By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 29, 2016.
BEACH
CLAIRE M.K. BEACH, beloved husband of Sophie Beach, of Coaldale, passed away at their home on Sunday, January 24, 2016 at the age of 67 years.
He is the loving father of Ken (Rochelle Lavieille) Beach of Medicine Hat, AB. and Derek (Marcy) Beach of Taber AB., a cherished grandfather to Alyssa of Bigfork, MT. USA, Emma of Medicine Hat, AB. Avery of Medicine Hat, AB. Rebecca of Medicine Hat, AB. and Rylan of Taber, AB. He is also survived by his sisters Alvina and Marilyn and brothers Wayne, Allen, and Graham. Claire was predeceased by his parents Alvin and Nancy Beach, his brother Locke and sisters Audrey and Connie.
Claire was born on November 7, 1948 in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. He attended school there until grade 11. At the age of 15 he started working on various farms to earn some money. Claire moved to Alberta in 1966 and never looked back. He had various jobs throughout the years which included underground mining, operating a tow truck, working in the oilfield, and most recently long haul trucking. He married Sophie in 1971 in Calgary, AB and eventually settled in Taber, AB where they raised their 2 boys. In 2000 they relocated to Coaldale where they currently live. Claire enjoyed fishing, playing crib and working in his garage. Most recently he became the president of the Coaldale Seniors Center. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, visiting and reminiscing.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB. on Friday, January 29, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. An Interment will follow at the Taber Memorial Garden Cemetery.
In Memory of Claire, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association – 210D 12A street North, Lethbridge, AB.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
BIRD, DEBRA E.
66 (nee Bikman) of Petersburg, NJ passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at her home.
Debra is remembered as a woman who effortlessly balanced running a large household and multiple family-owned ventures, serving her church, and contributing to the community.
Debra’s Christ-like love and service were undeniable. She inspired and motivated others to achieve similar excellence.
Debra was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada to Bill and Erma Bikman. She was the middle of three children. Her father was the son of Jewish Russian immigrants; her mother descended from Mormon Pioneers who trekked to the western United States pushing handcarts. Her father rose from nothing to become a successful businessman and prominent member of the community. Her mother was the ideal homemaker, successful entrepreneur, and golf hustler.
Debra achieved success at a young age. She knit, modeled, and sold clothes in her mother’s store, scored #1 in Alberta’s matriculation exam, and excelled in athletics. She attended Brigham Young University where she majored in English and met her husband, Ronald Craig Bird.
Debra and Craig had their first 8 kids while living primarily in Las Vegas NV. In 1986, she and her family moved to Upper Township NJ, where they grew their family to 11 kids.
In 1989, Debra designed and settled the family into their current home, which became known as the “Bird Compound” and “Babba’s House”. Debra opened her home to family, friends, and the community and established it as a place that fully embraced the mantra “work hard, play hard”. Countless neighbourhood kids could tell stories of coming to play at the Bird’s home, only to be Tom Sawyered.
She is survived by her husband, R. Craig Bird of Petersburg, NJ, 11 chilldren, 25 grandchildren, her parents,William and Erma Bikman, two brothers, Gary Bikman and Shane Bikman all of Canada.
Her legacy lives on through her husband, 11 kids, 25 grandkids and counting, and the lives of all those whom she so deeply influenced. Til we meet again.
Her Funeral Service was held Thursday, January 21st at 12pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Egg Harbor Township, NJ
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to SHORE Education Fund in Debra’s name to 5218 Atlantic Avenue Suite 300, Mays Landing, NJ 08330
Ludmilla “Emily†Busowsky
1925 – 2016
Ludmilla “Emily†Busowsky of Lethbridge, Alberta passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the age of 90 years old. Emily is survived by her children Garry (Lynette Harwood) of Melbourne, Australia and Jane (Cal) Misener of Bowen Island, BC. Emily has 3 grandchildren with 6 great- grandchildren.
Emily was born in Andreiwka, Ukraine on July 1st, 1925. At a very young age, she showed signs of determination, adventure and tenaciousness. She was curious and was keen to learn. Emily had high hopes for her life. Then in the fall of 1936 the world had turned chaotic and at a tender age, Emily found herself without a father and without a home. Like so many people, the beginning of WWII had horrific events interfering with Emily plans to be an aviation mechanic and a school teacher. After travelling for almost a year, Emily ended up in a refugee camp where she worked with orphan children. Trying to find a way out, she wrote letters to her father’s relatives and headed for Austria. In Austria, Emily met her future husband, Nick Busowsky. Immigration was a reality for many people and Emily wanted to see the world. Emily immigrated to Canada and worked as a domestic with a family with young children. Nick also immigrated with his family to Canada. Nick and Emily were married in 1949. They saved enough money to buy their own farm near Shaughnessy, AB. They raised 2 children – Garry and Jane. Emily worked hard on the farm but it was a very happy time for her. In 1970 the Busowsky family moved to Lethbridge. Emily started working – first at Canada Packers and then at IGA as a meat wrapper. She then worked as an assistant at the Lethbridge Community College helping young adults get training in a meat cutting course. A natural teacher, she helped and encouraged young people with their careers. Fluent in many languages, Emily was often asked to be a translator.
In retirement, Emily and Nick travelled to many countries. Emily was always very keen to learn about new cultures and just wanted to see the world.
Throughout her life, Emily was an active member with the Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church – choir and with the ladies membership. Emily started a Ukrainian dance group in the church basement. She was very proud of her dancers and their performances. She had a love of gardening. Emily so loved her family, friends and cherished all the moments she had with them. Emily enjoyed being with other people and socializing. Truth, integrity and a love for life was with her until the end of her time. She always had a lovely smile.
The family would like to thank Gladium staff members, Dr. Greidanus and St. Therese Villa staff for her care during the last few years, the Ukrainian congregation for their never ending love and support, the very Reverend Father Taras from Calgary for providing the service and a thank you to all the wonderful friends and neighbors who were always willing to lend a hand.
Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:00pm, on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am, on Monday, February 1, 2016, at HOLY TRINITY UKRAINIAN GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, 643 13 St N, Lethbridge, with the Very Reverend Father Taras Krochak officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society #402-740 4th Ave. South, Lethbridge, AB. T1J 0N9.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Dorothy May Duquenne
“Dufrenseâ€
1927 – 2016
Dorothy May Duquenne “Dufrense†of Lethbridge, passed away on January 23, 2016 at the age of 88 years.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, February 1, 2016 at the LETHBRIDGE CHRISTIAN TABERNACLE, 1805 9 Ave North, Lethbridge AB, with Barb Roycroft officiating.
Interment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
ERMA PETERS
We are sad to advice of the passing of Erma Peters on Jan 22, 2016 in Lethbridge.
Erma was born on June 5, 1924 in Romania to Bert Sr and Mary Schwartzkopf. She is survived by one loving son, David Peters and one brother Bert (Vera) Schwartzkopf Jr., and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her father Bert Sr., mother Mary, sister Helen Ramis, sister Mary Medve and ex-husband Floyd Peters.
Erma came to Canada in 1937 with her mother and sisters. She helped in the family’s farming business.
She had several jobs around Southern Alberta and being a food attendant in Waterton Lake was what she liked the most. She worked in a salon named Belle a’ Monde to which she eventually became co-owner, took up Hairdressing in Lethbridge and became the sole owner of the salon.
She can be remembered as a happy person that was always willing to help. She was the grandma of her youngest sister’s children.
She loves flowers and did a lot of yard work. Her yard was pretty as a picture.
She also loves singing and belongs to a singing group called Sweet Adeline.
Erma’s remain were cremated and memorial service will be held on Feb 7, 2016 at Senior’s Center, from 0200- 0500 pm. Snacks will be served.
GAUMONT, Sharon Anna
(nee Wright)
December 5, 1953 – Medicine Hat, Alberta
January 27, 2016 – Calgary, Alberta
On January 27, 2016 at 6:00 a.m., we lost our loving Wife and Best Friend, Mother, and Grandmother. Sharon died peacefully with her daughters and husband by her side.
Sharon is survived by her wonderful, caring and loving husband Dennis Gaumont. She also leaves behind her beautiful daughters Alexandra Chell (Justin Lobdell), Lauren Chell and their supportive father Stan Chell.
Sharon would also like to recognize her fantastic stepson and daughter-in-law Marc and Sherri Gaumont; precious granddaughters Brette and Kadi Gaumont, Kira Chell, McKenna Lobdell and Alyssa Lobdell; very special Aunt Loreen Wright and her children Glenn Wright, Patricia Wright, Randy (Cathy) Wright and James (Kris) Wright, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Sharon was the special niece of and predeceased by her Aunt Lillian (Bub) Wright, Uncle Orville Wright and Aunt Grace Spoonheim. A special thanks to Oncology Dr. Veronica Sam and Dr. Don Morris at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and their caring nurses. Also a special thanks to the Palliative Care doctors and nurses and all the wonderful staff at the Rosedale Hospice.
There will be no funeral service as Sharon’s life will be celebrated by friends and family at a later date. Condolences may be forwarded through http://www.mcinnisandholloway.com.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, c/o Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 – 29 Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4N2 Telephone: 1 (866) 412-4222. http://www.albertacancer.ca/memorial.
In living memory of Sharon Gaumont, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W., CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3 Telephone: 1-800-661-1599.
JESSOP
DENNIS ALAN JESSOP passed away peacefully in Raymond on Tuesday Jan 26 2016 at the age of 76. Dennis leaves to mourn his wife Sandra, Children: Dale (Sandy), Clark (Nancy), Judy, Gary (Norma). 11 Grandchildren. Sisters: Joan Ruckman, Bonnie Rowland, Jessalyn Houghton.
Predeceased by his parents Jesse and Margaret, Brother Leo and son Kenneth.
Dennis attended NAIT and received his Gas fitters ticket and for many years was branch manager at Canadian Propane. He trucked several years and was also in construction. Dennis was a real people person and will be missed by his family and many friends.
The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, TAYLOR STREET CHAPEL, Highway 52 West, Raymond, with Bishop Corry Tolman officiating.
Friends may meet the family prior to the funeral service at the church from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m.
Interment to follow in the Magrath Cemetery.
KENZIE
ORIN KENZIE, beloved husband of Joyce Kenzie, of Lethbridge, AB. passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at the age of 72 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
NEUBEKER
July 24, 1928 – January 12, 2016
WILBERT NEUBEKER passed away peacefully at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital at the age of 87 surrounded by his children.
He leaves to mourn his passing his son Dale (Shirley) of Rocky Mountain House and two daughters, Diane Herrick (George) of Lethbridge and Laurel Rous (Doug) of Claresholm, 6 grandchildren, Leland (Jessica), Courtney (Deryk) of Rocky Mountain House, Cora (Steve) and Glen of Lethbridge, Kyle (Kelly) and Jared (Devon) of Claresholm and 4 great- grandchildren Larissa, Laila, Reed, and Deigan.
He is survived by his brother Fred, sisters Minnie, Mary and Joan, many nieces and nephews and the mother of his children, Carol Neubeker of Claresholm.
Wilbert was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Elizabeth Neubeker, four brothers Johnny, Henry, Elmer, Ernie and two sisters Kay and Isabel.
Wilbert was born in Bateman, Saskatchewan. In his mid 20’s, he moved to work in Calgary. Later, he moved to Stavely to become a successful farmer where he raised his family with Carol. His passion was purebred Hereford cattle and growing mixed grain. After he retired from farming, Wilbert relocated to High River. Wilbert enjoyed bowling, woodworking, golfing and fishing.
A Private Graveside Service was held January 15 at 2 pm at the Neubeker Family Plot in Bateman, Saskatchewan.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Kevin Weiss
1972 – 2016
Kevin Weiss, beloved son of Sophie Weiss and the late Stan Weiss, passed away peacefully at the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre, on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 after a hard fought battle with cancer at the age of 43 years.
Kevin is survived by his mother Sophie; brother’s Kent (Melissa), Kyle (Cali) and sister Kari (Stuart) Traber. Also surviving Kevin are 4 nieces; 4 nephews; 1 great-niece as well as numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and their families. Kevin was predeceased by his father Stan in 2011.
Kevin was born in Taber, Alberta and has lived in various cities and towns as well as a brief time in Germany while attending university, most recently residing in Lethbridge. Kevin began his work experience at SF Scott in Medicine Hat. He then managed the Consumer’s Distributing in Swift Current and after receiving his Bachelor of International Management, he worked in various financial institutions, most recently as Branch Manager of 1st Choice Savings in Taber. Kevin enjoyed fishing, camping, golfing, gardening, anything outdoors, fine wines, exotic foods, travelling and new experiences. Friends and family will remember Kevin as an intelligent, kind, caring gentle giant.
A Celebration of Kevin’s Life will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 at the MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4 Street South, Lethbridge, with Pastor Rodger Halvorsen officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canada Cancer Society, 317-10 St. S., Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 9Z9 or to St. Michael’s Health Centre Foundation, 1400-9 Ave. S., Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 4V5.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.