March 28th, 2024

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2015


By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on November 23, 2015.

LTH112115-D02   LTH112115-D01

1930 – DYCK – 2015

Abram “Abe” Dyck of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Eva Dyck, passed away on Wednesday, November 18th, 2015 at the age of 85 years. Abe leaves to cherish his memory his six children, Garry (Sandra) of Lethbridge, Greg (Marilyn) of Medicine Hat, Wayne (Kathy Pollock) of Medicine Hat, Clarence (Debora) of Medicine Hat, Calvin (Linda) of Irvine, and Brenda (Alan) Barton of Medicine Hat; eleven grandchildren, Tyson Dyck, Ashley Dyck, Travis (Candice) Barton, Abbe Barton, Cole Dyck, Jayme Dyck, Dillon (Amanda) Dyck, Kelsey (Tyler) Vermeer, Jordana (Brent) Dyck, Caden (Kelsey) Dyck, and Taryn Dyck; two great-grandchildren, Luke and Emry Vermeer; one brother, Nick of Lethbridge; special companion, Eleanor Mandryk of Medicine Hat; brother-in-law, David Goertzen of Lethbridge; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Abe was predeceased by his wife, Eva on May 13th, 2008; his parents, Franz and Maria; as well as numerous siblings. Abe was born on September 29th, 1930 at Standoff, Alberta and the family relocated to Coaldale shortly afterwards. He received his education at Readymade Country School and met Eva at the age of 15. They were married on June 10th, 1951. Abe and Eva farmed at Coaldale until they homesteaded at Whitla, Alberta. Abe continued to farm until 1981. He and Eva loved to travel and developed lifetime friendships from these many trips. He enjoyed his “precious metals” position at Paradise Valley Par 3 and his involvement with the Prairie Gleaners. Abe found particular enjoyment in “fast cars” and the time he spent with his family and his special companion, Eleanor. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at CRESTWOOD MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, 2348 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, on Monday from 12:00 to 12:55 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at CRESTWOOD MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH on Monday, November 23rd, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend John Willems officiating. Memorial gifts in Abe’s memory may be made to the Prairie Gleaners, PO Box 656, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 7G6. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Abe Dyck. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to 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.


Leslie “Les” Androkovich Sr.

1920 – 2015

Mr. Les Androkovich Sr. of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Isabel Androkovich, passed away on November 18, 2015 at the age of 95 years.

Les was born in Lethbridge on April 29, 1920, where he lived his first few years in town. The family then moved to a farm near Lethbridge where he and his brothers ran a dairy farm and mixed farming operation. He lived on this farm until his passing. He was a veteran of WWII, having served three years as an anti-aircraft gunner. He served on numerous boards during his farming career, including the Alberta Dairy Board. He had a lifelong love of animals, whether it was milking the dairy cows by hand during the spring storm of 1967, or sitting in his chair in his golden years talking to Daisy. His compassion for any animal shone through.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Isabel; his daughter Dianne Ell; sons Allan (Patty & Jordan), Les Jr. (Maxine) and his beloved grandson Cameron; nieces & nephews.

He is predeceased by his mother and father; two brothers Joseph and Andrew; son-in-law Dennis.

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 St. S., Lethbridge, AB.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 9:30am on Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604-13 St. N., Lethbridge, AB with Father Lukas Drapal, celebrant.

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


DINGMAN-MELANSON

JENNY DINGMAN-MELANSON, beloved wife of Raymond of Lethbridge, AB., passed away at St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit on Friday, November 20th, 2015 at the age of 58 years.

She is the loving mother of Jodi (Bjorn) Bjornson of Bassano, AB., Cassandra (Steve) Lavoie of Red Deer, AB., Albert (Lisa) Hinnegan-Ware of Brooks, AB., and ten grandchildren.

Jenny is also survived by her sisters; Alice (Gerald) Stocking, Krista (Perry) Jyont, Tina Brandt, Heidi Brandt and her brothers; John Dingmen and David Dingmen.

She was predeceased by Percy Dingmen Jr., Florence Bowls, sister Mary Chalmers, and grandson, Lucas Bjornson.

Jenny was born in London, Ontario. She moved west in 1970 with her dad, grandfather and six siblings, living in Vancouver, Calgary and the Crowsnest Pass. In 1971, they moved back to London, Ontario where she spent the rest of her childhood. She married Kenneth Hinnegan in 1979 and they had three children. The family moved to Brooks and fought to remain in beautiful Alberta. Jenny moved to Red Deer and excelled in spiritual counseling. In 1999, she met the love of her life, Raymond, and together they started a family business.

They spent time on vacation in Mexico, Curacao, Arizona and places all across Canada and the U.S.A.Finally settling in Lethbridge in 2012, Jen and Raymond found the perfect place to call home, where the scenery and community was everything they could have dreamed of. Jenny loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed reading and was a voracious addict for the written language. She loved poems and among her favourites was “The Cremation of Sam McGee”. She liked games on screen and in hand. Following an uphill struggle with cancer, she will be sorely missed by all who knew her and remembered as the one who brought peace and happiness to others.

Cremation is entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home Ltd.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Jenny, donations may be made to the Cancer Research Society, 200 Isabella Street, Suite 305, PO Box 4613, Stn. E., Ottawa, ON. K1S 1P7.

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


DUNN

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of LEONARD ELDON “DIGGER” DUNN at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, November 15, 2015 at the age of 83 years.

Missing him and his laughter are his wife and longtime partner, Vicky Dunn, his children, Holly (Norbert) Baier and Judy (Nestor) Wheeler, grandchildren, Ceejay (Shane), Kimberly, Shayla and Denae (Brody), great- granddaughter Lennon and step-grandchildren, Cody and Tyler.

Also left to mourn are his brother Ken Dunn and sisters Joye Johnson and Ruth Matthews.

He was predeceased by ten siblings as well as his parents, Ben and Cynthia.

Digger was born in Lethbridge on July 15, 1932, raised in Sundial and Turin then retired in 1993 to Picture Butte.

He was a loyal community member of many organizations including the Tractor Club, Elks, Legion, Ag Society and President of “Coffee Row”. His positive cheerful outlook on life was an inspiration to everyone. Digger’s attitude towards life is one we can all learn from. He was always optimistic, never complained, loved life, family, friends and his community. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held at MCKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329-15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB., on Monday, November 23, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Glenda Wert officiating.

If family and friends so desire, donations may be made in Digger’s name to a charity of your choice.

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

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GUNDERSON, Leonard ‘Lenny’

September 21, 1949 – November 17, 2015

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lenny Gunderson on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at the Claresholm General Hospital. He leaves behind to mourn, his wife of 30 years Lori; His loving daughters Janelle (JC) Tratnik of Claresholm and Brittany Gunderson (Andrew Field) of Lethbridge; his mother Rosemary Gunderson of Claresholm; his brother Lloyd (Connie) Gunderson of Fort Macleod; his sister Karen (Duff) Needham of Claresholm; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Lenny was born in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. When 13 years old, his family moved to Claresholm where he immediately found a passion for fixing “just about anything”. He loved to take things apart, just so he could see how they would go back together. At 16, Lenny acquired his first car, a real fixer-upper, just the way he liked it. A challenge he took on with great enthusiasm and pride. For those of Lenny’s friends that remember that car, it was in the school shop known as “The Mayflower”. From this point forward he was hooked on mechanics, with countless vehicles taken from a bare frame to an incredible work of mechanical genius. Through the years we all saw them cruising around town, or perhaps burning rubber at the traffic light! With his mechanical talent, Lenny also took on a challenge to plan and build a Snow Plane. This was a small plane that he built and mounted a large propeller on the back of the plane that would push the plane across the snow. A great achievement and a whole lot of fun… Being a Hot Rod loving Dad, he designed and built his daughters, Janelle and Brittany a scale model of a 66 Corvette Convertible. He installed an engine from an old lawn tractor, and the girls would cruise for hours with him supervising their driving skills and his pride would burst through in his smile. Lenny had an “open door policy” in his shop. No matter what he was working on, he would drop just to give a fellow friend a willing hand with whatever they needed his assistance with.

Lenny had a great passion for his “projects”. At the time of his death, he was working on 2 cars at the same time. He wouldn’t let any car out of his garage to be seen, until they passed his inspection. May we add that they always passed everyone’s inspection! A JOB WELL DONE! Thanks for the memories Lenny. REST WELL!

A Memorial Service, in remembrance of Lenny, will be held on Monday, November 23, 2015 at 2:00 pm at Willow Creek Funeral Home (4079-1 Street West, Claresholm). (Former Leyden’s Funeral Home) Memorial donations may be made to the Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre Staff Fund (Box 700, Claresholm, Alberta T0L 0T0)

Arrangements and cremation entrusted to Willow Creek Funeral Home, Claresholm. Phone 403-625-3212


JOHNSTON

ALAN JOHN JOHNSTON, beloved husband of Katie Johnston, passed away in Lethbridge on Friday, November 13, 2015 at the age of 72 years.

Alan was born on October 1, 1943 in Kent, England, the only child of Alan Edward Johnston and Valerie (Newland) Bullen.

Alan is survived by the love of his life Katie, his Mother Val Bullen, his children Samuel Johnston, Rachel (Timothy) Frantz, Rebecca (Mitchell) Casson, Sarah (Jonathan) Sangster; his Grandchildren Lauren and Taylor Johnston, Griffin Casson, London and Mason Sangster; Luke (Jill), Melissa (Vasil), Tyson, Lee, Ryan, Aidan and Angelica Frantz. He is also survived by one niece Esther Kristina and her family, as well as his half brother Bruce Johnston, and half sister Marlene Cambridge.

Alan is predeceased by his father and his youngest daughter Michaela Kay Johnston.

Al grew up in West Wickam, Kent, England, during World War 2. He attended Malvern College, a prestigious boarding school, where he received Top Prize in England for Chemistry, and served as a member of the Air Cadets. He went on to Liverpool University studying Biological Sciences when Katie his eternal partner came into his life. After marrying, he started work at the Swiss Bank in the fraud department all because of his love for numbers. Alan later moved to the USA with his wife and young children to attend BYU and graduated Magna Cum Laude. He then Immigrated to Canada in 1975 to start a new life with his family in this area where his father and grandfather were raised.

Alan and his wife were asked by the Government to start a Community Health Service Agency, where he spent the remainder of his career serving people of his community. He had a Great Love of People and cared deeply for the well being of others.

Alan was a Great Teacher, Leader, Son, Husband, Father and Grandfather; Cherished Patriarch of our Family. He was a Noble and True Gentleman; Faithful and Committed to all that is Right and Truthful.

Friends may meet with the Family at CHRISTENSEN SALMON GENERATIONS FUNERAL HOME, 703-13 Street North, Lethbridge on Friday November 20, 2015 from 7:00pm to 8:00pm and at the church November 21, 2015 from 10:00am to 10:45am.

Funeral Services will be held at the WESTSIDE STAKE CENTER, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 560 Highlands Blvd West on Saturday November 21, 2015 at 11:00am. Interment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.


JOSEPH BIEGUN

(1924-2015)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Biegun, beloved husband of Evelyn Biegun, formerly of the Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. A dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, who, at the age of 90 years, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2015 with his loving wife and daughter at his side at their residence in the West Highland Centre in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Joseph was born on December 10, 1924 in Coleman, Alberta to parents Andrew and Victoria Biegun. He was always a very hardworking and quiet individual who enjoyed all that he had. His dedicated character, humble work ethic, kind nature and prowess on the dance floor drew the attention of a lovely young lady, Evelyn Cizek, and the young couple pledged their love in holy matrimony on August 21, 1948 in St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Blairmore. They were further blessed with four children whom they cherished and loved.

Joseph was a proud member of the Coleman Volunteer Fire Department for over 25 years. He was also a member of the Coleman Curling Club, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and an active volunteer within the community. He had a passion for hockey and played defence for the Coleman Grands. He dedicated his spare time to coaching and refereeing the minor leagues for many years. He also had a passion for fly-fishing, camping, the game of horseshoes, cycling (even into his late 70’s), playing with his children and grandchildren and most of all, for every moment spent with his beloved wife, Evelyn. Joe was greatly respected and admired and now he shall be dearly remembered and missed.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Biegun of Lethbridge, AB; his three daughters, Linda Biegun of Edmonton, AB, Lorraine (Leland) Marconi of Coleman, AB and Ginette (Gerry) Goulet of Water Valley, AB; his grandchildren, Jennifer (Brandon) Dubois, Jaime Anderson, Travis (Deanna) Biegun, Matthew (Jacky) Johnson, Nicholas (Amanda) Johnson, Emilie Biegun, Gordon (Angela) Marconi and Janet Hamley; his eleven great grandchildren; his sister Louise DeLuca; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family; as well as the many friends that he made throughout his lifetime.

He was predeceased by his parents, Andrew & Victoria Biegun; his son, David Biegun; and his sister, Jennie Hucik.

A private family service will be held in honour of Joe’s memory at a later date. Condolences may be registered at http://www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca. Donations in memory of the late Joseph Biegun may be made to the CNP Minor Hockey Assoc., Box 1321, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0.

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.


Albert Anthony Kenwood

1924 – 2015

With sadness, the family of Al Kenwood announces his passing at the age of 91 years. He leaves his wife of 64 years Veronica (nee Pyne), his sons Paul (Cindy), Stephen (Jill), and Brian (Kelley); his daughters Cecily and Laura (Bobby); his grandchildren Jon Paul, Camilla, Connor, and Madeleine; and Kelley’s sons Ryan, Colton and Hunter. He was predeceased by his son John Thomas, his parents Anthony and Jessie Kunigiskis and his brother and sister-in-law Joe and Betty Kenwood.

Al was born in Kalvarija, Lithuania. His family immigrated to southern Alberta in 1928, taking residence in Lethbridge where he was raised and educated. Al attended McGill University, graduating in 1948 from the Faculty of Engineering. He began his professional endeavours as a civil engineer in the offices of Meech & Mitchell, Poole Construction and Oland Brothers Construction. With his father and brother, Al established Kenwood Engineering Construction Ltd. in 1957, leading the business until his retirement in 1999. Under his direction, his family’s business left a legacy of one of southern Alberta’s preeminent construction firms. Albert was the president of the Lethbridge Construction Association in 1964.

Al was an avid sports enthusiast, known widely for his commitment to the play and development of golf at the Lethbridge Golf and Country Club, Henderson Lake Golf Club and Paradise Canyon. He and Vera traveled extensively, often with their golf clubs at hand.

His family wishes to express its sincere thanks to the staff at St. Therese Villa, Dr. Colin Walsh, Gwen Oliver and the many others who provided care and compassion in his late life.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:30pm, on Monday, November 23, 2015 at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, at 2405 – 12 Avenue South, Lethbridge.

Flowers are gratefully declined. In memory of Albert donations may be made to the John Kenwood Scholarship Fund through the Community Foundation of Lethbridge (A: Unit #50, 1202 – 2 Avenue South Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0N1 and T:403.328.5297).

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


Jose Afrodicio Solano Minero 1927 – 2015

Jose Afrodicio Solano Minero of San Juan Nonualco and beloved adopted city of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on November 12, 2015 at the age of 87.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm, on Saturday, November 21, 2015, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4th Street South, Lethbridge, with Marsha Graveland officiating. Inurnment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.

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


Myrtle Marguerite Wesgate

1921 – 2015

Myrtle Wesgate, beloved wife of the late William Wesgate, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Lethbridge, Alberta on November 11, 2015 at the age of 94 years.

Myrtle was born at St. Claude, Manitoba. Her family later moved to Hood, Manitoba and she attended school there. After completing her education Myrtle moved to Winnipeg where she was employed by Great West Life Insurance.

On New Year’s Day, 1951, Myrtle married William Wesgate and became a farmer’s wife on the homestead at Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. They had one daughter, Ardelle, and were wonderful parents. While she loved the farm life, Myrtle also enjoyed many other fulfilling activities including Ladies Aid, Royal Purple, Parliamentary Procedure, Portage la Prairie Chamber of Commerce, and Toastmistress where she won several speech contests. Myrtle was employed for many years at the Portage Credit Union.

Myrtle is survived by her daughter Ardelle Wesgate-Mueller (Michael), grandsons Christopher (Paula) McDonald, Heath McDonald, great grandchildren Ethan McDonald and Lauren McDonald, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband William, parents Desiré, and Johanna Mazurat, sister Vernace (Sylvestre) Belanger, brother-in-law Hilton (Polly) Wesgate, sisters-in-law Olive Wesgate and Hazel (John) Beam and dear friends Olwyn Rogers and Esther Mazurat.

A Funeral Memorial Service will be held in Portage la Prairie in 2016.

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

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