnolias. One time Sandra and Harvey surprised us by showing up after the harvest was finished early – we were all delighted.

Colleen’s health concerns have helped make us more aware of each other. She has had the support of her whole family and all of her friends during her challenges. Her room in palliative care had many stories and memories shared in the past months. Sometimes we would wonder about something or someone and Colleen would just say the answer. The food visitors brought was always welcomed and so many kinds and varieties. Colleen would sit up and say “shall we have something to eat”? I think I’ll just go to sleep now”, were also familiar words from her. Often when Colleen was lying in bed, I would think of the words from Desiderata “and remember what peace there is in silence” as she did like the quiet. As I say, see you again Colleen I will read the words from – In the Bulb There is a Flower, 3rd verse by Natalie Sleeth. It is also called The Hymn of Promise

In the end is our beginning: in our time infinity;

In our doubt there is

believing; in our life, eternity.

In our death,

a resurrection; at the last

a victory,

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

Card of Thanks

Colleen’s family want to especially thank her faithful lifelong friends who came so often to comfort, support, feed and try to entertain her, as she struggled through the last three months of her life.

Thank you also to Pastor Darrel Durksen, the ladies of the Veteran Full Gospel Church, the Honorary Pallbearers and to all who participated in her service. Heather and staff of the Coronation Funeral Home were truly appreciated for their guidance and compassion.

A big thank you to the Doctors, Nurses and staff at the Coronation Hospital – you became like family to us all.

Henry Chartier

Terry & Linda Schetzsle

Jim & Susan Schetzsle

Sandra Johnstone and

all of their families

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Christianson

Born – August 15, 1946 at Swalwell, Alberta

Passed Away – May 27, 2015 at Didsbury, Alberta. 68 years, 9 months, 12 days

Betty Ann Harding was born in Swalwell, Alberta to Les and Ellen Harding, and lived in the Acme area for her first four years until her family moved to Eckville. In Grade 9 they moved to Coronation, where she graduated high school. Betty earned her Office Administration Certificate from Olds College in 1965, and worked at the College for a year before she and Bob were married on October 15, 1966 in Coronation.

Betty worked off and on for nearly 25 years as Administrator for the Village of Veteran. She was deeply involved with the Veteran Full Gospel Church; teaching Sunday School, serving as secretary-treasurer for the church and treasurer for the Ladies Missionary Group for many years, as well as being secretary-treasurer and registrar for Veteran Full Gospel Camp. She belonged to the East Central Housing Society and the Veteran History Book Society. She was also involved for many years as a 4-H leader. In recent years, she and Bob made many trips to Mexico with the church to help build houses, and once with Orphanage Outreach to the Dominican Republic.

Betty loved scrapbooking, so much so that she became a Creative Memories consultant. In her ‘spare time’ she enjoyed math puzzles and Sudoku. She and Bob also travelled often with friends in the last few years. Her fudge, lefsa, and homemade bread will be grievously missed. Her fondest memories were of times when all her kids and grandkids would come home to visit.

Betty was predeceased by her parents Leslie and Ellen Harding, and her parents-in-law Ted and Gertrude Christianson. She is lovingly remembered by her husband Bob, children Brian (Remi) Christianson, Roberta Christianson, Barb (Dean) Lange, Beth Christianson, Becky (James) Cousins, nine grandchildren (Ben, Teagan, Julie, and Stacy Christianson, Eli and Isaac Lange, Breanne, Tyler, and Cody Cousins), sisters Donna (Harvey) Pidhirney and Gale Lee and brother Garry (Bernice) Harding, and sisters-in-law Ellen (Robert) Smith and Bonnie (Brian) Meyer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In celebration of Betty’s life a Memorial Service was held at the Veteran Full Gospel Church, on Monday, June 1, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. with the Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Tributes were shared by Beth Christianson and Marlene Cornelius. Judy Heistad, Carolyn Devereux, Nils & Jeanette Berg played for the congregational hymns “It Is Well With My Soul” and “I Know Who Holds Tomorrow”. Special music was by Gary & Ione Rea and also an instrumental selection was played by Judy Heistad, Carolyn Devereux, Nils & Jeanette Berg. The Urn Bearer was Ben Christianson. The interment took place at the Veteran Cemetery; family and friends gathered at the Veteran Community Hall for a time of visiting and reminiscing. A lovely lunch was prepared and served by the Full Gospel Church Ladies. As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Betty, memorial contributions may be made to Circle Square Ranch or to Veteran Full Gospel Camp. Heather Caseley of Coronation Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.coronationfuneralhome.ca.

June Gladys Flewelling

To keep the heart unwrinkled, to be hopeful, kindly, cheerful, reverent; that is to triumph over old age.

–Thomas Bailey Aldrich

On Thursday, June 4, 2015, June Flewelling of Westlock, Alberta passed away at the age of 97 years.  Our family was blessed with one of God’s extraordinary creations. Her loving spirit, generosity and her enthusiasm for living each day to the fullest has enriched those who have had the privilege of knowing her.  She has left us all with a rich legacy of how to live and love.

June leaves to honor her memory and celebrate her life two children: Alice (Ian), Jack (Anna); four grandchildren: Don (Brandi), Christie (Spencer), Chalice (Ian), Kelly (Cornelia): six great grandchildren: Brooke, Ella, Trace, Gavin, Aidan, and Anders; as well as other adoring relatives and many special friends.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Roy (2003), infant son Roy, amazing sister Alice (2007), her wonderful parents John and Nina Christie.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. at Prairie Sunset Funeral Home Chapel (10011 – 93 Ave., Westlock) with Rev. R. Manuel officiating. Inurnment will be held at Lake Road Cemetery, Consort, Alberta at later date.

Anyone who so wishes may make a memorial donation directly to C.N.I.B., 12010 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5K 0P3.

Send condolences to www.prairiefuneralhome.com

Prairie Sunset Funeral Home Ltd. & Crematorium, Westlock, Alberta in charge of arrangements (Greta Budgen & Garry Coderre, Funeral Directors).

Gordon McCuaig

1936 – 2015

Gordon Keith McCuaig died suddenly on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at Foothills Hospital in Calgary Alberta at the age of 79 years. Gordon was born in 1936 in Consort, Alberta to parents, Jon and Evelyn McCuaig. He worked in the oilfield industry for close to 60 years. Gordon was a great family man and a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He married Teresa in 1968 and the couple had two children together.

Gord was a socially active man who was deeply involved in various town councils for the majority of his life. He enjoyed storytelling, spinning a yarn and spending time with his family and friends. His family and friends will always remember him as a generous and outgoing person.

Gordon is survived by his wife of 46 years, Teresa; his son, Clinton; his daughter, Megan (Don); 7 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; siblings, Marty, Bud (Dot), Kathleen (Alan), Neil (Rene), Allan (Muriel), Marjorie, Bill (Fran), Norah (George), Rod (Carol); and his sister-in-law, Ruby. He is preceded in death by his brother, Don and sister, Janet.

A Funeral was held on Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at St. Paul’s Parish in Airdrie Alberta.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gord’s name may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, #204, 2323 – 32 Avenue NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 6Z3.

Ted Anhorn

Ted Anhorn of Westlock, Alberta, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2015 at the age of 91 years.

He is survived by son Don (Lori) of Edmonton, grandsons Ryan and Kevin of Edmonton and Cody of Bonnyville, Alberta, sister Eileen (Doug) Glebe of Pickardville, Alberta as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. He was predeceased by his wife Jean, son Terry, sister Edna Halseth, brothers Herbert, Arthur and Roy.

The funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18, 2015 at the Westlock Funeral Home Westlock, Alberta with interment following at the Westlock Cemetery. The family would like to thank the Westlock Hospital and the staff at the Smithfield Lodge for the care and compassion he received. Donations gratefully accepted to the Westlock Healthcare Centre Equipment Fund, c/o 10004-105 Street, Westlock, Alberta.

Westlock Funeral Home and Crematorium Ltd. in charge or arrangements.

Lucia Margaret Herron

Dec. 22, 1929 – June 23, 2015

Margaret was born on December 22, 1929. She was the youngest of two children born to Jean (Ramage) and George Smith. She often spoke fondly of growing up in Wetaskiwin with her family. After receiving her degree in nursing from the University of Alberta in 1952, Margaret became the Provincial District Nurse of New Brigden until the fall of 1954. She met and then married her soul mate, Melvin John Herron on February 10, 1954. Together they built up a farming legacy for their four sons – Leslie John, Dean George, Robert Alban, and James Melvin.

Eastern Star was a huge part of Margaret’s life. She was initiated on December 17, 1952 and was a Charter Member of the Serenity Chapter #113 in Oyen. Eastern Star gave Margaret the opportunity to travel to new places and to meet many people. She held numerous positions in the organization, from local all the way to provincial. In 1988-89 she presided as Worthy Grand Matron at the 78th Grand Session of the Grand Chapter of Alberta, Order of the Eastern Star.

As a farm wife, she helped with all aspects of farming. Margaret was active in the New Brigden and Esther communities, WI, Girl Guides, and the United Church. She was a founding member of the New Brigden Drama Club and was known for her organizational skills and beautiful singing voice. In 1982, Margaret returned to nursing, becoming employed at the Big Country Health Unit in Consort for ten years.

In her free time she enjoyed gardening, cooking, crafting, and spending time with her family. Her family was the most important part of her life and she made sure everyone knew they were loved. No one left the table hungry and everyone was welcome. She touched many lives in her years and will be fondly remembered.

Margaret was predeceased by her husband Melvin Herron; nieces Anita Munroe and Bonnie Aaserud; nephew Brian Hanson; sister-in-law Darlene Wagstaff; brothers-in-law Bud Wagstaff, Roald Hanson, and Mervin Munroe; and great-grandson Charles.

Leaving to cherish her memory are her children Leslie (Marilyn), Dean (Cheryl), Robert (Tammy), and James (Lorie); grandchildren Kevin (Cher), Joanne, Bradley (Ashley), Ryan (Emily), Jessica, Stephanie (Kieran), Melinda (Tyson), Ashlyn, Michelle, and Joel; great-grandchildren Carlene, Johnathan, Janette, Violet, Carter, Charlotte, and Edward Herron-Lomond; brother Alban Smith; sisters-in-law Trudy Smith; Kathleen Munroe and Reatha Hanson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service was held Monday, June 29, at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Oyen, Alberta. Officiating Clergy was Bonnie Burke. Marvel Jorgenson was the organist and special music was “Hello Dolly” by Ralph Jorgenson. A eulogy was given by Brad Herron. Hymns were In the Garden, Precious Lord Take My Hand, and Amazing Grace. Pallbearers were Margaret’s grandchildren Joanne Herron, Stephanie Herron, Jessica Herron, Melinda Herron, Ashlyn Herron, Michelle Herron, Kevin Herron, Brad Herron, Ryan Herron, and Joel Herron. Honorary Pallbearers were the Serenity Chapter #113, Order of the Eastern Star. Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the New Brigden Community and the Eastern Star in the Legion Hall.

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

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

Clare Redel

Nov. 20, 1922-June 24, 2015

James Clare Redel was born November 20, 1922 on his parents’ farm five miles south of Consort.

Clare married Irene Cameron in Stettler in 1952. They had five children: Marie (Carter), Alan (Virginia), Gordon (Sharon), Barry (Selena) and Myrna (Dave).

Clare passed away peacefully at the Consort Community Health Centre June 24th at the age of 92.

Funeral Services for Clare Redel were held on Monday, June 29, 2015 at Knox United Church, Consort, Alberta with Reverend Susan Bowyer officiating. Robbie Knight played for the congregational hymns “Battle Hymn of the Republic”, “Our God, Our Help in Ages Past” and “Jesus Loves Me”, with the community choir as leader of songs. Alan Redel and Barry Redel gave the eulogy and shared their memories. Ben and Shirley Klumenhower shared a special musical selection. A luncheon was held at the church immediately following the service which was prepared by the U.C.W. The family burial took place at 11:00 a.m. As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Clare, memorial contributions may be made to the Lake Road Cemetery; in care of Coronation Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358 Coronation, Alberta T0C 1C0, who have been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. Condolences can be forwarded to the family by visiting our website at www.coronationfuneralhome.ca.

Eulogy

By Alan and Barry Redel

Well, he was quite a unique man. Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Clare, James, JC and JR. He was sociable, giving, loyal, adventurous, and never ever ever in a hurry. He loved to stop and smell the roses.

James Clare Redel, the oldest son of Arthur and Gail Redel, was born on his parent’s farm south of Consort on November 20, 1922. Clare had five siblings: Erdine, Shirley, Keith, Helen and Donna. Growing up on the farm Clare did numerous jobs including milking cows, pitching hay and driving teams of horses.

All of this manual labour gave Clare very strong arms. He could arm wrestle with the best of them. I remember when I was 16, I thought I was tough enough and strong enough to beat him, we decided to have a match on the kitchen table. The last thing we remember is the kitchen table crashing to the floor. Not sure who actually won, but Mom mentioned some strong words that ended with “A couple of Losers”. And that’s when Dad taught me how to fix kitchen tables.

Clare attended Willowbrook School and completed his High School education in Consort. Dad used to say it was a two mile walk to school, Up Hill, both ways, and it actually was. They walked, rode horseback and cross country skied to school.

Clare met Irene Cameron at a dance at Gooseberry Lake. They were married in the Stettler United Church on November 8, 1952. Clare and Irene purchased the Manly and Priscilla Cole house. They lived there until June of 1969 when they moved into their new home which they stayed in until Clare had to go into the hospital and then long term care this past January.

After high school, Clare continued to farm with his dad. In the early 40’s, Clare started his own farm by renting the Slater section. Clare and Irene purchased the Mike Lee farm, four miles west of Consort, in 1952. They expanded their farming operation in the 1960’s to include land which had been farmed by Breaky’s and Conors. The operation was further expanded in 1987 when they purchased the Redel Homestead located six miles south of Consort. I am sure that part of Clare’s life was not complete until the homestead was in his name.

He was very excited when we had a huge family gathering at the 100th anniversary for the farm in October of 2008. Clare farmed all his life and experienced many changes. He told many stories of the work he used to do with horses, in particular of the threshing days and how they would load the racks with bundles and keep up to the threshing machine. It was an amazing thing for him to get to throw bundles into the thresher at Consort’s 100th anniversary.

Every hill, and every gate on the farm had a unique experience and story. The introduction of tractors had an amazing effect on farming, and in some ways technology changed too fast for Dad. I’m not real sure that he ever wrapped his head around GPS and machines that can literally drive themselves down the field, adjust the header and ground speed automatically.

Clare’s life was not limited to farming. He worked as an agent for Cooperators Insurance for over 35 years until 1991 when he retired. I believe this was Dads calling. He enjoyed the visiting as much as making sure people were covered. A stop for insurance, was anything But That. It was an experience, a visit and many times a therapy session for both Dad and the client, and NEVER a quick stop.

Clare played a large part in building the town of Consort and area by hauling gravel for many basements, roads and community projects. He always told the story how he hauled the gravel for the basement of this United Church. Clare hauled coal in the early days and told many a story about being stranded with a flat tire or a twisted drive shaft somewhere between the coal mine and Consort. Clare also sold Fuller Brush products for a time as well as Panther Oil and Grease.

Clare has been involved in many organizations over the years. Agricultural involvement included the Agricultural Improvement Association (AIA), Consort-Coronation-Co-operative Store, UFA, FUA, and Unifarm. Clare was a long time member of the Masonic Lodge and was a Past Master and District Deputy Grand Master.

Clare was a charter member of the Lions Club and was involved with the Lions for over 40 years. He was president and zone chairman and loved the weekly Bingos, meetings twice a month and many other community events. I think the Melvin Jones Fellowship award was one of Dad’s proudest achievements, well other than his children and grandchildren.

I think Clare felt his best when he was helping his family, his friends and his community. Many times he would make sacrifices to help others. He made sure all his children had the opportunity for a good education, good homes, and were able to pursue their goals.

Dad was a storyteller with many great sayings. We all remember some of Dads favorite sayings like: “How in the Heck and I gonna wash my dirty neck, if it ain’t gonna rain no more”, “I’m going crazy, want to come along?”, “I see said the blind man”, “Better Than A Boogie”, ‘Too Many Irons in the Fire”, “Haste Makes Waste” and “Judas H Priest”. Dad wrote down lots of jokes. The other day we found a joke on his desk; “What is a cat’s favorite song? 3 Blind Mice”……….

Clare enjoyed his grandkids and watching them perform and just plain having fun. He watched Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Field, Curling, Dance, Ball Games, Hockey games, Swimming, Figure skating, Musical performances and Christmas plays. He went to Awards presentations, Tupperware parties, candle parties and many many birthday parties. Dad loved games of any kind, especially crokinole and checkers, which he was virtually unbeatable at.

He was a ball player, pool player, card player, floor curler and curler. He loved curling and played with the local legends Lester Isaman, and Orval Kelts. We heard so many stories of comeback victories, it always seemed like they won every bonspiel no matter what their struggles were. I think Dad was the “John Morris” of the sixties or liked to think so. We never knew this, but he told the Grandkids how he and Viola Schooler (Kelts) won the overall aggregate Track and Field Award for One Room School Houses back in the day.

Clare and Irene were charter members of the Consort Whirl-A-Ways square dance club and were involved for many years with the Solo and Couples dance club which holds dances in Hughenden, Provost and Consort every month. They attended many musical shows which include several performances by Tommy Hunter, Rita McNeil, Charlie Pride and many entertainers at the local Fine Arts.

Mom and Dad took a number of trips with other couples including Tampa Florida in 1954, Pentiction B.C. in 1955, a free trip to Mexico in 1972 which Irene won at a draw at “Search for Talent”, a trip to Hawaii in 1982, Las Vegas in 1983, a tour of Alaska, the Yukon and Northwest Territories in 1985, a bus tour to Expo in Vancouver in 1986, a trip to Nashville Tennessee in 1991, Las Vegas in 1992, and Clare went on a cruise to the Caribbean with Myrna and Dave in 1999. Clare and Irene made many trips to Red Deer, Edmonton, Calgary and Lethbridge over the years to visit family, and Dad made trips to Ontario and Spokane with Gus and Shirley to attend family weddings.

Clare was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Gail Redel, sister Erdine & Mervin Bell and sister Helen & Orland Hauer and brother Keith & Beulah Redel and Pat Rude and brothers-in-law Gus Hemke and Ed Black. Clare is survived by his wife Irene of 63 years, his daughter Marie & Carter Stickel and their children Heather and Steven and his great grandson Carter Stickel from Consort, son Alan & Virginia Redel of Red Deer and children Randy and Tanner from Edmonton, son Gordon & Sharon and their children Alexis from Edmonton and Clayton and Miranda from Lethbridge, son Barry & Selena and their children Lisa and Scott from Consort and his daughter Myrna Redel & Dave Bisset from Calgary, sisters Shirley Hemke from Consort and Donna Black from Spokane, Washington as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Clare passed away at the Consort Community Health Centre on June 24th at the age of 92. Ironically Dad never really felt like he was older than 65. He never wanted to go to the seniors centre to play cards, because that place was for Old people. Years ago, Dad was a driver for the local Meals on Wheels program, but never thought he was old enough to qualify. I think that is a testament to the way Mom cooked and looked after him.

I remember one time when we were driving to one of our many medical appointments and this was shortly after the big market crash in 2008. Dad was talking about how far the market had dropped and how the value of his stocks had fallen dramatically. He asked me what he was going to do, because he was saving that money for his retirement. My comment was “Dad, you are 85 years old, just exactly when is your retirement going to start?”

Clare Redel was a unique man, a community man and a Great Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa for a very long time. We believe that at the end of the day, His Heart was always in the right place, and we will miss him very much.

Thank You

On behalf of all of our families we would like to thank our communities for all their caring words of sympathy, food and flowers. We are grateful for the phone calls, visits and remembrances on the street, post office or grocery store.

Thank you to Consort Home Care for all their support and allowing Clare to stay in his home for as long as he could.

A very sincere thank you to Dr. Usher and all the staff at the Consort Hospital and Care Centre for providing Clare with caring and compassionate care while he was there.

Thank you very much to Heather Caseley and all the staff at the Coronation Funeral Home for their care, compassion and professional service at this difficult time.

Thank you very much to Reverend Susan Bowyer for comforting us and reminding us how important Clare’s contribution was to our communities by taking time to help build the communities and the people that live in them through visiting and caring. Thanks to Robbie Knight, Ben and Shirley Klumpenhower and the community choir for comforting us with their gift of music during Dad’s service.

Thank you to the United Church Women for providing us with the beautiful decor for us to share time visiting about Clare and for the amazing food that we shared during that time.

Thank you to everyone for the generous contributions to the Consort Lake Road Cemetery in Dad’s memory.

Sincerely,

Irene,

Marie, Carter and family,

Alan, Virginia and Family,

Gordon, Sharon and Family,

Barry, Selena and Family,

Myrna and Dave

Roxanne Ruth Guenthner

Feb. 12, 1965-July 17, 2015

Our mom, Roxanne was born in Edmonton, Alberta on February 12, 1965 and was the first of three daughters born to Charlie and Evelyn Foster. They lived in Coronation until mom was five years old, and then moved to Wetaskiwin where she completed all her school years. She had a love of horses and competed in gymkhana clubs and some amateur rodeos, which she passed on to us. Our mom competed for the title of Miss North Am in 1983 and was crowned Miss Congeniality due to her great sportsmanship and wonderful personality. She also ran for Ponoka Stampede Queen in 1986.

Mom made many friends while running for Miss North Am and Ponoka Stampede Queen, but one friend in particular, Janet, with the help of her boyfriend Ellie, helped to shape the rest of her life. This friend introduced our mom to dad, Ronnie, in early 1988. It was obviously love at first sight because that same year they were married in October. They honeymooned in Wyoming for one week before settling down on the Guenthner ranch north of Monitor. To mom’s dismay, dad moved her into his single wide bachelor pad. But they had a wonderful and loving marriage that resulted in the birth of their first two daughters, Jessica in 1990 and Jodie in 1992.

Mom and dad enjoyed traveling. But one trip in particular mom would never forget. In 1991, dad, Jessica and mom (pregnant with Jodie) made a stop in Sturgis, South Dakota (while the infamous bike rally was on). A scary looking biker fell in love with Jessica and asked to hold her. Dad was too scared to say no, so he immediately handed her off. Mom was quite upset and to her last day she never let him live it down.

In 1995, our small family moved to the Richdale Ranch where our family was made complete with the birth of Robyn in 1996. Our family worked hard together to build the ranch that mom was so proud of. She had a weird love for cutting grass and weed eating, which she passed on to Jessica and would result in arguments over who got to cut the grass. Mom would get up super early in order to beat Jessica to the lawn mower.

Mom passed on her love for horses and rodeo to all three of us. When we were little, mom and dad both would travel with us and haul our horses to every event and rodeo. When we got older and wanted to go alone, mom would be the first in the truck so she didn’t get left behind. She loved to drive us and many times wouldn’t let us drive at all. We spent many wonderful hours driving in the truck, listening to music, singing at the top of our lungs, and dancing.

One long trip in particular was when Jodie got the chance to compete at the Junior High Rodeo in Gallup, New Mexico. The trip was less about competing and more about the vacation. Mom made lifelong friends on this trip, as well as wherever she went.

Our local barrel racing jackpots were the highlight of her week. Mom was the designated announcer and could be heard cheering on her three girls as well as all the other barrel racers. She came to every single jackpot to support us and everyone else who entered.

Mom supported us and was our biggest fan for anything and everything we did. The three of us had a liking for curling, a sport that mom knew very little about, but she attended every practice and game for us. Mom was so proud of Robyn’s team when they won bronze at the high school provincials and told everyone she knew and didn’t know about her baby’s curling achievements.

Mom referred to us as HER girls. We were the apple of her eye, her pride and joy, her life. Mom had many jobs and responsibilities but her favourite was being Mom. Even to her last days her only concern was looking after us and ‘her guy.’ Mom was a selfless person who only wanted to protect her girls, keep us safe and happy. We can only hope to be half the mom and woman that she was.

Mom lost her courageous battle to cancer on July 17, 2015. She will leave a large hole in the lives of her family and friends. She leaves us with many wonderful memories; her smile and giggle will never be forgotten. The three of us can only hope that she passed on her strength, wisdom, and amazing personality to us.

Roxanne was very proud of her family and leaves them to treasure her memory, her husband Ron; daughters Jessica, Jodie and Robyn; mother and father Evelyn and Charlie Foster; sisters Rosalie Johnson and Ronda (Brad) Myers; mother-in-law Leta Guenthner; brother-in-law Ken Guenthner; nephews Chad, Kyle, Tyson (Shelby), Jeff (Daphne), Justin (Melisa), and Scott; nieces Cara, Tina, Bobbie (Jay), Kelly, Tanya, and Laurie; several great nieces and nephews; lifelong friend Holly Hagstrom; and many other friends.

She was predeceased by her father-in-law Dave; brother-in-law Gary; and sister-in-law Dawn.

Funeral Service was held Tuesday, July 21, at the Hanna Community Center in Hanna, Alberta with Tim Herman officiating. A tribute was given by Holly Hagstrom and Sharon Haines. Honorary Pallbearers were all of Roxanne’s family, neighbors, and friends who cared and shared in her life.

Memorial tributes may be directed to the Hanna Community Health Center (Home Care), 904 Centre Street N, Hanna, Alberta, T0J 1P0; Central Alberta Cancer Center, 3942 – 50A Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 4E7; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Following the funeral service, family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by Bob Ronnie Catering of Ponoka, Alberta in the Hanna Community Center.

Jeannette Louise Fawcett-Weir

It is with deep sorrow that we, Jeannette’s family, announce her passing. She is survived by her daughters, Morgan, Jordan and Kennedy, their father, Michael and his family; her parents, Diane and Clark; sisters Jacqui (Trent) and Joelle (Jason); numerous nieces and nephews; and a large extended family. Dealing with this loss is also a huge community of lifelong friends made everywhere she went.

Jeannette was born in Consort, Alberta, the first daughter of Clark and Diane Fawcett, on August 27, 1971. Two years later Jacqui was born and six years after that Joelle joined the family. Jeannette was very involved as she grew up in the tight knit community of Consort. She attended the Consort School from K-12, played school sports, was in 4-H, CGIT, figure-skated, danced, played ball, took organ lessons and had a very active social life. Jeannette lived her life to the fullest. From a young age she realized her passion for helping people, which translated to a BSc in Social Work from the U of A. Her professional commitment to help others extended beyond her work and into her personal life. She was the first to offer a helping hand and saw the potential in every person she met. She worked with Catholic Social Services, she started her own business ‘Family Matters’, recruited foster families and then worked at the Camrose Hospital as a social worker all while starting a family. Jeannette and Michael Weir were married in 1992 and would soon be blessed with three beautiful daughters. Morgan was born in 1997 and Jordan and Kennedy were born in 1999. Jeannette’s girls were the biggest joy in her life. She shared with them her love for life, adventure and how to find joy no matter where they were. The family lived in the Edmonton area until 2007 when they relocated to Prince Rupert, BC. Jeannette was a prairie girl at heart but quickly fell in love with the ocean. She continued her love of helping people through her work at Northern Health as a Utilization Coordinator as well as her involvement in every activity the girls were involved in. Jeannette quickly became involved in the community of Prince Rupert. She could always see potential in how to help the community improve and wanted the community to thrive.

In the last few years Jeannette began to battle with depression and each rainy season on the coast seemed to make it worse. When the sun shone in the summer she would become vibrant again and wanted to fill each day with as much joy as possible. Annual trips back to Alberta were filled with family, friends and adventures. She began to have ongoing health and work struggles. Jeannette and Michael separated in 2013 and she began the struggle of finding herself again, trying to find employment to support herself and her family and coping with pre-divorce struggles. On October 22, 2014 Jeannette gave in to the depths of her struggles and ended her life. As her family, we are choosing to speak the truth while focusing on the wonderful person she was and what tremendous blessings she brought to our lives. She was fiercely proud and protective of her family. She had a love of travel, music, dancing and connecting with others. She will be remembered for the way she lit up a room, her infectious laugh, and her passion for living life authentically. She wasn’t afraid to be herself and speak her truth, and by doing so, she encouraged others to do the same.

A service in honour of Jeannette’s life was held October 30, 2014 at The Fellowship Baptist Church in Prince Rupert. We are holding a Celebration of Life in Consort, Alberta on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at the Consort Community Hall. We will have a casual ‘barn dance’ style event from 4:30 p.m. and into the evening. Please join us for a potluck meal and jam session led by the Gilmer family. A short formal program will take place with the rest of the evening for gathering, remembering and visiting. If you would like to share a story about how Jeannette positively impacted your life please write it on a paper to post on our sharing wall at the hall which the family will keep.

A trust in Jeannette’s memory has been established to support her daughters’ pursuit of continued education and care. Contributions in her honour can be made out to the “Fawcett-Weir Girls” at any RBC Branch in BC and Alberta or mailed to: Fawcett Family, 3237-108 St., Edmonton, AB. T6J 3C9. As Jeannette cannot help support her daughters in this way we appreciate any contribution you chose to make. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and family that have reached out to assist and care for our family during this most difficult time. We hope to see you at Jeannette’s memorial event August 29, 2015. Please go the Facebook memorial page to RSVP to the event at: Jeannette Fawcett-Weir’s Celebration of Life Memorial or email: jeannettememorial@gmail.com

Jeannette will be deeply missed and we will always remember.

Anthony Ference “Tony”

Sept. 28, 1922 – Aug. 31, 2015

Mr. Anthony “Tony” Ference was born September 28, 1922 in Consort, Alberta to Martin and Mary (nee Formanek) Ference. With his family by his side, Tony passed away peacefully at the Consort Health & Care Centre on August 31, 2015 at the age of 92 years.

Tony will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Jennie; children, Martin† (Shirley) with their family, Randy (Tracy) & their children, Brooklyn, Jessie, Cordel, Ashley, Kai, Polo and Shaylynn; Brad (Stacy) & children, Mikaela and Layne; Charlene (Mark) & their children, Sadie and Kendrie; Edward (Isabel) with their family, Curtis (Pamela) and Tara (Mike) & their children, Kai and Kash; Jim (Bernie) with their family, Kimberly (Bryan) & their children, Jaylen and Paige, Kari (Damian) & their children, Skyla and Levi; Harvey (Joyce) with their family, Krista (Matthew) & their son, Max, Craig (Jinel) & their children, Maddie, Nate and Macy, Shawna (Drann) & with their son, Mitchell; Diane (Ken) Beier with their family, Pam (Greg) & their children, Gracie and Carter, Carson (Amy) & their children, Preston, Jaxon and Addison, Mike (Leah) & their daughters, Olivia and Ruby; Kathy (Alvin) Beier with their family, Nicholas (Kristina) & their daughters, Julia, Katarina and Danika, Reanne (Jon) & their sons, Cole and Greyson, Lorinda (Steve) Vert with their family, Stephanie & her children, Austin and Kaylee, Danita (Michael) & their children, Caiden, Mariska and Emersyn, Dallas (Natasha) and son, Reese; Ervin† (Anita) with their family, Melanie (Brendon) & their children, Ellie and Henry; Courtney (John); Mathew and Chantel; Mervin (Denise) with their family, Tyler & son, Oliver; Travis (Danielle) & their children, Conner and Katie; and Justin (Suzanne); and Jerry; brothers and sisters, John (Helen) Ference, Andrew Ference, Lester (Skippy) Ference, Gladys (Bill) Shaughnessy and Raymond Ference; as well as numerous nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

Tony was predeceased by his sons, Martin Ference and Ervin Ference; brothers, Mike (Helen) Ference and Alex (Ruth) Ference; sister, Rosalyn (Bud) McLean; sisters in law, Elsie Ference and Rae Ference.

The Vigil Service was held Friday, September 4th, 2015, 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Provost, Alberta. Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, September 5th, 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Provost, with Father Mahesh Rathinasamy officiating. Music was by the Corpus Christi Choir. Words of Remembrance were given by Alvin Beier. Pallbearers were Bradley Ference, Craig Ference, Tyler Ference, Matthew Ference, Carson Beier and Dallas Vert. Honorary pallbearers were all of Tony’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A private family interment was at Kirriemuir Cemetery, Kirriemuir, Alberta at 2:00 p.m.

If friends so desire, memorial donations are gratefull accepted to the: Kirriemuir Cemetery Fund, Box 729, Kirriemuir, Alberta T0C 1R0.

Gregory’s Funeral Home was in charge of care and arrangements.

Words of Remembrance of Anthony Ference . . .

by Alvin Beier

Good evening/morning.My name is Alvin Beier, and I’m one of Tony’s proud son-in-laws.

We’re happy that you could all join us today in honour of this great man – Anthony (Tony) Ference. Although we are sad to see him go, we are all glad for the extended years and special times we all had with him.

Anthony Ference was born in Monitor, Alberta, September 28, 1922 to Martin and Mary Ference. His parents originally emigrated from Poland and first settled in the Monitor area and then moved their family of 7 kids to a farm south of Kirriemuir where Tony’s journey began.

Schooling was taken at Dry Lake – a one roomed school located a few miles away. Tony recalled walking most of the time barefoot and across country through the bald prairie, cactus and rocks. If he would have said it was up hill both ways then I would have never believed him!

At the age of 17, Tony was required to quit school to help at the farm. He rented a 1/4 section and farmed with his dad.

Spare time in his younger years was spent going to Sports Days, ball games and dances. He used his Dad’s 1940 Ford that they drove which required no drivers licences and no insurance. During this time he met Jennie Meier, a cute red head from across the hills. After a few years of courtship, Tony and Jennie were married on July 7, 1947.

They lived with the parents for a while until they bought the Spooner place that would become the home base for Ference Farms. And then the babies started.

They happily lived and worked on this farm, continually improving and expanding, raising their children and enjoying Sunday meal gatherings. With the boys doing all the farming, he realized his working days on the farm where done, so they moved to an acreage near Beaumont in 1987. His love of being outdoors continued as he kept busy cutting grass, planting trees, gardening and tending to his massive flower beds and of course blowing snow in the winter time.

Tony was a bit of a junk collector, as auction sales became a Beaumont pastime – why buy one box of stuff when two or three were just as cheap. His thought was the boys at the farm could always use some of the items he dragged home. The rest he piled in the trees in case it was needed down the road sometime. He enjoyed having visits from the families and I’m sure the grandkids have many fond memories of this Beaumont time.

In 2010, it was time to downsize and they moved to Stettler, Alberta. Although a smaller place, he still had plenty of trees and garden space in the backyard. He especially enjoyed his afternoon coffee breaks with their friends at McDonalds where refills were free.

In 2014, they moved to the Consort Lodge where he truly felt at home and relaxed. He enjoyed having his meals prepared, receiving excellent care, lots of visiting and family picking them up for a drive or visit – especially since he didn’t have to drive.

Tony was a proud husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend of many.

As you can see by the number of pews used up, the Tony and Jennie family tree after 68 years of marriage was very fruitful and blessed with 10 kids, 25 grandkids and 43 great grandkids and counting. I always bugged Tony about the pyramid scheme he had going. The only thing is that he knew he wasn’t getting any money back but instead he got buckets of un-conditional love from each and every branch that was added.

Tony can be fondly remembered for many things. Obviously over such a long life, there are just so many memories that each of us treasure, so I will only share a few highlights.

Love of Farming – Tony has been a farmer all his life and that same passion can be found in some of his children and grandchildren. If you stop and think of all the farm advancements experienced in his 92 years of living, from farming with horse and plow to sitting on a hill top watching a tractor and air seeder work by auto steer and GPS. The family farm base also spurned out a few other successful family businesses like the Agro company, feedlots and oil field services which are now all headed into the next generation, something Tony was very proud of.

Recklessness – Tony was a hard tireless worker in his days. But, he also had some “owies” caused by his speedy hast to get the job done.

Most famous is when he tried pulling the straw from the combine pulley before the belt came around. With a show of hands, it would be easy to spot that his sons have had similar encounters.

He always seemed to have an easy fix for everything-sometimes not exactly conventional and certainly with different tools than I use. We all grew to know and spot a Tony Ference fix!

Driving – Tony & Jennie were on the road a lot. Many trips were made to the farm with parts, checking up on the boys and looking at the crops. Mention birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas concerts, dances, actually any function, and they were there. He went through many vehicles that got miled-out or ended in junk-yard heaven. One learned quickly to never park behind him as a few of us found out.

In his driving days, Tony spent a lot of time at the side of the road chatting with some fine, uniformed folk. This heavy foot syndrome seems to have also been passed down to a few of his offsprings.

Color – many of us had fun with Tony’s color coordination as he was color blind, It seems quite a few of the boys, grandsons included, never noticed his sometimes mix matched outfits, so it was easy to spot who had the same condition. Like Mom, their wives never let them leave the house before a quick once-over check!

Cribbage – Tony was an excellent crib player and he has passed this on to many of his children and grandchildren. According to Tony, he is the undisputed crib champion in St Paul. Tony and his brother John would constantly play back and forth with John usually winning. Well the story goes that one time Tony won and would never play the rubber match again….I would say now the trophy stays with him.

News – Tony loved to watch the news and discuss politics. When he was watching TV, we could all hear it throughout the house. He had his favorite rocking chair and would usually fall asleep 5 min into a show. Judge Judy was a favorite though, and even at the Lodge, he would gobble down 5 p.m. supper, leaving Mom at the supper table to be back in his chair by 5:30 for the program’s start.

Ticklish Spot – it didn’t take long for all the grandkids to find that ticklish spot that Grampa had and there were many laughes watching him squirm as he tried to protect himself from their tickles. He had a great sense of humor and always had a good laugh at our jokes or teasing.

Patience – this man had patience waiting on a woman like no other that I know. He spent many minutes waiting in the car as Mom made one last phone call or needed a few more minutes to say her famous long goodbyes. Often shopping trips had him out in the car, listening to 6:30 CHED and enjoying an afternoon snooze.

Annual Events – a special event for him every July was the family gathering at Capt Arye Lake, not only their anniversary, but a weekend of getting to see all the family members with any new additions, visiting to catch up with grandkids, and listening to Ed’s campfire music. He would treat the little ones to ice cream bought at the concession booth, but that was starting to cost him quite a bit lately.

The other not-to-miss event was the annual week long Kirriemuir disking. He threw lead rocks on Merv’s team for many years and would often get after Merv if he missed a shot. Actually, he just wanted a better prize than Uncle Raymond. It really was remarkable that at 92, he was still walking up and down the slippery floors to play, but he did refuse to pick up disks like a good lead was required to do.

Closing:

Tony has lived a long fulfilling life and is now pain-free and in a peaceful place. He will truly be missed by the family, especially Mom, who lost a husband and her partner in life of 68 years.

Don’t worry Mom, your family will continue providing you their never-ending love and comfort, just as he wanted.

To the Family – Always remember, those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard and always near.

Thank – you

Card of Thanks

To our family and friends we cannot express enough thanks for all the kind words, prayers, cards, floral arrangements, phone calls, visits and abundance of food brought to our homes.

Thank-you to the staff at the Consort Lodge as well as to the Consort Respite Unit for the gentle care given to Tony during his stay.

To Father Mahesh we thank-you for your comforting words at the Vigil Service and Burial Mass, and to Caroline Doetzel for her assistance. A huge thank-you to the Consort Corpus Christi Choir for the beautiful gift of music.

Thank-you to the Provost C.W.L for serving lunch and refreshments at the vigil and following the service.

Our heartfelt gratitude for the professional guidance and support, we thank Jeremy Allen and Chery Grosh of Gregory’s Funeral Home.

Special appreciation and thanks to Alvin Beier who presented the marvellous tribute to his father in-law.

To the pallbearers and honorary pallbearers, the granddaughters for the readings and carrying of gifts we thank-you.

A big thank-you to Eddie for his musical selections they were beautiful as usual.

Thank-you to everyone who made donations to various charities, your kindness will always be remembered.

For all those who attended the prayer service and the funeral, thanks for sharing your love and prayers.

We were so touched by your overwhelming support as we bid farewell to a special Husband, Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa. Your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

Jennie Ference and Families

Dorothy Flory Samuel

February 28, 1954 – September 9, 2015

Dorothy Flory Samuel, daughter of Francis and Emelia Quadros, was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, February 28, 1954. She was the youngest of four: Agnel Quadros, Bernadette Pinto, and Claire Ackland.

Immigration to Canada was based on entrepreneurship in 1982. From this city of millions, to the small prairie village of Consort, Alberta, she raised her children Aqil, Saad, and Sabrina, with her husband Julian. Dorothy then moved to Medicine Hat, Alberta in 1994, where she lived out her beliefs: Healing happens in community with the help of a Higher Power, children are God’s royalty, and several hours of tennis could make any day great. A lot of spare time was spent lovingly caring for her mother, Emelia, as she aged. The least known of her passions was Pooky, her four-legged best buddy, who she took everywhere, and pretended not to like very much.

By 2005, Dorothy’s purest joys had both arrived. Aden (mother Gina Barnett) and Xavier (mother Dalana Roven-sky), upgraded her role to beloved “Grandma Dot”. They had many fond memories together at the Gull Lake cabin.

Taught by nuns in grade school, she was again taught deeper lessons by them at St. John’s Convent in Calgary, where she resided and worked for a time, enriching her Catholic faith. Loved ones shared moments tender, hopeful, and poignant over the course of her four and a half year cancer experience. Her love imprinted many.

So to this life, we say game, set, and match is yours Grandma Dot. Be blessed. We love you.

Family and friends gathered for prayers in the Pattison Chapel at Medicine Hat on Sunday evening, September 13th, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. Catholic Mass was celebrated at Holy Family Parish at Medicine Hat, on Monday, September 14th, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Philip Le celebrant. Pallbearers were Alex Pinto, Larry Pinto, Jeff Pinto, Giles Pinto, Xavier Samuel, Aden Samuel. Interment followed in the Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the St. Vincent De Paul Society through Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1B 4V3. To e-mail an expression of sympathy, please direct it to: pattfh@telusplanet.net subject heading: Dorothy Samuel, or you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome .com and leave a message of condolence.

Funeral arrangements were by Pattison Funeral Home & Crematorium.

Melvin Rennich

Jan. 23, 1934 – Oct. 3, 2015

Mr. Melvin Rennich passed away October 3, 2015 at Stettler Health Care Centre at the age of 81 years. Melvin was born January 23, 1934 at Consort, Alberta to Peter and Loretta Rennich; where we all learned to play baseball and hockey and every other sport that was available at the time. Mel excelled at all of them. He also excelled at hunting, shooting, playing pool. Melvin married Catherine Quinlan and they raised six children. Melvin had several jobs, grain buyer, insurance sales and his love of children led him to be scout leader, hockey coach and lastly working at Walmart, where his smile greeted everyone.

Mel is survived by his long time friend Joan Heuer; daughter Therese (John) Sheen; sons Robert (Eva), Patrick, Michael (Carrie Tully), Peter (Lori), Billy (Deanna); 11 grandchildren; brother Richard (Lana); ex wife Kay; as well as numerous other relatives and a host of friends. He was predeceased by his parents, sisters Lorraine Rennich, Jeanette Bzdel and infant daughter Margaret.

A Celebration of Life was held in the Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home on October 8, 2015 with Father Don Ihekwoaba of Christ King Catholic Church officiating. Roderick Bryce presented his gift of music. Mel’s brother Richard, as well as friend Les Bailey gave loving tributes. Readers were Bailee Rennich and Pat Rennich. Curtis Rennich offered prayers of the faithful. Joan Heuer sang “The River.” Mel will be interred in Veteran Cemetery, Veteran, Alberta.

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

Memorial donations may be made to Alberta Diabetes Foundation c/o Stettler Funeral Home, Box 1780, Stettler, Alberta T0C 2L0, whom where entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Geneva Deagle-Kroetsch

Geneva Mary Kroetsch passed away on October 8th at the age of 93. Geneva was the elder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Lane and was raised in the Big Gap district. She was predeceased by two husbands, Francis Deagle in 1973 and Wilfred Kroetsch in 2010; also two brothers, William and Charles, a son David and a daughter-in-law, Virginia.

She is survived by her children, Don (Patty) Deagle, Ted Deagle, Jerry (Lois) Deagle, Trudy Deagle (Dwayne), Ron Deagle; her grandchildren and great grandchildren; her step-children, Louise (Ernie) Kitura, Stan (Darlean) Kroetsch, Marv (Lynann) Kroetsch, Howie (Diane) Kroetsch, Wendy (Eric) Calicott, Bev (Brent) Kostyniuk, Darlene (Dave) Fitzgerald, and their many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Geneva leaves one sister, Pam Rees, of Wainwright. Sympathy is extended to her from her friends here.

The Funeral Mass was held Friday, October 16th from St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church, Edmonton.

Hannah Vaillancourt

“Hazel”

Oct. 8, 1923 – Oct. 1, 2015

Hazel Hannah Vaillancourt passed away in St. John Hospital, Vanderhoof, B.C. on October 1, 2015. Her son, Allan Hone, his wife Barb, sister Ann Shannon, niece Terri Shannon, were by her side. She was predeceased by her first husband, E. Hone, parents, John and Elizabeth Makranoff, brothers, George and Alex, nephew Christopher, her favorite uncle and aunt, Henry and May Post, also her late husband, Armond Vaillancourt.

Hazel was born October 8, 1923 and started her schooling at Green Glen country school, just north of Altario, Alberta. School taught to Grade 9, so after finishing that grade, she went to work for several farm families at five dollars a month. At the age of nineteen, she met her husband and went to Edmonton to live for a few years. After a broken marriage, she left for Saskatoon, taking comptometer training, securing a job at the National Drug Company, doing payrolls, bill paying, etc. She was well respected in doing such a job and when she decided to leave, they were sad to see her go, as not many were trained in that profession at that time. She moved to Edmonton where she worked at Robinson Electric for many years.

It was time to visit family in Consort, so she spent time with her retired parents and sister, Ann, on the farm. When Ann started her family, she helped with the newborn. She must have remembered when she was only nine and a half years old, helping her Dad deliver her baby sister. Dad told her to start the stove and warm some water. When she heard the squawking baby, she bathed and wrapped her up and set her on the oven door to keep her warm. Not many at her age, could do that now.

In later years, Hazel spent some time running the restaurant at the Consort Hotel, but then it was time to move on and visit her longtime friend, Mary Murray, in Vancouver, and it was there she met her husband, Armond Vaillancourt. They moved to Prince George, B.C., where she was very active volunteering with the Hospital Auxiliary. They later moved to Vanderhoof to start up a Childrens Wear shop. She made many trips to Vancouver for stock and supplies, in her big van. Later she sold her shop and together with Armond, they ran an Arcade for a few years. Many teens frequented the place and if any were misbehaving, they were soon set straight. After retiring, they made many trips to the Yukon, to visit the Shannons. Many happy times were spent at the mine and in and around Dawson City. She lived in her own home, with her animals, until her passing.

A memorial was held at the Vanderhoof Seniors Centre on October 7th, with many of her 30-some years of friends attending.

Interment of Hannah and Armond’s ashes, in a heart shaped urn, took place in the family plot at the Lakeroad Cemetery at Consort. Attending the graveside memorial were her son, Allan Hone, Halifax, N.S., her sister, Ann Shannon, nephew Greg and Marianne Shannon, nephew Andy and Wynona Mak- ranoff and their five sons, cousins Dianne and Karl Berg, Florence Ference and son Bryan. A poem, written by Debbie Berg, was read, a family tradition for all family members that have passed on.

CARD OF THANKS –

Thank you Dianne, Debbie and Karl, for having all of us for coffee and lunch after the graveside interment for my sister and husband, Armond.

Ann Shannon, sister

Allan Hone, son

Cyril Houcher

March 24, 1941-Oct. 12, 2015

Cyril Houcher was born in Consort on March 24, 1941. Following the early passing of his father, Frank, the family moved from the Little Gap district. Cyril married Lynn Taggert on June 25, 1966 and farmed west of Morningside until the spring of 1998, when they moved into Ponoka.

Cyril was an inventor. If he saw it, he always thought he could build it. His biggest accomplishment was helping to build Ponoka V-s Feed. He finished his working life at Will’s Welding and truly enjoyed his time there. Cyril was a kind, caring and fun-loving man, who will be missed by all who knew him.

He went home to the Lord on Monday, October 12, 2015, at the age of 74. Cyril is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 49 years, Lynn; daughters Tracey (Sean) O’Hara of Oregon, USA and Cheryl (Greg) Whyte of Calgary; grandchildren: Alyona, Tanya, Declan, Alexis, Kimberly O’Hara and Megan and Emily Whyte. He also leaves to mourn, his brother, Wayne (Lois) Houcher and sisters: Gladys Radefeldt, Consort, Jean Polson, Lacombe, Florrie (Freddie) Bennett, Innisfail and Hilda Hankins, Bentley. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Alberta and sister, Joyce.

The funeral was held Friday, October 16 at 2:00 p.m. from the First Baptist Church, Ponoka, with Pastor Paul Spate officiating. The Tributes (Eulogy) were given by Tracey and Cheryl. Interment was in Forest Home Cemetery.

Dorothy Grace McCuaig (nee Butt)

Nov. 27, 1929 – Oct. 28, 2015

It is with a deep sense of sorrow and loss, our family announces the passing of our mother, grandmother and great grandmother Dorothy Grace McCuaig (nee Butt).

Born in Calgary, November 27, 1929, she is survived by her husband of 64 years John (Jack) McCuaig. She is also survived by her children Marg (Dan Boyd) McCuaig-Boyd (Fairview), John (Cathie) McCuaig (Edmonton), Gerry McCuaig (Calgary), Mac (Irene) McCuaig (Victoria) & Laura (Dave) Beaudry (Edmonton). Dorothy is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, sister-in-law Lenora Strand (Calgary) and brother William Butt (Calgary).

Dorothy graduated as an RN in February of 1951 from the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary. She married John C. McCuaig in Calgary on June 23, 1951 at St. Barnabus Anglican Church. The family moved from Calgary to Grande Prairie in 1964 and then to Edmonton in 1968. Dorothy was active in the Anglican Church at all three locations but mostly with St. Timothy’s in Edmonton where she served as the People’s Warden and Rector’s Warden. She also worked as an RN in all three locations, the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary, the Grande Prairie Hospital and the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton. After retiring from her nursing career, Dorothy volunteered her time at the Misericordia Hospital, the Cross Cancer Institute and then later at The Pilgrims Hospice. She was always ready and available to help anyone in need whether it was asked of her or not.

Dorothy was very proud of her children. She was firm but fair, and they were all successful in their adult life.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Cardiac Care Unit of the Misericordia Hospital for the kind, amazing care they gave to her and for the concern they had for the family. They were truly outstanding.

A Celebration of Life with Very Reverend Neil Gordon officiating was held at St. Timothy’s Anglican Church, 8420 – 145 Street Edmonton on Monday, November 9th at 2:00 p.m. A luncheon to followed.

Steven Sankey

June 12, 1924 – Oct. 31, 2015

Steven was born to Demetrious and Sophia Sankey on June 12, 1924. His birth certificate says Campbell Hill, the area of the Sankey Homestead near Hemaruka. The family consisted of 2 boys and 6 girls. Steven was the third youngest. The early years were spent doing chores on the farm and working with his father and the horses. He always tried to lighten the burden his mother carried while raising the large family in the soddy. The dust bowl of the 30’s was vivid in his memory, recalling the dark dust clouds that would roll in, in the afternoon. They would hurry to milk the cows and the chickens would go to roost as it became dark as night.

His schooling took place at Kinear School taking him to grade 9. He enjoyed playing baseball, hockey on the outdoor rink and the social activities of his day.

At the age of 13, Steven gave his heart to the Lord and was baptised into the Seventh-day Adventist faith. His love, devotion and commitment to the Lord only strengthened over the years. His example to his family and friends was an inspiration. In his last days he shared his conviction that his eternity would be spent with the Lord and he encouraged his family to meet him there.

For a few years he thought to supplement his income by hauling mail weekly east to Loverna. He had many stories to tell and made numerous fond acquaintances in the country east of here but he said he never made any money at it!

A young schoolteacher who came to Hemaruka on a dare, caught his eye. After the one year she spent here, they continued their courtship by mail for 2 years. On his 25th birthday, June 12, 1949, he and Margaret Imes were married in Calgary. The young couple, full of energy, bought out the town of Little Gem and operated the general store, post office and CN freight depot out of their house.

Along with trucking and operating an Esso petroleum agency, they dabbled in farming! During this time Murray (1951) and Carol (1953) were born. During these years Steven did the trucking to Calgary, Peggy raised the family and operated the daily businesses and a hired man did the farming. They were going broke! Steven decided that as much as he loved trucking he should quit and focus on farming. They closed the store in 1956 and Peggy went back to teaching for a few years.

In the first 10 years of farming they barely survived. It seemed that everything that could happen, did happen. They had drought, frost, hail, wet harvest or early snow. Even a prairie fire burned several granaries of grain but missed the yard site. However, Steven never shied away from hard work and challenges. Doing his own fixing was often cheaper and quicker than going to town for repairs. Over the years they finally were able to purchase more land and equipment. Technology was embraced and he remarked how he enjoyed swathing with auto steer the last few years.

In 1971, Murray decided to join his father and Little Gem Ranches was formed. So named to preserve the name of the town. Steven and Murray, along with the help of their wives, were able to expand their grain operation and developed a quality Hereford cow/calf commercial herd. They added bison in 1997.

Steven was a hard-working man and there was seldom anything that came ahead of getting the job done. That said, he and Peggy did take a few trips, the highlight being their trip to Africa in 1988. For countless years, annual trips to the Calgary Bull Sale were not to be missed. These trips were often preceded by a trip to John’s Mens Wear in Stettler for some new item of clothing to make him look dashing! His family would often tease him as to how many jackets or hats he needed.

Steven’s positive, friendly ways endeared him to nearly everyone. He could remember their names, who was married to whom, and who their parents or children were. He loved to visit with the youngsters and always had a treat for them in his pocket. To the neighbor children he became known as “the candy man”.

After Peggy passed away in 2011, Steven was able to stay on the ranch thanks to the care of Murray and Elaine. He took on the roles of “go-fer” and PR agent. He took great pleasure in driving around and visiting.

Last year on his 90th birthday, he was blessed to have so many of you join in his celebration. It energized him for another year. The past few months were difficult for him despite the care of his family and Home Care staff. Since 2003 he successfully fought cancer with alternative remedies but kidney failure finally forced admittance to the Consort Hospital on Monday, October 19. There he was compassionately cared for until his passing in the early minutes of October 31, 2015.

Steven is survived by his children Murray (Elaine) and Carol (Neil) Garner. Grandchildren Kimberly (Yan) Senechal, Scott Sankey, Jennifer (Keith) Jackson and Shelly (Steve) Newell and 11 great grandchildren.

Sisters Catherine (Clarence) Chinn, Pauline White and Muriel Kline

He was predeceased by his wife Margaret (Peggy) Sankey, his parents, sisters Jessie Lindstrom, Doris Peterson and Annie Tym and brother William.

Eulogy

by Murray Sankey

Before I begin, I want to thank you for coming today. Many of you from as far away as New Zealand have already expressed what dad meant to you. What a great turnout! Reminds us of a recent birthday party. Please we would like you all to stay for the simple roast beef supper. We ordered lots of food because in keeping with our Ukranian, as well as Sankey, tradition, no one goes away hungry.

Just a few weeks ago when I was combining on the “old place” – the original Sankey Homestead – my knife stopped. Here was this honking big horseshoe stuck in it! I took it home and the next morning asked Dad about it. “Oh, that’s got to be from Tom. He had big feet. Grandpa loved that team – Tom and Frank. When he hauled wheat to Youngstown before Hemaruka came into existence it was a long day. He would just tie the reins and every night the horses would bring him home.” No yard lights then. How cool to still have dad comment on something about 100-105 years later!

Also please note the one liners on the back of the bulletin. His lines were compiled on one of our many trips to Red Deer. When presented to Dad he had a good chuckle. The scripture verse on the front he used over and over when there was potential conflict. The key word is offend. If he was ever offended he rarely showed it. It was never personal.

I don’t mind sharing about Dad’s last few hours. Even though most know he was battling cancer alternatively for a number of years, kidney failure was really what ended his life. At his age he declined dialysis and amazingly got by with 7% kidney function for about 4 years. On October 19th, even though his legs were terribly painful, he walked into the Consort hospital where he spent 11 days. We said our goodbyes and on Thursday after a hearty breakfast, which was his tradition, he went into a coma. Just after midnight Friday night he passed peacefully to his rest.

Ever since Dad rolled the tractor on himself in’67, I’ve feared his exit. Because God has blessed him with such a prolonged active – to less active role in our lives, I’m OK with his passing now and I believe he was OK with it too.

Recently when I asked Dad what I should say at his funeral, he quickly said, “Tell the truth and keep it simple.” He said that everyone has a good and bad side and of course at funerals you only talk about the good. Then he said that you should really not have to say much since it is how they lived their life that should be remembered. In Dad’s case it is hard to be simple since his life was so long and full. In their expressions of sympathy people have said, “Steven was so kind, gentle and patient”. I was thinking a lot about this and my contrarian side began questioning if he had a dark side. As we were sorting and shipping calves this last week, I jokingly said that it would be about now that dad would come unglued. We had a good laugh. Most of you have not worked cattle with my dad but you have worked cattle as a family and know what I mean. I asked Carol if she could remember being whipped by Dad. After some long thought she said “No” and I said,” Of course not, because you weren’t! I always knew when you should have been though!” Then she asked me the same question. Guess what? So if it was up to our dad, my sister and I may be in jail today! Actually we never witnessed Dad laying a hand on anyone.

Most of my tears have been tears of gratitude for having had such a person to call my dad and to enjoy his life for so long together. Often fathers and sons cannot work together but in our case he, along with mother’s coaching, made it happen. When I was still a teenager, we would go to Peacock’s John Deere to order a piece of equipment. He would head to “Old” Jim’s office to visit while “Young” Jim and I did the business. That’s when I became hooked on equipment. He loved combining and would take me, when I was very young, to stand on the tool box behind him, hang on for dear life and watch the grass seed and grasshoppers tumble into the hopper. Hence my love for combining. I seed a crop so I can have something to combine! Like dad I do what I do for the love of it. He loved what was happening around him on the ranch and just a few days ago said, “You guys shouldn’t put those cows on Gordon’s. It’s not good for the grass.” Oftentimes he would give advice which at first was not accepted and we would then follow it anyway! The last while, because of his sore feet, he would just drive around doing the PR and go-fer thing. We and the neighborhood will certainly miss his grey truck. Speaking of which, if you see his black Lincoln on the road, don’t freak out. His last business deal cost Elaine $1.00!!

To dad a stranger was a friend he had not yet met. He had a magic in relating to the young and old. He would not sit by himself in a restaurant. It was, “Hi there. Mind if I join you?” We have hinted to him that sometimes people like a quiet meal! He would often leave before them and pay for their meal. Yes, the Tim Horton pay it forward thing was started by dad!!!

Knowing how he liked people, we decided to invite everyone who knew him to his 90th birthday party last year, while he could still enjoy the time. So many came and what a time he had! Instead of it playing him out, he announced that same month that he was going back to his old job of swathing hay, which he had quit the previous year. Now, we are so thankful we had the time together with all of you who came. I said after it was over that it wouldn’t matter if no one showed up at his funeral. He was well honored that day. Thank you again.

He was very involved in the program our church takes to the Consort Lodge. We would sometimes hint that he had so many friends there, maybe he should consider moving in. He’d say, “That’s for the old people!”

Dad’s weakness was trucks. He loved them. After driving mostly older rebuilt trucks all his life, the farm purchased him a new cabover Kenworth in ’89 for his 65th birthday. He ordered it, drove it, and we still use it as our second truck. He really enjoyed it and at the age of 85 was told at the Medical Clinic that he was the oldest person to have a Class 1 license in the area. He told us, that when he was told that, he “walked out of the clinic feeling like a rooster”!

Since both farms needed water wells, in 1958 at 34 years of age Dad went into partnership with his brother Bill and became a water well driller for 9 years. They drilled many wells around the area. Our place never had water and after 11 dry holes up to 500 feet, dad gave up. Finally, in 1974, McAllister went 666 feet into the Belly River aquifer and made dad’s day. Imagine his delight after 24 years of hauling water! Today we still use the dam he built and have two of those wells. His love of water probably got him selling and servicing distillers. He gave this over to his son-in-law Neil to carry on.

Dad really felt we serve a wonderful God. Recently one of his friends asked, “Steve what do you attribute your success in life to?” One of his granddaughters asked him the same question as well. He gave the same answer to both. When you love and serve God your life is extra blessed in so many ways”. No matter whether on the farm or in his personal life, he always felt he had God as his partner and he fully recognized it. He would remind us that the Bible says the cattle on a thousand hills are owned by our heavenly Father. Then he would say that the cattle on the Little Gem Hills were not solely ours. All that we have is a result of God’s blessings. This thinking enabled him to live a rather selfless life. He always had the greater good of everyone in mind. This has enabled us all to work well together.

Dad believed that when you love and serve God you should do what he asks in all the Ten Commandments. The Bible says in John 14:15 that “If you love me keep my commandments”. As Seventh-day Adventists the focus is naturally on the often ignored fourth commandment which defines which day to worship God. What many people also miss is the beginning of the statement where it says “Six days shall you work”. My dad sure never missed that! Like Elaine’s dad, he loved to work. I’ll always remember Terry Schetzsle saying that when they would complain about work their dad, Francis, would say, “Be glad you’re not a Sankey!” The Schetzsle’s were our closest neighbors. It always amazed me how dad and Francis were so different and yet so close. We got our drinking water from the Schetzsle well and many times I would leave the hot hay field at the end of the day and go for water. Francis would be playing ball with his family and I wished I was a Schetzsle!

Dad loved stories so I have one he rarely repeated but I love. Jay Slemp you will like this one! If I tell this it will take me over my allotted time but I believe it defines dad and you will enjoy it.

The Lost Milk Cow

Back when dad started at Little Gem there was open land around that folks had abandoned in the depression years. You could just pay the lease and use it.

One day when dad went to milk his cow she was gone. He found her half a mile south across the road on an open quarter. He noticed that there was some good grass there so he went to the Special Areas office and got a hay permit to cut it. The next year he was thinking to do the same but decided to pay the rent and lease the quarter. Shortly after, that the head of the S.A., Mr. Pokajoy, drove in the yard and said, “We have a problem Steve. You leased this quarter and Francis Schetzsle figures he should have it since it is next to his Hudson Bay quarter.” Dad thought and then said that if Francis figured he needed it then he should have it! So Pokajoy went down the road to see Francis. In a few minutes he was back just shaking his head. I can’t figure you guys out. I told Francis what you said and he said that if Steve is the kind of man that would say that, then he should keep it!” Pokajoy left for Hanna still shaking his head.

The rest of the story

Several years later we were purchasing land from another neighbor (the George Cary place) where there was a half section of pasture placed in the middle of Francis’ 4 sections. Dad and I decided to offer it to Francis and he was so happy to get it! So kindness comes back!

To quote dad “All over a lost milk cow.”

An example of his great sense of humor was experienced last summer just east of Ponoka, on a road he was unfamiliar with. He was sitting in the passenger seat with Elaine in the back. Of course we were getting a running commentary about crops, fences and livestock. All at once he says, “Lots of people here today”. Elaine and I looked over to see what auction sale it was and here we were going by a rather large cemetery!! So of course I said, “Yes Dad they must like it here. They were probably here yesterday and will be here tomorrow.” So guess what we will say now, whenever we pass a cemetery?!

Anyway, thank you for being dad’s friend and laughing with him. He was definitely energized by people. Little Gem now has a PR position available! The last while he was more and more house bound and it was hard on him. He took to driving around a lot. After Mother was gone he had his lunches with Elaine and me, not necessarily because he was hungry. So thank you each one who took time for him. Let’s all attempt to follow his example and laugh with people more. We will be blessed and have a happier life! As the gospel song goes, we have been “greatly blessed and highly favored” to have had this friend of God with us for so many years.

Thank You

After the passing of our dad/grandfather/great grandfather, we the Sankey family, have felt the love and support that only a small, caring community can give. Your kindnesses and expressions of sympathy have carried us through this difficult time.

First we would like to thank Joan Day and the Home Care Staff for their attention to dad’s needs and making it possible for him to remain at home as long as possible. We would also like to thank Dr. Usher and the compassionate staff at the Consort Hospital. How wonderful that dad’s last days could be spent in his community hospital where he felt at home and local friends could visit.

Thank you to the Veteran Full Gospel Church who went out of their way to accommodate the memorial service in spite of having a busy schedule of their own that day. We would also like to thank our local Pastor Ralph Ellison and friend Pastor Warren Kay for their support and leadership in the service. A big thank you to the musicians and those who provided special music. Thank you to Darryl Sankey and Terry Schetzsle for their part in the service.

To those of you who attended the memorial service, sent flowers and cards, called, brought food and made memorial donations – you honored dad’s memory by doing so. Bless you all.

Dad’s final years were so enriched by those of you who took the time to visit with an ”old timer”. He always came home with stories of all with whom he had visited on his trips to town. You brightened his days and we sincerely thank you.

We know dad touched many people by his personable manner. We were blessed to have him in our lives.

Murray & Elaine Sankey and families

Carol & Neil Garner and families

Raymond Tkach

June 22, 1931-Nov. 17, 2015

Raymond Arthur Walter Joseph Tkach, 84, of Veteran, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the Coronation Hospital on November 17, 2015. Raymond was born June 22, 1931 on the family farm.

On June 1, 1960, Ray married Helen Mae Early. They spent the first few years in Consort. They then took pride in building their family home on the homestead, north of Veteran, where they raised their three sons, and farmed up until his death.

Raymond kept busy over the years playing hockey, ball, as well as being actively involved in Cubs and Scouts, with Helen and his boys, teaching dance, coaching hockey and taking part in the local Lions Club. He enjoyed watching all sports, especially the Calgary Flames and Stampeders. Most Mondays were spent at the auction market. The farm was a great source of pride for Raymond, which he was thrilled to share farming practices with the 20 IAEA program participants that soon became part of the family. In 2011 the farm received the Century Farm Award with two of the past participants coming back to celebrate with the family.

Raymond is survived by his wife Helen of 55 years, sons Darryl (Caroline), Brian (Wanda) and Craig (Marsha), grandchildren Addison, Kendal (Kelsey), Tyson (Jennifer), Jason, Kurt, and Sarah, great grandson Diezel; sisters in law Edith, Jeannine and Elsie; and numerous extended family members. Predeceased by granddaughter April, his parents George and Mary and his 11 siblings: Mary, Anne, George, Helen, Paul, Frank, John, Andy, Lloyd, Arlos and Josie.

Funeral services were held at Veteran Community Hall on Monday, November 23, 2015, 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Darrel Durksen officiating. Musicians Margaret Evans and Pat Durksen presented their gifts of music as the congregation sang “Amazing Grace”; soloist Ed Ference sang “Never Grow Old” and “I Am Going to The City.” Dan Gorcak gave special memories of Raymond to those in attendance. Pallbearers were his beloved grandchildren: Addison, Kendal, Tyson, Jason, Kurt, Sarah and April as Ray was laid to rest in the Veteran Cemetery. Family and friends gathered in the Veteran Hall for a time of fellowship and a luncheon by the Veteran Community Ladies. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com. Memorial donations may be made to the Village of Veteran Cemetery Society, Box 589, Veteran, Alberta T0C 2S0. Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Memories

by Danny Gorcak

When Darryl called and asked if I would do a tribute to his Dad, my first thought was yes I could and would be honored to do so. Then quickly I was also thinking do I know enough about Raymond to do justice to a tribute? Our family connection eased my initial concern.

The connection between the Tkach’s and the Gorcak’s goes back at least 135 years to Slovakia when Raymond’s father, George, and my grandfather, Joseph, were born and raised in the same area. They came to Canada together in the early 1900’s and homesteaded across the road from each other. The George Tkach, Joe Gorcak and Mike Gorcak families all lived in close proximity and these three families were comprised of 33 children.

Raymond Arthur Walter Joseph Tkach was born June 22, 1931 the youngest child of George and Mary Tkach. His siblings were Mary, Anne, George, Helen, Paul, Frank, John, Andy, Lloyd, Arlos and Josephine.

Raymond was raised during the depression, or the ‘Dirty Thirties’ as they were commonly known on the prairies. Families were used to not having much for amenities or even having enough provisions to eat. However, knowing that your friends and neighbors were in the same situation was often the consolation needed to get families through those tough times. Social life and activities played a large role in getting through to the next day.

Raymond attended Stella school and his classmates were the Vetters, Fischers, Adams, Olsons and Gorcaks to name a few. Given the size of the Tkach family, while Ray was still in school, his older brothers and sisters were of an age that they were already leaving home and getting married. Their family and neighbors had many gatherings which included music provided by Raymond on the guitar, Lloyd on the banjo or violin, Paul (or Ringo, as he was later known) on the drums and John on the bottlecaps. I don’t know the validity of that last instrument, but it makes for a good story.

When Ray was done school, he worked with his brother Paul for the Olson’s and at Mel Webb’s. He went to Coronation to work at the Round House, but would return to work on the farm. In 1957, Ray went to Consort to work for Kroeger Brothers. About this same time he began his career as school bus driver which spanned many years in both the Consort and Veteran area. He continued to return to the farm to help out. A favorite story of Ray’s was upon returning to the farm when Frank, John and Ray were out walking one day to check the crops, Frank said “Windy, isn’t it?” Ray said “No, it’s Thursday.” And John replied “So am I, let’s have a beer”.

Ray always loved being on the farm but was drawn back to the Consort/Monitor area by a young lady by the name of Helen Mae Early.

Their first date was June 1, 1957 which is significant because 3 years later, to the day, on June 1, 1960, Raymond and Helen were married. I remember that day well, because Mom took us kids to town so we could see the bride walk into the hall for the dance. I remember years later telling Ray and Helen this and commenting something about it being a Saturday night, and Ray and Helen saying that it was actually a Wednesday; not only to coincide with their first date, but also because businesses were closed on Wednesday afternoons so it made it easy for people to attend and celebrate their wedding. Raymond and Helen made their home in Consort until 1962. With Ray wanting to return to the farm, they built a new home on the original homestead. Additions to the family were soon to come. Darryl was born in 1962, Brian in 1964 and Craig in 1965.

Raymond was always active in the community. In early years, he played baseball, softball and hockey. Raymond was goaltender for a couple local teams. He often commented he got stuck in goal because he wasn’t a great skater. Later Raymond was involved in other numerous ways. He was deeply involved in the Scouting movement, even becoming the Chairman for the Red Deer District. He was always available to call bingos, or to call a square dance. He served as a delegate for the United Grain Growers. He took part in the gymkhana, coaching hockey and ball, and even umpiring ball. Raymond was always available to assist the community.

I recall playing ball one evening when Raymond was umpiring. There was a dispute on one of his calls and some complaining. Raymond just quietly replied “Don’t ask me, I’m just the ump”. End of argument.

With Ray and Helen’s family getting older, in the late 1970’s Raymond took a job as a battery operator which he did for about 10 years. During this time the boys were becoming more involved in the farm and were getting married and starting families of their own. Darryl married Caroline Sieben and they had two children, Addison and April; Brian married Wanda Cornelssen and they have three sons, Kendall, Tyson and Jason and Craig married Marsha Stone and they have two children, Kurt and Sarah. The grandchildren were a source of joy and admiration for Raymond.

During these years of farming, the Tkach’s joined the International Agriculture Exchange Association which they participated in for about 25 years. They hosted trainees from Australia, Sweden, Norway, England, Denmark and New Zealand.

Helen and Raymond were fortunate enough to travel to Australia and New Zealand to holiday and visit some of their trainees. Raymond spoke fondly of this extended vacation which also included time in Hawaii.

Raymond joined the Veteran and District Lions Club in 1985. For the past 30 years he has been one of the most dedicated members. His volunteer work for the club and the community was limitless and because of this he was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award for his dedication to humanitarian service in the community.

For a number of years Raymond has been a regular at the local cattle market. His wise comments about the world and local affairs were always welcome and quite interesting. He always had a way of making the conversations a bit lighter; which is good. It was usually during these conversations that someone would bring up the newest crease in his Dodge truck. Ray would just reply that you can’t stop a Dodge with a little dent.

In 2011, the Tkach family celebrated 100 years of farming on the original homestead. One of the amazing aspects of this award for the Tkach’s was that in the 100 years, Raymond, of the second generation, was still actively farming. They hosted a gathering of family and friends to celebrate this achievement. Raymond, as the sole surviving sibling rose to “say a few words”. He spoke so eloquently and with so much passion about growing up on the farm, the difficult times, the good times and what the farm, the family and the community meant to him. He spoke without a prepared text or notes: it was truly words from his heart. As he spoke, the room got quieter and quieter and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the hall when he was finished.

There are not a lot of people who come along in a lifetime who quietly impact a community in a large number of diverse ways. Raymond Arthur Walter Joseph Tkach was one who did.

Blaine Kelts

Nov. 25, 1952-Nov. 20, 2015

Blaine Douglas Kelts was born in Consort, Alberta on November 25, 1952 and passed away November 20, 2015 at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta at 63 years of age.

Blaine is survived by his wife (Mariam), son (Rayman & Kelly) and daughter (Sheliza & Chris), three grandchildren, two brothers (Wayne & Lee) two sisters (Mariena & Lynn), numerous other family members and a large number of friends.

He was predeceased by his mother Eileen on August 31, 1983, his father Douglas on December 30, 2001, brother Kenny on August 31, 1971 and brother Dennis on April 29, 1994.

Blaine enjoyed many hobbies, watching the stars and playing his musical instruments, and spending time with eko just to mention a few.

We all will miss his warm heart and his quirky personality.

A family interment was held at Rocky View Garden of Peace.

Norman Berry

1921 – 2015

With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Norman John Berry. He was a thoughtful and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Norm was born and raised on the family farm near Loverna, SK and spent his life farming near Compeer, AB. He and his wife Kay (Katherine) moved to Saskatoon in 1996 to be closer to their family. Norm was predeceased by his wife Kay; son Keith; parents Anna and John; brother George; and numerous other family. Left to cherish his memories are grandsons Dayman and Kaylan; sons Don (Sheila) with Stefan, Jasen (Vanessa), Dayna (Dean), Jenai; Rick (Teresa) with Jordan and Jared; John Brent (Deanna); and dear friend Betty Blair.

Sincere thanks to Norm’s second family at Preston Park. You helped to make his final years very enjoyable. He couldn’t have been with better friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ronald McDonald House (1011 University Dr, Saskatoon, SK. S7N 0K4). The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, November 27, 2015 at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church (Saskatoon). The Rite of Committal followed at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Arrangements in care of John Schachtel – Mourning Glory Funeral Services.

www.mourningglory.ca

Cecelia Simkin

Nov. 11, 1927 – Dec. 3, 2015

Cecelia Simkin was born at home on the farm in New Brigden on November 11, 1927. Her parents, Jacob and Antonina Wiechnik, had emigrated from Poland in 1912 and 1913 to homestead. Cecelia completed their family of eight children, five boys and three girls. Her siblings have all predeceased her. Cecelia, aged 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on December 3, 2015.

Cecelia married Gavin Clark Simkin on February 28, 1947 in Consort, Alberta. They spent the next 54 years farming and ranching, and raising their family of four – Robert (Trudie) and their children Lisa (Jason) James, Alison (Todd) Schauer, Kimberly (Dave) Suffern and Patricia (Mark) Kelts; John (Sue) and their children Jill (Alistair) Dinniss, Mark (Donna), and Emily; Dawn (Ken) Guenthner, Dawn’s son Jeff (Daphne) Simkin and Ken and Dawn’s children Tanya, Laurie and Scott; and Audrey (Gord) Wilkes and their children Kristin (Andy) Mueller, Stephanie, and Michael.

Family life revolved around farm work, school, sports and community activities. Gavin and Cecelia were proud to call Consort home and were active in the community. Cecelia devoted her life to raising her family. She had a lovely artistic gift that was expressed in her kitchen, her garden, and in later years in her painting. She was a gracious hostess and her table could always accommodate visitors (often on little or no advance notice!). The arrival of fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren provided much joy for Cecelia and her family.

Gavin passed away October 16, 2001 after a short illness. Cecelia later moved to an apartment at the Lodge in Consort. The Simkin and Guenthner families were devastated when Dawn passed away February 4, 2012 after a brief unrelenting illness. Cecelia was also predeceased by two grandsons, Graham (1983) and Darcy (2015) Simkin. Cecelia spent the last two years in Long Term Care at the Consort Hospital. The family is grateful for the care she received there. She will be lovingly remembered by her family.

The funeral service, celebrating Cecelia’s life, was held Tuesday, December 8th at Knox United Church, Consort with Reverend Susan Bowyer officiating. Pianist Marilyn Long played for the congregational hymns, “In The Garden” and “Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace”. Guest musicians, Ben and Shirley Klumpenhower, offered the musical selection, “Far Side Banks Of Jordan”. Family tributes were presented by daughter Audrey Wilkes and granddaughter Emily Simkin. Pallbearers were Mark Simkin, Jeff Simkin, Scott Guenthner, Michael Wilkes, Gord Wilkes and Ken Guenthner. Interment took place in the morning at Lakeroad Cemetery beside her husband, Gavin Simkin. Following the service, family and friends gathered in the Lower Hall for a time of sharing memories and a luncheon prepared and served by the Knox United Church Women. Donations in memory of Cecelia are gratefully accepted to the Consort Hospital Auxiliary Society.

Parkview Funeral Chapels were entrusted with the care and arrangements.

Eulogy

Presented by Audrey Wilkes

Welcome family and friends. Thank you for coming to celebrate Mom’s life. She would be honoured by your presence here today.

Cecelia was born November 11, 1927, the eighth child of Jacob and Antonia Wiechnik, at home on their farm in New Brigden. Farming was a family endeavor and they all worked the land together.

Cecelia attended Stone-law School with her seven brothers and sisters – walking two miles (uphill of course) in the summer and travelling by a team and sleigh in the winter. She felt especially fortunate to attend high school in Consort. She lived with the Tophams and in a boarding house on Main Street. Her high school yearbook pictures a beautiful and somewhat demure young Cecelia – described as popular and a friend to many with an easy smile. In high school she met a young man, Gavin Simkin, at a dance in Monitor. I think he had a slightly wilder approach to life. Auntie Margaret (Mitchell) tells us that Gavin’s mother Alice was so happy that Cecelia married Gavin and said…”She will make a man out of him”. They married February 28, 1947 on a cold and wintery day. Mom’s sister Anne was the bridesmaid. I’d like to share a letter Auntie Anne wrote for Mom and Dad on the occasion of their 50th Wedding Anniversary……

The winter of 1947 was a very cold one with lots of snow banks and most of the roads were closed.

Gavin Simkin came to Monitor to pick me up with a bob sleigh and a team of horses. We arrived at Mrs. Simkin’s just in time for supper. I remember the big bowl of tapioca pudding she had made. Cecelia was there.

After supper we went to town to make arrangements for the wedding. We went over to see Hilda McFetridge to see if she would play for the wedding and also over to Art and Maggie McLean’s to see if we could change our clothes there.

Morning came and it was still drifting out but with our conveyance, we didn’t have any trouble getting to town. We went over to McLean’s to dress up and arrived at the church just in time.

Being the bridesmaid, I had to go in the church first and was I surprised to see the church packed with people. As I started up the aisle I was very nervous and my bouquet started to shake. It was quite a sentimental feeling as I was the only one of our family that was there. I thought, here is this beautiful wedding and everyone else was missing it. Cecelia seemed so calm and collected through it all.

After the wedding we greeted the guests outside and it was real cold. As soon as this was over, Cecelia and Gavin took the train to Calgary on their honeymoon.

Jack Sumner was the best man and he drove me back to Monitor.

Wishing you all a very happy day and the very best in 1997.

Anne

Mom and Dad spent the next 54 years farming, ranching and raising their family together.

Calm and quiet, Mom provided a good balance and steady influence for our father and our family. She devoted her life to taking care of others and putting their needs before her own. Although she did not have a career with a title and credentials, she was accomplished at many things – gardening, a skilled seamstress, a wonderful cook and gracious hostess, a tireless chauffeur, and a supporter and motivator for her family – to name a few. Our kitchen table could always be expanded to accommodate guests often on little or no advanced notice. Cecelia had a keen artistic flair which was reflected in her kitchen, garden and in later life, her paintings. A couple of her paintings are on the memory table in the narthex. An avid reader, she was a lifelong learner and instilled that value in her family. She always ensured that we had ample resources and books to complete schoolwork and projects.

We grew up with a solid foundation, a strong work ethic and could count on Mom’s support through it all. She enjoyed good conversation and was an especially gifted listener – a gene that some of us didn’t inherit enough of!! After she got the four of us launched, she pressed “repeat” and bestowed the same love and affection and caring on her fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Robert, John, and I (and we know Dawn would concur) feel she was a little more indulgent the second and third time around. These next generations have provided Mom with countless joy and stimulation. I am thankful you have all been so prolific!

As we reminisced around Mom’s bedside last week, we couldn’t recall Mom getting really mad very often, if ever. She was exceptionally patient and good humoured. Although she rarely raised her voice, she had a unspoken expectation of us. None of us wanted to come up short in her eyes.

She had a great sense of humour – a gentle chuckle was her trademark. Even in her twilight years as Mom’s health faded, we could always get a laugh out of her. This November, she enjoyed several birthday celebrations. During the last tea party with Lili and Jaxson drumming and dancing to polka music in her room, she laughed and agreed it made you feel like dancing.

None of us anticipate the day when we may lose our independence and ability to care for ourselves. That is a humbling journey.

On behalf of our family, I would like to thank the staff and caregivers at the Consort Lodge, Homecare, and Long-term Care for helping our Mother through life’s transitions. Your compassion and competence are most appreciated. Thanks also to the people in the community who give their time and talent to bring programs and entertainment to these facilities. Never underestimate the joy some music, an activity or friendly conversation provides. I would be remiss not to mention the beautiful garden at the hospital – lovingly tended by volunteers and so enjoyed by the residents and visitors there.

I once read that:

Some people make you laugh a little louder,

Smile a little brighter,

and live a little better…

Mom was one of those people.

Tribute

Written by Emily Simkin &

Jill Dinniss

Grandma was an unwavering presence in all of our lives and touched each of us grandchildren and great grandchildren in a unique manner. She has left a legacy that she can only be proud of. Grandma fostered a love of nature, an inquisitive mind and would always lend an ear, share her love of reading or provide a cool solace to watch a movie on a hot summers afternoon when Robert had a job to be done. One thing is for sure though, we all have very much the same fond memories of her magical cookie jar that was always filled with the most delicious ginger snaps and chocolate chip cookies. And, she made the best mac and cheese you have ever tasted.

Grandma was a fabulous cook, she passed on her ability to Aunty Dawn and Aunty Audrey and both Robert and dad sought out women that were also very capable in the kitchen. Although after attempting to make grandma’s ginger snaps, it’s clear from my fathers advice and critiques, that no one will ever make them as well as grandma.

Grandma had many talents that we admired beyond her skill in the kitchen. She always had a bountiful garden, gorgeous roses, a quick wit and the ability to grow African violets, which we were all kindly instructed not to water… or touch. Both Kim and I have tried with little success to grow our own. We seem to have missed out on her green thumb. One time Aunty Dawn had picked Grandma up to take her to Edmonton for a much needed break from calving. She asked Jill to water and weed the garden. After finishing one afternoon, she thought she would get tucked into trimming up the roses. Jill took the hedge clippers and gave them a good old trim. Grandma came home and said ‘Jill we usually would do this in the fall after they bloom… ‘. There were no roses that year but man did they look amazing the following summer. Although Grandma took pride in those violets and her roses, she had a special spot for wildflowers and sunflowers. Jeff and Jill would bring home flowers after riding and she would proudly display them on the table or in the livingroom.

Grandma also began painting later in life and had a natural talent that was proudly displayed in the porch and admired by us all, especially Mike who enjoyed asking questions about the pictures, while eating an ice cream treat from the freezer.

Alison, Lisa and Jeff spent many hours playing north of the house in the play place, while close by grandma tended to her garden, cut grass and provided snacks of ripple chips in a melamine bowl. At Christmas, Grandma would also fill shoeboxes with treasures like a magnifying glass, a note pad and elastic bands for them, ensuring hours of exploration of the world would occur. Kristin remembers helping to decorate grandmas famous candy bags that got handed out before departing our annual Simkin Christmas get together. I remember even further back when we all had a green mesh bag, decorated with hand stitched ornaments. She always knew how to make us feel included and special.

Grandma was able to fix anything and used to spend a lot of time sewing. She even sewed Alison’s favourite dress, a red gingham number with a cherry embroidered on it, to wear to Aunty Audrey’s bridal shower. Grandma always had a keen fashion sense and had a basement filled with fun clothes to dress up in, with stories to go along with each item.

I was very fortunate to have spent a great deal of time with Grandma and Grandpa Simkin, as I, like many of her grandchildren, would stay at their house after school or sport events. My brother remembers grandma calling mom to find out his favorite foods to make but soon becoming very fond of her creations like a fried egg sandwich. Tanya had Grandma wrapped around her finger and managed to have a wheat bag warming the foot of her bed when she came home late, somehow Aunty Dawn couldn’t be convinced to give the same treatment. While staying at the farm, we all tried our best to beat her at checkers, but never seemed to be able to outsmart her. Her school lunches were loved by everyone and it was common to have your ham and shredded lettuce sandwich and cookies stolen.

Jill spent a few springs helping out at the Bingo during calving. She would come in from riding and grandma would always quiz her if the shooting stars or other flowers were out, if she had heard the meadowlark that was building a nest, chirping. Or, if she had noticed the den of coyote pups and wondered if they had been playing. Jill used to love going for a famous Sunday drive with Grandpa, and Grandma would sit right next to him. Jill wondered if it was Grandma’s way to show love, or if it was just so Jill would have to get the gate.

The younger grandkids also have fond memories of grandma. Stephanie, Trish and Tanya used to go for drives with Grandma on the hunt for fossils at the Bingo. They’d sit in the back, sure their whispers were safe from grandma’s ears, but she always heard, and always seemed to know…everything… Trish should have known better as even if it was just a comment to Aunty Trudy on the time at which Lisa returned from a date, Grandma never missed a thing.

Grandma passed on her love of birds to my nephew Gavin, sharing with him bird books, some new, and some with very well loved pages that had been referenced many times. Gavin loved visiting Grandma at the lodge, he would quiz her with a bird call he had heard (his whistling was very marginal at times) so he’d have given her clues on the birds he had seen. Grandma always was able to identify them and then show him others that should be around if that particular bird was in the area. Adam also loved grandma deeply. He believed that Great Grandma was “awesome” as he said she always had something nice to say, that she would listen to his stories and always wanted to know what he had been up to. She was very funny and had a great candy drawer. We all remember the endless supply of juicy fruit and Wrigley’s gum that Grandpa had, that we now realize Grandma lovingly ensured never ran dry.

Grandma had a quick wit which came out often and could put anyone in their place if needed. When Tanya introduced Evan to grandma, and was complaining because he wouldn’t let her buy a donkey, Grandma looked him in the eye and said, ‘well you can easily be replaced’! These lines were followed with her laugh, a hearty chuckle that could not be matched.

This summer we took Grandma on an outing to my parents new place. The look of pride and love in her eyes was undeniable as dad drove Jim Ryan and Grandma around. She was so happy and excited to see the cows, garden and most of all the great grandchildren playing together in the yard. Gavin D, Gavin S, and Adam were showing off riding bareback and climbing trees.

Grandma was a very hard worker but you never heard her complain. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and friend. Grandma loved having family around and always knew exactly what we were up to and what we should have been doing. She was the ultimate host for our family. She was always very proud of her family, in her last few years she’d become frustrated when she couldn’t find the words she wanted to say. This however, didn’t limit her chats with anyone.

I would like to think as Grandma relaxed with some of her favorite people around her, the last thing she felt was the love we had for her, and the familiar call of ‘Cecil, Cecil, do you copy? Cecil, are you almost here?’

Card of Thanks

Thank you to friends and family in the community for your kindness and condolences around Mom’s passing. We are grateful that she could be cared for in her own community with compassion and dignity.

Thank you to Reverend Susan Boyer for conducting her funeral service and the United Church Women for providing and serving lunch.

We are once again reminded of the blessing of our Consort community.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season.

Robert & Trudie Simkin & family

John & Sue Simkin & family

Audrey & Gord Wilkes & family

Jeff & Daphne Simkin & family

Ken Guenthner & family