2025 Obituaries

Paul Ronald Fraser
Dec. 7, 1951 – Feb. 1, 2025

With immense sadness, the family of Paul Ronald Fraser of Consort, Alberta, announces his unexpected passing at home on Saturday, February 1, 2025. He was called home to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. The world has lost a devoted son, brother, uncle, husband, father, and friend.
Paul was born on December 7, 1951, in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, and spent most of his life on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Later, he relocated to central Alberta with his beloved wife Patricia, stepchildren, and grandchildren, embracing a new chapter filled with love and family. Paul had a heart of gold and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Whether sharing wisdom passed down from his grandmother, telling stories of adventures with his brothers, or simply brightening a room with his charismatic presence, he touched the lives of many. A hard-working and skilled millworker and lumber grader, he dedicated much of his life to his craft with diligence and pride.
Beyond work, Paul found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved singing, gardening, spending time in nature, caring for animals, camping, and going on long walks. He enjoyed watching wrestling, hockey and Star Wars, sharing a good yarn, faithfully attending church and creating cherished memories with family and friends – especially his nephew Henry. Above all, his greatest happiness was spending time with his wife, Patricia, their beloved dog Sasha, their cherished cats, and his stepchildren and grandchildren.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Lewis; stepchildren Brendon (Shania) Lewis, Amanda (Stephen) Winchester, Jennifer (Wayne) Ward, Kevin (Lisa) Reilly, and Ehrinn (Bob) Provitola; 10 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; his brother Phillip (Christian) Fraser; his aunt Mona White; nephews Henry, Richard, and Eugene; niece Delilah Fraser; and many other family members and dear friends.
He was predeceased by his father Eugene Fraser; mother Rita Kelly; brother Stephen Fraser; grandmother Verna Fraser, grandfather Henry Fraser, aunt Katherine Lohnes and uncles Wilson and Roger Fraser.
Paul’s kindness, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him
May he rest in eternal peace.
A celebration of Paul’s life will take place on May 3, 2025, on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Additional details will be published in the Chronicle Herald at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Paul’s honour to the Saving Grace Animal Society in Alix, Alberta, a cause close to his heart.
Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com.
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangement.

Janice Colleen Liknes
Jan. 8, 1948 – Feb. 7, 2025

Janice was born in Consort, Alberta to Jean and Herb Bryan. She was the third born child after Betty and Marlene and older sister to Margaret and Les who completed the Bryan family.
Janice completed her schooling in Consort, graduating in 1965 with straight A’s. After graduation, Janice worked at AGT in Edmonton with her best friend Diane Walker-Liknes.
Janice and Darwin met in school and were quickly inseparable. They were married on November 4, 1967, and just celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary. Janice and Darwin were blessed with a large and loving family. Their first son, Neil, was born in December 1967, followed by their first daughter Tracey in October 1969, Lois in 1973 and Murray in 1978. Janice’s family was her priority, and she always made sure that her family and kids came first in everything she did.
Janice and Darwin were a team in all of their endeavors. They worked for Darwin’s dad in Peace River early in their marriage before having the opportunity to buy a tank truck from Albert Ellerby. This led to them moving to Coronation for a few years where they ran their tank truck business from the trailer court before building their home in Throne in 1973.
After much success and a lot of hard work, they made the decision to sell the tank truck business and explore semi-retirement. In semi-retirement they started raising ostriches and boer goats, which led to the creation of the Throne Ostrich Ranch.
When Janice got the opportunity to operate the Veteran Auction Mart kitchen, she jumped at it. She loved every minute of her time there. Janice and Darwin decided to sell their home in Throne and try the town life which they soon found wasn’t for them, so they searched and searched and found an acreage outside of Innisfail where they built a new home and shop. It was at this time when Darwin invented a new gate system that led to Command Gate being born, mom running the office and dad installing the gates. Command Gates was to be a certain success just like all of their ventures together. Command Gates quickly became too large of a retirement hobby and after running it together for many years they made the decision to sell Command Gates to Murray and Angela who continue to carry on their legacy.
Travel was always a priority in Janice and Darwin’s lives and they had countless adventures in their motorhomes and boats. Even though they travelled to many different places, Hawaii was Janice’s favorite place.
Through all of life’s challenges and successes, one thing that always remained constant was Janice’s love for her family. She was a devoted mother, a loving wife, and a cherished grandmother. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering dedication to those she loved will be forever remembered.
Janice is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Darwin Liknes; children: Neil (Stacey) Liknes, Tracey (Myron) Fawcett, Lois (Tom) Meier and Murray (Angela) Liknes; grandchildren: Nathan, Anthony, Christopher, Jared (Ashley), Robin (Kyle), Ivory (Kyle), Diesel, Colton, Ava and Claudia; great grandchildren: Eve, Fletcher and Raylene; siblings: Betty Healy, Marlene (Bob) Arp, Margaret Kelts, Les Bryan and their families; sister-in-law Carolyn Deveraux; brothers-in-law Gilbert (Shirley) Liknes, Ron (Janice) Liknes and their families; as well as many other relatives and dear friends.
Janice is predeceased by parents Herbert and Jean Bryan; sisters-in-law Sylvia Barker and Diane Liknes; brothers-in-law Mel Healy, Bill Kelts and Harry Devereux; nephews Randy Devereux and Calvin Healy and great niece Myah Anholt.
A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Gem Centre, Consort, Alberta.
Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to the Lakeroad Cemetery, c/o Box 309, Consort, Alberta, T0C 1B0; Red Deer Hospice, 99 Arnot Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta, T4R 3S6 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com.
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Lois Christina Mulligan
Aug. 8, 1938 – Feb. 8, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Lois on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the age of 86.
Lois is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Ted, and her beloved children: Jeff, Kim (Tom Gleason), Jan (Rick Hawkins), and Rick (Sally). She will also be lovingly remembered by her treasured grandchildren: Chad (Sofia), Curtis (Irina), Jeff, Mark, Sean, Brittney (Kyle), Joe, and Meghan (Eric) and her great-grandchildren: Liam, Kira, Brantley, and Blakely. She is also survived by her brothers Ervin (Bernice) and Clark (Diane) Fawcett, her sister-in-law May Hunter (Mulligan) and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lois was predeceased by her parents, George and Janet, her sisters Margie and Ann, her nieces Val and Jeanette, and her nephew Gordie.
Lois was an incredible friend to so many, and one could count themselves lucky to be in her circle. With her incredibly generous and welcoming spirit, many of her friends were considered family. She could often be found having hour-long phone conversations with any of these friends, solving all the problems of the world. She will be best remembered for her unwavering and unconditional love and support for her family. Nothing made her happier than a road trip and a family reunion. She often returned having lost her voice from the countless hours of laughter and heartfelt conversation. She also loved hooking up the tent trailer for a summer adventure with Ted and the kids.
Lois was the best cheerleader anyone could have asked for, but what she loved most was supporting her family and friends on the rink, the court, the diamond, and on the stage. She was never one to let others have all the fun, though, and enjoyed her fair share of rocks thrown on the curling rink and songs sung in choirs. Somehow among all of these activities she still found time to give back to her church and community with countless volunteer hours.
In her life, Lois enjoyed sewing, including snowsuits and parkas for her grandchildren, and almost any other kind of needlework one can imagine. She also loved to spend hours poring over puzzles and baking something incredibly delicious to share with friends and family. Anyone who knew Lois knew her fudge, her toffee, her shortbread, her oatmeal cookies, or any of her other countless delicious recipes she shared throughout her life. She loved to feed others, and in doing so make them feel welcomed into her life and her home.
Family was everything to Lois, and she poured her love and devotion into every moment spent with them.
She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of being loved by her and knowing her.
A Celebration of Lois’s Life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Evergreen Funeral Home at 16204 Fort Road NW, Edmonton, AB.
In memory of Lois, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Martha Ann Gordon (Marty)
Apr. 7, 1927 – Feb. 13, 2025

Martha Ann Gordon (nee McCuaig) was born in Con-sort, Alberta on April 7, 1927. She was the eldest of 12 children, born to John and Evelyn McCuaig. Marty at-tended Normal School in Calgary, and received her Teaching Certificate. She taught in Patricia, Alberta, where she met Heath Gordon, whom she married in 1949. They were married for 66 years, when Heath passed away in 2015.
They had four children, Heather (Glen), Bruce (Jan), Sandra, and Ross (Brigitte). They had 10 grandchildren, Kyle (d. 2011), Amy (Jeremy), Craig (Chantelle), Alexander, Ian, Heather (Chad), Rob (Lacey), Ben (Lux), Ingrid (Luc), and Christian (Rafaelle). They also had seven great grand-children, Audrey, Isaac, Laura, Josephine, Elizabeth, Hugo and Aurel.
Marty returned to teach-ing in the mid ’60’s, and received her B. Ed in 1976. She taught elementary school for many years, then became a librarian in the school system until she retired. She then volunteered at the Anglican Diocesan Library for more than 10 years.
Marty and Heath loved to travel, and went on many cruises and trips overseas. They were very involved with Scottish Dancing, and had many parties with their dance friends. They also loved seeing their family too and we had many wonderful get togethers.
Marty was survived by her sisters Kathleen (Alan), and Margie, and brothers Alan (Muriel), Bill (Fran), and Rod (Carol).
A celebration of life will be held at St. Martin’s Anglican Church in Calgary on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. Coffee and lunch to follow. Interment will be private.

Marie Gwen Joel
Jan. 24, 1953 – Feb. 22, 2025

With heavy hearts we, the family of Marie Joel, announce her passing at the age of 72 on February 22, 2025 in the Viking Health Centre.
Marie is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Neil Joel; daughters Carmen (Robert), Lindsay (Marty); grandchildren Madison, Teagan, Triton, Morgan (Kelvin), Hunter, Kayla and Emersyn. She is also survived by her brother Wayne (Carol) Walker, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of the Camrose St. Mary’s Hospital and the Viking Palliative Care.
Respecting the families wishes, there will not be a formal service for Marie.

Earl Dennis Deacon
Nov. 28, 1953 – Feb. 27, 2025

Earl Dennis Deacon was born November 28, 1953 and passed away February 27, 2025.
Earl is survived by his son Michael Deacon (Wendy Cameron) of Creston, B.C., and daughter Shauna Wensley (Bryan Trehearne) of Tofield, AB; grandson Dederick Wensley and great-granddaughter Aaliyah Wensley of Camrose, grandsons Joshua Wensley and Jeremy Wensley of Tofield, granddaughters Skyla Trehearne and Avaya Trehearne of Tofield, and Trisha Wensley (Jake Ratushniak) of New Norway, great-grandsons Markus and Lochlan Ratushniak of New Norwy. Earl is also survived by his brother Albert of Vegreville, his sister Lois Thompson of Hope, B.C., as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Earl is predeceased by his parents Thomas and Cora Deacon, brothers: Lloyd, William (Bill), Larry, and Edwin (Jim).
A celebration of life for Earl and interment took place Sept. 27, 2025 at Monitor Cemetery in Monitor, Alberta with United Church Minister, Reverend Johnny Rhoad officiating.

Bernie Ference
Mar. 26, 1955 – Mar. 13, 2025

Bernadette “Bernie” Ference was born on March 26, 1955, in Consort, Alberta. She was the tenth of twelve children born to Emeilia and Jack Beier.
Bernie grew up and attended school in both Compeer and Altario. After completing her studies in hairdressing at Marvel College in Edmonton, Bernie followed her dreams and began building a life of love and happiness. On June 29, 1974, she married her best friend, Jim Ference. Together, they shared a bond that would grow stronger with each passing year.
In the first year of their marriage, Bernie and Jim settled in Wainwright, where they welcomed their first daughter, Kim, on April 8, 1976. Their family grew once more when they moved back to Kirriemuir, and on June 26, 1979, they were blessed with a second daughter, Kari. Kirriemuir became home for Bernie for the remainder of her life – a place where she was deeply connected to family, friends and community.
Bernie passed away on March 13, 2025, at the University of Alberta hospital in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 69 years.
Bernie will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by her husband of 50 years, Jim; children Kim (Bryan) Burrows and their children, Jaylen and Paige; Kari (Damian) Brennan and their children, Skyla and Levi; brothers and sisters, Irene (George) Krieger, Luci (Dan) Nicholls, Victor (Theresa) Beier, Linda (John) Litwin, Cathy (Dave) Laing, Lil (Bill) Foot, Rick (Jeanne) Beier, Sheila (Ron) Maxwell, Ernie (Denise) Beier; brother and sisters in laws; Shirley Ference, Ed (Isabel) Ference, Harvey (Joyce) Ference, Diane (Ken) Beier, Kathy (Alvin) Beier, Lynn Vert, Mervin (Denise) Ference, Anita Ference, Jerry; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Bernie was predeceased by her parents (Jack and Emeilia), Jim’s parents (Tony and Jenny); brothers, Norbert and Jerome; brothers in law, Martin, Ervin, Steve; nephews, Darren and Randy.
A Celebration of Bernie’s life was held on May 24, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Altario School with Father Christopher Selvaraj Rayappan SAC officiating. Family and friends were invited to stay for a time of fellowship and refreshments immediately following the service.
Thank You
On behalf of Jim, Kim & Bryan, Kari & Damian, Jaylen, Paige, Skyla and Levi we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported, helped prepare, and assisted with the setup and cleanup of Bernie’s Celebration of Life. Your time, energy, and generosity made all the difference, and we are truly grateful.
A very special thank you goes out to:

• Tara Kukurudza
• Alvin and Kathy Beier
• Ed and Isabel Ference
• Curtis Ference
• Craig and Jinel Ference
• Dallas and Natasha Vert
• The Crazy B’s
• Altario School
• Corpus Christi Music
  Ministry
• Gregory Funeral Home
  To all the community and family members who brought salads and dessert, as well as those that helped out with many of the minor details, we thank-you.
  Your kindness and community spirit helped make everything a success. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Leona Mae Ley
Sept. 10, 1941 – Mar. 19, 2025

Leona Ley was born September 10, 1941, to Bill and Edith (nee Caseley) Ley in Consort, Alberta. She was raised on the family farm with her four older brothers (Earl, Harvey, Wesley and Marvin) in the Veteran area. She took her schooling first at Leeds Country School with neighboring children then to Veteran School by bus. After she finished her schooling she took a job in Consort at AGT as a switch-board operator. In 1960 Leona moved to Edmonton where she worked for AGT. She moved to Calgary in 1989 to continue her work at AGT (later known as Telus) and this is where she remained for her working career.
Leona enjoyed staying active by skiing, golfing, riding her bicycle, spending time at the swimming pool and participating in exercise classes. She cherished spending time with family at get togethers. Leona loved to travel and go on adventures with her friends and traveled throughout Canada and to Europe, Hawaii and Mexico among other destinations. She spent one year in Australia touring and working her way through the country. She also spent a year in the Northwest Territories and Yukon.
A few years after her diagnosis with dementia, Leona moved to Stettler in 2020 then to Red Deer to Points West/Taylor View Towers in 2021 where she received excellent care until her passing.
Leona was predeceased by her parents, two brothers (Earl and Harvey) and nephew Robert Ley.
She leaves to mourn two brothers Wesley and Marvin; nephew Garry Ley (former spouse Terra Lynn) and their children, Madison, Julia and Matthew Ley; and cousins and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025 in the Veteran Full Gospel Church, Veteran, Alberta.
Donations in memory of Leona Mae, may be steered toward any charity of your choice. Friends may leave a condolence for the family by visiting www.parkview-funeralchapels.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium of Coro-nation were entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Martha Veronika Oxamitny
Oct. 30, 1939 – April 1, 2025

Martha “Mardy” Veronika Oxamitny (Sopracolle) was the sixth of nine children born at the family farm to Frank and Anna Sopracolle on October 30, 1939.
The first three years of her school life she attended Waterhen School and then grade 4-12 at the Goodsoil Central School. Following graduation in 1958, she immediately enrolled in the school of nursing at Humbolt, Saskatchewan. Upon graduating as a registered nurse, she accepted a position in Consort, Alberta where she spent her entire life nursing, parenting, advising, gardening, caring for people, pets, the environment, the family and the community.
She was a loyal member of the nurse’s association and would make great efforts to remain in town with the group.
Mardy’s love encompassed family, cats, birds, gardening, walking, physical work, her devotion to prayer, visiting the sick, praying with the sick, arranging for the sacraments continued to the very end. Now she rests in the Divine Embrace.
Martha passed away on April 1, 2025, at the Provost Health Centre at the age of 85 years.
Her memory is cherished by family and friends, by all who knew her personally and by many who benefited from her generosity, wisdom, courage and suffering.
Leaving to mourn are her three adult children, Mark (Kendra); Michelle (Shawn) and children, Alyssa, Logan and Addison; Angela (Cory) and children, Cianna and Morgan; five great grandchildren, Chloe, Aryiah, Harlow, Gianna and Rylee.
She was predeceased by her son, Michael and great granddaughter, Lexanna.
A memorial funeral mass was held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Church in Consort, Alberta. Following the service a reception was held at the Gem Centre.
Words of Remembrance
– Jen Hagan
April 1st, that’s also the day my daughter was born. I waited until she was done with school to tell her and when I did we talked about Auntie Mardy’s years and how she conquered so much in her life. I encouraged Jacey not to be sad, she said, ‘I know mom, we could only be so lucky to be as rad as her.’
Auntie was still casual nursing in 2003 when I had asked her to be the nurse when I went into labour with my first pregnancy. Of course she said yes. She made sure I was okay, checked on me lots, then she tried to take off for a sandwich when I was in labour telling me I’d be a bit. Heck no get back here, baby is coming!! It was so special how she got to be there for the birth of our Carter.
Over the last week, I have had so many people reach out with comments and memories and I want to share a few:
I loved that lady and learned so much from her as a new nurse, she will always be special to me.
She was truly one of the most amazing, determined, and most influential women that I have known. Mardy was the first nurse who took me under her wing and taught me so much as a new, young nurse, and I will forever be grateful for that. I learnt from the best there was! My dad said she was the best darn nurse he has ever had!
I worked with Mardy many years ago as a new nurse. I learned a lot from her; she was tough as nails and a great role model.
Mardy was a legend and so good to me when I started nursing.
Auntie Maryanne told me that her and Mardy had a nursing bond. Mardy was the reason she went into nursing. During that time together they gave each other nicknames, Mardy was little sparrow and Maryanne was little eskimo. Where and why she couldn’t recall but they continued with the endearing nicknames when sending cards and during phone calls.
To my dear Auntie Mardy: Though your physical presence is gone, your spirit and the love you shared will forever remain in my heart. You were more than just an aunt; you were a confidante, mentor, friend, and a source of unwavering support. Especially when I lost my parents. You were my first call when I had a medical question, needed info on plants, or for anything animal related! I will cherish all the memories we made together. All the trips back and forth to all her medical appointments over the years. The laughs we had, our selfies and our special Starbucks coffee!
I want to take a moment to sincerely thank the Provost Hospital Staff for the exceptional care and attention you provided Mardy.
To Father Christopher for going almost daily to see Mardy and pray with her.
A special thank you to Dr. Renee Deagle, your kindness, expertise, and compassion made a huge difference in her care, and we are deeply grateful for everything you did, and we are so thankful for all the support you gave our family.
Auntie, I promise to carry your legacy of qualities—kindness, strength, and faith forward.
Rest in peace, my beloved aunt. You’ll be missed.

Richele Lee Spelrem
June 30, 1990 – April 5, 2025

Richele passed away at Moreno Valley, California on Saturday, April 5th at the age of 34. Richele was born June 30, 1990 in Red Deer to Lorne and Janice Spelrem.
Richele will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her sons Connor (14) and Dylan (9), and her daughter Cassi (6), Mom Janice (Knudson) Spelrem, Dad Lorne Spelrem, sister Cassidy Spelrem, brother Travis Spelrem and Grandma Joyce Knudson, as well as many extended family members and friends.
She was predeceased by her infant daughter Stephanie (May 30, 2017 – July 31, 2017), Grandpa Walter (Bud) Knudson, Grandpa Ralph and Grandma Ruth Spelrem.
The family wishes to thank everyone for their support and kindness during this very difficult time of sorrow and grief.
Family and friends gathered at Morningside Hall on July 26 for a Celebration of Life where they shared memories of Richele and a potluck meal while they reminisced.

Frances Marie Hanson
Feb. 20, 1940 – April 10, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Frances Marie Hanson of Castor, Alberta, beloved wife of the late Olav Hanson. Frances passed away peacefully at the Heritage House, Stettler, Alberta on April 10, 2025, at the age of 85 years. Frances was born on February 20, 1940, and raised in Consort.
In 1954 in a restaurant setting a young gentleman (Olav) and his friend invited Frances plus her friend for a truck ride and the love story began. Olav and Frances were married on November 18, 1955, in Coronation. Frances then became a farmer’s wife as they took over the Hanson farm located north of Monitor.
Their children Richard and Marlene were born in Consort and 13 years later Luella, born in Calgary completed the family.
Frances was a homemaker, loving to bake and cook, along with sewing, knitting and crocheting … making so many professional items for family and others.
In 1966 Olav landed a position with Dome Petroleum, relocating the family to an acreage north of Consort. 1969 was filled with excitement, making many new friends, with Olav receiving a transfer, and moving the family into the Town of Castor. 1978, Frances and Olav returned, back to the farm life as they purchased and resided on a farm near Fleet, Alberta. Frances enjoyed a beautiful yard filled with her flowers, a garden and her cats.
Retirement came in 1996 with a move into Castor. Olav and Frances enjoyed time floor curling taking on duties at the Golden Circle, planning or attending bonspiels in various communities in the area and became very active in the church.
Frances is predeceased by her husband Olav Hanson (Aug 21, 2008); parents Wilfred and Jewel Lewsaw; brothers Howard and Norman Lewsaw; and grandson Dustin Derr.
Frances is lovingly remembered by her children: Richard (Cindyann) Hanson of Red Deer, Marlene Hanson of Stettler and Luella Hanson of Edmonton; grandchildren: Alyssa Hanson (Cody Lawson) of Victoria and Kelda Hanson (Iveta Silobrit) of Vancouver, Janelle (Kyle) Sorensen of Stettler and Miranda (Dustin) Cowan of Stettler; great grandchildren Riley Lawson, Ryland and Makena Sorensen and Mykayla, Carson and Levi Cowan; two brothers Larry (Janice) Lewsaw of Camrose and Terry (Cheryl) Lewsaw of High Level; sisters-in-Law Barb Auger of Fort Vermilion and Bernice Barber of Consort; numerous nieces, nephews cousins and other relatives and many friends.
A private family graveside service will take place at the Castor Cemetery, Castor, Alberta with Pastor Marty Hays officiating. Memorial donations in memory of Frances are gratefully accepted to the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, 8602 – 112 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E1 or to a charity of choice. Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements, 403-882-3141.

Charles “Roy” Williams
Aug. 1, 1932 – May 19, 2025

Charles Roy Williams, more commonly known to his family and friends as Roy, was born on August 1, 1932, in Consort, Alberta, to Carlisle and Irene Williams.
Roy grew up on the family farm in the Neutral Valley district and attended the Neutral Valley School, located on the Scott land. According to Roy, he had to walk uphill both ways with barbed wire tied around his feet just to get there – a story he told with his trademark humor. He later completed his schooling in Consort.
In 1955, Roy met and married the love of his life, Ella Suchotzky. They were married on August 13 of that year and were blessed with two daughters, Tammy and Dawn. Together as a family they enjoyed camping, fishing and Saturday nights were often spent enjoying a trip to town or a family dance.
Roy had a passion for music and dancing. He was the saxophone player in a band called The Serenaders, who played at many weddings and dances at Gooseberry Lake Hall. He was also a proud member of the K-40 Club for many years, forming lasting friendships and great memories.
A lifelong farmer, Roy spent many years tending to the land and caring for his beloved animals. In 1985, he and Ella sold the farm and relocated to Red Deer. Retirement didn’t slow them down – together, they became avid travelers. Their journeys took them to Hawaii, Jamaica, Thailand, Mexico, California, Arizona, and across Canada in their RV. Among their favorite trips were those spent following their grandchildren to various sporting events, always cheering from the sidelines.
After Ella’s passing in 2004, Roy found love and companionship once again with Myrna McArthur. Together, they shared many joyful years filled with travel, dancing, and cherished time “up on the hill.” The family is deeply grateful to Myrna for the care, love, and laughter she brought into Roy’s life during his later years.
On May 19, 2025, Roy passed away at the Consort Health Centre, at the age of 92. We know he was welcomed by Ella with loving arms – and that Frank and Evelyn weren’t far behind, greeting him with an ice-cold beer.
Roy will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Tammy Gorcak (Randy) of Edmonton and Dawn Gillespie of Consort; his seven grandchildren: Jill, Danny (Bea), and Michael Gorcak; Jason (Christina), Adam (Katey), Mitchell (Taylor) Gillespie, and Stephanie (Cory) Tellier; and his eight great-grandchildren: Suzanne, Lukasey, Landon, Blake, Barrett, Cohen Gillespie, Asher, and Andie Tellier.
He is also lovingly remembered by special longtime friends Keith Wittmack, his wife Joan, and their sons Kolby and Mitchell, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Roy was predeceased by his wife Ella; infant children Robert and Kimberly; his parents Carlisle and Irene Williams; parents-in-law Jacob and Della Suchotzky; siblings Elwood (Yvonne) Williams and Bessie (Ivar) Nelson; brothers-in-law Alvin Suchotzky and Irvin (Joan) Suchotzky; sister-in-law Bernice Williamson; and nephews Blake Williamson and Brent Williams.
Roy’s legacy of laughter, music, hard work, and love for family will continue to live on in all of us. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Card of Thanks
The family of Roy Williams would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Consort Long Term Care for their compassion, kindness, and exceptional care given to Dad and Grandpa over the past three years. We are also deeply grateful to our community for the numerous cards, texts, phone calls, food, flowers, and kind gestures – you have all meant so much to us.
Special thanks to Darrell Durksen for your thoughtful words at the cemetery, and to Jeremy and the Staff at Gregory’s Funeral Home for your professionalism and kindness throughout this difficult time. We also appreciate the Consort Funeral Luncheon group for the delicious food and support.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Celebration of Life; it was truly uplifting to see so many familiar faces. Our family feels incredibly fortunate to be part of such a caring and supportive community
Dawn Gillespie
Jason, Christina
Gillespie & Family
Adam, Katey Gillespie
& Family
Mitch, Taylor Gillespie
& Family
Steph, Cory Tellier
& Family
Tammy, Randy Gorcak
Danny, Bea Gorcak
Jill Gorcak
Michael Gorcak

Beatrice “Betty” Patricia Smith
Sept. 26, 1934 – May 19, 2025

A Celebration of Life to honour our loving mom, mother-in-law, grandma and great grandma was held on Wednesday, June 11 at the Sedalia Church and Hall.
Cherished memories were shared of her life of 90 years living on the prairies in the Consort and Sedalia areas.
Betty was born September 26 in 1934 to Beatrice and Patrick Lee. She was the oldest of three children, her brother Terry and sister Peggy.
Her childhood was on her parents’ farm near Consort. Mom cherished the farm animals, was surrounded by music and poetry, fond memories of saskatoon picking with her family on their pasture hillside, and sibling time to and from Greenore School throughout her elementary years.
For her junior grades, the family rented a house in Consort for Betty and her siblings to attend school as the distance was too far from the farm and no school bus.
In High School, mom stayed in the “Dorm” in Consort. She shared many stories of these years including all the friends she made, being involved in many activities and excelling in her studies.
Mom enjoyed her teenage years in the 4H Beef Club and had the opportunity to attend a 4H event in Olds one summer. This picture hung in her bedroom for all her years on the farm.
On July 1, 1952, Betty met Allan Smith at the Sports Day in Consort. On February 4, 1955, Betty and Allan were married in a small ceremony in Coronation. They loved to go to local dances, especially enjoying the schottische, a country partner dance. She loved her tall, strong, kind man.
They lived their life together on their Naco farm raising numerous farm animal herds and their eight children. Betty was an amazing consistent hard worker from dawn to well beyond dusk each day, with total dedication to completing each task properly to her impeccable standards with priority on the well-being of all the animals, children and plants.
Betty and Allan enjoyed their growing family of grandchildren and great grandchildren. Their home was open of conversations with family, neighbors and friends.
Betty is lovingly remembered by her children: Beth (Ted), Patricia (Mike), Joy (Harvey), Billy (Laurel), Anne (Ray), Lee (Kathy), Tom (Kathy) and Tim (Cathy); twenty five grandchildren and their spouses; thirty two great grandchildren; sister-in-law Erika Lee; and many nieces, nephews and their families.
Betty was predeceased by husband Allan Smith; parents Beatrice and Patrick Lee; sister Peggy Gerber; brother Terry Lee; Allan’s parents Phenie and William Smith; siblings-in-law: Harold (Carolyn) Leslie, Hazel (George) Carey, Grace Smith, Edith (Elmer) Meyer, Ernest (Peggy) Smith, Ruth (Wally) Ford, Evelyn (Joe) Remiji and Bill (Lorraine) Smith.
If desired, memorial donations in Betty’s honor may be made to STARS Donations, Box 570, Calgary, AB. T2E 8M7, email: donations@stars.ca or to the Sedalia Church, Box 12, Sedalia, AB. T0J 3C0

Gordon Allen Schetzsle
Jan. 9, 1936 – May 27, 2025

Gordon Allen Schetzsle of Consort, Alberta, beloved husband of Bernice Marie Schetzsle, passed away suddenly on May 27, at the age of 89 years.
Gordon was born on January 9, 1936 in Little Gem, Alberta to James and Mary Schetzsle on the original Schetzsle homestead. He was the youngest of seven siblings; Loretta, Francis, Celestia, Helen, Agnes and Delia. When his brother Francis took over the homestead, the family moved to Naco, Alberta where they ran the Naco garage. He attended school in Naco and at 15 he started hauling cattle to Calgary and fuel for the family business. Gordon purchased a half section of land south of Little Gem.
In 1957 he met Bernice Scheible at a dance in Hemeruka and they were married in Consort on April 16, 1958. Shortly after, they moved into the house East of Consort, on the Loyalist Creek. In 1958 their first child Allen Matthew was born. In seven short years they welcomed five more children, Charlene Christine, Cynthia Diane, Brenda Mary Theresa, Patrick William James and Jody Marie. Gordon worked at McFetridges and Kroeger Brothers during this time and obtained his automotive mechanic license from SAIT. The family moved to Consort and lived on top of the Robinson Store until they purchased their current home in 1979, when their 7th child, Tammy Lenelle was born.
Dad continued to farm the land south of Little Gem and eventually owned and operated Gordon’s Service out of his garage. A skilled mechanic and loyal friend, he took pride in his work and always found time to help others. Gordon was a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His pride and joy was his family and nothing made him happier than when we were all home. He enjoyed many trips to Las Vegas and Arizona, camping trips to the mountains and even a fishing trip to the coast. He continued to tinker in the garage until his passing and took great pride in tending to his yard and garden. He remained loyal to his faith and the Catholic Church throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the love he shared, the values he instilled, and the family he cherished.
He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Bernice (Scheible) Schetzsle; his children Charlene (Miles) White, Cindy (Les) Por, Brenda (Rocky) Kroeger, Patty (Carrie) Schetzsle, Jody (Chris) Simpson, Tammy (Leigh) McDiarmid; 16 grandchildren, Jason (Crystal) Ference, Scott (Stephanie) Schetzsle, Chelsey Schetzsle, Danielle White, Amarie (Tyler) Usselman, Barry (Caitlin) Por, Daryl (Melissa) Kroeger, Brad (Jillayne) Kroeger, Rick (Amanda) Kroeger, Chad Schetzsle, Brandon (Jessica) Schetzsle, Tia (Torrell) Red Iron, Trevor (Keera) Simpson, Ethan Simpson, Merrick McDiarmid and Lauren McDiarmid; 21 great grandchildren, Charlize Ference, Neely Ference, Justin Ference, Elliot Schetzsle, Lennix Usselman, Sadie Por, Braylee Por, Bennett Por, Kennedy Kroeger, Nataley Kroeger, Hudson Kroeger, Kaesyn Kroeger, Brinley Kroeger, Locklin Kroeger, Maizy Kroeger, Axle Kroeger, Tiffany Kroeger, Max Kroeger, Carsyn Schetzsle, Allie Schetzsle, Grace Red Iron; and one sister Delia Sorenson, along with many numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents James and Mary Schetzsle; his son, Allen Schetzsle; grandchildren Julene White and Jacob Simpson; a great granddaughter Chloe Schetzsle; siblings Loretta (Jack) Healy, Frances (Pat) Schetzsle, Celestia Evans, Helen (Donald) Kelts and Agnes (Ken) Rumohr.
A funeral was held on Tuesday, June 3 at 2:00 p.m. at the Corpus Christi Catholic Church, followed by a private graveside service at the Catholic Cemetery. Everyone was invited for lunch and fellowship at the Gem Centre following the interment. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Gordon Schetzsle to the Corpus Christi Parish Cemetery Fund.

Words of Remembrance
– Tammy McDiarmid
Thank you all for coming and for all your kindness shown to us this week. I’m honored to be here today to share my Dad’s story. From a young age it was always very clear to me that I had older parents. I was born 14 years after my youngest sibling and mom would often joke that she didn’t think she’d live to see me graduate. I was only 12 when Dad went into the hospital for triple bypass surgery and since that day, a part of me felt like I’ve been preparing for this day for much of my life. In my heart I know I should be grateful that not only did he get to see me graduate, he helped me raise my own family – but I still wasn’t ready for him to go.
Dad was born in 1936 to James and Mary Schetzsle on their homestead near Little Gem. Dad referred to them as Ma and Pa and like me, Dad was the youngest of seven siblings, Loretta, Francis, Helen, Celeste, Aggie and Delia. He was born in the backroom of the old farm house. Grandma Schetzsle wrote in one of the history books that they spent many nights going to dances in Little Gem where the kids would sleep on planks behind the organ. The farmhouse stood abandoned for many years and as a kid I spent many hours exploring its dusty old rooms. This place was always very special to Dad and I’m grateful he was here to celebrate the Schetzsle 100 year homestead.
In 1937 Pa took over the Naco Garage but still operated the farm with his son Francis until they were able to buy a house in Naco. Naco was once a thriving little community. Now all that’s left is the Cairn commemorating that it once existed, the baby’s breath that Ma grew in her garden and the one pine tree that Dad helped plant with Pa. In his last year of life dad would often talk about his life growing up in Naco. He told stories about being knocked out cold after getting kicked by one of the horses and snow storms so bad you’d have to tie a rope to yourself to find your way back from the barn. At the back of this church is Pa’s pocket watch. He loved to tell the story about how it got eaten by a cow and having to follow that cow around until it eventually passed it out. Dad was only 15 years old when he started hauling cattle back and forth to Calgary with no licence. Pa only ever accompanied him on one trip and it was the one time he was ever stopped by the police so he never got caught.
Dad also helped Pa at the Naco garage which allowed Pa to travel home to Wabash, Indiana for the first time in 35 years and the only time Ma ever met his family. Around that time, Dad borrowed $1000 from John Leef to purchase a half section of land just south of Little Gem and their original homestead. Dad met mom at a dance in Hemaruka and mom only got to meet Pa a few times before he passed away. Mom and Dad were married in Consort at the Catholic Church on April 16, 1958 and welcomed their first son Allen Matthew that same year. They took up residence near Helen and Donald’s farm in a little house East of town on the Loyalist Creek. In seven short years they welcomed five more children, Charlene Christine, Cynthia Diane, Brenda Mary Therese, Patrick William James, and Jody Marie.
There was no running water or electricity at the house and they kept warm with the old coal furnace. Mom recalls putting the kids to bed in snowsuits in the winter after getting home late from dances. In the Spring the road would flood and they’d have to ride the old horse Charlie back and forth up to the house. Dad always told the story about Cindy dropping her favorite stuffy down the outhouse hole and dad having to fish it out. The kids had a lot of freedom growing up at that place and spent many hours with the Kelts family, disappearing with friends on horseback or learning to snare gophers. Mom’s family was very musical and dad often played the guitar along with them. Dad was also a very avid curler during this time.
Dad started off working at McFetridges in Consort as a parts person at the front desk and when they shut down, he started working for Kroeger Brothers and eventually apprenticed to be an automotive mechanic. He would stay at Grandma and Grandpa Scheibles in Calgary while he attended school and graduated from SAIT in 1978. Mom and dad eventually moved into Consort on top of the old Robinson Store (the same building that is now The Mix hair studio). All six kids crammed into one bedroom along with Grandma Schetsle who came to live with them on occasion until her death.
I’m sure that life was interesting for the kids living on top of the old store and watching the night life from the roof. One of Dad’s pet peeves was eulogies that made people sound like saints so it wouldn’t be right to acknowledge that times weren’t always easy as Dad battled with alcoholism. Around 1976 he quit drinking and true to his perseverance and dedication he never drank again. He helped a number of other people in the community in their recovery.
In 1979, mom and dad purchased the house they live in now and to their surprise found out they were having another baby – me – Tammy Lenelle. Some of the other kids were already grown and off on their own when I came along. I was often raised alongside my nieces and nephews. Dad was an avid bowler and he loved to camp. Every year, he’d pack up the old tent trailer and take the family to the mountains. He continued to farm his little piece of heaven and I grew up spending a lot of time at the farm. Dad even built a bed that fit behind the seat of the tractor and I would take naps and ride along for days on end. I spent my time rescuing baby mice from the seed drills and looking for arrowheads on top of the big hill.
The farm was a happy place for us all and even though I know farming was stressful, I felt this is where Dad was most at peace. He had a deep connection to the land and the Little Gem area. Mom would pack bags of sandwiches for the day, mostly fried egg, Spam or bologna. If we were lucky we’d get roast beef on occasion. I spent every chance I could helping with the harvest. I know Allen and Patty felt the same. They often brought their own kids to ride their dirt bikes and give them a taste of the farm. Jody’s birthday was in September and we often celebrated her birthday with cake in the field but we were never allowed candles for fear of fires and god help us if you parked on the swath. We enjoyed visitors from the neighbouring farms especially Steve and Murray Sankey and Terry Schetzsle.
When Kroeger Brothers closed their shop, Dad continued to work out of the building with Syd Jones and eventually opened Gordon’s Service. He was a very good
mechanic and had a slew of loyal customers who continued to bring vehicles to the house for fixing. Dad would often help older ladies in town who would pay in homemade bread instead of cash. He had a number of friends who would visit the shop over the years. His family would borrow his tools and he’d complain when they didn’t bring them back. I knew my dad could fix anything. In fact, this caused tension early on in my marriage because for the longest time, I believed that only my dad or Allen could work on my vehicles, not my new husband.
They enjoyed many good years with numerous trips to the States with Helen and Donald to visit Las Vegas and to visit Aunt Aggie in Arizona. There were many family weddings and many more grandkids. I’m sure the grandkids’ most vivid memory of dad is him sitting in his chair at the kitchen table in his underwear, sticking his teeth out at them. In 2001, Dad decided to sell the farm and retire from farming. They made many trips up and down the highway to the casino in Red Deer and to visit family, including a special trip out to the coast to go fishing. Dad continued to work on small engines and lawnmowers for people in town. All of the great grandkids will remember going for rides on dad’s collection of lawn tractors. Dad spent many years taking his friends to appointments in the city until there weren’t many of them left. He’d said goodbye to most of his siblings and friends and I think that was hard for him. Mom and Dad celebrated many milestones including their 50th wedding anniversary and then their diamond anniversary with a special trip to Rosebud Theatre. Like everything, dad took pride in his home and his yard. He kept a close eye on the community, often cruising multiple times a day to check out the town.
In December of this year, we knew that Dad’s health was starting to decline. On the weekend before he died, he commented to me, “We’ve had so many visitors, people must think I’m dying or something.” He wasn’t ready to go but I’m grateful that he didn’t have to suffer. Dad was a devoted Catholic his entire life and God knew that it was his time. Over the years Dad taught us many values in life. He believed in hard work and that was evident in his career and the work ethic he instilled in all his children. Honesty was important. He was a proud man and even though we didn’t have the best of everything, everything we had he worked for and earned it. Nothing was more important to him than his family and nothing made him happier than when we were all home for the holidays and playing a round of Happy. He was incredibly proud of each and everyone of you. He taught us love and we all knew that no matter what we did or mistakes we made, we could always come home and he would be there to welcome us with open arms. We are his legacy and he will continue to live on in our hearts and minds. At Mom and Dad’s 65th wedding anniversary Charles Mohr told me that our dad was an earth angel and I can’t think of truer words.

Thank You
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the community of Consort and surrounding areas for the outpouring of kindness shown to us following the passing of Gordon Schetzsle.
Thank you to everyone who brought food to the house, to the first responders for their compassion and care, to the Consort funeral group for the luncheon and to those who sent beautiful flowers and cards. Our sincere thanks to the Corpus Christi parish ministry, choir, and to Kelly Owens for the moving musical tribute. We are truly grateful for the generous donations made in Gordon’s memory to the Catholic cemetery. We are deeply touched by all who attended the funeral and supported us during this difficult time.
Your thoughtfulness and presence have brought comfort and strength to our family, and we are truly grateful to be part of such a caring community.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Family of
Gordon Schetzsle

Frances Mary Forrest
April 24, 1924 – June 7, 2025

Frances was born in her grandparent’s log house west of Brownfield, with her grandmother as the midwife, on April 24, 1924. She grew up on the family farm on the edge of the rough meadow southwest of Brownfield.
Frances began grade one at Minot school, riding her pony, Buck, three miles each day. She later drove Buck and a cart to school, taking her brother Archie and the neighbour kids along. Later in her schooling, she boarded with family friends and walked two and a half miles to attend Bulwark School. Her high school years were spent boarding with relatives in Castor. After graduating, Frances took a job at the telephone exchange in Coronation as a telephone operator.
Frances met the love of her life, Tom Forrest, at a dance at Bulwark. They eloped to Castor to be married on January 16, 1942. They resided for the first year at Tom’s family farm at Talbot, then purchased a farm at Brownfield. John was born in August 1944.
They experienced a life altering event on August 14 1945 (VJ Day) when Tom was injured in an accident while haying in the rough meadows. This left him a paraplegic for the remainder of his life. They faced this as a team, Frances became a nurse and caregiver, a task she accepted with dedication and love.
Frances passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at Coronation Long Term Care at the age of 101 years.
Frances is survived by son John and wife Jeanette; granddaughters Lyanne (Owen) Almberg, Sherri (Lee) Creasy and Janey (Dave) Till; great grandchildren: Bailey, Aydon (Jess) Almberg, Dallas (Chris), Sydney, and Nate Creasy, Cody (Breanna) and Courtney Till; great great grandchildren: Bradie Creasy, Vern and Tom Almberg, Journee Till. She leaves behind treasured memories with a host of relations and friends, too many to list here, whom she loved as if they were her own children.
Frances was predeceased by her husband Tom; parents Malcolm (Mack) and Charlotte (Lottie) Brown; brother Archie and sister-in-law Sheila Brown.
The family wishes to thank all of Frances’s friends for their prayers and condolences.
The family also extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Doctors and staff of the Coronation Hospital and Care Center for their care of Frances. A special thanks to the staff of the Long-Term Care and DSL for the wonderful care she received while she resided there. She loved every one of you.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Coronation Community Hall, Coronation, Alberta.
Memorial Donations may be made to the Coronation Hospital Foundation, Bag 500, Coronation, Alberta T0C 1C0 or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com.
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Ronald Ference
Dec. 24, 1933 – June 9, 2025

It is with sadness that the Ference family announces the passing of Ronald Ference of Black Diamond, on Monday, June 9, 2025.
Ron was born on a farm in the Consort area to Jan and Agata Ference. His parents were first generation Polish immigrants and Ron was their last child.
Ron grew up in the Consort area, gaining employment with the CPR in 1951. On May 4, 1954, Ron married Lillian Yvonne Hanson and together they had five children. Due to Ron being transferred to various Stations in Alberta, each of their children were born in a different town. Ron ended his rail career as a train dispatcher in Calgary.
In 1978, Ron and Lil bought the poultry farm south of Black Diamond and farmed there until their retirement. Ron really enjoyed his many winters in Yuma, where he would find all sorts of bargains and he enjoyed riding in the desert on his quad, polishing gems and visiting with family and friends.
Ron is survived by children, Debbie (Pat), Reg (Erna), Darcy (Jeff), Mark (Melinda); grandchildren: Danielle, Sean (Sheila), Trevor (Kristel), Byron (Lisa), Andrea, Benjamin, Stephen, Tanner, Regan (Austin), Gavin; Great-grandchildren Tyler, Cassandra, Victoria, Alexandra, Theodore, Evander, and Lily; and was predeceased by his wife Lillian and a son, Desmond Lee.
The family is grateful to the AgeCare McKenzie Towne Centre staff for the excellent care and compassion extended during the last months of Ron’s life and any donations in his memory can be donated there.
A private celebration of Ron’s life will be held by the family.
To send condolences, please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com. 
Arrangements in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, Okotoks.

Sylvia Louise Deacon
Feb. 8, 1954 – June 28, 2025

On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Sylvia Louise Deacon of Vegreville, Alberta, formerly of Consort, passed away at the age of 71 years.
Sylvia is survived by her loving family, husband of 49 years, Albert; daughter Amanda; son Lance (Cherie); three grandchildren Ethan, Espyn and Emmey; one brother Bill Arthur and one sister-in-law Lila Arthur; along with numerous relatives and friends.
Sylvia was predeceased by her daughter Melinda; parents George and Mary Arthur; one brother Ken Arthur and one sister Alice in infancy.
A private graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the “Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.”
To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
Arrangements in care of Autumn Rose Funeral Home Ltd., Vegreville, AB.

Mildred Pearl Homan
July 29, 1928 – July 1, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mildred (Millie) Homan on July 1. Millie went peacefully, surrounded by family, after a bout with pneumonia. Born July 29, 1928, in Coronation, Alberta, Millie was just shy of celebrating her 97th birthday.
Millie was pre-deceased by her parents, Tobias and Yolanda Larson, siblings Nellie, Lars, Orlind, Isabelle, Sarah, husband Raymond, daughter Vicki and grandson Jason. She is survived by her family: Diane (Homan) and Roger Price, Barry and Darlene, Daryl and Diane, Betty (Homan) and Dave Jones, Wanda (Homan) Hewitt, Donna (Homan) and Tom Day, Tyler and Tara, and half-brother Jim Steele. In addition, Millie was a grandmother and great-great-grandmother to 51.
Millie grew up in Nose Hills, just North of Veteran, where her family farmed. She was a big part of the farming operation, doing hours of chores before riding her horse to Nose Hills School.
Millie married Ray Homan in 1947 and they stayed close to home, settling in the Nose Hills area. Millie and Ray wanted a large family and finally settled on 8 children! They moved into Veteran around 1952 and continued farming for several more years; eventually selling the farm to Davis’s in 1974. Ray last worked for the Department of Highways until his passing in 1977. Millie stayed in Veteran and continued to raise her kids until adulthood. She would eventually move to Coronation and then on to Red Deer where she was closer to family. Millie spent her final years at the Villa Marie Senior Assisted Living home in Red Deer where she made a lasting impression on staff and neighbours.
Millie had a passion for cooking and gardening; she spent countless hours tending to her garden and preparing meals for her family. Millie loved to dance and socialize; her and Ray would attend local dances frequently. They also spent a lot of the summer (Sundays) at Capt Ayre Lake, where the kids swam and parents visited. Millie loved music, some of her favorite artists were George Jones, Neil Diamond and Allan Jackson – they would often be playing in the house on a quiet afternoon.
Millie was well known in the community for her kindness and generosity, and she was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Millie cherished the time spent with her family during holidays and special occasions. She loved hosting family gatherings and having everyone together under one roof. As extended families grew, it became very challenging to host such occasions in a small house in Veteran, so those get togethers became an annual event hosted by other family members or at community centres.
Millie’s legacy will live on through her family and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Millie in Red Deer on Saturday, July 19th, 1:30 p.m. at the Eventide Funeral Home.

Carol Elizabeth Sims (née Craig)
March 22, 1940 – August 4, 2025

With quiet strength and grace, Carol Elizabeth Sims (née Craig) passed away at the Red Deer Hospice, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and treasured relationships.
Born in Edmonton to Bessie and Herb Craig, Carol grew up in the Highlands neighbourhood, where she excelled in school and embraced the warmth of a close-knit community. She spent cherished childhood summers with her parents and sisters at Seba Beach, enjoying the company of extended family. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alberta in 1962, where she also formed lifelong friendships. Carol devoted her career to caring for others — first as a Public Health Nurse with the Big Country Health Unit, then in community health and home care management with Capital Health in Edmonton, and later as Manager of the St. Albert Help Society.
Carol shared her life with her beloved husband, Roger. They would have celebrated 60 years of marriage next week. Their relationship was a true partnership, built on respect, deep connection, and unwavering support for one another through all of life’s seasons. Together they built a full and gratifying life grounded in hard work, raising their family, serving their community, travelling widely, and celebrating life’s special moments.
She is survived by her children Craig (Marianne) Sims, Barbara (Scott) McKee, and Leland (Karen) Sims; grandchildren Madison and Coleman McKee, Marina and Jack Sims (and their mom Christine Whalen), Lauryn, Audrey, and Grace Sims; sister Phyllis Craig; sister-in-law Jeryl (Darryl) Auten; nieces Catherine (Dhane), Lee (Gary), Lincoln, and Elizabeth (Garfield); as well as extended family and many friends. She was predeceased by her husband Roger, parents Bessie and Herb Craig, sister Jean, brother-in-law Jack Baptiste, and nephew Jamie Auten.
Carol’s life was defined by generosity, hospitality, and a gift for making others feel valued. Whether she was on the farm in Veteran, Alberta, at Lancaster Crescent in St. Albert, summering at Silver Sands, snowbirding in El Centro, California or revelling in retirement at Pine Ridge, she was always lending a hand, showing genuine interest in others, and staying connected with friends and family near and far. An accomplished gardener, seamstress, painter, and cook, she brought thoughtfulness, creativity, and care to everything she touched. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and planned countless gatherings and adventures, creating lasting memories for her loved ones.
A celebration of Carol’s life will be held at St. Albert Funeral Home, 9 Muir Drive, St. Albert, on Friday, August 15 at 2 p.m., where family and friends will gather to honour her memory and share stories of love and laughter.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Albert Food Bank or Red Deer Hospice in Carol’s honour. Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements, including a live stream of the celebration of life for those unable to attend in person.

James (Jim) Philip Davidson
Dec. 4, 1935 – Aug. 10, 2025

Jim was an avid history reader and enjoyed writing history book submissions on behalf of his own family. Only suiting that we begin his obituary with his own words taken from his local history book writings.
“I, James (Jim) Philip Davidson was born December 4th, 1935, to Robert and Jennie Davidson, on the family farm seven miles west and one mile south of Delburne, Alberta in the Cumberland District, the second oldest of six.
The Davidson family celebrated the 100th anniversary of their family being in the Cumberland District August 13, 2006, and my mother’s family, the Purdie’s, celebrated their 125th anniversary in the Valley Center area in 2008. I took my grade schooling one to eight at a country school called Cumberland and then grades 9 to 12 at Red Deer Composite High, graduating with a high school diploma in March of 1954. Then I took a course in Industrial Electricity at Calgary Tech graduating in May of 1956, applied to four different companies for employment and was accepted to all four. I chose Canadian Utilities Ltd. and began working in Drumheller, in May 1956. January 2, 1957, I was transferred to Hanna and then to Forestburg in the spring of 1959. The fall of 1960 I moved to Coronation, as a Senior Serviceman; that was a one-man point so that meant I was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It so happened the Stettler Line Crew were changing some poles in Coronation and dropped some poles off near the nurse’s residence. Heather Wilkie, a nurse living in the residence, complained about the poles being dropped off. I went to investigate and there I met Sheila Thill. How I got so lucky I don’t know.
We were married September 8, 1962. Our first living quarters was above a John Deere agency shop, but we didn’t care, we had fun and still treasure those moments. We then moved into a house because our family had expanded. From 1963 to 1970 we welcomed Melody, Lucille, Derek and Yvonne.
Sheila was a second senior serviceman answering the company phone and operating the two-way radio, sometimes 24 hours a day during storms. The worst storm I was ever involved in started May 15, 1965. The wind blew hard from the northwest all day and then it started snowing. All the north-south lines from Stettler to Consort were flattened. The roads were blocked including highway 12. The power was off in Coronation for nearly three days. When crews opened the highway a D4 cat with a sterling digger mounted on the back and a hydraulic dozer on the front arrived in Coronation. We ran this machine for 24 hours a day; poles and material poured in. The cooperation of everyone was unbelievable, farmers hauled and skidded poles to where they were needed. Finally, everyone had power, but it took six days and a miracle. I have nothing but praise for the staunch men I worked with.
In the 12 years we lived in Coronation, I joined the Coronation Elks #360, Coronation Masonic Lodge #72, was a member of the Coronation Fire Department for 10 years and we both curled one night a week.
We were transferred to Oyen in August 1972. We became active members in the curling club and with four kids we were busy with figure skating, power skating, minor hockey, school sports, baseball, softball and swimming. Living in Oyen meant we had to do a lot of traveling, but we wouldn’t have traded it for anything.
June 1973, we received seven inches of rain all in one shot and it was something to remember. When you opened the door of the truck it was like someone threw five gallons of water on top of you. A lot of roads were either washed out or flooded. For many years I, Gene Peden and Ken Noble ran our own district in Oyen, rarely seeing a supervisor. Our lives were full of laughter and adventure, not heavy with expectations or rules. I tried to teach by quiet example.
I sorely missed my association with the Coronation Masonic Lodge when we moved to Oyen, so I became a member of Oyen Lodge #104 which is now called the Oyen Crocus Lodge #82. I served on the Oyen Fire Department for 19 years and have been a member of the Oyen Lions Club since 1973. Both Sheila and I are members of Serenity Chapter #113 Order of the Eastern Star. I retired March 1991 after 35 years of service with Canadian Utilities, later known as Alberta Power. We continued to live in Oyen after my retirement and celebrated our 62nd wedding anniversary in 2024.”

 Moving from Jim’s own words, it is almost impossible to capture his 89 years of a well-lived life. We’ll do our best to continue in our words for you Dad.
 Born on the farm in the winter, years before antibiotics were invented, Dad was always a hearty kid. His sisters have vivid memories of Dad being a huge help to their mother on the farm – chores, driving the truck, fencing and caring for the animals. Dad has been a huge animal lover his whole life, animals are drawn to him. Many times, he would drive his siblings to school on the cutter pulled by horses so that they did not have to walk. In the later school years Auntie Mary and Dad would get to school early to warm up the school before the other kids arrived and then stay late to do janitorial work. They earned a small wage that would help their mother buy sugar for baking.
 Dad moved to Calgary for schooling, then to Coronation and Oyen but always stayed connected to his farm roots. He brought the family their first record player/radio combined and their first TV. Dad continued to return to help his brother at the family farm every chance that he had for years. That meant that all of us kids have many memories of time spent on the farm as well. Dad continued his love of farming with Derek and Derek’s family. Even before retirement you could guarantee that Dad would be off to Delburne doing spring work in the fields and hauling grain every harvest. He worked tirelessly when it came to jobs that needed to be done on the farm. He had a work ethic unparalleled to anyone - with no complaints.
 Oyen was home to Dad for 53 years. He was very active in the community of Oyen, being a member of the Lions club for 50 years and received the honorable distinction of being a 60-year member with the Masonic Lodge this year. Dad took part in many local activities from stick curling to floor curling, skating and golf, thoroughly enjoying his time with his friends. Lots of good times were also had with friends at the house complete with Don Bamber singing and playing the piano for all of us.
 Dad was recognized by everyone in the Oyen area for his work with Alberta Power. There was no limit or sacrifice that Dad would not do, to get the power back on for his community. Leaving the supper table or riding on a skidoo to get the job done! At home his contribution to energy conservation was ahead of his time. Us kids would often find ourselves in the dark after he shut out all the lights in the house even though we were all still awake. No one believes that his thermostat never went above 60 degrees even in the winter. Turn down the heat and wear a winter jacket inside was Dad’s moto. Although time may have softened Dad, when it came to getting air conditioning in the house in recent years, his comment was, “AC is cheaper than a divorce”.
 Dad had the privilege of growing old to become Grandpa Jim not only to his family but to everyone in his community. Grandpa Jim knew how to earn money and was the most frugal person that we all knew. In a journal of his, we found him saying that he was very grateful to have his frugalness passed to him from his mother. He went on to say that he failed to carry that trait onto his kids. He stayed true to the idea that $5 could take care of most things in life never giving up hope that his kids and grandkids would also appreciate the value of a dollar. Community and family were the definition of Grandpa Jim. 
 Being a sports fan, he did not miss a chance to see his kids, the teams that his kids coached (Olympians or local), his grandkids and great grandkids play their sporting events. Even though he stayed close to home, Melody’s Olympic accomplishments gave both he and Mom the opportunity to travel to places that they never would have gone otherwise. Grandpa Jim’s greatest legacy is his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved seeing the youth in his family excel. It may have been working alongside them on the farm, checking out their cattle herd or watching a Christmas play that they were in – he was quietly proud and supportive. A kind man of few words but solid as the day is long.
 Grandpa Jim will be missed and fondly remembered as we turn out the lights each day. He was a loving husband, dad, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather. Surrounded by family he passed away peacefully at the Big Country Hospital Continuing Care center in Oyen, Alberta on August 10th , 2025.
 Jim is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Sheila. Daughters Melody Davidson, Lucille Hertz (Sheldon), son Derek Davidson (Terry) and daughter Yvonne Honovich (Ray). Eight grandchildren, six great grandchildren with his seventh arriving in December - Nichole Foot (Travis) sons Ridge and Reid; Nelson Hertz (Jana) sons Peyton and Suttyn; Rory Davidson (Jill) daughter Petra; Becky Valentine (Dallas) daughter Addy; Jocelyn Davidson; Brinley Davidson; Hailey Honovich (Tanner) and Second Lieutenant Cameron Honovich. Sister-in-law Bernice Campbell; nieces Jackie Campbell (Randy) son Bowen Lee (Alex); Tammy Campbell (George). Brother-in-law Jimmy Douglas; sister Helen Vincent; sister Roberta Peters (Mervin); brother Alex Davidson (Penny) and sister Cathy Leighton (John) and their extended families.
 James was predeceased by his parents Robert and Jennie Davidson; in laws Alfred and Ila Thill; great-granddaughter Rhiannon Foot; sister Mary Douglas; brother-in-law John Vincent; brother-in-law Reg Campbell and great nephew Douglas Grosul.
 Funeral Service and Celebration of Dad’s life will be held on Wednesday August 27, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion in Oyen. Video tribute will run from 1-2 p.m. before the service. Lunch and gathering at the legion to follow the service – all are welcome.
 Public Burial Service will be held on Thursday August 28, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Delburne Cemetery in Delburne. Lunch and gathering at the Delburne Hall to follow.
 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Oyen United Church, the Oyen Lions Club, the Oyen Masonic Lodge, the Oyen Eastern Star or charity of your choice.
 To leave messages of condolence please visit ofsmacleans.com

Thank You
Our family would like to sincerely thank the nurses, doctors and all support staff at the Oyen Continuing Care Center, the Oyen hospital, the Seniors Lodge and Homecare. Your care and love for Dad was impeccable over the past two and a half years! We also want to thank everyone who came to cheerfully visit Dad during this time, it meant the world to him!

Lori-Rae Eno
Aug. 7, 1970 – Aug. 14, 2025

Lori-Rae Eno of Coronation, beloved wife of Darin Eno, was called home to be with God on August 14, 2025, at the age of 55.
Lori was born in Coronation on August 7, 1970, to her loving parents Mervin and Joy Brigley. She grew up in her hometown, attending Coronation School from Kindergarten through Grade 12. After graduation, she continued her education at Red Deer College, where she studied business—and began dating Darin, who would become the love of her life.
Lori was never one to stay away from home for long. She returned to Coronation as soon as she could, began working, and on July 25, 1992, she married Darin. Together they built a beautiful life, raising two children, Taylor (born June 15, 1994) and Tanner (born October 29, 1998), and building their dream home on the ranch in 1997, moving in at the start of 1998.
Lori’s life was full of family, love, and service to her community. She took immense pride in being the secretary at Coronation School for nearly 20 years—though she was so much more than that to the staff, students, and families she supported every day. She also brought her incredible organizational skills and passion for rodeo to her role as secretary and timer for professional bull riding events, which she loved.
Her true joy came from being with her family. Whether curling, golfing, reading, playing cards, or cheering at rodeos, or school or sports events—Lori was there. She rarely missed a thing. She was her children’s biggest fan, and later her grandchildren’s, cherishing every moment she spent with them.
Lori loved deeply and served selflessly. If someone needed help, she’d be there without hesitation. She volunteered for countless community events, clubs, and boards—too many to name—always giving her time and heart generously.
She is survived by her loving husband Darin; daughter Taylor (Koby); son Tanner and his girlfriend Madison; grandchildren Jensen and Hadlee; father Mervin (Helen); siblings Jackie, Dale (Brenda) and their children Alex, Nick, and Joe; brother Greg and his children Brenden and Colten; and numerous in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.
She was predeceased by her dear mother, Joy Brigley—a reunion we know brings Lori peace and joy.
Words cannot fully express the depth of our loss. But we hold onto this truth: the bond Lori created with each of us is unbreakable. She will be with us every step of the way, in every moment of every day.
To know Lori was to love her. She led with grace, gave without limits, and made everyone around her better.
Family, friends and community joined together in celebrating her incredible life on August 25 at the Coronation Community Centre. Following the service, lunch and a time to share stories, laughter and memories of a woman who meant so much to so many was held at the Hall.

Emelia Lydia Polson
Dec. 25, 1927 ~ Aug. 28, 2025

Emelia Lydia was the eighth child born to John and Frederika Schaffer. Two years later, Jack was born to complete the family of nine. Born and raised in Talbot, Alberta, she attended the local one room school. Later, the family would move to Coronation where she would attend school until she started working at the Coronation Hospital.
It was at the hospital that she met her first husband Ted Osetsky. On November 10th, 1948, they were married. They lived and farmed south of Throne. With the intention of starting a family, the couple was devastated by the loss of infant baby, Brenda Lee, who lived only two days, followed by the loss of a set of twins. In 1952, they successfully started a family with the birth of their son Robert John. Four years later, Polly Leanne completed their family. They lived on the farm at Throne with Ted’s father, John Osetsky, settling in ‘The Shack’ in the same yard. The family worked together until Grandpa John moved to Coronation.
Emelia grew a huge garden, helped with the farming, usually fed a crew of family or friends on Sunday’s, cut everyone’s hair and kept the family organized. She volunteered her time to The Royal Purple and kept busy catering at local events. When preparing food for those events, she found great pleasure in cooking turkey and torturing her family by never allowing them to taste even a single bite.
When Ted passed away suddenly on July 9th, 1969, some decisions had to be made. Emelia, Bob and Leanne decided that they wanted to stay on the farm. This is when Triple O Dairy was established, as it became their main source of revenue. Emelia was always a hard worker, seeming to be The True Energizer Bunny. While on the farm, the two joys of her life were welcomed with the birth of Theodore Raymond in 1971 and Bobbi-Jo in 1974. She had so much patience and loved spending time with Bob’s two children. The farm continued to run with Emelia, Bob and Leanne until she moved into Coronation to work at the nursing home and open her wool shop called Knitter’s Corner. She worked and travelled with her co-workers and enjoyed knitting and crocheting in her spare time. Crocheting became her passion, and she gifted over 225 afghans. There is a list she kept over on the table. Be sure to check it out and if you have ever received one and your name is not on the list, the family would love to know. After years of crocheting, she would add to her repertoire wool covered hangers and scrubbies, just to keep her hands busy. You would rarely see her sit and do nothing.
Her brother Len and sister-in-law Vicky Schaffer decided to play match maker with a great friend, John Polson from Consort, Alberta. Emelia held out for a long time but finally decided that she would let him take her on a date. It had to be a match made in heaven because the first date almost didn’t happen. While John was sitting on the street in front of the wrong house, Mom was waiting at hers, thinking she was being stood up. Finally, she went outside and saw a vehicle parked just up the street. Sure enough, she checked it out and it was John. Many laughs were had reminiscing about that first date.
On February 15th, 1979, John and Emelia were married. Along with the marriage to John came two more children, Neil Polson and Debra Russell, a duplication of her own family. She moved to Consort, (along with many boxes of wool) where she would spend the next forty-three years of her life. The couple ran the Consort Machine Shop together, along with Neil (John’s son) and his wife Sandra. The years were enjoyed together with golf, card games, camping, fishing and many family meals. Emelia organized family reunions and history books. They loved travelling as well, taking many pictures of their trips away. This resulted in the creation of 82 photo albums, which she split up amongst the family.
Life became a journey through the years of new grandchildren, great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren that cemented the blended family forever. Some of their favourite pastimes at home involved watching the Blue Jays baseball, knowing all the players and plenty of statistics. If you wanted to know how they did, all you had to do was phone Emelia. Bird watching was another joy they shared together. They hand fed the blue jays that came to sit just off their front step.
After John’s passing in 2015, Emelia was active with her immaculate yard and flowers in the summer. During the winter, card games and trips with the Consort Lodge residents and nurturing her plants in the garage was her favourite way to spend her days. She looked forward to daily visits from Sandy at lunch time, watching her grandchildren play sports and being diplomatic when Consort and Coronation had to play against each other. Having to root for both sides, she liked it best when they could be on the same team. Whenever she did need some heavy snow removal, her snow angels Sandy, neighbour Les Por and Donnie did the job and were paid with her delicious lemon pie currency.
No family occasion was complete without her pineapple square and pumpkin torte (she could bribe Steven with this one), and it was all the grandchildren ready for the jello sticks she always brought without ever being asked.
In November of 2022, Emelia moved back to Coronation to DSL, and along with her came an array of plants from her garage to fill the link with beautiful flowers all winter. When spring arrived, she was hot on the heels of every dandelion that dared to trespass on the DSL front lawn and patio. She kept maintenance busy while she filled garbage cans full of weeds. The balance of her days were busy watching hockey and ball. She enjoyed coffee time and visiting at DSL with old friends, reminiscing about the good old days. She spent many days at Leanne’s visiting her cat Revy and playing with great grandson Bryer. Leanne thinks she was just the chauffeur to connect the trio.
On August 14th, 2024, Emelia was moved to LTC until her passing. She always had a smile for everyone and even when she was unable to pull the weeds herself, she was an avid coach for Leanne and Reesa. She always enjoyed going outside to see the flowers and be in the sun.
From John and Emelia to a family of sixty-four, Emelia is survived by: Bob Osetsky (Roxanne), Ted Osetsky (Cindy) – Chelsea (Brielle and Alexis), Austin, Soren and Kayden; Bobbi-Jo Doyle (Terry); Christie Williamson (Bobby) – Ryder and Bentley; Stacey Schedlosky (Ryan) – Britt and Kate; Leanne McLean (Donnie), Kevin McLean – Bradan and Brandt; David McLean (Holly) – Shayla and Tyson; Ryan McLean (Cheryl) – Zoe, Mason and Brody; Steven McLean (Whitney) – Logan, Maddox, Bryer and Quade; Neil Polson (Sandra), Robert Polson (Danielle) – Trezlee; Russell Polson (Jamie) – Devony, Dylan and Nixon; Jenna Collett (Matt) – Sam, Lydia and Leo; Debra Russell (Stuart), Graham Russell (Michelle) – Hugh and Hazel; Jessica Mckibbon – Rylan and Landon.
She is predeceased by husband Theodore Osetsky and husband John Hugh Polson; parents Frederika and John Schaffer; sisters Regina, Lillian and Martha; brothers Emmanuel, Emil, Leonard, Robert and Jack.
A come and go celebration of life was held on Friday, September 5, 2025 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. with a short program held at 1:00 p.m. at the Coronation Community Centre, Coronation,
Alberta.
Memorial donations may be made to the Coronation Health Centre Foundation – LTC or DSL, the Gem Centre, Consort, Alberta or to a charity of choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com.
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Tribute
by Janice Orr
Good afternoon and thank you all for being here today to celebrate the life of my beloved Aunt Emelia. Your presence reflects the love and respect she inspired in so many over her remarkable 97 years. My name is Janice Orr I am Aunt Emelia’s niece.
Auntie loved so many things — but her family, first and foremost, was her heart. Her friends were her joy and her life was a testament to kindness, generosity and hard work. From my earliest memories, she was soft-spoken yet strong, always ready with a gentle word or a warm smile.
I remember as a child staying overnight at the farm. When Leanne was too restless to sleep beside (honestly, like an octopus), I would quietly crawl into bed with Auntie and Uncle Ted and she would welcome me without hesitation. There were the mischievous moments too, like “pea picking” or should I say “stealing” — waiting until they were all shelled, grabbing them and running away laughing.
She worked tirelessly on the farm: cooking for countless people, milking cows, cutting hair for anyone who needed it and always being there for her community. She and my mom were the best of friends, spending countless hours knitting and crocheting together and with a twinkle in their eyes trying to keep Uncle Ted and my dad on the straight and narrow. That was no easy task.
The “only” thing that ever changed about Auntie was the color of her hair.
When Uncle Ted passed away, a great chapter of Auntie’s life closed, but she carried on with the same quiet strength and grace that had always defined her. Her home remained a place of welcome, her table always open, her heart always ready to listen. Even as the years brought challenges, she met them with dignity, faith and a love for all her family and friends.
When you are not looking for love, it will find you again. Uncle John was a welcome addition to our family. He brought to Auntie renewed love. They were amazing together and he and his children and grandchildren made two families complete again.
I had the greatest love for Auntie. I could go all day telling you about her but that is why you are all here today. You each have your own memories of her, memories you will carry with you forever. These are the memories that will bring you comfort and yes, a little sadness too, but like so many of you, my heart is
broken. We have lost the most wonderful woman, whose love, kindness and quiet strength touched every life she encountered. Yet through all the trials and hardships of her life, she carried on with grace and determination. I know she would want us all to do the same now: to hold onto our memories, to lean on one another and to keep moving forward with the same courage she showed every single day.
So today, as we say goodbye, let us not dwell only on the ache of her absence, but on the gift of her presence in our lives. Let us carry forward her kindness, quiet strength and unwavering love. In the days ahead, when we feel the weight of missing her, may we find comfort in the laughter we shared, the lesson she taught
us and the example she set.
Though her chair may be empty, her place in our hearts will never be. And as we leave here today, let us honor her not only with our words, but with the way we live, with compassion, courage and the grace she showed every day of her life.
Rest peacefully, Auntie Emelia. You will be loved, remembered and cherished always.

Tribute
by Debra Russell
Hello everyone. Thank you for joining us to celebrate Emelia – each of you have your own memories of her and I hope you will share your stories with us over lunch. Like all of the tributes you will hear today, all of our memories are based in love. Emelia was simply the best thing that happened to our family in 1979. It didn’t take long for Emelia to find her way into our hearts and the heart of the Consort community. I know I said this at Dad’s service, and I will say it again – Bob, Leanne…thank you for sharing your mother with us. It was wonderful to know that dad found such a beautiful soul with whom he could rebuild his life and what a life Emelia and he led, which you heard in Janice’s beautiful tribute.
She brought so much joy to our lives and I will always be grateful for her place in stitching us together through her special dinners, her handiwork, the comfort afghan’s made for us with love, her cinnamon buns, the famous mashed potatoes (who knew the secret was SO much salt!), the warm buns that were ready for us when we arrived Friday night and then often forgotten when warmed in the microwave or oven, the crossword puzzles completed over morning coffee, the desire to put one more puzzle piece in before bed, and our adventures taken small and large. I will always feel the deepest respect for her for the many ways that she immediately included Grandma Frost, my mom’s mother, into her new clan, not just as John’s mother-in-law, but she created her own special bond with grandma based on genuine friendship and laughter. That was Emelia, welcoming of all, and everything she did was with kindness and compassion for others.
The many pictures tell the tales of our blended family in all aspects of life. From our side, Jessica will always cherish the extra time she got with gramma when she and Kody lived in Consort. She loved her daily card games with Dad and Emelia and once Rylan came along, Emelia was a wonderful support for her. Jessica and I love tending the house plants that Emelia gave us, and when a plant starts to fail, I go to the plant book that Emelia gave me – she must have known I would need it once she was gone. Graham has created a back yard that would have Emelia’s 5-star rating – it too is filled with her perennials, and you can see Emelia’s lessons at work lessons in his garden.
She was an amazing Gramma and then as a Great gramma she gave the best hugs to Rylan, Landon and Hugh – always happy to play with them on the floor or chase them out of HER chair! While Hazel didn’t get to meet Emelia, we will make sure she will know great gramma through our memories and stories, and she now just received the last crocheted blanket, in pink and white, that Emelia made and Leanne passed to Michelle and Graham today.
So, Emelia, here’s to another country drive, one more lamsie game, one more shared walk – and those of you who ever walked with her know that was a fast sprint around town. Thank you for loving us, teaching us – well, except Emelia was never able to teach me to be a golfer! At 90 she was a better player and easily beat Graham and me at Gooseberry Lake!
Emelia – we love you and will cherish all our memories of you. You will forever be in our hearts.

Tribute
by Stuart Russell
Good afternoon. Thank you all for the opportunity to share some thoughts and memories about Emelia. She was an amazing person, with a soft and gentle nature, a heart of gold, a green thumb that extended well past her right elbow and someone who was always keen to take on a new adventure.
When Emelia and John were married in February 1979 it was a very memorable day in many ways but stands out in my mind because as it was close to minus 40 and the gasoline we got in Castor had water in it and we were lucky to make it back to Edmonton with a fuel filter full of ice that night.
But things warmed up considerably in a hurry after that, as Emelia and John brought their combined families together with their positive approach to their new situation and shared their time between Consort and Coronation making sure all of the ball games, hockey games and dance presentations for the kids, grandkids and great grandkids were attended when they could make it. I am sure many of those young athletes are in this room today and can recall her cheers of support for them.
They and their friends gladly included Deb and I into their camping and fishing adventures in Northern Alberta on May 24 weekends and showed us how to catch fish and enjoy beer and tomato juice by the campfire.
Emelia and John were avid travellers and made a point to come visit us in Edmonton, Morinville, Yellowknife, Burlington, St. Johns and through the Maritimes in a mini-van with our kids. Each of the outings has memorable stories attached. In Yellowknife in 1980 for example, we went fishing in the Yellowknife River and I caught a Pike that was a monster and could not get it into the boat so we went over to the shallow side and I got out of the boat to wrestle this big monster onto the beach. Well needless to say it did not work out to my benefit but Emelia was laughing so hard that she almost fell out of the boat and always said the image of the big Jack and I duking it out in the river was etched in her memory bank for ever.
Over the years, Emelia was an early riser and was always there to see me return from my early morning walks to the cemetery and back with happy smile, a cup of tea and a hearty breakfast. Her cinnamon buns were world famous in my opinion and certainly increased the need for extra walking whenever we came to visit.
There are so many stories, and time is short, but my favourite is when we were all in Newfoundland for Matt and Jenna’s wedding and we stopped at the St. Johns Hospital on the way back to the airport so John could have an issue checked out. The attendants showed John into a waiting room and Emelia went with him. I went down to the Tim Hortons in the hospital and picked up some muffins, tea and hot chocolate and brought them back to where Deb was waiting. Well just then Emelia came out from the medical area and I asked her if she would like the muffin and hot choc and she agreed, so I went back to Tim’s for a replacement. As I approach the cashier to pay the lady behind the till says “weren’t you just here – I said yes but my mother-in-law came out of the medical area and I offered her my muffin and tea and came to replace them”. I am not sure what the Tim’s restaurant full of people thought on this peaceful Sunday morning but the cashier startled everyone by screaming “mother-in-law – I hate my flipping mother-in-law and would not give her the time of day – she is a witch”. So on that note I said that is too bad, paid, and quietly slipped out of the area and went back to where Emelia and Deb were waiting and shared my story. We had a super laugh about it and gave John a big giggle as well when he was released.
All kidding aside, I told Emelia and John many times that I was the luckiest young lad in the world to have had them for my in-laws. They were both the best in my books and I could not have had better.
As many of you know, Emelia was a world class knitter whose fingers never ceased to be busy making treasures for everyone in the family. I was blessed many years ago when she knitted me a sweater and matching toque that I wore for 25 plus years until it vanished. So what does Emelia do, she decides to make me another matching sweater and toque with the same pattern, and it is one of my most valued treasures and I think of her every time I wear it, and always will. It is a unique reminder.
We hope she is resting easy now and knows that she may have left us but will never be forgotten. We have our memories and photos to remind us.

Tribute
from Sandy & Neil Polson
We were so blessed to have had this incredible Lady in our lives…
She was always there for us all. Her gentle way of offering advice … but have it not seeming like advice, you just knew it was the right thing to do.
She was the best Grandma, always available to take the kids. Card games, golf, camping, fishing trips, ball and hockey games, she rarely missed a game!
She was relentless in making sure everything was fair with our blended families, right down to the last penny on the kid’s Christmas cheques to make up the difference!
Her lemon pie, pineapple square, pumpkin square and finger Jello was legendary at every family gathering!
At the Machine Shop I really appreciated all her cheat sheets in the parts, in her beautiful cursive writing which I believe Leanne inherited.
They sure knew how to have good old fashioned fun too! Curling bonspiels, Halloween costumes, Arizona Open Campout, and of course weekly card parties at their house.
Emelia and John had quite the pocket gopher trapline at the golf course, I believe they caught over 160!
In later years Sandra learned early not to tell her she was coming to do something at her house. She would get up there and here Emelia was, on a ladder washing the windows Sandra said she’d do, she never wanted to put anyone out!
She’s responsible for Sandra’s love of doing puzzles, she will always cherish her noon hour puzzle time with Emelia.
She was Sandra’s mentor, the Morn she never had…all the special memories that helped shape our famity. Rest in Peace Emelia…Love You Forever!

A Note from the
Grandchildren
To have Grandma’s love was to truly feel it. The best part of Grandma was seeing her smile and feeling the comfort and love she gave every time you were with her. Her presence wrapped around you, making every moment unforgettable. We’ll never forget the countless games of dominoes when we were younger, which later turned into cards, and the puzzles that always seemed to be on the go. There was never a dull moment with Grandma.
Nothing compared to walking into a rink, field, or gym and seeing her already there, waiting to watch us play. In the Consort hockey arena, she always sat in the same spot, quietly cheering and squirming on the edge of her seat—you always knew where to find her. Whether in that arena, around her kitchen table, or on the golf course, the smile on her face told you just how proud and happy she was to be there. That kind of love is something we will forever miss.
Grandma was always ready for fun and adventure. Many of us learned to golf from her, and that first round with Grandma will always be a core memory. Ted even remembers, on one of his golf rounds, accidentally giving her a black eye which instantly became the family joke that Grandpa John had done it. When the Coronation cousins came to Consort for school sports, it wasn’t unusual for Grandma and Grandpa to host the whole team for cinnamon buns. Whether joining Stacey and Christie at their golf-themed stagettes, possibly outgolfing everyone, or playing in family cornhole tournaments, her energy and laughter made every moment memorable. Her box of toys for the great-grandchildren, playing on the rock in the front yard, and Lego in the basement were just a few of the things that made Grandma’s house the best place to be.
Her knitted afghans, braided coat hangers, and pot scrubbers were the best gifts—simple yet filled with the love only Grandma could stitch into them. Each afghan she made is not just a blanket, but a lasting piece of her that keeps us warm, brings smiles, and sparks memories every time we see or use it. She shared her love through food and traditions, always bringing her famous Jell-O fingers, pineapple delight, pumpkin torte, and freshly baked buns to holiday gatherings. She loved passing down family recipes—like her “noodlies”—just to give us a reason to come together.
Year after year, she prepared so we would have closets full of her handmade treasures and hearts full of her traditions.
Her pride and joy was her family, and she blessed each grandchild, great grandchild, and great-great-grandchild with a visit as soon as possible after birth. We will treasure those photos of her baby visits just as much as she treasured each of her own photos. Grandma always handwrote names, dates, and little details on the backs before tucking them into her beloved albums.
Grandma was love and comfort. Camping at Gooseberry Lake, fishing, ice cream floats in summer and hot chocolate in winter, evening walks after supper, and coffee time at the machine shop were just some of the special moments we shared. One of Bobby Jo’s favorite fishing memories is from the trout pond when it was really muddy. Rather than get her shoes messy, Grandma simply took them off, rolled her pants up, and waded in barefoot. We will also forever cherish the perennials she gave us from her garden. Some of us may have inherited her green thumb, but even those who didn’t can’t seem to kill the hardy flowers she grew with such care.
Grandma was genuine, selfless, kind, positive, and hardworking—the kind of person you can never forget Her love and example live on in each of us, and we will carry her legacy forward as we continue to think of her and strive to inherit some of her beautiful qualities. We are forever thankful for the gift of being her grandchildren.

Tribute
from Jenna Collett
How do I summarize 40 years with Grandma. She was my constant confidant, an open door always (even if she forgot to unlock it for the day). My go-to: For Golf, freezies, jello that jiggled better than any commercial could show, and most of all in the later years: our children’s playmate, crawling on the floor and playing well into her 90’s, always having a new old toy to entertain.
I don’t recall a time ever when I was scolded….well maybe when I beat her for the first time ever at golf, but I can assure you it was only by one stroke, and only because she was the best instructor anyone could have. Grandma was always a safe space, sleepovers under chenille bedspreads and a new snuggly afghan being made for the next birth, Christmas, or just because. Our closets are lined with her signature hangers, a gift that we knew she took great joy in giving to everyone.
She was patient, and persistent. Even when she knew I didn’t actually lose my lunch, or wasn’t “really” sick from school: she calmy fried the egg sandwich and made the chicken noodle soup (always in her pyrex pot!). These meals were followed by games of solitaire or lamsie with a mini-deck on the Teflon cutting board, all while she was comfortably in her recliner. A recliner I take great comfort to read in even now in my own home.
The Recliner. It was HER spot, yet it always had room for a lapful of grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was the setting for many games of “Go To Sleep”, stories about when she had the dairy, birdwatching, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Its where she snuggled our babies, and had her naps (but she was NEVER napping!).
We camped, we fished, celebrated wins and losses on the baseball field and in the hockey arena. Rarely did they miss a game. Sometimes, even with the 5th wheel parked on the street, we dined in the camper and had a game of cards. She could argue the stats of the Blue Jays better than any agent or broadcast. She was the winner of raffles and 50/50’s across western Canada’s minor sports venues. I think one year she even won two baseball bats at Russell’s Western Canadian Championship tournament!
Her cinnamon buns would show up on the doorstep, and she surely marched them by with her grocery bag in hand, picking up trash and bottles on her way to the store. More often then not, there was buns left in the microwave during a family get together, a joke we always made sure to remind her of. Her kitchen was joy and her turkey dinners heavenly. I recall the day she got her new fridge, a Jenn-Air. She installed a blank label over the ‘i’ and the ‘r’, so it was then a Jenna fridge forevermore.
I could spend hours describing the joy and comfort she brought into our lives. She was the hand in mine the day Sam was born, staying with me the entire time he was being airlifted. She was a quiet comfort through the losses we suffered, sharing her own losses and grief with us. Its indescribable, the moment she met our daughter and learned her name was tribute to the incredible woman who helped raise me. Two Lydias to love and cherish. Her joy to meet Leo amidst Covid and all the restrictions, was renewed hope that life is beautiful.
There was never a flower or garden in our family that hadn’t been touched, always separating and sharing her beloved flowers. At 90 years old, she arrived to help harvest Matt and I’s 1000lbs of potatoes, a bumper crop like she had never seen before. She was a harvest Grandma, and we spent hours together in fields.
To not be there today as her life is celebrated, is most challenging. On August 28, Lydias 11U AA Baseball team played and I coached, a game that we came from a 9 run deficit in the last inning to win. There, under the lights as we exited the field, began an instant downpour. Its also the moment I learned she had cheered her final celebration earthside. When heaven opened up after a year of drought and wildfires, I truly do believe she finished that game with us at the field. So we will celebrate her life, as we enter a weekend of Baseball playoffs, just as we know she was with Sam this past weekend as the underdogs secured a Provincial Silver medal.
I know that Great Grandma, Grandma will be with us: she will make sure my Geraniums are always in bloom, and that dandelions will always grow, so we have a task to fulfill removing them. Because hands are never idle when there is love in our hearts. We love you and will always share in your memory.

Tribute
from Russell Polson
Some memories of Grandma would include a lot of my early days needing a break from school so I would walk across the street for a visit, or an egg sandwich with chicken noodle soup, whenever I forgot my lunch or just thought hers would taste better. Also the countless hours of playing cards or seeing her at the ball diamond and hockey rink. No matter how the game went, she always had something good to say.

Karen Arlene Kotanko
Sept. 6, 1951 – Sept. 14, 2025

Karen Arlene Kotanko of Veteran, beloved wife of Allan Kotanko, went home to be with her Lord and Saviour Jesus on September 14, 2025 at the age of 74 after a long courageous battle with cancer.
Karen was born in Lacombe on September 6, 1951 to Richard Quast and Darlene Sargeant. She was born premature, weighing only 3 lbs. She grew up in Lacombe and Calgary. She attended Red Deer Vocational High School where she met her lifelong friend, Debbie Crawford and the future love of her life Allan Kotanko. Karen and Allan married on January 31, 1970. They lived briefly in Red Deer and then moved to Loyalist. In 1972, they moved to Penhold, to Veteran in 1973 and to their current acreage in 1982. After extensive renovation, they moved into their current home in 1984. Together, Karen and Allan raised four children: Donna, Donald, Jason and Daniel.
Karen loved children. She babysat many. Among them was Alison and William Quaife which led to a lasting friendship between Karen and Maureen. Karen worked at Larry’s Family Foods for many years, beginning in 1984, then worked for the Auction Mart, and Canada Post until the Fall of 2023.
She lovingly taught Sunday school to the 4 & 5 year olds for over 30 years at Veteran Full Gospel Church. She also volunteered in many capacities. Karen was always giving. She gave of everything she had – her money, her time, her energy, her love. Everything she had, she gave freely. Especially her hugs and prayers. She had a huge heart for her friends and the community around her.
Karen loved. She loved deeply. When you encountered Karen, you encountered genuine love and heard the gospel of Jesus Christ!
She is survived by her loving husband Allan; her children Donna (Darryl), Donald (Leah), Jason (Shandel) and Daniel (Karen nee Pace); her grandchildren Genevieve, Katelyn, Kylie (Cody), Macy (Dalton), Daxter, Emerson, Silas, Olivia, Natalie; siblings Richard (Leslie), Jacquie, Darren (Barb), Shawna (Ken), and Lori (Gary) and brother-in-law Richard; her step dad Willis; step brother Darrin (Brenda); and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, in-laws and extended family.
She is predeceased by her father Richard, her mother Darlene and sister Charlene.
A Celebration of Life Service was held on September 21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m at the Veteran Full Gospel Church. Lunch and fellowship followed at Veteran Community Hall.
In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial donation to: Benevolent Fund at Veteran Full Gospel Church, The Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family, please visit www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.
Eulogy
How can we possibly hope to properly honor this woman who meant so much to each of us?!
We want to thank you all for joining us today. Thank you to the many of you who have reached out with words of kindness, gifts of food, and heartfelt words of how she impacted you. If you are here, it is very likely that she meant something special to you too. She would have loved this gathering with all of her favorite people.
Karen began taking care of others at a young age. The oldest of 7 children whose parents were troubled and divorced when she was 15, left her caring for her younger siblings. And, at different times, she cared for each of her parents too. Her own mother passed away only 16 months ago with Karen managing to care for her even while going through cancer treatments herself.  
She was welcoming and kind to one and all. Karen saw the good in everyone, no matter who they were or how they thought. When she talked to you, you felt like you mattered. She loved animals of all sorts too. There were many different pets of all sorts over the years. If you visited in their home you could not leave without signing the guest book. And yes, even us kids had to sign.  
Every. 
Single. 
Time.
Karen loved adventure. She was always up for trying something new or joining in the fun, especially with kids. When Don was a teenager she broke her finger playing volleyball with him. One of her adopted grandchildren said she was the most athletic Grandma they knew. Not willing to be left behind, she even went downhill skiing with her grandsons at the age of 69! 
Karen was able to do some traveling which she thoroughly enjoyed. She loved to fly. She went to England, Oahu, Kauai, Mexico, Quebec, and Vancouver Island. Her trips to Hawaii were with Donna, once with Genevieve and Katelyn too. Karen had so many fond memories of her time there as she was especially fond of sunshine and swimming. She appreciated nature and loved both frosty winter trees and lightening storms.
Karen loved to play games and activities of all kinds. Soccer, bowling, discing, curling, pedal bikes, motor bike rides, crib, poker rummy, rummoli, Splendor or Catan, she was always wanting to play. During the time she worked at the grocery store in Coronation she sometimes carpooled with Carmen Cornelius. One very hot day when Carmen was dropping her off, us boys had the garden hose and pails of water up on the roof awaiting her return. She asked Carmen to walk her to the house, but he refused. She, of course, joined into the water fight. Karen was always up for some fun!
She never hesitated to ride on whatever motorized vehicle the boys brought home. Dirt bikes, cars, trucks, Odessey’s, street bikes, helicopters, whatever it was, she rode in it or on it and wasn’t afraid to go fast or participate in the burnout. At one point, she even drove a car in a stock car race. Just a few weeks ago she drove Daniel’s car, honking the special air horn and giggling the whole time.
Karen took on teaching her children how to drive at very, very young ages! Jason at 2, when by himself in the car, took a drive into Veteran School.  Still, when the kids could legally drive, she quickly put them behind the wheel so she could enjoy some “rest”?
She was a very calm mother. Jason recalls one time when he grabbed the 12 gauge and shot a magpie from inside the house through the kitchen window.  Mom was in the bathroom at the time and Jason heard her say she was glad she was already sitting down.
Karen never wanted to miss out on anything that the grandkids were into. This resulted in her and Allan driving A LOT! There were many miles on all of her vehicles. Even though she attended many events, she regretted not being able to attend everything. It was not just her grandkids’ events, it expanded to her “adopted” grandkids, her nieces and nephews, and her sisters events. She really did not want to miss a thing!
Karen also loved to photograph every moment and then relive the memories through photo albums. She did a lot of scrapbooking. The stacks of photo albums are truly overwhelming!
Karen loved people. And she remembered. She talked with you, she wanted to know what was happening in your life, and the next time she talked with you, she would follow up. And you can bet she was praying for you during the time in between. She has a calendar on the wall in her home that has everyone’s birthday and anniversary on it. She alone has been responsible for keeping Canada Post in business.
If you met Karen then you know she loved the Lord. She served and participated in the church in many ways for many years. She taught Sunday school class, was part of the ladies groups, secret prayer partners, many many Bible studies, and she cooked at camp, to name a few. She also did many Bible studies that were one-on-one. She was mentored by several and a mentor to many. Her hearts desire was for all to know Christ. She pointed all in the way of salvation by living her life as a servant to all, full of grace, love, and incredible amounts of compassion and kindness. Truly she was an example of Christ to us all.
She grew an enormous garden every summer. If you visited in the summer you would likely find her in the garden, likely barefoot. Karen also preserved much of her bounty and shared that with her family and others. A favorite thing for all of the kids and grandkids is making verenica (pronounce, ver-in-ah-ca) with grandma. You were not officially into the family until you passed the verenica eating test.  
And just in case you didn’t know, she did have a favorite from among us.  Darryl, was officially her Favorite Son-In-Law.
Thank You
The entire Kotanko family wishes to thank the community of Veteran and area for the kind words and support at the passing of Karen A Kotanko: Wife/ Mother/Grandmother/ Aunt/ Sister, friend to many.
To all who came to her Celebration of Life on September 21, thank you for coming and celebrating Karen with us. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Pastor Darrel Durksen for the wonderful service honoring Mom/Karen and her Savior Jesus. We also want to thank Judy, Nils and Jeanette, Carolyn, Deryk and Rhonda for their beautiful contribution to the service.
We gratefully thank the Veteran Full Gospel Church family for supporting Karen and Allan especially the past 2.5 years.  Thank you to the Veteran Full Gospel Church Ladies and community ladies for the lovely luncheon and  to the kind staff at Castor Hospital and the Parkview Funeral Chapel.
Sincerely: Allan,
Donna and Darryl,
Don and Leah,
Jason and Shandel,
Daniel and Karen-Pace. And the many grandchildren and extended family.

Neville Anderson Hughes
Feb. 7, 1940 – Sept. 17, 2025

Neville Anderson Hughes was born on February 7, 1940, in Cereal, Alberta, the youngest son of Arthur and Doris Hughes. His family ran the general store and post office there, and from an early age, he learned the value of hard work. At just 15, Neville and his brother Brian set out for Red Deer to complete high school at Lindsay Thurber. Not long after, he began working with Wilfert Construction in Stettler.
It was in Stettler, at the young age of 19, that Neville met the love of his life, Joan Ann Street. The two were married on July 15, 1961, and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. They raised two beautiful daughters, Brenda Lee and Carla Doreen, and worked side by side through both joys and challenges.
In 1970, Neville and Joan moved to Coronation, where Neville began Hughes Oilfield Construction. Through determination and grit, he not only built a successful business but also expanded into other ventures that left their mark on the community. Yet despite his accomplishments, Neville’s greatest pride was always his family.
Those who knew him will remember Neville as a man of many remarkable qualities. He was wise, hardworking, and unfailingly kind. He had a wonderful sense of humor that could brighten any room. He believed in giving his best —whether it was in building companies, lending a hand to a neighbor, or sharing advice around the kitchen table.
But beyond his hard work ethic, what stood out most was his unwavering love. He adored his wife Joan and the devotion he showed to her was something rare and beautiful. He was proud of his daughters, his grandchildren, his great grandchildren and he was always there offering advice. His dedication, his love, and his quiet strength shaped us all in ways words can hardly capture.
As we say goodbye, we also hold onto gratitude: gratitude for the lessons he taught us, the laughter he gave us, and the love he poured into our lives. Though our hearts ache, we carry his spirit forward in our own lives, in the choices we make, and in the way we care for each other.
What we’ll remember most is his devotion. Neville lived his life to provide for and take care of those he loved. His dedication, his love, and his quiet strength shaped us all in ways words can hardly capture.
Neville is survived by daughter Brenda Hughes and her family – grandson Jonathan McCullough (Sherry), Kyle and Maddison; grandson Raymond McCullough – Raymond and Julie; granddaughter Chelsey Ference (Tyler), Presley, Quinn and Callie; daughter Carla McMaster and her family – grandson Robert Bruce McMaster (Shawna), Emery and Zoey; other family and friends.
Predeceasing Neville were his wife Joan Ann Hughes; father Arthur B. A. Hughes; mother Doris Margaret Hughes; brothers John Hughes, Arthur F.G. Hughes, Bill Hughes, Brian Hughes; and son-in-law Robert McMaster.
A Celebration Of Life will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at the Coronation Community Centre, Coronation, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial donation to: the Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury, 424069 Range Road 255, Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R8, the Canadian Cancer Society, or to a charity of your choice.
Parkview Funeral Chapels & Crematorium.
“Every Life Lived Is Worthy of a Celebration”
www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com
Thank You
Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude for the kindness, love, and support we have received following the passing of our beloved dad/grandpa. Your heartfelt words, cards, flowers, and gestures of sympathy have brought comfort during this difficult time.

Joyce Elaine Flynn
Dec. 30, 1940 – Oct. 8, 2025

Joyce was born in Consort, Alberta, to Bertha and Walter Mogck (nee Thulien).
Joyce’s life was rich with music, friendship, and community. She had a remarkable gift — the ability to pick up almost any instrument and play it beautifully by ear. When she entered the Consort Lodge 13 years ago, she taught herself two new instruments and went on to create a band that became the heart of the community. The group won awards and travelled to entertain at other lodges, spreading joy, laughter, and toe-tapping music wherever they went. Her love of music flowed through the piano, banjo, button accordion, harmonica, keyboard, washboard, and more. Every song she played carried her signature humor, heart, and love of life. She loved fishing, camping, and sports, especially cheering for the Blue Jays and watching curling. Her years playing ball with the Czar Lakers were among her fondest memories — filled with camaraderie, competition, and laughter that echoed long after the final game.
She often spoke of her childhood on the Mogck family farm and then her later years on the Flynn farm. Times were filled with hard work, joy, and connection. Joyce was known for her perfect cribbage hand (immortalized in a wide, proud grin), her pool tournament wins, and her playful sparkle that kept everyone smiling. A loyal friend and a spirited woman, Joyce had a way of lighting up a room with her wit, warmth, and music.
With her family by her side, surrounded by love, laughter, and the melody of a life well lived, Joyce passed away on October 8, 2025, at the Consort Hospital and Care Centre at the age of 84 years.
She is survived by her three children, Darren (Sharon) Flynn and their family, Jenna; and her children, Mya and Merrek; Lonny (Ashly) and their children, Liam, Peyton and Aubree; Kyla (Corbin) and their daughter, Marley; Debbie (Craig) Prediger and their family, Cash (Courtney) and their children, Arlo and Leni; Corey (Shinell) and their daughters; Sloan and Rhen; Michelle (Ron) Berg and their family, Brady (Vanessa) and their son, Jensen; Casey.
She is predeceased by her parents and infant son.
“Where words fail, music speaks.”
– Hans Christian Andersen
As per Joyce’s wishes, a private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Ted Schoff
1938 ~ 2025

Ted (Frederick) Schoff was born in Consort, Alberta in 1938. He passed away October 8, 2025.
Ted grew up on the farm near Consort, the second oldest of five children. He grew up roaming the prairie with siblings and friends, hunting gophers and muskrats when he wasn’t helping with chores, feeding livestock or planting gladiolas for his dad who loved horticulture. He regularly rode horses and also trained horses for neighbours. As a child, he rode to school in Consort in the horse-drawn school van. After his school years, he found himself some adventure working in various road and rail construction jobs in Manitoba and Alberta, becoming a heavy equipment operator. He was especially proud of running a dragline. One of his notable construction projects included work on Highway 93 south of the Columbia Icefields. The construction work enabled him to buy a farm just northeast of Bashaw with his brother, Bev, in 1960. Ted was hardworking, fair, diplomatic and naturally skilled at operating and fixing farm and construction equipment.
In 1968 he married Gail Rider. They built a happy home together and raised three children: Trevor, Norine and April. Together they worked hard to build a farm, instilling both respect and love of the land in their children. Ted was always open to new ideas that would improve the land and his farming practice. He was a cattleman and adopted new genetics frequently to improve his herd. He had a knack for understanding cows and was skilled at noticing changes from early detection of calving, to illness and anticipating their next move. He continued to farm up to his last days.
Ted spent many hours helping his community as part of the Bashaw Ag Society and minor hockey. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, travel, camping, curling and playing cards, particularly crib. Ted enjoyed and was interested in other people. He always took time to visit whenever he met someone and had a great ability to connect with people. Ted spent many hours cheering for and supporting his children and grandchildren in their extracurricular activities. He believed in doing things right because quality was important, feeling if something was worth doing it was worth doing well. He always said good manners didn’t cost anything. Ted really enjoyed wildlife and flowers, frequently capturing them in a photo. He loved his family and especially enjoyed being a grandfather. His ethic of hard work, honesty and integrity leave a lasting legacy.
Ted is survived by his loving family, son Trevor (Joanne) Schoff, daughters Norine Ambrose (Glenn Siewert), and April (Paul) Kurtz; grandchildren: Jessie (Tyler) Vredegoor, Ben Ambrose, Tristan, Julia and Jason Schoff, Kami (Mitchell) Harris, Kyra (Hayden) Ronaldson, Kodi (Spencer) Comin, Keyli (Morgan) Berry, and Connor Siewert; as well as eleven great- grandchildren; brothers Bev (Jeannette) Schoff and Dale (Velma) Schoff; sisters Marie Beebe and Carol (Frank) Bonham; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families and many dear friends and neighbours.
Ted was predeceased by his wife Gail Schoff and parents Emma and Russell Schoff.
Interment service for the late Mr. Ted Schoff will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bashaw Cemetery, Bashaw, Alberta, followed by a celebration of life service at 1:00 p.m. at the Bashaw Community Centre. Donations in memory of Ted are gratefully accepted to a charity of the donor’s choice. To send or view condolences to the family, please visit www.stettlerfuneralhome.com.
Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium are entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Marilyn Johnson
Oct. 9, 1943 – Oct. 11, 2025

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Marilyn Johnson. She passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta.
Born in Kindersley, Saskatchewan on October 9, 1943, Marilyn had just celebrated her 82nd birthday. She lived a full and joyful life surrounded by family, friends, and endless adventures. She was someone who was small in stature but was fierce in spirit, determined, vibrant, and full of heart.
A dedicated teacher by profession and by heart, she touched the lives of countess students with her kindness, continued passion for learning and her sage advice. Her early teaching career took her to several communities and eventually she landed in Consort, Alberta and eventually taught in the neighboring community of Veteran, Alberta.
It was then she would meet George Johnson, to whom she would marry and raise three children on the Johnson family farm.
Through the years, she became a beloved fixture of both the Consort and Veteran communities. Beyond the classroom, she enjoyed time with friends and family, found joy in the pages of a good book, travelled the globe, and zipped through town in her mustang. Throughout her life, she continued to spend countless hours among her flowers she so carefully nurtured in her garden, continued to be eager to travel and eventually become an avid Oilers fan. Golf was one of her greatest passions. She was happiest with a club in hand and the sun on her face sharing laughs with friends and family, celebrating both good and bad shots. Her love for the game took her to many beautiful courses over the years, from the local fairways to Fairmont, to her winter retreats in Phoenix, where she spent many cherished seasons enjoying the sport she loved.
She was predeceased by her husband, George, and her daughter, Andrea. Marilyn is lovingly remembered by her children Stacy (Cathy), Sherri (Edwin) as well as her grandchildren, Megan, Cam, Everett, Nate and Matt, brother Dale (Wendy), nephews Robert (Erin), Brian (Michelle), along with other family and dear friends. Marilyn had found a beautiful renewal of companionship and joy when she reconnected with her first love, Herb, bringing light and happiness in recent years.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the banquet hall at the Links Golf Course, Spruce Grove. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation in Marilyn’s memory.

Terry John O’How
June 17, 1954 – Oct. 19, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Terry John O’How after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Terry passed away surrounded by family October 19th, 2025 in the Castor Long Term Care Facility at the age of 71.
Terry was born in Coronation to Jack and Shirley O’How, and spent most of his childhood raised on the farm north of Castor.
Terry worked hard and played harder, having a variety of jobs between Castor and Consort, before settling in Consort to raise his family and work in the oilfield.
Terry was a true sportsman, playing hockey and ball well into adulthood and then taking on the world of curling, winning many a bonspiel. He also coached many of his kids’ ball and hockey teams. He was also an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman – he lived for September 1 when hunting friends would “migrate” with the birds to Castor and Consort for the season, coming from around North America to join Terry for what he loved most.
Through sports and hunting, Terry made many friends. Nights were spent telling stories and playing cards (particularly crib).
With Marilyn he spent the last 20 years camping or traveling, with the fishing rod close by.
Terry and Marilyn moved back to Castor in 2017, where he lived the rest of his life.
Terry is survived by his loving wife of 21 years Marilyn O’How, children Corey (Michelle) O’How, Taren (Brad) Trew, Curan O’How; stepsons Dusty (Leisha) Brown, Colin (Kellie-Ann) Brown, Andrew Brown, as well as grandchildren Landon, Kenzie, Quinn, Tomi-Lynn, Remy and step-grandchildren: Waylon, Anderson, Richard and Abigail; brothers Cliff (Carolyn) O’How, Darcey (Karen) O’How and Sister-in-law Peggy O’How; three nieces Tracey, Keira, Jemma, and two great-nieces: Abree, Aimee and numerous cousins, friends and their families.
He was predeceased by parents Jack and Shirley O’How and brother Bruce O’How.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on November 8th, 2025, at the Castor Community Hall, 4801 – 48th Avenue, Castor, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are gratefully accepted to Parkinson Association of Alberta, 120, 6835 Railway St SE, Calgary, AB T2H 2V6 or online at parkinsonsassociation.ca; or a charity of your choosing.
Parkview Funeral Chapels entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements.

Beverley Russell Schoff
Aug. 11, 1930 – Oct. 20, 2025

On October 20, 2025, Mr. Beverley Schoff, of Bashaw, passed away at the St. Mary’s Hospital in Camrose at the age of 95 years.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Jeannette; son Darcy Schoff (Sara-Lynne Dewar) and grandchildren Isabelle Schoff, Annalysa Dewar, Mayafaye Dewar, and Adaline Dewar; daughter Leanna Murphy (Darren) and granddaughter Janelle Murphy; daughter Janine Schmidt (Ron); and his siblings Dale Schoff (Velma), Marie Beebe, and Carol Bonham (Frank). Bev was predeceased by his daughter-in-law Andrea and his brother and sister-in-law Ted and Gail Schoff.
A Prayer Vigil was held on Friday, October 31, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Bashaw where a Funeral Mass was celebrated on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. The Interment Service followed at the Bashaw Cemetery. After the services on Saturday, everyone was invited to join with the family at the Bashaw Community Centre for a time of fellowship including Words of Remembrance and a Picture Tribute, followed by refreshments.
Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, the Bashaw Cemetery, or any charity of your choice.
To express condolences to Bev’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Ponoka Funeral Home – A Wombold Family Funeral Home.

Douglas Norman Deleff
Nov. 30, 1957-Oct. 23, 2025

Douglas Norman Deleff, 67, passed away on October 23, 2025 in Lone Tree, Colorado. He was born on November 30, 1957 in Consort, Alberta, to Isabelle Tainsh and Marin Deleff. Doug lived a life of adventures that led him across the globe and touched the lives of many.
Doug’s story started in the tight knit community of Consort where all the kids went to the same school. Before and after class, he and his siblings worked on the farm, developing strong work ethic and familial bonds that would last a lifetime and span across countries. Doug left Consort to study chemistry at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, where he graduated with honors. His career led him to many new places and generated countless stories where he took on challenges that others shied away from.
He settled in Castle Rock, Colorado, finishing the construction on his home in 2001, where he stayed and raised his children, Tyler and Emily. They shared many fond memories there, from fishing in the pond to sledding down the massive hill in the backyard. He was vocal about how proud he was of his kids, and fought for them more than they will ever know.
After many years away from the family pets in Canada, he got his first puppy, Cooper, a Bernese mountain dog, followed by a second, Coast, years later. He adored his pups with all his heart, taking their friendly faces out to meet anyone and everyone who could use some extra cheer.
Doug was always in the business of doing good business, whether that was getting a great deal through the masterful execution of couponing or helping someone in need. He was well known by his neighbors as someone that could be relied upon with his John Deere when the snow fell heavy, or to stand the mailboxes back up as they succumbed to the elements. This mentality served him well in his extensive sales career, routinely going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. He took pride in a job well done in all aspects of his life.
In 2016, he met Michele, a kind and fun loving woman with a heart of gold. She was able to extract more from the depths of Doug’s soul than anyone else through patience and thoughtful questions. They complimented each other beautifully, creating a life together of meaning and adventure. Michele’s nurturing nature never wavered in her commitment to Doug.
None of us knew what to expect when Doug got his diagnosis of multiple myeloma in 2017. There was no known cure to the disease, only taxing methods to buy more time. This would have broken many people, but Doug was not one of them. He persevered through eight years of treatments, often bouncing from living life to the fullest on the golf course to being horizontal in a hospital bed in a matter of days. No amount of doctors, pain, or meds could keep Doug from doing what he wanted. He touched countless hearts along this journey, consistently being an inspiration and proving that life was worth living as long as there was a will to live it.
In a fortuitous event, his daughter Emily’s wedding brought the family together in August, 2025, just two months before his passing. Doug overcame the odds one last time to escape the hospital and walk her down the aisle, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was especially touched to have his family staying all together at his place in Castle Rock.
Doug was preceded in death by his brother Bruce. He is survived by his partner, Michele, his siblings, Rick, Wanda, and Monica, and his children, Tyler and Emily.
There will be a service on April 30th at 2:00 p.m., at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course in Castle Rock, Colorado.

Bonnie Lynn Sortland
Dec. 9, 1951 – Nov. 10, 2025

Bonnie Sortland passed away surrounded by the love of her family on November 10, 2025 at Red Deer Regional Hospital at the age of 73 years.
Bonnie is lovingly remembered by her husband of 56 years, Richard; four children, son, Brian (Joyce) and their children, Carson and Sophie; son, Kirk (Melonie) their children, Daphnie (Jeremy) and Kale; son, Bruce (Karen) and their children, Gabriel, Easton and Eliana; daughter, Amber (Delayne) Schaffer and their children, Kianna, Keaton and Kenzie; and her brother, Len Fossen.
A funeral service was held for Bonnie on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Consort Sportex Curling Rink with Darrel Durksen officiating. Interment followed at the Lake-road Cemetery.
Eulogy
– Kirk Sortland
Bonnie Lynn was born in Provost Hospital December 9th, 1951 to Harold and Marge Fossen. She was raised on the family farm, where her dad was born, north of Cadogan. She was the younger sister to Donna and Rick and the big sister to Len and Sandra.
Growing up, Bonnie’s favorite time was spent with her cousins. Living so close to both the Schneks and the Fossens allowed for ample time for tobogganing and skating in the winter and many games throughout the summer.
Bonnie attended school until Grade 9 in Cadogan, before transferring to Provost to finish high school. Going to the big school was pretty scary for the shy girl.
The summer Bonnie was 15 she had the misfortune of being thrown into Capt Ayre Lake by her cousins. Little did she know that one event would be pivotal when the shy Ricky Sortland offered her his vest. Unbeknownst to her the big arm holes may have allowed Rick a little peak. Being shy they took along a chaperone, usually her brother Len joining in their dates.
On November 1st, 1969, Rick and Bonnie began their future together, becoming wed at Provost Lutheran Church. They moved into Rick’s Grandparents House just west of where Rick grew up. Starting their life together with no running water or plumbing made things challenging, but Bonnie washed clothes and they bathed at Rick’s parents.
Bonnie worked at the Royal Bank in Consort from 1970 until she was showing with Brian. It pushed her out of her comfort zone to work at the bank, especially the odd time she was over on her float. She didn’t drive, which sometimes made things tricky, but Dad would take her to work on his way to work for Pat Wiese and then often her father-in-law Stan would pick her up, except the time or two he forgot her.
Fifty six years together they created a legacy of love. They welcomed Brian in 1973, Kirk in 1975, Bruce in 1977 and Amber completed the family in 1979.
Bonnie enjoyed her nights out with her mother-in-law Joan, Rick’s grandma Helen and Bill and Alice going to BINGO! She loved to recount how close she got or all her wins. Taking along her Cheezies and orange pop to enjoy for her treat.
The queen of Christmas with her house always decorated perfectly (every inch of the house). The last few years we liked to surprise her with it decorated but had to refer to a picture so that we got it in place just so!
Bonnie spent weeks preparing for Christmas. Squares, tarts, sugar cookies, shortbread, whipped shortbread, Fudge, Krumcake, Rosettes, Poppycock, Nuts and bolts, Chocolate covered pretzels, decorated Chocolates for days…..Uncle Emil candy, Peanut brittle. She would make up special Christmas tins filled with all of the goodies she had spent days preparing with love to give to her favorite people.
When us kids were little, moms siblings would come and spend a week together from before Christmas to after New Years. Having a big family meant she had built-in best friends. They loved spending time together. We can just picture her and her sisters up there playing Canasta and maybe even calling each other the odd bad name.
We’ll never forget not being able to help decorate the Christmas tree. She saved that job for after we went to bed so she could spend hours putting the tinsel on….. just so!
Christmas holds so many memories for the grandkids. Decorating chocolates, eating lefse, annual teddy bears and a giant pile of presents!
Mom kept an immaculate house, house cleaning her house top to bottom twice a year. Lists are where her talent really shone….and the housecleaning list trumped all! Although it was always clean, she was always quick to apologize for the mess her company caught her in. She was quickly forgiven when she pulled out her always prepared baking. She was always known for her fabulous cooking and tasty desserts. It didn’t matter if mom was expecting company or not, if you were there at meal time you were bound to get a hearty meal.
Mom was the hostess with the mostest! Whether it was milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or New Years Parties, any and every occasion called for a party! She was in her glory, surrounded by their friends, hosting a houseful of people with an amazing spread, listening to their friends jam.
Mom and dad put on ten trail rides to raise money for restoring the Old Consort Hospital. She also was always happy to organize reunions and the Sortland 100 year. She was super organized with all of her lists and made hosting several hundred people look easy.
Mom was an avid collector, collecting stamps, coins and scrapbooking all sorts of interesting things. She made sure to start a collection for each of us, so if anyone wants 256 bells, Amber would be happy to share!
She also enjoyed travelling. When dad got into his 40’s he decided that he should take up skiing. Mom tried it once or twice, but it wasn’t for her. Didn’t mean she didn’t enjoy their winter trips to Whitefish, Whistler or Banff. They also made several trips to Reno, Arizona, to the Maritimes and Comox. Dad isn’t a fan of water so she headed to Mexico without him.
With mom not having her drivers license, our main summer holiday consisted of two weeks at Capt Ayre Lake for swimming lessons. Dad would take us there with the motorhome and come get us for the weekend so mom could get the garden and laundry done before we
spent another week. It was quite an obstacle keeping us four rangled all day. This lake is still our happy place!
Nothing brought mom more joy than being a grandma. When Daphnie was born six weeks early mom couldn’t wait to get to Edmonton to meet her. She loved her new promotion to
Mama. Within the next 26 months we had five more join the family. Kale, Carson, Gabe, Kianna and Sophie were born. A couple years later Keaton and Easton joined the ranks, then Kenzie and Eliana to finish the family.
With that many grandbabies there was never a quiet house. It also meant it provided lots of opportunities to enjoy watching the kids participate in 4-H, music, basketball, badminton, volleyball, hockey, and dance.
In May 2024, after being hospitalized for ten days, we put mom in the lodge for a two week recovery. Well, that’s what we led her to believe anyway. It took her a bit to get used to it and to not feel as guilty leaving dad. Once she settled in with her new friends she was kept very busy. When you asked her how she liked things she would say good….too good. There was so much to do that we had to schedule our time with her around all of her activities! Lodge life was a great way to enjoy her retirement. Time for crafting, music, visiting, jigsaw puzzles, door competitions and BINGO! And the best…no more cooking and cleaning after all those years! The main things she missed were hosting (although her fridge was always stocked so she could host in her room) and farm life with all the conversations of calving, springtime, birds and watching her hummingbirds out her kitchen window. We will never see a lilac, crocus, buffalo bean or hummingbird without thinking of our Mama.

Memories
– Daphnie Sortland
Not a day will ever go by where I won’t think of you. I will carry your love, your wisdom, and your kindness with me in everything I do. I miss your voice, your laughter, and the way your presence made the world feel softer.
You gave the best hugs, offered the best support, gave great advice, and you had the most beautiful smile that could light up any room. Even though you’re no longer here, my memories of you comfort me and remind me of how much you loved me. You taught me how to be patient, kind, and how to find joy in the simple moments. You showed me what strength looks like when it’s wrapped in gentleness, and what love looks like when it’s given without limits. I am so grateful that I got to be your next door neighbour and make so many lovely memories with you. I loved playing bingo together, making homemade chocolates, playing cards and spending hours doing puzzles.
I brought her home a puzzle from Germany where I spent hours selecting the perfect gift to bring her home as a souvenir. After she had spent countless days trying to piece it together, she then cursed me for it saying, “I would never gift this to my worst enemy!” As it was far too difficult.
Mama, thank you for the love you gave so freely.
Thank you for the memories I’ll hold forever.
I miss you, and I will love you for the rest of my life. Our family will never be the same without you here.
Love, Daphnie xoxo
Poem
– Amber Schaffer
You left us without much of a warning
Leaving our hearts shattered in pieces on the floor
The shock of it still waiting to dissipate
Waiting for you to come walking through the door.
I know they say when you grieve
It’s because you loved deeply
And we couldn’t have loved you any more
You left a great legacy of love behind here
As the matriarch we all adore.
The pain continues to
come in waves
But the wonderful memories flow in too
As we share stories,
laughter and tears
We are blessed with so many to hold on to.
I take great solace in
knowing
That you’re still with us every step of the way
And you’ve joined our beautiful angels
To watch from above each day.
The angel wings complete your outfit
No more pain and suffering for you
The shattered pieces of our hearts will mend
As your love shines on,
we will make it through.

Madeline Worobo
Oct. 17, 1930 – Nov. 11, 2025

It is with great sorrow that the family announces the passing of their Mother/Baba, Madeline Worobo (Sirman), on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Madeline Worobo (Sirman) was born on October 17, 1930 to John and Polly Sirman of Hemaruka, Alberta. She was one of 11 children in the Sirman family.
On October 22, 1948 she married Alexander (Alex) Worobo of Pemukan, Alberta. They resided on his family farm north of Monitor then moved to Hemaruka. Throughout their marriage they lived in Consort, Sherwood Park and Bruderheim. They welcomed four daughters into their world; Linda Mae, Brenda Carol, Caroline Marie and Sharon Alexandra.
Madeline enjoyed gardening, baking/cooking (she
was the best), shopping and spending time with her family. In her earlier years, she enjoyed community dances, curling and discing. She cherished the road trips that were taken over the years with family. Her relaxing time was occupied with playing solitaire, reading, listening to music, embroidery, word searches and keeping up with her favourite soap operas. She enjoyed playing numerous card games/games with family; a good game of Canasta or crib was a favourite.
Madeline was predeceased by her loving husband, Alex; parents, John and Polly Sirman; 10 siblings – Mary, Bill, Dave, Ann, Edna, Kay, Jessie, Doris, Mike and John; son in law, Warren Meers.
She leaves to mourn her daughters Linda, Brenda (Meers), Caroline and Sharon; her grandchildren Dawn and Kirk Meers, Erin and Carson Bergman as well as her sisters in law, Rose Sirman and Lily Letniak and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family would like to thank her doctors, RNs/LPNs/HCAs/nurse practitioner for giving her a quality of life in her last few years. As well, thank you to the Consort Seniors Lodge staff and HomeCare workers. Know that everyone’s care and compassion has not gone unnoticed; thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
As per Madeline’s request, only immediate family will attend the graveside service.
Donations may be made in memory of Madeline to Consort Hospital Auxilary Society, Box 276, Consort, AB. T0C 1B0.
Gregory Funeral Homes entrusted with care of Madeline’s arrangements.

Wendell Hennan
May 10, 1948 – Nov. 11, 2025

Wendell Hennan passed away peacefully after a short
illness, with his children by his side, on November 11, 2025.
The son of Milton and Maisie (Robinson) Hennan, Wendell was born and grew up in the farming community outside of Consort, Alberta.
His career in banking took him across Alberta, Ontario and the Maritimes, where he retired in his adopted home province of New Brunswick.
Throughout his life, Wendell embraced community and faith, and loved music, gardening, the beach, and hosting company in his home.
Wendell was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his children Kathryn (Edmonton), Colleen (Bridgewater), Andrew (Halifax) and James (Edmonton) and his granddaughter Miriam.
By Wendell’s request, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests a kind act for someone in need in Wendell’s memory.
His family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Marc Cormier and the staff at Georges Dumont hospital in Moncton for their kindness and care in Wendell’s final days.

John Schmidt
Jan. 2, 1951 – Nov. 14, 2025

Mr. John Stanley Schmidt, of Coronation, Alberta, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025 in Innisfail, Alberta surrounded by his son, daughter, daughter-in-law and grandsons, at the age of 74 years.
John was born January 2, 1951 to Henry and Betty Schmidt in Coronation, Alberta. He was raised on the family farm east of Talbot, and was the second oldest of nine children. John spent his life in the Talbot area, attending school in Brownfield and Coronation, before leaving home to work. Over the years, he worked in the oil patch, at the Coronation Seed Cleaning Plant, and during school years on the family and neighboring farms. 
John was raised with a deep love of family, community, farming and sports. He played hockey and baseball with his brothers for the Talbot Hornets while their father coached. He went on to play with the Coronation Royals in the Battle River League, and later with the Coronation Old Timers. He passed on his love of sports to his two children, coaching minor hockey in Coronation and minor baseball in both Brownfield and Coronation leading several teams to multiple Provincial appearances. In his later years he loved watching his grandsons play lacrosse, hockey and baseball, always enjoying his cheeseburgers at the games. 
John raised his two children on the family farm west of Talbot. He was devoted to everything that his children were involved in, hockey, baseball, Girl Guide campouts, 4-H speak offs and other events with 4-H.
John loved his community. He served on the Talbot Community Hall Board in various positions over the years and helped to plan countless events and never missed a Talbot Sports Day, or any other community gatherings.
John is survived by his son Tyrone (Candace) Schmidt of Innisfail, their two sons Dane and Brady Schmidt of Innisfail. His daughter Dustie Schmidt of Edmonton. His brothers Bill (Marina) Schmidt, Allan “Shorty” (Maxine) Schmidt, Mike Schmidt all of Coronation. His sisters Diane Schmidt, Sherry (Roger) Golby both of Coronation. His uncle Stanley “Pete” Schmidt, his aunts Donna (Verne) Holt, Shirley Colp and Carol Wendler, as well as multiple nieces, great nieces, great-great nieces, nephews, great nephews and great-great nephews.
John was predeceased by his parents Henry and Betty Schmidt, his sister Marilyn Suntjens, his brothers Tom Schmidt, and Tim Schmidt, and his sister-in-law Jackie Schmidt. 
If friends so desire, Memorial Donations may be made to the STARS Foundation 570-1441 Aviation PK, NE Calgary, Alberta T2E 9Z9 or at https://stars.ca/
Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta.