Saturday, March 28, 2026
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 28, 2026.
HOVEY, Leroy HOVEY, LEROY Celebration of Life Saturday, April 4, 2026 1:00pm to 3:00pm The Lethbridge Legion, 2019 – 4 Ave. South, Lethbridge Family & Friends are invited to share memories and honour his life. ~Troy HoveyMICHENER, Gail GAIL MICHENER 1946 ~ 2026 Dr. Gail Michener of Picture Butte, beloved wife of Dan Michener, passed away at home on March 20, 2026 at the age of 80 years.
A Memorial Event to celebrate her life will be announced at a later date.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
SABO, Jerry JERRY LYNN SABO November 29, 1962 – March 19, 2026 Jerry Lynn Sabo was born November 29, 1962, in Picture Butte, Alberta to Zolten and Mona Sabo. He passed away peacefully Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Calgary, Alberta. Jerry is survived by his partner, Jan Campbell and her son, Kesler; his mother, Mona Sabo; sisters, Cindy (Jim) Welsh from Picture Butte and their children, Jodi and Jason, and June Leman of Okotoks and her children, Dustin, Kendra and Denver. He was predeceased by his father, Zolten Sabo. Jerry was raised in Picture Butte and attended Dorothy Dalgliesh Elementary School as well as Picture Butte High School. Jerry drove truck for basically most of his adult life. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle with his numerous friends for many road trips and destinations. A private Celebration of Jerry’s Life with family will be held at a later date. To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Jerry please visit http://www.choicememorial.com.
REESE, Hovey HOVEY REESE 1937 ~ 2026 Hovey Reese, of Milk River, Alberta, passed away surrounded by love on March 14, 2026, at the age of 88 years.
Hovey was born on April 4, 1937, in Lethbridge. He spent most of his life on the farm on top of Verdigris Coulee, raising cattle and growing crops, first with his dad and brother Ken, and then his sons. They also had land on the Milk River Ridge and sold the calves at Fort McLeod every fall.
Hovey took grades 1-8 in Milk River, and grades 9-12 in Red Deer. He then went to the University of Saskatchewan, graduating with a Diploma in Vocational Agriculture. Hovey’s time at the U of S was some of his happiest. He was class president, made life-long friends, and met the love of his life Elizabeth (Betty) Kirkland.
Hovey and Betty were married on a cold January day in 1960, at Star City, Saskatchewan, Betty’s hometown. Their household was busy, with five kids in activities, a farm to run, and involvement in community groups. They enjoyed potlucks with neighbours and friends, and many a topic was debated over coffee at the kitchen table.
They enrolled all of their kids in the Warner 4-H Beef Club. Hovey was the leader for 8 years, emphasizing the importance of the public speaking program. This legacy has carried on through the Reese generations. For years, Hovey could be seen up in the grandstand at the Lethbridge Exhibition, MC-ing the regional 4-H show.
With his 6’4, broad-shouldered stature, Hovey naturally commanded respect. It was his public speaking and leadership skills though that helped him during his years as a Councilor and School Trustee for the County of Warner. He also served on the Chinook Regional Health Board.
His rocking chair always had a pile of newspapers beside it and the Weather Channel was on in the background. He loved a good slice of pie, a waltz with Betty, crib down at Heritage Hall, and was always ready to offer a beer and clamato. He loved to tease. In retirement, Hovey could still be found driving the combine every fall.
Hovey was pre-deceased by his loving wife of 44 years, Betty, and their infant son, Roger John, as well as his parents, John and Amanda. Left to carry on his legacy of hard work; respect of education, leadership and the land; and dedication to family and community is his son Kevin (Toni) Reese and grandchildren Nicole (Owen), Andrew (Denise), Evan; son Perry (Lavonne) Reese and grandchildren Brant (Janet), Quentin; daughter Mary-Lou (Blaine) MacMillan and grandchildren Kelsey (Kyle), Janeece (Clark), Hilary, Lucas (Venus); daughter Nancy (Mike) Numan and grandchildren Danielle, Samantha, Mackenzie; and daughter Megan (Tom) Terrill and grandchild Fraser. Hovey will also be remembered by his 19 great-grandchildren; brother Ralph (Rosalie), sister Kaye, brother Ken (Jane); brother-in law Bob (Caroll) Kirkland; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
For more than a decade, Hovey lived at St. Michael’s Health Centre in Lethbridge, first in supportive living and then long term care. His family sends deepest thanks for the care Hovey received over the years.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the St. Michael’s Health Centre, Lethbridge.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Coutts Civic Centre, 105 Centre St, Coutts, AB.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BELL, Anne Anne Theresa (Casey) Bell March 27, 1940 – March 5, 2026 Anne Theresa Bell – a loving mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and dear cousin to Suzanne (Suresh) – passed away peacefully. Born in London, England, to parents Anne and Dennis Casey, Anne’s journey brought her to Canada in 1948. It was there that she met the man of her dreams. They married in 1960, a day she always remembered as one of the happiest of her life. Now, after years apart, they are together again forever.
Anne was a true social butterfly, filling her days with conversation, laughter, happy hour, and the company of dear friends at Garden View Lodge, where she resided for the last 10 years. Her New Year’s Eve tradition of venturing out to The Keg with friends was a testament to her enduring love for celebration.
A creative soul, Anne was artsy and crafty in the best of ways. She had a unique gift for making anything she touched look beautiful. Her home was a canvas for her creativity, especially during her favourite holidays. She adored Halloween, from the intricate decorations inside her home to her own festive costumes. At Christmas, she famously created a “Grinch corner” honouring her late husband, a display that perfectly showed off her playful sense of humour.
A fashionista at heart, she loved shopping for the “next best thing” and took great pride in looking her best. Anne’s warmth, her artistic flair, and her social spirit will be forever missed by her family and all who knew her. While she is gone from our sight, she will always be in our hearts.
At Anne’s request, there will be a private graveside gathering at a later date.
MORNING OWL, Patrick MORNING OWL PATRICK MORNING OWL, beloved husband to Verdun Hind Bull – Morning Owl, passed away in Lethbridge, Alberta on March 17, 2026 at the age of 68 years. A wake service will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 4:00-8:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cardston Alberta West Stake Center (846 1st Ave West) on Thursday, April 2 at 10:00 am. Friends may meet the family at 9:00 am prior to the service.
To watch the Funeral Service or to send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
BARTOSEK, Marie BARTOSEK/BLENDER The family of Marie Bartosek/Blender is sad to announce her passing. For condolences, please go to http://www.mccallgardens.com/obituaries/marie-magdalene-blender/
MALABANAN, Leslie LESLIE SABINE MALABANAN 2006 ~ 2026 Leslie Sabine Malabanan of Lethbridge, beloved daughter to Willy and Elizabeth and best friend to her sister Ashley, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the age of 19 years.
Visitation will be held from 4-10PM on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 St. S, Lethbridge.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10AM on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at ST. BASIL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 13 St. N, Lethbridge, with Father Santiago Torres officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
MILLER, Lyle LYLE MILLER Nov. 1963 ~ Mar. 2026 Lyle Edward Miller of Vauxhall, AB, passed away suddenly on March 24, 2026, in Lethbridge, AB, at the age of 62 years.
Lyle is the beloved father of two sons, Damon (Mickenzie) Miller and their daughter Rose of Vauxhall, AB, and Zackary Miller of Patricia, AB.
He is also survived by his sisters, Corinne Sisson and Janice (Dale) Maddaford of Medicine Hat, AB, and Wanda (Don) Skretting of Lethbridge, AB, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and his good friend, Jim Sukeroff of Vauxhall, AB.
Lyle was predeceased by his parents, Valentine and Clara Miller. Throughout his life, Lyle enjoyed fishing, camping, hiking in the hoodoos and river hills with his boys and attending concerts, especially rock concerts with musicians from the 80s and 90s.
In his early years, Lyle worked with his father as a loader operator at Vauxhall Sand and Gravel which his father was a co-owner of. Later on, he worked as a dispatch operator in the oilfield and trucking industry. We loved Lyle greatly and will miss him always. He has now made his way to Heaven and is reunited with his beloved Mom and Dad.
Those who wish to pay their respects, may do so one hour prior to the prayer service.
Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE (540 South Railway Street SE) on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
The funeral mass will be celebrated in the HOLY FAMILY PARISH (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Fernando Genogaling celebrant.
To leave a message of condolence you may visit http://www.pattisonfuneralhome.com Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 2V6. Please call 1-866-526-2214 for further information.
SHEEN, Ray Ray Sheen
1935 – 2026
Raymond Hardin Sheen, beloved husband of Christine Sheen, passed away in Taber on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at the age of 90 years.
Further information will follow once arrangements have been finalized.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
WITHAGE, Hilda WITHAGE With gratitude for a life well lived, the family of HILDA WITHAGE sadly share that she passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Hilda was born on July 22, 1926 in Claresholm. She spent a happy childhood on the Nauta farm, north of Fort Macleod. As a young adult, Hilda worked alongside her dad on the family farm, tending to the needs of livestock and crop production. This experience served her well when she married a young farmer and became part of a farming business team. Hilda and John Withage were married in June 1947, and lived on the Nobleford farm for 60 years. A notable family moment happened when an additional combine operator was needed during a busy harvest season. Hilda, who was approaching 70 years old, climbed aboard the John Deere 9600 combine and operated it the whole day! Hilda’s life also revolved around the love and care for her family, including two daughters and two sons, their spouses and five grandchildren. There were countless gatherings where her gift for hosting brought enjoyment to everyone. Her meals to the field and visits over coffee were treasured activities. Hilda had a deep love for her grandchildren. From their earliest days to adulthood, she was keenly interested in their school, music and sports activities. In her final years, Hilda was lovingly cared for by her family and the dedicated staff of Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale. Hilda leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness and joyful memories that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. Hilda will be laid to rest privately in Archmount Cemetery. For those who wish, donations may be made in memory of Hilda to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (heartandstroke.ca)
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
BATES, Marilyn BATES It is with great sadness that we announce MARILYN KAY BATES passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the age of 65 years, following a seven-year battle with cancer.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 42 years, Bruce; their children, Brett (Austen), Jehna (Derick), Brayden (Amanda), and Brent (Erin); her cherished grandchildren, Monroe, Alex, Adrian, and Dominik; her siblings, Judy (Jeff), Rick (Jan), Lloyd (Penny), Lyle, and Ruth (Danny); as well as many friends and family who will miss her very much. She was predeceased by her parents, Lois and Lloyd Goodfellow; sister, Geri; and brothers, Joe and David.
Marilyn was born in Calgary on January 26, 1961, the fifth of nine children. She married Bruce on February 24, 1984, and together they raised four children. They built their house themselves in Lethbridge, where they shared many happy years.
Marilyn enjoyed crafting, spending time in the kitchen, and caring for her lush backyard, but her greatest joy in life was her family. When you visited her home, you knew you were welcome and cared for. With a strong spirit and open heart, Marilyn was known for always putting others first and helping whenever she could.
Special thanks to the nurses on 4A at Chinook Regional Hospital for their exceptional care. Marilyn left us the same way she lived – loving everyone around her and making sure to thank each person by name.
In keeping with Marilyn’s wishes, a private gathering will be held at a later date for immediate family.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
WEVERS, John JOHN WEVERS 1947 ~ 2026 John Henry Wevers was born on March 27, 1947, in the Netherlands, and emigrated to Canada with his family in 1952. Raised in Lethbridge, John grew into the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward – steady, generous, and always ready with a smile or a story that made the room lighter.
He attended the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge, earning both a Bachelor of Education and later a post graduate Diploma of Education. Teaching wasn’t just a career for John; it was a calling. He had a gift for making people feel seen and capable, whether they were students finding their footing or colleagues learning from his calm, good humoured leadership.
John began teaching in Granum, quickly becoming assistant principal, and later served at GR Davis School in Fort Macleod before becoming principal of WA Day School – a role he held for 25 years. His schools weren’t just workplaces; they were communities he helped shape with fairness, patience, and a genuine love for people. Many remember him as the principal who knew every child’s name and made each one feel important.
After retiring in 2002, John embraced life with the same enthusiasm he brought to his work. He loved golf, RVing, and travelling across Canada and the United States. He returned to Holland twice, reconnecting with his roots and sharing stories that blended nostalgia with his trademark humour. In Lethbridge, he became a proud member of the Henderson Lake Golf Course senior men’s league, where he was known as much for his easy laugh as for his swing.
John lived in Fort Macleod for 34 years, where he poured himself into the community – coaching baseball and hockey, serving with the Lions Club, golfing at the Fort Macleod Golf Course, working on the police commission, helping build a playground, and supporting minor hockey. He also shared his voice and love of music as a member of the St. Andrew’s Choir, something that brought him joy and connection.
Above all, John was a family man. He is survived by his wife Brenda, daughter Paula (Dean), son Michael (Robin), and was predeceased by his son Thomas. He was a proud grandfather to Brendon (Isabel), Dawson (Jocelyn), Ryan (Tayah), Ty (Tianna) and grand-daughter Rylee. He was also a delighted great grandfather to little Forrest. His family – and anyone who spent time with him – knew his kindness wasn’t something he tried to show; it was simply who he was.
John passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the Edith Cavell Care Center. In keeping with his wishes, there will be a Celebration of Life between 2:00pm and 4:00pm on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS FUNERAL CHAPELS, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.
It will be a time to share stories, laughter, and memories of a man who made the world better in quiet, steady ways.
John will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the countless people whose lives were made brighter by his presence.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
KRENZKE, Janina JANINA SOPHIA KRENZKE 1920 ~ 2026 Janina Sofia Krenzke (Mashina), of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Benjamin Krenzke, passed away peacefully at Sunny South Lodge on March 24, 2026 at the remarkable age of 106 years old.
Janina was born on January 30, 1920, in Nienojowie, Poland – a small place where her story began long before the world would change in unimaginable ways. As a young woman, she worked as a housekeeper and nanny, caring for others with the same steady dedication that would shape the rest of her life.
Following World War II in 1950, Janina made the courageous decision to leave her homeland and start anew in Canada. She arrived with strength, resilience, and a willingness to work hard – qualities that defined her. She began working for the Krenzke family and on August 5, 1950, in Taber, Alberta, she married Benjamin Otto Krenzke. Together, they built a life on the family farm in Pendant d’Oreille, working side by side through the seasons and the years. It was there they raised their two children, Benny and Heidi, creating a home grounded in hard work, love, and perseverance. Their life together continued in this way until Benjamin’s passing on September 7, 1966.
Janina carried on with remarkable independence and strength. She was known for her incredible work ethic and her ability to do whatever needed to be done. Whether tending her garden, keeping up with the many demands of farm life, or even operating machinery, she took great pride in, she approached every task with determination and quiet confidence.
In her quieter moments, Janina’s creativity shone. She loved sewing, knitting, and many other crafts, always keeping her hands busy. Her garden was one of her greatest joys, and she had a true gift for growing flowers, her green thumb evident to anyone who saw the beauty she nurtured.
Family was at the heart of everything she did. Janina will be lovingly remembered by her son Benjamin (Jessica); son-in-law Alex; grandchildren Benjamin, Jeremia (Anya), Joshua (Emily), and Emily; great-grandchildren Niko, Adrianna, Lillian, Evan, Chase, and Rogue, along with numerous extended family members and loved ones.
She was predeceased by her husband Ben; daughter Heidi; and her granddaughter Christine – losses she carried with quiet strength throughout her life.
Janina’s life was one of resilience, hard work, and deep love for her family. She built a life from the ground up in a new country and never lost her independent spirit. Her strength and the example she set will continue to live on through the generations she leaves behind.
Janina will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 St. S, Lethbridge, with Pastor Maury McNeil officiating.
Those who wish to pay their respects may do so during the hour prior to the service.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
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