Saturday, August 23, 2025
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on August 23, 2025.
ARMSTRONG, Elizabeth “Betty” ELIZABETH “BETTY” ARMSTRONG Dec. 19, 1936 – June 3, 2025 Elizabeth “Betty” Armstrong (nee Haller) was born on December 19, 1936, and passed on June 3, 2025. She was 88.Her memory will be cherished by her children, Jill (Lou), Jody, Jeff, Mark (Cheryl); her grandchildren, Becky, Nick (Hanna), Bryan (Sam), Dave, Kristen, Sebastien; and great-grandchildren, Cohen, Story, Fin, and Calvin. Betty is also survived by sister, Helen Scott; and brother, Larry Haller; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Tony; parents, Jolane and Julius Haller; sisters, Margaret Sanche, and Elaine Sander; brothers-in-law, Phil Sanche, Frank Sander, and Alvin Warnock; and sister-in-law, Theresa Haller.
GILBERT, Betty Betty Gilbert 1937 – 2025 It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mary Elizabeth Gilbert, announce her passing in Taber on Sunday, August 17, 2025 at the age of 88 years.
The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 – 50 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Those who are unable to attend and wish to view the service online may do so by visiting Betty’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 1:45 P.M. on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 2:00 P.M.
Betty will be lovingly remembered by her son Darry Gilbert and her daughter Darcy Dubitz, both of Taber.
She was predeceased by her parents Ray and Mary Myers and by her sister Marion and brother-in-law Ross Jensen.
Betty was born on March 23, 1937 in her aunt Ruth’s home in Taber. She was raised and remained on the family farm her entire life. She worked on the farm and was a devoted school bus driver for over twenty five years.
Betty was a lifelong curler and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Darry and Darcy would like to thank the medical staff of the Taber hospital for the care shown to Betty in her last months. A special thank you to Betty’s guardian angel Andrea Bragg for all that she did, especially during these last months.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
HALL, Dorothy HALL, Dorothy Fern September 27, 1927 – August 16, 2025 Dorothy Hall of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the age of 97 years.
Born in Grande Prairie, AB to pioneers, Rose and D.W. Patterson, Dorothy attended the University of Alberta where she met her beloved husband R. Douglas Hall. They were married for 50 years, until his passing in 1999. She loved music, her book clubs, her many friends, and entertaining.
She was predeceased by her parents, husband, sister Rhoda Miller, and brother Donald Patterson. She is survived by Donald’s wife Hazel and her children: Leslie Hall, grandchildren, Dafne Gokcen and Tim Gokcen (Jessica), and great-granddaughter Aylin Rose; Carmen Hall (the late Ron Jackson), grandson Alex Jackson (Chanda), and great-granddaughter Vienna; Douglas (Shellyanne), and grandchildren, Chrysta, Mathew and Andrew; Rhoda Hall (Joe Sarro), and grandsons, Doug and Marc Sarro.
She passed away peacefully at Bow View Manor after a fifteen-year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Brenda Strafford Foundation, 4628 Montgomery Blvd NW, Calgary, AB, T3B 0K7, http://www.thebsf.ca/get-involved/donate.html or another charity of your choice.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Dorothy’s family at http://www.MHFH.com.
In living memory of Dorothy Hall, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.
LOO, Richard RICHARD LOO 1933 ~ 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Loo, beloved husband of Mable, devoted father to Debra Bingham, Ryan (TJ) Loo, April (Jim) Loo Pangle, Lamont (Alicia) Loo; adored grandfather to Madyson (Caycee Wendorff) Loo, RJ Loo, Katherine (Matt) Loo Whittaker, Matthew Loo, Samantha (Austin) Loo Israelsky, Courtney Loo and Madison Hanson (granddaughter by great affection).
Richard was born in Hoy Ping, Canton, China on October 20, 1933. He was the eldest of three. Being the eldest son entitled to him the ticket to provide a better life for his family. His father passed when he was only 12 years of age, so with the help of his grandfather, Richard immigrated to Canada in 1953. Lethbridge was chosen by his grandfather as he had some connections to the community.
ESL classes became a priority that would become part of his daily life for the next several years. His schoolteacher, Mrs. Seltzer, saw great promise in his youth. She recognized his eagerness and dedication to excel. She wrote a letter of recommendation and suggested that he apply for a position in an English-speaking workplace. There was a local bicycle and sporting goods shop that he applied at.
Richard started working with repairs in the back of the shop. As his language skills were honed and he became more fluid, he moved to customer service at the front of the shop and eventually was promoted to store manager. His career at Bert & Mac’s Cycle spanned nearly 40 years. It was here that his many lifelong connections would blossom into forever friendships. When he retired, he was unaccustomed to so much free time. Volunteering his time was at the top of his list. First up was at the local food bank, then helping his sister-in-law and brother-in- law (Lynn and Ming Mah) with their restaurant until it closed. He was often found volunteering for several organizations at the Casino. He loved choosing the meal which they provided! He served as president of the local chapter of the Kuo Min Tong (The Chinese National League).
Gardening and growing his prize sized kohlrabi, zucchini, goji berries and plethora of vegetables was his greatest passion. His joy came from sharing and giving the many fruits of his labor.
He loved shopping. Sometimes several times a day, sharing all his bargains with family and friends and anyone who was willing to receive his gifts.
Richard is survived by his wife Mable, of 67 years, his children, his grandchildren, numerous relatives and many friends who will carry forward his memory with honour and love.
For those who wish, memorial donations in Richard’s name may be made to St. Therese Villa or Chinook Regional Hospital.
Special thanks to Dr. Randy Moore of Calgary (Lougheed Hospital), the entire ward of amazing doctors and staff in emergency and, on 3B at CRH. Additional thanks to Dr. Lagadan for her warmth and compassion.
A Celebration of Richard’s Life will be held at 12:30pm on Friday, August 29, 2025 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Dr. Bruce Martin, officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
ESQUIVEL, Manolito MANOLITO ESQUIVEL 1952 ~ 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Manolito Esquivel of Lethbridge, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the age of 73
A Prayer Service will be held at 5:00 p.m. On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHER RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday August 27, 2025, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 – 12 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Father Kevin Tumback officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
SHORTREED, Muriel Ellen SHORTREED, Muriel Ellen “La Grande Dame” April 3, 1922 – August 9, 2025 Muriel passed away peacefully at the age of 103 in Coaldale Health Center, Alberta.
Muriel, the Big sister to two siblings, Robert and Barbara June (Howard Whitlock) was born in Edmonton, Alberta to Robert and Emma Helen Shortreed. She was a loving Aunt to Bev (Roger Hume) Patty, Barb Joanne Shortreed (Al Starkoski) and Barbara Anne Whitlock (Paul Groff). Muriel was the proud Great Aunt to Jessica, Robyn, Scott, Andy and Emily.
She attended University of Alberta, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics on VE day May 8, 1945.
Moving to Lethbridge, Alberta, she was a dedicated Home Economics teacher for 35 years at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute.
As an educator, she generously provided scholarships to Lethbridge Collegiate Institute, University of Lethbridge and University of Alberta. Muriel donated generously to the Department of Human Ecology’s Apparel Design Laboratory, now honouring her name.
Muriel was a faithful supporter of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church for 75 years.
A celebration of Muriel’s life will be held at 2 pm Saturday, October 11, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church 1818 5th Avenue South, Lethbridge.
Reception to follow. Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
MCBEATH, Ralph MCBEATH Ralph Parsons McBeath, August 10th, 1932, born on the family farm in Turin Alberta to John and Catherine McBeath. He was the 11th born and the youngest. Ralph spent his youth on the farm riding his horse and hunting rabbits for their pelts, doing chores and helping his dad hoe sugar beets by hand then with a tractor. At the age of 7 Ralph contracted polio and had to spend 3 months in isolation in a house in Lethbridge where John and Catherine could only wave to him from the sidewalk. When he was 16 he and his parents moved to Hanna, where he started work for Alberta Treasury Branch, then in 1951 he was transferred to an ATB bank in Bowden and boarded in Olds at the house which is now the MHR Law offices. Then he met Leola Beuhler who was working at Becker Drugs, they we married August 20th, 1952, they resided in Olds having 5 Children, Maureen, Gail, Gary, Robert and Barry. While in Olds Ralph worked for the gas company installing gas meters and got his plumbing ticket, then for a short time had a plumbing shop. In January of 1967 they moved to the farm southeast of Olds full filing his dream of being a farmer. In 1987 Ralph and Leola divorced and Ralph went to work for Alberta Hail and Crop Insurance being an adjuster. In 1993 he met Brenda Colling and moved in with her, then went to work for Olds Fertilizers and helping Dave Morgan with silage and harvest. Ralph and Brenda in 2005 moved to Lethbridge but still came back to Olds Fertilizers driving tender truck every spring until he was 80. Then in spring of 2022 Ralph moved back to Olds where he resided until his passing. Ralph was an avid curler and a golfer; while in Lethbridge he would golf the Bridge Valley Golf Course a par 3 weekly until he was 90. Ralph was a volunteer of the Olds Fire Department from 1952 to 1967.
Ralph was predeceased by his parents, John and Catherine McBeath, Brothers; Robert, Jackie, Willy and Ben McBeath, sisters, Ina Ostrip, Mary Waller, Rosie Johnston, Isabelle Orsten, Cathy Lunde, Dorthy Shillito. Grandson; Ryan McBeath, Great grandchildren; Brandon and Brady Draper, Tianna Gatto. Son-in-law Tex Worobtez.
Ralph is survived by his children; Maureen Worobetz, Gail (Bob) Gatto, Gary (Donna) McBeath, Bucket (Ingrid) McBeath, and Barry McBeath (Angie Reid). Grandchildren; Sharon Payne, Alex Worobetz, Raylynn Gatto, Jason Gatto, Nadine Foreman, Woody McBeath, Adele McBeath, Haley Evans, Stefanie McKay, Jason McBeath, Robert McBeath. Great grandchildren; Alyssa, Curtis, Justin, Natalie, Mya, Tareyn, Riley, Khloe, Laney, Emilyn, Levi, Jaxton, Lillian. Great great grandchildren; Ruth, Xavier. Ralphs partner Brenda Colling, her children Ron (Pam) Colling, Grant Colling (Lita). Many nieces and nephews
Ralph will be cremated and no funeral as per his wishes.
West View Funeral Services, Olds, entrusted with arrangements, 403-556-6576
THORBURN, Bren THORBURN BRENT HERBERT JOHN THORBURN passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, July 7, 2025.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Nancy of nearly 57 years, his daughter Heather-Ann (Trent); son Trevor (Samantha) and two lovely granddaughters Adalynn and Abigail. His sister Catherine (Liam); brothers James (Simone), Rick (Francine), Bernie; as well as brothers-in-law Bob Hay and Norman Mackey. He also leaves his dog Spike who was at his side until the end.
He was predeceased by his parents, Enid Thorburn, Victor and Isabel Thorburn; in-laws Alan and Elsie Hay; sisters Gail, Diane; brother Eric; and sisters-in-law Frances Mackey and Jeanne Hay.
Brent was born in Montreal, Quebec September 21, 1943 and moved as a very young child to the hamlet of Kilmar, north of Montreal. There he loved his childhood living across the road from a beautiful lake and doing what all young boys do. That all came to a halt when his mother passed away when he was 15 years old. A year later he moved to Lachute, Quebec where he got involved in high school sports. Hockey was his favourite and he won many scoring titles. Brent also excelled in badminton, volleyball, softball, etc. This is also where he met his high school sweetheart, Nancy Hay and they married September 28, 1968. They spent a six year stop in Toronto before moving to Lethbridge. Brent and Nancy had two beautiful children they were extremely proud of.
Brent became very involved in the soccer community and was awarded a life membership to the Lethbridge Soccer Association. Also, for his work at the provincial level he was presented a Life Award from the Alberta Soccer Association. Many trophies, and travelling across the world with the Charger girls’ soccer, he loved coaching to the fullest. He also has three (3) Lethbridge Hall of Fame Awards for coaching and building the sport.
Nancy and Brent joined Henderson Lake Golf Club and he played nearly every day and had a 2 handicap. Over the many years he continued to cheer for his Toronto Maple Leafs and was so hopeful this past spring but it was not to be!
The Celebration of Life for Brent will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge AB. Brent’s service will be live-streamed and can be viewed on Brent’s obituary page on the Cornerstone Website.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Bringing Hearts Home Campaign at the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation in memory of Brent Thorburn. For more information, please call 403-388-6001.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
HANKEL, Raymond “Ray” HANKEL RAYMOND “RAY” VICTOR HANKEL, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Katharina “Kay” Hankel, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, August 18, 2025 at the age of 95 years.
As per Ray’s wishes, no formal funeral will be held. Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
KIRKVOLD, Bill KIRKVOLD BILL KIRKVOLD, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Donna Kirkvold, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Lethbridge on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at the age of 89 years.
Bill will be laid to rest in a private Family Service in Archmount Cemetery at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
HALL, Jerry Jerry Hall 1953 – 2025 Jerry Evan Hall, beloved husband of the late Cora Bareman-Hall, passed away peacefully on in Taber on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at the age of 72 years.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, August 28, 2025 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.
The Burial Service will be held will be held at the Prairieview Cemetery, Grassy Lake on Friday, August 29, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Jerry is survived by his son Andrew Evan Hall and daughter Chantal Bareman; grandchildren Telaine and Evan. He is also survived by his sister Jane (Klaus) Brenner of Taber; sisters-in-law Ann (Wayne) Veenstra and Debbie (Derk) Daniels of Taber; brothers-in-law John Bareman of Taber, Marion Bareman of Taber, Jim (Stephanie) Bareman of Lynden, Washington and by numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his first wife Susan (nee Bowden) and his second wife Cora (nee Bareman); his parents Evan and Eva Hall; in-laws Jack and Catherine Bareman and sisters-in-law Alice and Jeanette Bareman.
Jerry worked for the Sugar Factory for a number of years and spent many years in the oil patch for Pan Canadian and Arc Resources. He was a huge Calgary Flames fan and loved fishing, camping, hunting and the great outdoors. Cora and Jerry spent many years camping, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Jerry suffered a brain injury due to a workplace accident and even though he lost many of his cognitive functions, he remained positive and was grateful for the visits from his family and friends.
The family would like to thank the staff who cared for Jerry for many years and most recently the staff at Linden View for their excellent care of Jerry .
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
MANY FINGERS, Ivan MANY FINGERS It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle and Papa, Ivan Many Fingers, “IIPAMANSKII” who left this world on August 17, 2025, surrounded by the family he so dearly cherished. His life was one of resilience, faith, and devotion, and his memory will remain deeply rooted in all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Papa was a man of remarkable strength – tough and resilient, yet compassionate and selfless in every way. He was deeply rooted in his faith, and that faith carried him through life’s challenges with humility and grace. A hardworking provider, he devoted his days to ensuring the wellbeing and security of his wife and children, never wavering in his role as protector, encourager, and supporter. His family was his life’s greatest pride and joy, and he poured every once of himself into them.
Humble and wise, he was a deep thinker whose words carried meaning and comfort. He lived with compassion, welcoming all who came to him. His home was never just for himself- it was an open door to anyone in need of shelter, guidance, or simply a safe place to rest. Whether family, friend, or stranger, all were treated with kindness and dignity under his roof.
Though life often called for his sternness, those who knew him best will always remember his good humor, quick wit, and jokester’s spirit that could light up any room. His laughter was as much a gift as his wisdom.
Papa was a hardworking provider, he did everything for his family, ensuring their needs were always met. He was family-oriented above all else, finding his greatest pride and joy in the people he loved. To his family he was not just a protector and provider, but was also an encourager, a source of laughter, and living example of faith and humility. To his friends and community, he was welcoming, supportive, and a man who left a lasting impression of kindness and strength.
Ivan’s battle began the day he lost his pride and joys, Wade and Terry Lane, a loss that changed him forever. From that moment on, he carried a grief so deep that words could never fully capture it. Yet, despite the pain, Ivan showed remarkable strength and resilience. He chose to live each day with courage, leaning on his faith, his family, and his inner resolve to keep moving forward, even when the weight felt unbearable.
The loss of his sons became the great test of his life, and though it marked him with sorrow, it also revealed the depth of his love and the strength of his heart. He bore his grief quietly, often protecting Verna from the heaviness they carried, but those who knew him could see both the hurt in his eyes and the unbreakable love that fueled him.
While the ache of his absence runs deep, his legacy is lasting. His laughter will echo in the stories told around family tables, his wisdom will guide generations to come, and his love will continue to be felt in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
Papa is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Verna Many Fingers, his daughter Alexis ‘Zoe’ (Brad) Butterfly, his grandchildren, Roan, June, Blaire, Bradisson, and Lavender.
Papa is predeceased by his sons, whom he loved with all his being, Ivan Wade & Terry Lane. his parents, Frank and Kate (Nee Red Crow), Brothers, Adrian “Buck”, Franklin “Gabby”, Jordan “Jake” and Brent Many Fingers, Sister, Clothilda Soup. In-laws, Mary & Arthur White Quills, John Jiggs (Arabella) Creighton, Brian, Henry, Alroy Creighton, Matthew Wells, Cary White Quills, Sharon Creighton, Tammy Creighton-Many Fingers, Janice White Quills, Joanne “Girlie” Wells, Barbra “Tiny” Creighton.
Papa comes from a big family. The family wishes to apologize for any names that were missed.
A wake service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve Alberta on Sunday, August 24, 2025 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The funeral service will also be a Senator Gladstone Hall on Monday, August 25 at 11:00 am. Interment to take place at Blood Band Cemetery.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
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