FRIDAY, March 04, 2022

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 4, 2022.

ARSENAULT, Ray

Raymond Cyril Arseneault, beloved husband of Kathy Arseneault of Lethbridge, passed away on Friday, February 25, 2022 at the age of 66 years.

A Celebration of Life for Ray will be held at The Knights of Columbus Hall, 125 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge on Saturday, March 12, 2022 from 1:00 to 4:00. (Come and Go)

To share condolences, please

visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

BOODRY

Clayton George Boodry of Magrath, Alberta, Canada passed away on Feb. 24th 2022 at the age of 90 at his daughter Michelle’s home in Fort Benton, Montana.

Clayton was born July 14, 1931, in Lewiston Idaho to parents George Boodry and Eunice (Clay) Manser. He was raised in Riggins, Idaho on a sheep and cattle ranch that went back into the Seven Devils Mountains. He served in the Army with 552 Engineer Company, stationed in Germany for 2 years. Clayton always joked that he received an invitation to travel the world and received his first pair of boots from President Eisenhower.

After his service Clayton returned to Parma, Idaho where he worked until he met Connie Tanner and they married December 17, 1966. Clayton always being up for a new adventure decided it was time for a change and homesteaded to Canada. In April of 1968 he bought his first farm outside of Taber, Alberta and remained there for a few years until he moved to Bow Island, Alberta where he farmed and raised cattle for many years until he sold it and semi-retired in Magrath, Alberta around 1984. Connie and Clayton remained there until January 2022 when they traveled to Montana to be close to family where Clayton eventually passed with them by his side.

His many interests included horses, camping and pack riding into the back country with his friends and family where he would go weeks at a time living off grid enjoying the country God has made for us. When he was not in the back country, he enjoyed daily visits to the Magrath Co-op as well as the Blue Goose gas station for his root beer ice cream slushes.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Connie (Tanner) Boodry, son Michael Boodry and daughter Michelle (Blair) Nack. Grandchildren Meghan (Mike) Kuroda, Rachel Sikes Makae Nack, Coya Nack, Cassie Nack and Kylynn Nack. Clayton was able to meet his first great –grandchild over Christmas, Charles Kurado.

Clayton will be buried on March 5, 2022 in Fort Benton, Montana the funeral will be followed by a memorial service in Magrath, AB. at a later date.

Graveside Funeral Service for Clayton George Boodry Saturday March 5, 2022 at 11:00am Riverside Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Fort Benton Montana 59442

View details at https://www.bentonfh.com/obituary/clayton-boodry

SANDRA DECECCO

June 8, 1965 – February 18, 2022

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Sandra DeCecco on February 18, 2022 at the Fort Macleod Extendicare. She was 56 years of age.

She will always be remembered for her famous long and tight hugs that she gave freely and never wanted to end – those we will dearly miss.

Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life are her siblings, Betty DeCecco, Gianni DeCecco and twin sister, Rina DeCecco; her nieces and nephews, Heather (Braeden), Ty, Lianna and Darren; as well as her extended family and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel (13461 – 20 Ave., Blairmore, AB) on Monday, March 7, 2022 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Fort Macleod Extendicare Resident Activity Fund (PO Box 189, Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0) or by your local SPCA.

Condolences may be registered at http://www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel

entrusted with the arrangements. (403) 562-8555

Laurence William Ferguson

1929 – 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Laurence Ferguson at the age of 92 years.

Laurence is survived by his wife of 70 years Marg; his children Sheldon (Dorie) Ferguson of Michigan, Ron (Les) Ferguson of Red Deer, Marg (Rick) Barr of Ponoka and Cindy (Ted) Wiest of Lethbridge as well as his sister Faye Osbourne. He will be greatly missed by his eleven grandchildren David (Karey) Wiest, Troy (Julie) Ferguson, Michelle (Shawn) Van Nistelrooy, Jeff (Amanda) Barr, Kelly (Kyle) Wickstrom, Laina (Greg) Rallo, Derek (Jessica) Wiest, Steven Barr, Kate (Jeff) Garrett, Lisa Barr, Rhonda (Pardeep) Parhar and twenty great grandchildren.

Laurence grew up in the Gilby and Eckville area where he met and married his wife Marg. They enjoyed over 70 years of marriage. Most of their married life was spent in Red Deer where they raised their four children. Laurence was a hard worker with a great work ethic and was involved in many things in the city of Red Deer. His jobs included West Park IGA, Government of Alberta, managing the A&W’s, and being an NHL hockey scout with Central Scouting for 15 years and the Carolina Hurricanes for 7 years. He also served a term on Red Deer City Council, was president of Red Deer Minor Hockey, served on the West Park Presbyterian church board and helped start the Red Deer Bridge Club. Besides his time at work his days were filled helping with his children’s activities coaching or managing many ball and hockey teams. His love of hockey had him driving the bus for the Midget Optimist chief hockey club and eventually managing and being a part owner of the Red Deer Rustlers. He loved working with his sons Sheldon and Ron as an NHL hockey scout for the Carolina Hurricanes and was rarely seen without his Hurricanes hat on. His favorite pastime was playing duplicate bridge which he did right up until this last year. He loved to go to Eckville and help his brothers-in-law on their farms also helping his son-in-law Ted and grandsons on the Enchant farm. Just this week he was still asking how many calves had been born to date. His love of hockey continued right up until last year as he continued to watch his grandchildren and great- grandchildren play. He was so very proud of all their successes.

Laurence was predeceased by his parents, three brothers a sister and his grandson Derek.

A memorial service will be held in June.

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

BUDDY HELMER

1939 – 2022

Buddy Wayne Helmer born July 1st 1939 passed away at the Chinook regional hospital on February 27th 2022.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Jaci Helmer and his children Kelly Huchala (Jim), Myke, Pat, Bill, Pam Thomas (Chad) and numerous foster children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Predecessed by his mom and dad George and Doris Helmer, Brothers Bob and Darrel Helmer.

Bud was a hard-working family man who was full of wisdom and knowledge. He was quick to offer advice with his no nonsense attitude. And he was a friend like no other. He loved finding antiques and treasures while going to garage sales and auctions with his sons Myke and Pat. He was a collector of many things and had a passion for clocks and pocket watches. He would spend hours tinkering with them and bringing them back to life.

There will be no funeral as per his request.

Jack Hopkins

1926 – 2022

 John Mulholland Hopkins, beloved husband of the late Margaret Hopkins, passed away in Bow Island, surrounded by his family, on Monday, February 28, 2022 at the age of 95 years.

 Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. Masking is required between 10:00 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. and masking is optional between 11:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. A private burial service will follow at the Burdett Cemetery. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com. 

 Jack is survived by his children John (Penny) Hopkins of Lethbridge, Gerald (Evelyn) Hopkins of Bow Island, Keith (Lynn) Hopkins of Lethbridge, Royce (Shannon) Hopkins of Medicine Hat, Maureen (Bob) Buday of Medicine Hat and Robert (Beth) Hopkins of Bow Island; sixteen grandchildren Matthew, Max (Ildikó), Annalise (Keith), Grant (Sara), Jodi (Jordan), Reid (Shayla), Erik (Kathleen), Keely (Peter), Mitchell, Sierra, Lauryn (Brett) Clancy (Sarah), Olivia (Layne), Andrew, Jordan, Ethan (Giselle) and by ten great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Margaret Ross and by numerous nieces and nephews. 

 He was predeceased by his loving wife Margaret in 2017; brothers Reginald “Rex” (Rita) Hopkins and Thomas (Lois) Hopkins; sister Maoni (Gordie) Moss; brother-in-law Stubb Ross.

 Jack was born at the farm near Grassy Lake on May 28, 1926 to Thomas Godfrey Hopkins and Jemima Thomsen Hopkins. He grew up in a family which included Reginald, “Rex”, Maoni, Thomas and Margaret as well as Jessie and Charlotte Learmont.

 He married Margaret Henry on October 15, 1955 then moved to the farm south of Grassy Lake where they started their family, later moving to the farm north of Burdett in 1968.

 If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Jack’s name may be made directly to HALO Air Ambulance, 12 – 1 Airport Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5G4 (http://www.haloairambulance.com).  

 The family would like to thank the staff of the Pleasant View Lodge in Bow Island for the excellent care both Jack and Margaret received while living there. They would also like to thank the nurses and Dr. Woodruff for the care he received during his last days at the Bow Island Health Centre. 

 Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.  

Anthony Horvath

1931 – 2022

Mr. Anthony (Tony) Horvath of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Angelika Horvath, passed away at St. Therese Villa on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at the age of 91 years.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at ST. BASIL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge with Father Kevin Tumback as celebrant. A public viewing will be held prior to the service.

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

Eunice Jones

1923 – 2022

Mrs. Eunice Jones of Lethbridge, formerly of Fort Macleod and beloved wife of the late Mr. Harmon Jones, passed away at Fairmont Extendicare on Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at the age of 98 years.

Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.

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

Frances “Franki” Kaupp

1933 – 2022

With sadness we write to inform you that Frances Isabel Kaupp passed away on February 24, 2022, at home in her favorite big chair. This chair has been the source of some humor as to dimensions, Mom looking like a little girl when she sits in it to watch TV and play crossword puzzles.

Mom came from a sibling of six including Harry, Bill, Bernice, Roy, Betty and Bob. Betty is the only surviving member of that family and she resides on the west coast. Mom was very close to her sister-in-law Noreen who passed away in 1994. Mom has remained close to Noreen’s daughter Lorie and son Kelly. Over the years, Kelly has made regular visits and hunting trips to the Kaupp farm. Mom was also very close to her in-laws Mary and Raymond Kaupp, who moved to Lethbridge after leaving the family farm west of New Dayton. Mom married her life-long love and partner Howard Kaupp on June 21, 1952. Mom, who is known to most as “Franki” was raised on a farm east of Bowden with her brothers and sisters. Over the next twelve years Mom and Dad were blessed to have seven children including six boys and a daughter.

Tragically, their oldest son William (Bill to most) passed with his son Clinton in February of 2018. Howard passed away in March of 2019. Franki is survived by daughter-in-law Paula, son Patrick and wife Audrey, son Brian and friend Jeannie, son Gordon and wife Pam, son Gerald, son Shelly and wife Leslie, and daughter Karen and husband Gord. As the years rolled by the Kaupp family expanded with surviving grandchildren that include Jaime, Lindsay, Jon, Paul, Cale, Kimberly, Curtis, Tyler, Raymond, Wally, and Lexie. There are 21 great grandchildren so far.

Franki had a very full and happy life in many respects. She had an extra kind heart that guided her towards a disposition of integrity, compassion and generosity towards family, friends and many strangers who often came to visit the family farm and sometimes ended up living there for a time working and otherwise getting to know Howard and Franki. Mom had a kind and engaging way of communicating with most people that resulted in many long-lasting friendships and other positive connections in the local communities of New Dayton, Warner, Milk River, Raymond and Lethbridge. Franki was also active with Howard in politics whether at the local, provincial or federal levels. Mom served as a counselor for the county for 9 years.

Franki very much enjoyed a number of trips to Europe with Howard, and other friends, renting cars and enjoying the sites throughout England, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland and Northern Italy. In her earlier life Mom very much enjoyed curling, needle point, working with stained glass, ceramics and dancing. Franki was a social person who enjoyed a cold beer or a mixed drink of rum and coke. Sometimes she would make an exception and have more than one.

Mom made countless meals and extra great breakfasts of fried eggs, pancakes and homemade sausage for their many, visitors, friends and ever-expanding family. Franki was very proud of her family. Mom almost believed that the family farm was the best place on earth to live even when the west wind was blowing too hard, day after dusty day! And of course, she was beyond certain that marrying Howard was her best day, and his best choice, that led to long lasting happiness, a big family, and many fun adventures, vacations, parties and other get togethers at the farm one mile west of New Dayton. Howard and Franki were very proud of their home and perfect summer yard of flowers and trees that hosted many fun events and relaxing cool evenings.

Going to Church and practicing her Catholic faith was central to how Mom thought about life. Franki understood that everyone, including herself, made mistakes big and small. And just as important, she believed in the forgiveness of sin, and the life everlasting to come, hopefully in that happy place above the clouds. Thankfully, Franki will have many friends and family to greet her on her continuing journey towards the light.

Prayers will be held at 7:00 pm, on Friday March 4, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Ave South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00pm, Saturday March 5, 2022 at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405-12 Ave South, Lethbridge, Alberta.

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

KORCHINSKI

MARIA KORCHINSKI, beloved wife of the late Jaroslaw, passed away on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at the age of 85 years.

She is the loving mother of Jerry Korchinski, Nick (Sherry) Korchinski, Anna Korchinski and Kathy (George) Van Dellen. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Tyler, Krystal, Heather, Jennifer and Devon; eleven great-grandchildren and her brother Tony (Sandy) Braun.

She was predeceased by her husband of almost 57 years and her parents Heinrich and Anna Braun.

Maria was born in Forkusevci, Croatia, on July 15, 1936. She immigrated to Canada with her parents and brother in 1951. She met and married Jaroslaw in Lethbridge and they resided mainly in High River and Warner. They retired to Lethbridge in 1989. Her “house” was “HOME” to everyone who entered, with her kitchen being its heart and soul.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, March 11, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. with Sharon Hagel officiating.

Interment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.

In memory of Maria, please wear your favourite colour. In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree in her memory.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Charlene Lavkulik

1938 – 2022

Mrs. Charlene Lavkulik of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Lawrence Lavkulik, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on Monday, February 28, 2022 at the age of 83 following a lengthy illness.

Cremation entrusted to Evergreen Cremation Services to be followed by a private famiy Catholic burial.

She was dearly loved by her family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Visit http://www.evergreenfh.ca for condolences.

Elsie McAleer

1925 – 2022

Elsie McAleer (nee Iles) passed into the spirit world on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 and I have requested a private graveside service.

I wish to thank all of those that have known me since my arrival in Cardston, being a Temple worker and a Temple patron. I have met so many people here in Cardston also being a member of many wards in Cardston. I have met, loved and known many wonderful people and I ask God’s blessing be upon you all. We will meet each other again, I’m sure. In the meantime, I will say “cherio my friends, I loved you all.” May the light of Christ shine down on you all. Love Elsie.

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

NOCHASAK

DOUGALD NOCHASAK passed away in Lethbridge, on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at the age of 43 years.

A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, March 4, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. with Art Pozzi officiating.

Following the Funeral Service, Dougald will be laid to rest at Archmount Cemetery.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Sharron Nyhoff

1940 – 2022

Mrs. Sharron Patricia (Eccleston) Nyhoff, beloved wife of the late Mr. William George Herman Nyhoff, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her children, on February 27, 2022, in Lethbridge, Alberta at the age of 81 years.

Born in Whitehaven, England in 1940, Sharron spent her early childhood years in England during WWII with her mom and younger brother while her father was stationed in Italy. These difficult years, often moving for safety reasons, instilled a strength and resilience in her she demonstrated throughout her life, overcoming any challenges, facing difficulties head on with the typical British stiff upper lip.

Sharron moved to Canada in 1945, first residing in Vancouver, BC with her grandparents after the war, then on to Nelson, BC for six years, followed by Regina, SK, before settling in Lethbridge, AB as a teenager, attending LCI, where she met the love of her life, George. Upon graduation, Sharron attended the Galt School of Nursing, accomplishing her lifelong goal of becoming a nurse and marrying George in her graduation year of 1961. Together, they raised four children, Darren Nyhoff, Susan (Nyhoff) Van Ree, Doug Nyhoff and Kevin Nyhoff.

Nursing was a passion first instilled in her after suffering rheumatic fever for a year as a child and being inspired by the nurse who cared for her. She worked as a nurse for several years until the birth of her fourth child and then again part-time later in life as a passion once her children were grown. She truly reflected the spirit of Florence Nightingale, selflessly caring for others in need throughout her life. Sharron was an active member of the Galt School of Nursing Alumni, earning a Lifetime Membership award for her outstanding contributions. Her passion for helping others included looking after her mom for many years as she battled through Alzheimer’s and facilitating a support group for families of Alzheimer’s patients.

Sharron and George were inseparable, working hard and sacrificing through the years to provide a good life for their children. They built a beautiful home, took their children on many adventures and later in life were fortunate to further indulge their love of travel, enjoying many wonderful trips around the world, always returning to share their experiences with family and friends. Their love for each other was deep and long lasting.

Sharron considered her children, grandchildren and most recently, great grandchild, her greatest pride in life. Family meant everything to Sharron, and she was often at the center of and organizer of family gatherings. Her cooking and baking skills were admired and appreciated by all, particularly her grandchildren who devoured her pies, cakes, cookies and Nanaimo bars with glee. Nothing made Sharron happier than gathering everyone and seeing others enjoying the food she provided, creating family memories in the process. Sharron will be sorely missed by all, but be remembered by family as a kind, generous and caring woman, with great tenacity and strength to overcome any challenges.

Second only to family, Sharron was immensely proud of her yard, working endlessly over the years with George to keep it looking immaculate. Rain, wind nor snow could keep her from the patio, admiring the beauty of their work and proudly sharing it with others through family gatherings. Her love of gardening extended to her and George leading a beautification and management effort of the Taber Health Centre courtyard for many years.

Spirituality was an important part of Sharron’s life. She and George were active members of the youth group at McKillop United Church in their early years together, where later she mentored young women, serving as a CGIT leader for many years.

Sharron is survived by her three sons Darren (Cindy) Nyhoff, Doug (Karen) Nyhoff and Kevin (Mairi) Nyhoff; son-in-law Ken Van Ree; grandchildren Kalie Van Ree, Braeden (Ingrid) Van Ree, Taylor (Brigid Jung) Nyhoff, Mason Nyhoff, Kennedy Nyhoff, Olivia Nyhoff and Asher Nyhoff; great grandchild Octavia Van Ree; along with her brother John Eccleston and sister Janice Pritchard.

Sharron was predeceased by her husband George Nyhoff; daughter Susan (Ken) Van Ree; and parents Jack Eccleston and Mary (nee Lister) Eccleston.

A private family Inurnment took place at Mountain View Cemetery, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the McKillop United Church Memorial Fund, 2329 15 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1K 0X5 (www.mckillopunited.ca).

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

ORICH

It is in our deepest hearts to announce the passing of our lovely daughter Alicia Dawn Orich. She passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022 at Rocky View Hospital in Calgary at the age of 37 years. She is survived by her parents: Dad, Harold (Cynthia) Orich, Mom, Sandy Kemper (Dale Serson) and her children Austin and Savannah Lindsey, and birth mother to Gavin. Alicia helped Loretta, Murray and Jannah Flood complete their family with Gavin. She is also survived by her sisters and brothers Caley (Jordan) Reid, Brady Orich, Travis Serson, Samantha Serson (fiance Zach DeBoer), Jesse Serson (fiance Emmi Baril), Grandmas Barb Orich and Linda Harvey, and many uncles, aunts, nephews and nieces.

Alicia was pre-deceased by her brother Christopher Orich and Grandpa Bill Orich. There will be a private family service at a later date. Now Alicia is on her way to heaven’s gates as she helped other families with her organ donations. Now our sweet girl, spread your wings and fly!

ROBERTS

CAROL JEANNE ROBERTS (née Coverdale) gently passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Friday, February 25, 2022 at the age of 84 years.

A Come and Go Reception will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, March 4, 2022 from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M., with a short service at 3:00 P.M. with Patrick Siedlecki officiating.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

SCOUT

The family of ANITA SARAH SCOUT sadly announce her passing on Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 in Lethbridge, Alberta, at the age of 53 years of age.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA’S CHURCH, on Friday, March 4, 2022 at 12:00 P.M. with Father William Monis celebrating.

Following the Mass, Anita will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery on the Blood Reserve.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

VORNBROCK

LLOYD PAUL VORNBROCK, beloved companion of Dee Brown of Milk River, passed away at the Raymond Health Centre, on Monday, February 28, 2022 at the age of 81 years.

He is the loving father of Connie (Jim) Johnson of Chestermere, AB and Paul (Marilyn) Vornbrock of Milk River, AB as well as seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Lloyd was predeceased by his wife Judy Marie Vornbrock.

Lloyd started farming the family farm at Allerston at the age of 14 when his father passed away. He loved farm life and all the things that came with it. In 2018 he retired and moved to Milk River to be with Dee Brown.

Lloyd will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.

A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 321 Main Street, Milk River on March 8, 2022 at 10:45 A.M. with Father Salvador Ahumada, Celebrant. Interment to follow in the Allerston Cemetery.

In memory of Lloyd, memorial donations may be made to the Milk River Hospital.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Rients Wever

1932 – 2022

 In my Father’s house, there are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.   John 14:2

 Rients Wever, beloved husband of Elsa Wever passed away in Bow Island on Monday, February 28, 2022 at the age of 89 years.

 Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, March 6, 2022 between 3:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. A private funeral service will be held on Monday, March 7, 2022. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com. 

 Besides Eelkje “Elsa”, his loving wife of sixty seven years Rients is survived by their eight children James Wever (Lana Leeb), Norman (Linda) Wever, Janet (Iain) Mercer, Evelyn (Gerald) Hopkins, Susanna (Dean) Kress, Herman (Karen) Wever, Arthur (Dawn) Wever and Joyce (Albert) Visscher; thirty grandchildren and thirty nine great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Sybil (Ryk) Prins of Bow Island, sister Josien and brother Ette of the Netherlands and by numerous nieces and nephews. 

 He was predeceased by daughter-in-law Sherry Ann Wever and by numerous siblings and members of his extended family. 

 Rients, affectionately known as “Pake”, was born in Franeker, Friesland, on May 12, 1932. He left his homeland in 1951 to establish his own life in Canada. In 1954, after three years of writing, Eelkje left Friesland to come to Canada. The two were married in Lethbridge on October 28, 1954 and lived at Writing-on-Stone for a short time. The small family moved south of Burdett in 1956 to be closer to their church, where they raised their eight children. Rients was a member of the Burdett Christian Reformed Church for sixty seven years, where he served in many capacities. In 2001, Rients and Eelkje built their retirement home just two miles north of the farm. He was grateful to have been able to stay in his own home on the farm until his passing, with the love and care of his wife and family. Staying on the farm gave him the opportunity to keep in contact with neighbours and to enjoy watching the next generation continue on with the farm activities while still giving daily advice. Rients treasured his time with family and friends coming together for coffee around the kitchen table. His blue truck cruising the countryside, checking the cows and crops, will be missed. 

 If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Rients’ name may be made directly to HALO Air Ambulance, 12 – 1 Airport Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 5G4 (http://www.haloairambulance.com) or to Rehoboth Christian Ministries, Box 1312, Coaldale, Alberta T1M 1N1 (http://www.rcmflourish.ca).

 Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778. 

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