FRIDAY, February 12, 2021

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on February 12, 2021.

BIG SWALLOW

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of LESLIE BRUCE BIG SWALLOW (BIG FOOT) of the Blood Reserve. Les Passed away peacefully at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary on February 6, 2021 surrounded by his wife and children.

The family would like to send out a very special thankyou to the Blood Tribe Emergency Services Platoon A, EMS/Fireteam Brady Collier PCP, Branded Burton ACP. Also, to the Chinook Regional Hospital Covid floor and ICU team. Foothills Hospital ICU team and front-line workers, NIHB, and also to the ones who brought food, medication and water; Blood Tribe Department of Health, Blood Tribe Administration, Blood Tribe Food Bank, Friends and family all of which were greatly appreciated. A Viewing will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Monday, February 15, 2021 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm and on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 from 9:00 – 11:00 am with a Family Service to follow at 11:00 am. (Due to COVID-19 – only 20 people will be allowed in the building at a time.) Interment to follow at Big Swallow family Cemetery.

To send a condolence or Watch the Funeral please visit

http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca.

Joachim “Jo” Blank

1936 – 2021

Mr. Joachim Karl Blank (Jo) of Coaldale, AB passed away peacefully on January 27, 2021 at the age of 84 years, after a brief stay at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge. Jo was the steadfastly devoted and loving husband of the late Mrs. Erika Blank (nee. Neufeld).

A Memorial Service will be held via Zoom at 11:00 AM MST on Saturday, February 20, 2021. To join the service by computer, please use the link below or contact the family for telephone dial-in instructions.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87999275820

Meeting ID: 879 9927 5820

Passcode: 797029

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

CHERNESKI

LAWRENCE CHERNESKI passed peacefully at the Taber Hospital on the morning of Tuesday, February 9, 2021, at the age of 78.

“The day I am not working is the day I die.” True to his word, Dad; Lawrence Cherneski, continued to work until his cancer journey ended and he was reunited with Marg. Lawrence was born at home on the family farm, near the town of Ranfurly, AB, on August 10, 1942. He grew up between the two family farms with his 8 siblings: Sally, Betty, Francis, Katie, Ed, Nellie and Eileen (Lillian passed away before his birth). From a very young age, Lawrence worked on the family farm and moved onto many different jobs starting in his teen years that included: gas attendant, medic in a logging camp, power lines, National Parks, highway department, and controller in a trucking company, which involved travel across Canada. Lawrence also engaged in furthering his education, earning his CPA certification. Lawrence met the love of his life Margaret (nee Price) and the two were married July, 3, 1965. The couple resided in Edmonton and when they decided to start the next generation, and not wanting to be away with work travel obligations, they settled in Taber, 1967, on the family farm. Lawrence farmed and ranched for over 20 years before “retiring” and starting his own trucking company that he ran until the end. As a father, he was always supportive of his daughters: 4-H, sporting and various youth groups. Lawrence and Marg were always present at all events and often provided transportation to entire teams. Along with his wife, he founded and ran a youth group in Taber that impacted many young lives. Lawrence also served his community: offering his time to several boards and organizations including church, politics, historical society and financial institutions. When grandchildren arrived, he renewed his supporting role in all their activities by becoming their biggest fan and greatest supporter. Lawrence was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret (nee Price). He leaves behind to carry on his legacy: Susan (Cam) Cleland, Laura (Robyn) Darichuk and Nancy (Terry) Wegener. His grandchildren Colyn, Sydney & Carson Cleland, Carmen & Lyndsey Darichuk and Jessica & Cody Wegener also celebrate his life and his influence. He will also be remembered by extended family and friends whom he thought the world of. The family would like to thank Dr. Torrie, Dr. Smuts and the staff of the Taber Hospital and Home Care for their care, kindness and compassion throughout this journey. In lieu of flowers donations in Lawrence’s name can be made to a Youth Organization of your choice. “Death ends a life, not a relationship.” Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie

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

EILEEN COOPER

1922 – 2021

Eileen Harriet Cooper (nee McCroary) of Barons passed away January 31, 2021 at St. Michael’s Health Centre at the age of 99 years.

Eileen was predeceased by her husband Bob. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Eileen is survived by her son Terry; daughters Frances (Harry), Robin (Dixon), Deidre (Dallas); 1 granddaughter, 8 grandsons and 16 great-grandchildren.

Eileen was laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery in Lethbridge.

Eileen will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

To send a message of

condolence please visit

http://www.generationsfh.ca.

DALE RICHARD ZOBELL

November 9, 1952 – February 4, 2021

Dale ZoBell was born and raised by parents John and Doris just west of Raymond on the family farm. This is where he had “the best childhood ever” with his brothers and sister, all of whom he taunted and adored. His home was his pride, and he loved referring to himself as a farm kid. On May long weekend 1971 in the Waterton dance hall he met his best friend and love, Susan Brayley, and they were married in December of that year.

In choosing his career he didn’t stray far from his roots and studied animal science at both Oregon State University and Utah State University, where he would eventually earn his PhD specializing in beef cattle nutrition and reproduction. Dale’s first job was with Cargill, followed by Alberta Agriculture, and finally a professorship at Utah State University. He was passionate about what he did and would often say, “I love going to work”.

He raised his family in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he held a variety of leadership callings. Dale would jokingly say that he served his mission as a young man in Banff but his greatest mission came later in life through humanitarian work in 14 third-world countries. Dale and Susan’s lives were enriched through travel and exploration together; they visited 54 different countries in total. Dale, always the curious, soaked up the wisdom of contrasting cultures, mingling with and talking to the people.

In 2015 he retired and moved to the Coeur d’Alene area in northern Idaho to be closer to family. Dale loved fishing and spent much time in his boat; in solitude or with a grandkid or two in tow. He was fond of nature and he loved to be outdoors with a desire to get himself closer to the mountains. Skiing, hiking and camping fulfilled him, as did riding his bike with Sue. His favorite past time however, would be family time. He loved his family, he cherished his grandkids. He was the best story teller and could mesmerize them with all his tales. Being loud, entertaining, full of humour, and always doling out advice and words of counsel were his best qualities. “Nothing I’ve ever done or will do will compare to my family”.

He was always a proud Canadian even though he lived in the US for the last 23 years, only ever having missed a handful of July 1st celebrations in Raymond. He loved coming home.

Dale passed away peacefully eight months after being diagnosed with a Glioblastoma (brain cancer) in Coeur d’Alene. His Suzie was by his side.

He leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Sue, and their five children: Kerbi (David) Wolanski and daughters Hannah and Emma, Britney (Mica) Shaw and children Mazzy, Piper and River, Sage (Ryan) Henderson and children Tate, Sloan and Brenia, Tyler (Becky) ZoBell and children Mason, Natalie and Dallin, and Jordan (Bessie) ZoBell and children Jet, Finn, Remi, Kit and Indie.

Memorial service to be held in Raymond at a later date when border restrictions due to Covid-19 are lifted.

ISAAC

On the evening of Sunday, February 7th our loving husband, father and Poobah, William ‘Bill’ Isaac, aged 67, was called home to be with the Lord. Bill was with his wife and children at his passing. Bill is survived by his best friend and soulmate of 48 years, Darlene, his children Becky (Jon), Billy (Stephanie) and Julie (Brady) and his grandchildren Will, Jack, Aubrey, Poppy and Isla. He will also be remembered as being an amazing brother to Betty (Bob), Jack (Mel), Linda (Keith) and Lyndon (Lenore) and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

Bill loved God and his family with all of his heart. He passed on his love of the outdoors to his family as well as his love of Waterton National Park where he spent many hours hiking and canoeing with them. He enjoyed watching the Blue Bombers with Billy, cycling with Julie and exchanging gardening tips with Becky.

Bill and Darlene took several cross-country trips together on Bill’s motorcycle, camping and taking photos along the way. Bill and Dar were rarely apart and were often seen holding hands, taking day trips or just spending time together

Bill was born and raised in Lethbridge before moving to Winnipeg where he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. He was a member of the Winnipeg Police Service until retirement and while there he was a founding member of WPS Bike Patrol and organized and biked on several cross-country trips to raise money for the Children’s Wish Foundation. In his later years at the WPS he was a chaplain, and was able to help others and their families in times of sorrow and joy. After retirement he worked at Grant Memorial Church as the supervisor of the property department where he was respected by those he worked with.

He was his grandchildren’s best friend and favourite playmate. He would play dolls, have tea parties, read stories, become a pirate and drive remote control boats, trucks and motorcycles with them. He spent many hours going for walks and exploring with them and he loved every single second he got to spend with them.

Bill will be very missed. He pushed us to be our best, and was always there to support us, he was our biggest cheerleader and our rock. He lived life with humour and grace and always put others before himself, and we were truly blessed to have had him in our lives.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you please send donations to Parkinson Canada.

JAMES

In loving memory of BONNIE MAXINE JAMES who passed away February 9, 2021

To hear your voice

and see your smile

To sit with you and talk awhile

To be together in the

same old way

Would be our dearest wish today.

Bonnie is lovingly remembered by her children, Harold (Karen), Greg, and Jeff James, Colleen (Larry) Prete and Sheri (Keith) Donovan; 11 grandchildren, Jeremy (Amanda), Adam, Ryan (Leah), Reed (Brittany), Natasha (Logan), Shawn (Jessica), Amanda, Tiffany, Alexandria, Noah and Liam (Emily); 11 great-grandchildren; as well as two sisters, Jessie Malmberg of Picture Butte, AB, and Judy Loewen of Beaumont, AB.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Ken James, parents, Harvey and Myrtle Stebnitz and younger sister, Elise.

Bonnie was born January 29, 1939, in Carmangay, Alberta. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing guitar and singing in country bands. Bonnie retired from Sears after working there for many years.

Bonnie lived for her family and was an amazing mom and nana. She will be forever missed and loved by her family and her little yorkie, Ebony!

There will be a private service held at a later date. To those who wish, please make a donation to Stars Air Ambulance https://stars.ca/ways-to-donate/ab/

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

KAZUO (KAY) KITAGAWA

It is with deep sadness the family of Kazuo (Kay) Kitagawa of Lethbridge beloved husband of Kumiko (Rosemary) on January 30, 2021. Kay died peacefully in his sleep in the Chinook Regional Hospital after a lengthy illness. As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID-19 and the government recommendations, and respecting dad’s wishes, a private family funeral service was held at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, Lethbridge on Saturday, February 6 2021 at 3:00 P.M. Cremation has taken place.

Flowers and koden gratefully declined. If one wishes, please donate to the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements by Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home.

To send a message of

condolence please visit

http://www.generationsfh.ca.

Margaret Mary Mooney (Koep)

1935-2021

Margaret Mary Mooney – daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, mentor, feminist, social worker, hiker, lover of books, lover of nature, lover of ideas – died January 19, 2021, in Nelson, BC.

Born May 13, 1935, Margaret spent her formative years in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan. She married, raised her family, and found her calling in Lethbridge, Alberta. Years later, following her spiritual journey, she settled in Nelson, BC, then Sechelt on the West Coast, then back to Nelson for the last twenty years of her life.

Feisty, stubborn, and determined, Margaret deeply believed in justice. She was a passionate feminist in a time and place that frowned on activism and strong women. Wanting to make the world a better, safer place for women, she left the church and pitched in at the Birth Control Information Centre and the Women’s Centre in Lethbridge.

She dreamed of getting a post-secondary education, even as her family grew. In the late 70s she started attending university, trading babysitting with friends while she studied and kept the house going. It took years, but she finally attained her Bachelor of Social Work degree. And although her career was not a long one, she remained a lifelong learner, devouring books on everything from Buddhism to feminism and the environment to social policy.

She was intensely proud of her five children and loved us unconditionally. She believed we were capable of anything and supported our unique choices. She exposed us to a much wider world than many kids knew: symphonies, Renaissance Fayres, political protests, consciousness-raising and social justice. She delighted in her grandchildren and enjoyed watching them grow and blossom.

Life was not an easy road for Margaret. She was appalled by greed and ignorance, and she felt every injustice in the world deeply. But through both her reading and her desire to connect with those from all walks of life, she never lost her ability to care about others and to hope for change. Sadly, her health issues eventually robbed her of the ability to drive, then read, then walk, then talk.

Margaret was predeceased by her sisters Pat Weresch and Terry Davis. She is survived by sisters Maureen (John) Short and Helen Lynch, brothers Mike (Shirley), Dan (Claire), and Kevin (Nancy) Mooney, children Mark (Deb), Kathy (Dave), Rob, Gregg (Linda) and Jeff (Gayle) Koep, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Margaret will also be missed and remembered by many nieces and nephews, friends, neighbours, random strangers on the street, on the bus, in the park – as well as friends and family of the late Robert (Bob) Koep.

We are so grateful for the kindness and care shown to our mom by the wonderful staff at Nelson Jubilee Manor in her last months.

In accordance with Margaret’s wishes, she was laid to rest at the Dumont Creek Cemetery near Winlaw, BC, on January 23, 2021. Nature was her balm – may she find eternal solace in the trees and forest, where she can bask in peaceful, beautiful surroundings. We smile as we imagine mom once again going for her beloved long drives and long, long walks.

Remembrances and condolences may be sent to her granddaughter,

Kayli Koep, at koepkayli@gmail.com.

MATTEOTTI

Anne Matteotti, 97 of Tempe, Arizona passed away at her home on January 24, 2021. She was formerly of Tustin, California and originally from Lethbridge and Cardston, Alberta. She was born to Joseph and Antonina (Boychuk) Smigel in Alberta, Canada. She had lived in Arizona since 1973. Anne was introduced to the love of her life, Guido Matteotti, by her school chum, Guido’s sister, Alice. When Alice married Lou Martini, a long lasting relationship was started with the entire Martini clan, which continues today. Anne and Guido farmed successfully, until they decided to move, with daughters Linda and Duenna, to Tustin. Guido went into the construction business and Anne worked in the medical field. Anne was preceded in heaven by Guido, and Duenna, but remembered in life by her daughter Linda, son-in-law Ken, grandson Timm, granddaughter-in-law Heidi as well as all of the Martini and Smigel families. Her love for her immediate family and her nieces and nephews was very special. A service will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in mid February. She will be laid to rest in Lethbridge, and a service will be held when travel restrictions permit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Anne’s name be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E Flower St, Phoenix, AZ 85014

Richardson Funeral Home, Tempe, Arizona is

compassionately serving

the Matteotti family.

Craig Patterson

1956 – 2021

Mr. Craig Patterson of Lethbridge passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at the age of 64 years.

Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.

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

RIBIC

SUZANA “SUZY” RIBIC, beloved fiancée of Miro Kyjac, of Lethbridge, passed away unexpectedly, on Friday, February 5, 2021 at the age of 45 years.

Besides her beloved fiancée Miro, Suzy is survived by her parents, Zeljko and Gorana Ribic, brother Mario Ribic, one niece and one nephew, all of Zagreb, Croatia.

Suzy was born in Zagreb, Croatia and came to Canada in 1995, first to Winnipeg and ending up in Lethbridge. She began a career as a hair dresser which she thoroughly enjoyed before she started to work at Miro’s Restaurant in 2014. Suzy was very personable and friendly and many people enjoyed her company. Miro and Suzy began a relationship while working together. They both travelled to Europe and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company. Suzy will also be dearly missed by her dog, Simon, who she had for the last five years.

A Private Celebration of Suzy’s Life will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 11:00 AM with Deacon Frank Peta officiating. The service will be live streamed and may be accessed via Suzy’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

In memory of Suzy, donations may be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation (crhfoundation.ca)

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Ken Sasaki
1925 – 2021
 Ken Sasaki, beloved husband of Elsie Sasaki, passed away peacefully at the Taber Health Centre on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at the age of 95 years.
 Ken is lovingly remembered by his wife of sixty three years, Elsie and his three daughters Linda Sasaki (Bruno Deligny) of Calgary, Wanda (Laurie) Renner of Taber Kendy (Rob) Ross of Seattle, Washington; grandchildren Kale (Corley), Garren and Connor. Ken is also survived by his siblings Kay (Chik) Koyanagi and her family, Jim (Doris) and his family and Bob Sasaki. He will also be dearly missed by all the Shigehiro families.
 He was predeceased by his parents Choichi and Haru, brother Jim.
 Ken was born in Chilliwack, British Columbia on October 10, 1925 and moved to Mission, British Columbia where he grew up on the family’s strawberry and rhubarb farm.
 In 1942 the family was relocated to southern Alberta, and then
moved to Taber, where he spent the majority of his life. He started his own farm in 1952 growing sugar beets, sweet corn, grain and raising cattle until Ken and Elsie retired and moved into the town of Taber.  
 As a young man, Ken enjoyed hunting, basketball and baseball.  He had a passion for fishing, curling and woodworking, which he generously shared with many family and friends.  
 Ken was known as a man of few words with a strong moral compass. His generosity touched immediate and extended family, friends and sometimes even strangers.
 As an avid reader of the daily newspaper, he enjoyed talking about current events, sports and finances. He was happiest and content, surrounded by his immediate family.  
 Due to COVID-19 restrictions and out of concern for everyone’s safety, the family is requesting that there be no visits to their home at this time. A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at a time when we can all gather together safely.  Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
 If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers and koden, memorial tributes in Ken’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (http://www.tdhf.ca).
 Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

WARD

MARY ELIZABETH WARD of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital surrounded by her family on Friday, February 5th, 2021, at the age of 83 years.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her friends and family.

She is survived by her husband, Gary K. Ward; daughter Elizabeth (Michael) Gaudet; grandchildren, Chad (Nicky) Dunn and Joshua Dunn; son Bob Ward; grandchildren Catherine (Jon) Stewart, Thomas (Lora) Bota; son Gary (Michelle Elder) Ward; grandchildren Courtney Ward (Jared), Britt Elder (Linds) and numerous great-grandchildren.

Mary is predeceased by her son-in-law Gordon Wiggill, brother-in-law John Nisgard and numerous brothers and sisters.

In Mary’s memory, donations may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation (www.heartandstroke.ca/donate) or the Kidney Foundation of Alberta (www.kidney.ca/donate)

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

WATSON

With great sadness, we announce the passing of CLARENCE CHARLES ALLEN WATSON, beloved husband of Julie Watson, of Lethbridge, at the South Health Campus in Calgary on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at the age of 85 years.

Clarence was the proud father of three children: Gregory (Kerry) Watson, Cheryl (Attila) Braun, and Susan (Terry) Friesen; grandchildren Jesse (Antonio) Watson, Jocelyne Abad, Cole (Alyssa) Watson, Myles Watson, Amanda (Chase) Oliver, Mackenzie (Trevor) Braun, Victoria Braun, Timothy (Reanne) Johansen, Stephen (Chantelle) Johansen, Adam Johansen, Michael (Anali) Johansen, and Candace Friesen; as well as 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Florence Elaine McCormick.

He was predeceased by his mother Myrtle, father Clarence and infant brother George.

Clarence was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan to Clarence Irving Watson and Myrtle Isabelle (Russell) Watson and lived in Yorkton all of his formative years, until he attended Saskatchewan Teacher’s College in Moose Jaw from 1954 to 1955. In 1959, Clarence met Julie Fedun and they married in 1960. Clarence taught in Saskatchewan from 1955 to 1964. From 1961 to 1964, he held principalships in Dubuc and at the DND school at the Air Force Radar Base. Clarence and Julie then moved to Regina, where Clarence attended university and also joined the R.C.A.M. Clarence served in the Royal Canadian Artillery from 1964 to 1970 as a 1st Lieutenant. The family then moved to Lethbridge where he continued his education and earned his B.A./B.SC. and B.Ed. degrees. He became a teacher for the Lethbridge Catholic Separate School District #9. After 35 years, Clarence retired from teaching in 1991. Clarence then worked for Perma Green Garden Centre, where he enjoyed ten years of working with trees, plants and building various seasonal displays.

Clarence was very active in the Knights of Columbus. Clarence served on a number of executive councils and spent many hours volunteering his time and talent. He was proud to serve as Grand Knight for two terms, was District Deputy, served one term as Faithful Navigator and achieved Star Council, Star District as well as District Deputy of the Year. Clarence was a member of the 4th Degree and served on the Honour Guard.

Clarence enjoyed reading, wood carving of birds and animals, the outdoors, camping and travelling, but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his beloved wife Julie and their family.

Clarence was deeply loved by all of his family and will be sadly missed.

A private Prayer Service will be held on Monday, February 15th, 2021 at 5:00 PM.

A private Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 16th, 2021, at 11:00 AM with Father William Monis celebrating.

Both the Prayer Service and Funeral Mass will be livestreamed and may be accessed through Clarence’s obituary on the Cornerstone website at their respective times.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent De Paul Society, c/o All Saints Parish (2405 – 12 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 0P4) or to L’Arche Association of Lethbridge (240 – 12C St. N, Lethbridge, AB, T1H 2M7).

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

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