March 28th, 2024

THURSDAY, March 8, 2018


By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 8, 2018.

ALEX SANDOR SZILASI

Passed away suddenly in Calgary, on Monday, March 5, 2018 at the age of 69 years.

Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.


COLEMAN

The family of GRACE COLEMAN is sad to announce her passing after a very brave fight on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the age of 74 years. She went peacefully surrounded by her family, and did everything her way to the very end.

Grace was the third of seven children born at home in rural Northern Ontario to Chester and Edith Coleman on June 18, 1943. She grew up with her family on their small homestead and always had many fond memories of those times. In 1985, Grace moved to Lethbridge and after the birth of her only grandchild, made it her permanent home. She worked many, many years in the retail industry and loved her many customers that she served and grew

to know over the years.

Grace is survived by her partner Neil Frandsen; her three daughters Val Twain (Fernando), Veronica Twain (Larry) and Viola Twain (Sean), and her beloved grandson Cleve Miyashiro (Micha), who was the apple of her eye. Grace is also survived by her six siblings, Morris (Thelma), Marg (Ed), Cliff (Ruth), Edie (Vic), Ron (Deb) and Glenn (Suzanne).

Grace was so excited when Cleve was born and she became a grandmother. She was so proud of that fact that she had a grandchild and was the best grandmother ever to Cleve. Mom also had many things she loved to do in life. She could play cards for hours on end if she could find someone to play with; at family gatherings, after the big meal was cooked and the dishes cleaned, out came the games and cards and we would all play for hours. We all have such great memories of those times. In her retirement, Mom joined a couple of cribbage clubs and absolutely loved playing in their weekly tournaments. She was a formidable cribbage player and won many of those weekly tournaments. Mom also loved gardening and making things grow. Camping and cookouts were also some of her favourite things.

For those of you that knew Grace, you will understand what we mean when we say that she was a force to be reckoned with. Mom was decisive yet open-minded, firm yet fair and always loved us girls no matter what crazy stunts we tried to pull. She said what she meant and she always followed through on her word. It was very hard to put one over on her – not like we didn’t try, but we usually failed. Thank you for that, Mom!

In 1998, Mom went through her first struggle with breast cancer and fought bravely and fearlessly, ultimately coming out on top. For nearly 20 years she remained cancer-free; however, it returned recently and she fought once more, and was cancer-free at the time of her passing. She was courageous in her most recent health challenges and was a strong woman who never complained. In fact, her biggest concern was that her being sick would put everyone else’s life in turmoil. Mom, for such a tiny lady, you had a big, strong, unflinching reality about what you were going through and you were tough as nails.

We wish to thank everyone who helped our family through that last long day in the hospital. The ER staff, Dr. Buck and nurse Dawn – you guys were awesome, thank you. The staff of 4B, you guys were kind and compassionate during Mom’s very brief stay, and we truly appreciate that. We also wish to send a huge thank you to the ICU nurses and Dr. Morley Wong. Nurse Charity, you are a rare gem and the care and attention you showed our Mom will never be forgotten. Dr. Wong, thank you for your kind and honest guidance, and for letting us honour mom’s last wishes. We also want to thank Uncle Ron and Aunt Deb who were with us that entire last day; you guys were our rock and we are so thankful for your presence when we needed you more than any other time in our lives.

Per Grace’s wishes, there will be no service. The family will be holding a Private Celebration of Grace’s Life and scattering of her ashes.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com


Dr. Donald “Don” Wilson

1925 – 2018

Dr. Donald “Don” Wilson of Lethbridge, passed away at St. Therese Villa on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the age of 92 years. He will be sadly missed by his 4 children John (Lynda), David (Angela), Doug (Claire), Sharon (Lea) Brocklesby; 6 grandchildren Bronwyn, Morgan, Erik, Courtney, Sean (Heather), Chris (Alaina); 4 great-grandchildren Rachel, John, Nevah, Elyse; sister Helen (John) Hvozdanski, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families. Don was predeceased by his loving wife Neva. Don was born on June 12, 1925 in Rowley, Alberta and grew up in Calgary with his parents Benjamin and Marian with his family Dorothy, Bette, Greta, Lois and Helen. He served overeseas in WWII and on his return married Neva in 1948. He got his PhD in agronomy and agrology and worked at the Lethbridge Research Station first as a scientist then as head of Plant Science and then as acting director of the research station. He worked for a year in England and Ottawa. After he retired he worked with Prairie Seeds. He was often spotted at the Lethbridge Country Club where he golfed until he was 90. He served in many capacities at McKillop United Church, he volunteered with family support at St. Michael’s while Neva was there. He was also on the board of Governors at the U of L in the 1980’s. He and Neva enjoyed camping, curling, swimming, the symphony and playing bridge. Don’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Tim Collins, Gilbert Villegas, the wonderful staff at St. Therese Villa, Columbia Assisted Living and The View. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at McKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Trevor Potter, officiating. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Avenue West, 16 Floor, Toronto, Ontario, V4R 1K8.

Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.


Gladys Galt Redfern

1921 – 2018

With great sadness we announce the death of Gladys ‘Glady’ Redfern on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the age of 97 years. Gladys was born, raised and lived the greater part of her life in Lethbridge. She attended Central School and Branksome Hall in Toronto to complete her secondary education. She trained as a lab technician in Minneapolis, Minnesota and was later employed at the Lethbridge Galt Hospital. In 1943, she married Cecil Redfern of Belleville, Ontario, a flight lieutenant with the RCAF. They settled in Lethbridge and raised three children, Jon, Cathy and Joan, who survive them. Gladys was an avid and prize-winning golfer and curler. She was known as a formidable bridge player and elegant dresser. Socially active, she was a founding member of the local chapter of the YWCA, the first woman trustee of the Lethbridge and District School Board, a member of the Lethbridge Community College Board, a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, and a lifetime member of the Lethbridge Country Club. She was proud of being named to the Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame as a representative for the Alberta Senior Ladies’ curling team. Gladys will be remembered and cherished for her kindness, warmth, generosity and wit. A reception to celebrate Gladys’ life will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, March 9, 2018 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta. A Private Family Interment will be held.

Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.


MCDONALD

SUSAN CHARLOTTE (EDMUNDS) MCDONALD passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Tuesday March 6th, 2018.

She was predeceased by her husband and best friend George William McDonald and their firstborn son, Mark Edmunds McDonald. She leaves behind her 4 living children: Laura-Lynne (Robert) Boehme, David (Heather Harris) McDonald, Chantelle (Rick) Davidson, and Natasha McDonald, along with her 17 grandchildren and 2 great-grand babies.

She will also be greatly missed by her 3 living sisters, Karen (Brian) Erickson, Marsha Edmunds and Kathryn (Dennis) Milner, and many good friends.

Susan’s gentle and selfless nature has touched many lives and we invite those who loved her to a Celebration of Her Life on Saturday, March 10th, 2018 at 11am at THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, Northside Chapel (2213 6 A Ave N). There will be an opportunity to visit with Susan’s family from 10-10:30am prior to the Service, in the Relief Society Room (northwest corner of the same building).

To send a condolence, please

visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca


MILLAR, Lillian

Lillian passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 at the age of 87, following a very brief illness.

She leaves behind her children: Michelle (Allan) Jacobs, Murray (Karen) Millar and Lavonne (Neil) Herbst; her son-in-law Steve Webb; her grandchildren: Andrew (Mirta), Alex (Charm), Alyson, McKensie, and Cassandra; and her great-grandson Nathanial. Lillian was predeceased by her husband Ivan in 2009, her brother Edgar in 2012, and her daughter Sharon Webb in 2016.

Lillian was born in Fort Macleod on November 29, 1930 to Rose (Lemire) and Omer Diamond. She graduated from high school in Blairmore and went on to obtain her teaching certificate from the University of Alberta. After several years of teaching, Lillian met and married the love of her life, Ivan Millar. They soon settled in Lethbridge to work and raise their family.

Lillian was a teacher, a real estate agent and most notably, an unsung volunteer with many, many organizations. Lillian was a voracious reader, she loved to paint and write and was very interested in world events. Lillian touched many lives with her compassion, kindness and patience. She will be remembered for her quick wit, positive outlook on life and the ability to make us all feel we were the most important person in the world.

Please join with us to celebrate Lillian’s life on Saturday, March 10 at 2:00 P.M. at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Bridges of Hope, P.O. Box 81 Stn. Main, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 3Y3.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com


Neil Manning

1931- 2018

Mr. Neil Manning, beloved husband of Mrs. Phyllis Manning, passed away on Monday, March 5, 2018 at the age of 86 years. Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.

Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.


SMITH

In Loving Memory of DIANNE MARTA SMITH, Born August 14, 1952, Died March 5, 2018. Dianne was 65 years old.

She is survived by one brother, Randall J. Smith. She is predeceased by her father, John Matthew Smith; mother, Lena Bario Smith; brothers, Danton Mark Smith & Phillip Lee Smith; sister, Valorie Loret Smith.

Dianne worked at several businesses in and around the community of Cardston. She was greatly appreciated by her employers. No Funeral Service will be held at the request of Dianne.

In Memory of Dianne, memorial donations may be made to Legacy Funeral Home (Box 208, Cardston, AB, T0K 0K0).

Condolences may be sent to:

http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca


SNEE

Thomas (Tom) Snee, eldest child of the late William and Elizabeth Snee was born in Dundee, Scotland on the October 11, 1947. Tom at an early age declared his faith in Jesus Christ and joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he was a dedicated member. He served faithfully as a member of the Church and at age nineteen served as a missionary in the Leeds, England mission. In 1969, after his mission, Tom decided to follow his younger sister in moving to Canada. However, his love of Scotland burned bright in his heart until he died. He was then sealed to his eternal companion Elizabeth-Ann McCord on June 10, 1972 in Cardston, Alberta. This marriage was blessed with six children. Elizabeth-Ann preceded him in death on May 9, 2005. In 1975, Thomas Snee graduated from the University of Lethbridge with a degree in education. He taught at Gilbert Patterson Junior High for nearly thirty years. As a teacher he was involved with many different aspects and activities at the school. Tom was called to serve as a loving gospel teacher for many years at church as well. His greatest calling in life was being a teacher of many things both secular and religious. Tom was an active member of the community. He was heavily involved in several pro-family organizations over the years. He fought to protect his most important treasure family. Although this was a rough road at times he never gave up on his convictions. His influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew his. He quietly departed this life Sunday, March 4, 2018 at home in Lethbridge, Alberta. His life will forever be cherished in the lives of his children: Lisa Snee of Calgary, Jennie & (Randy) Hyland of Lethbridge, Alan & (Julie) Snee of Lethbridge, Kerri & (Clint) Michel of Edmonton, Kyle & (Leslie) Snee of Raymond and Caleb & (Suzi) Snee of Sherwood Park. This includes fifteen grandchildren, Trefton, Liam, Callum, Nathanael, Fiona, Kaelan, Peyton, Owen, Abiageal, Macie, Sophia, Avery, Piper, Aubrey and Addison. As well as extended family in Ontario and Scotland. Friends may meet the family from 7-8pm on Friday, March 9, 2018 at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, 703-13 St. N, Lethbridge, AB. A funeral service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – NORTH STAKE CENTRE, 560 Highlands Blvd W.


Stanley “Rufus” Johnson

March 2, 1949 – February 26, 2018

Stanley “Rufus” Johnson passed away quietly at his Vancouver home on Monday, February 26, 2018 at the age of 68. He is survived by his brother, Mitch Zubray of Barrie, Ontario. Rufus was pre-deceased by his father, George and his mother, Helen. Rufus was born and raised in Lethbridge, Alberta. He attended LCI High School then went on to graduate Summa Cum Lately at the Elmo Jenkins Improvisational Academy. Among his many friends, Rufus is best remembered as a sentimental songwriter, an entertaining and patient guitar player and a talented mime of inanimate objects. The spreading of his ashes and a Celebration of Life will take place in the Lethbridge area at a future date to be determined.


THIELEN

HERBERT “HERB” THIELEN, of Coutts, beloved husband of Jean Thielen, passed away peacefully at the Milk River Health Centre on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the age of 87 years.

A Prayer Service will be held at ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 321 Main Street, Milk River, AB, on Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. with Father Benedicto Tugano IV officiating.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, on Monday, March 12, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Benedicto Tugano celebrating.

A Private Family Interment will be held at the Coutts Cemetery.

Memorial donations in memory of Herb may be made to the Milk River Health Centre, Box 90, Milk River, AB T0K 1M0, or to Coutts Fire & Rescue c/o Village of Coutts, Box 236, Coutts, AB T0K 0N0.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com


TOKAI

STEVE TOKAI, husband of Brigitta Tokai, of Picture Butte, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Friday, March 2, 2018 at the age of 89 years.

Steve is survived by his wife of 61 years Brigitta; his son Donald (Theresa) Tokai and their daughter April; his daughter Joyce (Jim) Graham and their children Mitch, Blair (Vicki), Stefanie, Shawn and Reed; his daughter Darlene (Ross) Doenz and their children Cody and Kara (Kyle); his son Glenn Tokai and his children Mackenzie and Blake; his sisters Mary (Eddie) Davies and Elizabeth Davies, and his brother Joe (Shirley) Tokai.

He was predeceased by his grandson Grant Tokai, his sisters Bernadette Nagy, Margret Tokai, and his brother Gabor Tokai.

Steve was born July 18, 1928 in Hungary. At the early age of 8 months, he and his parents Gabor and Barbara moved to Canada. Initially, Steve lived in Hillspring, but eventually moved to Picture Butte where he grew his passion for farming. He was a sugar beet farmer as well as a beef producer, and had a tremendous love of the farm life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at COUNTRY KITCHEN CATERING, located beneath The Keg at 1715 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 1:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prairie Tractor & Engine Museum, PO Box 768, Picture Butte, AB T0K 1V0.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com


TYSON

BRIAN FERGUS TYSON, beloved husband of the late Jill Tyson, passed away in Lethbridge on Monday, March 5th, 2018, at the age of 84 years.

Funeral arrangements will be announced once completed.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Share this story:

78
53

Comments are closed.