Wednesday, February 18, 2026

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on February 18, 2026.

LUCA, Charlie Charlie Luca 1921 – 2026 Charles Luca, passed away in Foremost on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at the age of 104 years.
Charlie was born December 4, 1921, on his parents’ farm north of Foremost. His parents Camile and Virginie (née Pollet) Luca were immigrants from Belgium. They also had a daughter Anna Marie in 1924. By the time Charlie was eleven years old, he and Anna lost their father to Tuberculosis. Their mother had a difficult time with the isolation and hard life in Alberta and was taken back to Belgium. As a result, he and Anna were then raised by their Uncle Theophile and Aunt Emma with their cousin Edward. The children attended Neighborview School, a 2.5 km walk.
After grade nine, Charlie worked on the farm and in the off season, worked various jobs in and around Calgary. He worked for a railway contractor, at a sawmill, drove gravel truck for a construction company and got his Chauffeurs license. He farmed with Edward and later on his own. While farming, he got involved in Amateur (Ham) Radio, helped build the Foremost Civic Centre and did line maintenance on the rural phone lines.
After retirement at age fifty six, he toured The Pacific Rim and South America. At age sixty two, he joined Canadian University Service Overseas (CUSO) and his volunteer position was in northwest Botswana. His job was with the Co-op buying grain and helping the population grow crops. He spent ten years working in Africa before coming back to Foremost, where he pursued his passion for golf. He has since spent every September visiting relatives in Belgium and then wintering in El Centro, California where he spent his days golfing.
He was a lifelong learner who taught himself several languages and used the latest technology. He had a keen mind, sharp sense of humor and made friends wherever he went. He will be missed by his many coffee and golfing friends in other countries and at home.
A celebration of Charlie’s life, including an open mike for anyone wishing to share memories, will be held at the Foremost Community Hall, 802 – 1 Avenue West, Foremost on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2:30 P.M.

---

REIMER, Elvin Elvin Reimer
1938 – 2026
Elvin F. Reimer, beloved husband of the late Tina Reimer (née Kornelsen), passed away peacefully in Lethbridge, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the age of 87 years.
Elvin is survived by his children Andy (Sarah) Reimer of Redwood Meadows and their children Troy (Gizem), Luke (Rylee), Katie, Jack and Emily; Robert Reimer of Manitoba; Amy (Trevor) Viney of Lethbridge and their children Payton (Kyle), Teagan and Griffin; Dorita (Korry) Friesen of Lethbridge and their daughter Alyssa (Desmond). He is survived by two sisters Esther Barkman and Bertha (Henry) Harder; four brothers Walter (Margaret) Reimer, Leonard (Mary) Reimer, Wilmer (Pearl) Reimer, Vern (Flora) Reimer; brother-in-law Dave (Sylvia) Froese. He is also survived by eight sisters-in-law Madeline Reimer, Minna Reimer, Susan Storey, Annie (Elden) Penner, Elma Plett, Mary (Ken) Loewen, Linda Kornelsen, Tina Kornelsen, Adina Kornelsen as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by four children, Sylvia (1969), Ivy (1970), Alec (1971) and Lionel (1973); three brothers, John Reimer, Arnold Reimer, Clarence Reimer and two sisters, Lily Friesen and Betty Froese. He was also predeceased by eight brothers-in-law, Ed Friesen, John Barkman, Tony Kornelsen, Henry Kornelsen, Alvin Kornelsen, Bill Kornelsen, Cornie Kornelsen, Harvey Kornelsen and Stan Plett; five sisters-in-law, Helen Kornelsen, Mary Kornelsen, Elizabeth Kornelsen, Darlyne Kornelsen and Yvonne Kornelsen.
Elvin was born July 7, 1938, in Lorette, Manitoba, the first of twelve children born to Tina (née Friesen) and Isaac Reimer of Landmark, Manitoba.
Elvin met Tina Kornelsen and they married in 1961. Their family quickly grew by five children; Sylvia arrived in 1963, Alec in 1964, Ivy in 1964, Lionel in 1967 and Andy in 1968. Between 1969 and 1973, Tina and Elvin lost “Four Buds in their Bouquet” when Sylvia, Ivy, Alec and Lionel were all lost to heart disease. Through his grief, Elvin never lost hope, faith or his smile. Amy arrived in 1971, Dorita in 1974, and Robert in 1977. Grandchildren began arriving in 1995.
Elvin wore many different hats; lumber jack, trucker, heavy duty equipment operator, construction, farmer, school bus driver, grain elevator manager, farm supply sales and volunteer fire fighter and chief. After multiple “retirements”, he finally parked his truck at age seventy two. He enjoyed his circle of friends, coffee and rounds of par 3 golf.
After health challenges began, he became a resident at the Good Samaritan West Highlands, where he spent the last six years, cared for with professionalism and compassion. He formed deep connections with caregivers there with a smile that made him a favorite. Through losses and challenges throughout his life, he was resilient and steadfast, living out the essence of his faith which he believed were boundless love and grace.
The Burial Service will be held at the Nobleford Monarch Cemetery, west of Highway 23 at the corner of Township Road 104 and Range Road 235, on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:00 A.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at University Drive Alliance Church, 55 Columbia Boulevard West, Lethbridge on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. 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 Elvin’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 12:45 P.M. on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 1:00 P.M.
Flowers will be gratefully accepted by the family but if friends so desire, memorial tributes in Elvin’s name may be made directly to the Interfaith Food Bank Society of Lethbridge, 1103 – 3 Avenue North, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 0H7, a charity he faithfully supported for many years.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

---

DARR, Joyce 1953 – ROSS CROSS CHILD – 2026 (Issotsiinaomaahkaa – “Wolverine Runner”) Ross Cross Child, Issotsiinaomaahkaa – “Wolverine Runner,” was called back to our Heavenly Father on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 72 years. Ross was born on February 27, 1953, in Cardston, Alberta, to Annie Many Bears and William Cross Child Sr. He was raised with strong family values and cultural teachings that remained central throughout his life. He attended school in Drumheller, Alberta, and it was in elementary school, in Grade 5, that he met the love of his life, Joanne – a lifelong bond that would shape his journey. Ross was the beloved husband of the late Joanne Cross Child and a devoted father to Tarrant (Celeste), Mike, and his late daughters, Tamara and Baby girl. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Nolan, Tyra (Dennis), Kaylei, Jaira (Quincey), Kinley, Jayvin, Jarrett, Dion, Austin (Jaycey), Lainee, and Jaxin, and a cherished great-grandfather to Hunter, Caleb, and Sophia. He often said that his grandchildren fulfilled his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Billy Boy Cross Child, Ted Cross Child, Adeline Sweetgrass, Nora Cross Child,; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ross was predeceased by his parents, Annie Many Bears and William Cross Child Sr.; his wife, Joanne Cross Child; his daughters, Baby girl and Tamara Cross Child; and his siblings, Dominic Cross Child, Fred Cross Child, Earl Cross Child, Nadine Weiss, Theresa Bear Chief, Ray Cross Child, Patrick Cross Child, and Madeline Cross Child. A respected Blood Tribe Elder, Ross was known as a friend to all people. He lived most of his life in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, where he raised his children and helped raise his grandchildren. He was widely recognized for his connection to the World’s Tallest Teepee and was instrumental in the early stages of the Saamis Teepee project – an enduring symbol of culture and pride in the community. Ross had a passion for rodeo in his younger years and participated in bull riding. He was loving, kind, and caring, always willing to share his wisdom. Above all, he loved teaching his children and grandchildren about the Word of God, grounding his family in faith and tradition. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital and the Dialysis Unit for their compassionate care, especially Dr. Ahmon, Dr. Turenne, and Nurse Justine. Ross’s legacy of faith, strength, cultural pride, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Thos wishing to pay their respects may do so on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB from 7:00 – 10:00 pm. The funeral service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. The interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to http://www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Ross’ memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ross Cross Child. Funeral arrangements by
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL AND CREMATORIUM, “The Chapel in the Park”, Medicine Hat, Alberta. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone 1-800-317-2647.

---

THOMAS, William “Bill” THOMAS It is with great sadness that we announce that MR. WILLIAM “BILL” THOMAS of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Sharon Thomas, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the age of 87 years.
Bill was born March 27, 1938 in Lethbridge. Bill worked as a Sheet Metal Mechanic all his life, working with many tradespeople in the city over the years. In his later working years, he operated his own business Thomas Sheet Metal.
Bill is survived by his children, Blayne Thomas and Jill (Bruce) Cassidy, grandchildren Brennan (Adrianna) Cassidy and Sarah Cassidy; Step-daughter Judy (Allan) Gepneris and grandchildren Christopher Gepneris and Stacy (Waren) Porcioncula, and great-grandchildren, Blaise, Kaia, Kian; step-son Craig (Cathy) Sera; also survived by sister, Margaret French and brother, Rod (Ev) Thomas; and sister-in-law Gwen Ferenz.
Besides his loving wife Sharon, Bill was also predeceased by his parents Louis Paul Thomas and Amelia “Milly” Thomas; brothers, Larry, Louis, Doug, John; sisters Valerie, Arlene, Marilyn.
Our Dad and Grandpa will be forever loved and cherished in our hearts. We will miss his unique character and will continue to remember all the funny “Bumpa” moments that truly make us laugh out loud. We are grateful that he is now at peace, happy that he and Nanny are now together.
The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the wonderful Healthcare Aides and LPNs at St. Therese who cared so much for Bumpa during his time there. Also, sincere gratitude to Dr. Majiet for his kind support and care for Dad over the last several years.
As per Bill’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. A private Interment with immediate family only will be held.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to (cheque payable/mail to): Covenant Foundation – St. Therese Villa, 253 Southgate Blvd S, Lethbridge, AB T1K 2S1.

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

---

AXWORTHY, Dennis DENNIS LEROY AXWORTHY January 24th, 1936 – February 14th, 2026 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Axworthy, who passed away peacefully on February 14th 2026 at the age of 90 years.
Dennis was a warm and kind gentleman who could easily create a bonding conversation with anyone he met. He made friends effortlessly. Dennis started is career in the telegraph business delivering telegrams in Brantford Ontario which he endured through climbing up the business ladder which also required being transferred throughout Ontario, Quebec and in 1971 moving his young family to Lethbridge where he took on the position as manager of CP Telecommunications, and later partnering with Premier Meats with the diminishing of the telecommunications office. Dennis’s passion was classic cars and he spent much of his time reading and viewing the classics. In his younger days he was one of the founding members of the Piston Pushers Car Club of Brantford.
But the most important thing to Dennis was his wife of 68 years Linda and his four boys and the family that grew from there.
Dennis is survived by wife Linda Axworthy who was his world, sons Jeff (Judy, grandsons Stephen and Bryan) Brad (Kirstie and Chris Houston and great grandson Rhett) Mark, Mike (Elsie Antcil) of Red Deer.
It brings comfort knowing the many people Dennis will reunite with as there are so many too mention.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered love, support and kindness at this difficult time.
As per Dennis’s wishes, there will be no funeral service, but a private memorial for his family.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

---

VAN HIERDEN, Brittany BRITTANY LYNN VAN HIERDEN May 5, 1989 – February 13, 2026 Brittany Van Hierden of Rosthern, Saskatchewan, passed away after a lengthy illness on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 36 years.
Condolences will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the University Drive Alliance Church – 55 Columbia Blvd W, Lethbridge, Alberta.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the University Drive Alliance Church.
Interment will follow at the Fort Macleod Union Cemetery – 3050 9th Avenue, Fort Macleod, Alberta.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

VAS, Aloysius “Al” VAS It is with heavy hearts that the family of Aloysius “Al” Vas, beloved husband of Evelyn, announces his passing in Lethbridge on Monday, February 9, 2026.
Al is survived by his wife of 39 years, Evelyn; their children, Erika Vas, and Errol Vas (Tan Huijing) of Hangzhou, China; and his beloved grandson, Tan MingXi “Kieran” (Vas), whose videos Al looked forward to watching each morning. He is also survived by his mother, Felicia Vas; his siblings, Clem Kirkelie, Bernadette (Carl) Finley, and Daniel (Janet) Vas; his sisters-in-law, Nancy Nellis (Steudler), and Barbara Peterson; his brother-in-law, Michael Eisenhuth; as well as his nieces and nephews: Chad, Jamie, Erin, Hailey, Matthew, Gabrielle, Carl, Lynn, Laura, Paul, David, and Rhonda. He was predeceased by his father, Eugene Vas; his brother-in-law, Chris Steudler; and his nephew, Steven Eisenhuth.
Al was born in Nairobi, Kenya, to Eugene and Felicia Vas. His life journey took him from the vibrant landscapes of Kenya to London, England. At age 17, he and his family later immigrated to Lethbridge, Alberta, following in the footsteps of his Aunt Prisca and Uncle Bosco, and with the compassionate support of the K.N. Stewart family. It was here that he built his life and family, graduating from Catholic Central High School, beginning his post-secondary studies at the University of Lethbridge, and earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology (1979). He furthered his education at the University of Calgary, obtaining a Bachelor of Social Work (1985), and a Master of Social Work (1988).
Al quickly became a cornerstone of community support, following his calling, and dedicating his life’s work to serving others. For over a decade, he worked with Alberta Social Services, followed by several impactful years at Lethbridge Family Services. By 1988, already an accomplished psychotherapist with Alberta Health Services, he established his own private counselling and consulting practice, Al Vas & Associates. For nearly twenty years, Al focused his expertise on individual, marital, and family counselling. He used his gifts to help people from all walks of life navigate life’s challenges with the same sincerity and integrity that defined his personal life. After feeling “tired of being retired,” he returned to Alberta Health Services, joining the Taber Mental Health Clinic until his final retirement in 2018.
Beyond his clinical practice, Al was a man of many talents. In his early years, he challenged himself through martial arts, boxing, weightlifting, and running competitions. A lifelong learner and academician with a mind like an encyclopedia, Al was equally at home in his garage, at a friend’s shop, or on his tractor cutting grass. He loved to problem-solve, crossword puzzles, and could restore anything from a holey sock to a vacuum. An artist at heart, his talents ranged from writing poetry, woodworking, sewing, braiding, and drawing, to collecting mid-century Chalet glassworks. He loved dogs, had experience as a dog trainer, and fostered a special bond with Erika’s dog, earning the title of “Ueli’s Support Human.”
Al found peace in rural living, spending time admiring the prairie landscape and the mountains. He delighted in keeping his people close, hosting get-togethers, and entertaining a full house. He especially enjoyed making signature soups, and cooking for family and friends. Those closest to him knew him as a comedian with a light-hearted humour that kept everyone smiling. Above all, he cherished his role as a grandpa, spending precious time building forts, sharing stories, and chatting via FaceTime with his grandson, Kieran.
Dad was well respected for being exceptionally hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy. He was a man of quiet generosity, looking out for others wherever he went, especially newly arrived immigrant families, providing them with furniture for their homes, personal support, and a welcoming hand. Raised Roman Catholic, Al found strength in his relationship with God. He lived his life with integrity and quiet, steadfast faith.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Al’s memory.
With all our love and gratitude.
A Celebration of Al’s life will be held at the SANDMAN SIGNATURE LETHBRIDGE LODGE, 320 Scenic Drive South, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. The service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Al’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Al, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

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

---

SCHAFER, Linda SCHAFER It is with great sadness we share the passing of our sister, aunt, great aunt and friend, LINDA SCHAFER at Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Linda May Schafer was born in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan November 6, 1950, to John and Maida Schafer. Linda grew up on the family farm north west of Consul. She attended Consul School from Grades 1-12.
Linda then moved to Calgary to attend SAIT, and in May 1970, was awarded a Diploma of Applied Arts, Library Arts. She worked several jobs in the library field including the Chinook Regional library in Swift Current, Saskatchewan and the University of Calgary library. While working in a school library in Drumheller, Linda decided she wanted to teach. Linda received her Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary in June 1977.
In the fall of 1978, she moved to Fort McMurray and taught there until 1982, when she came south to work in the newly constructed Joe Clark Elementary School in High River, Alberta. Linda spent the remainder of her teaching career in the Foothills School Division in a variety of schools. Linda positively impacted so many students during her teaching career.
While teaching, Linda was an active member of her local ATA, serving on bargaining and professional development committees. She also enjoyed her time on the Marigold Library Board representing the Town of High River.
Her retirement began in High River, then Linda moved to Calgary, and finally she settled in Lethbridge in July 2020.
Linda loved reading, teaching, sewing, quilting, cooking, art, and music. She played piano and achieved her Grade 9 Royal Conservatory certificate. She was a proud aunt displaying the artwork created first by her nieces and nephews and then her great nieces and nephews. Her filing cabinet is a treasure trove of achievements, awards, certificates, as well as cards, drawings, letters, and notes from family and friends.
Linda was predeceased by her parents John (2008) and Maida (2009), great nephew Gavin (2017). She is survived by her brother Don (Wenda) Schafer, their children Lisa, Neil (Judy); sister Sherry, her children and grandchildren John (Erin) Jack, Hannah, Leah; David (Candace) Jett, Abigail; Emily (David); sister Elizabeth (Peter) their daughters and grandchildren Andrea (John), Mackenzie, Alex; Brenda (Nathan) Zachary, Madison.
As per Linda’s wishes, there will be no memorial service or celebration of life. The family will meet at the family farm in Saskatchewan in the summer of 2026 to scatter her ashes.
The family wishes to thank the doctors at Chinook Regional Hospital, and especially the staff of Unit 4A who were all amazing and treated Linda with kindness and compassion these past 8 months.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to your local library in Linda’s honour or consider donating to the Chinook Regional Hospital where she received excellent care from July 1, 2025 until her passing.

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

---

WALKER, Catherine CATHERINE WALKER (DELGADO) August 9, 1980 – February 16, 2026 Catherine Walker, of Lethbridge, beloved partner to Kelly Klimchuk, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the age of 45 years.
She is survived by her partner Kelly; her children Seth White Cow, Aowyn White Cow, and Corina White Cow; her Kuya (Brother) Richard Delgado; as well as her close Aunties and Uncles.
Catherine was born in Northern Philippines on August 9, 1980, in Caridad, Antique. Orphaned at birth and cared for by family and friends, Catherine’s story began. At around the age of nine years, Catherine was fostered by a Canadian entrepreneur who brought her on many journeys across the world. She thrived in Switzerland, Massachusetts, Creston BC, Prelate SK, and eventually laid down roots in Pincher Creek, Alberta.
Catherine started her own family and eventually settled into her forever home in Lethbridge where she worked in childcare. She was passionate about her career and truly adored the children she cared for.
Throughout life, Catherine travelled lightly, with an abundance of gentleness, kindness, understanding, and acceptance which she shared with others every step of the way. Her only act of ferocity was in how she loved.
Catherine’s favorite things included pineapple, glitter, musicals, period dramas, hallmark Christmas movies, and above all, she cherished moments when we were all together as a family.
Catherine was predeceased by her mother Editha Delgado.
For those who wish to pay their respects, a Visitation will be held at 6PM on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 St. S, Lethbridge, AB.
A Celebration of Catherine’s Life will be held from 2PM – 6PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at THE NEST (HONKERS PUB), 2806 5 Ave. N, Lethbridge, AB. Guests are invited to dress casually if they attend.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to the team at the Jack Addy Cancer Clinic for their compassion while Catherine was in their care.
Flowers are graciously declined. However, those who wish, may offer gifts in kind to Catherine’s children during this difficult time.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

<5