WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2016

BAKER

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather LAWRENCE ROBERT BAKER on January 24th, 2016.

Lawrence was born and raised in Medicine Hat and moved to Lethbridge in 1972 to attend the University of Lethbridge after 3 years at the Medicine Hat College. He played basketball for the Rattlers and the Horns and was a fierce inside competitor earning him the nickname Ox. He became a teacher for Lethbridge School District 51 in 1974 and taught at Hamilton Junior High followed by LCI for a career spanning more than 30 years. His passion was teaching students and coaching basketball. He coached hundreds of young men and women and taught them what it was like to excel both on and off the court. He never gave up and taught all of us to fight to the end no matter the odds.

His recreational passion was playing slow pitch with his friends and competing in the World Senior’s Games tournament every year in St. George, Utah. Last October was his 19th year competing despite battling double knee replacements and cancer in the last five years.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn, his daughters Jaylene and Jodi, his 4 grandchildren Kristen, Cassidy and Cayley Fournier, and Jayden Baker, and by his brother and sister Raymond Baker and Arianne Baker.

There will be no public funeral services by his request. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Cancer Society or to Jumpstart and/or Kidsport so his legacy of helping athletes may continue on.

HARRY STEPHEN BURDEN, of Lethbridge, passed away at St. Therese Villa on Tuesday, January 26th, 2016 at the age of 73 years. Arrangements will be announced when completed.

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

IRENE CARTER, was born December 24, 1937 beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister ,aunt and friend passed away January 17, 2016.

Irene is survived by her husband of 55 years Jack, daughter Lisa (Dean), grandchildren, Forrest, McKenzie and Chance, sister Mary and nieces Renee, Carol (Greg) and their children. Irene loved to spend time with family and friends, especially her dear and long time friend Jan; as well as her cousin Mary, with whom she travelled the world and shared precious memories old and new. These friendships were all that Irene talked about. Irene loved her family especially her grandchildren; they truly held a special place in her heart. Irene cheered her grandchildren on while watching baseball, soccer, football and hockey, as she was so proud of their accomplishments. Irene loved to garden and everyone admired her beautiful yard year after year. Irene was involved with many organizations and spoke of them often and fondly. She will be missed dearly.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 – Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge on Friday, January 29th, 2016 at 1:00 P.M., with Deacon Frank Peta officiating. A time of fellowship & refreshments will follow.

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

Elizabeth “Betty” Horsman, beloved wife of James “Jim” Horsman of Medicine Hat, passed away on Friday, January 22nd, 2016 at the age of 76 years. Betty also leaves to cherish her memory three daughters, Cathy (Grant Schaber) Horsman, Diana (Trevor) Nakka, and Susan (Troy) Thieman; and nine grandchildren, Matt, Ben, Megan, Rachel, Nate, Clark, Whitney, Emily and Jackson. She is also survived by cousins and their families in England. Betty was predeceased by her parents, Thompson and Marian Whitney. Betty was born in Bassano on July 18th, 1939 and was raised on the Whitney Pioneer Ranch and in Ralston. After graduating from Medicine Hat High School, Betty attended the University of Alberta where she earned her B.Ed. After graduating university, Betty taught school in the Medicine Hat School District #76. She met her future husband, Jim, on a blind date. It was the first, and last, blind date for both of them. They were married on July 4th, 1964 and their marriage of over 50 years is a tribute to their love. Throughout their marriage, Betty shared Jim’s passion and commitment to public service during his five terms as MLA for Medicine Hat and upon retirement, as Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge. As a teacher of Math, Science, and French in the Medicine Hat School District #76 for 16 years, she inspired many students. She taught at AJHS from 1960 to 1966 and after raising her three beautiful daughters, she returned to teaching from 1983 to 1993 at CHHS. An active volunteer in the community, Betty was President of the Kinettes, volunteered in the ESL Program at Hat High, was Treasurer of the WOC at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, and served for many years on the Executive of the local Progressive Conservative Association. A charter member of the local Chapter J of the P.E.O., she recently resumed her active membership. She also appreciated her meetings with the Medicine Hat Retired Teachers Association. Betty enjoyed travelling, gardening, reading and needlework. Not only was she an admirer of art with an impressive collection, Betty was also a talented painter herself. She was known as a woman of taste, whose elegant wardrobe and bright smile were her hallmarks. She truly loved the company of her family and friends, especially looking after her grandchildren. Her Kinettes, Kinsmen, and teaching friendships have been constant throughout the years. She cared lovingly for her many dogs and cats who held a special place in her heart. Betty will be missed greatly and remembered fondly by all those who knew and loved her.

“And I shall hear, tho’ soft you tread above me

And all my dreams will warm and sweeter be

If you’ll not fail to tell me that you love me

I’ll simply sleep in peace until you come to me.”

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, on Thursday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at ST. JOHN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 504 – 2nd Street SE, Medicine Hat, on Friday, January 29th, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Dr. Nancy Cocks and Dr. David J. Carter co-officiating. Interment will take place at St. Margaret’s Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Betty’s memory may be made to the SPCA, 55 Southwest Drive SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8, or to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent through http://www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Betty Horsman. 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.

DENNIS ALAN JESSOP, beloved husband of Sandra, passed away in Raymond on Tuesday, January 26, 2016. Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.

MR. BAZYLI WILLIAM KICZULA, known lovingly by all as “Bill”, of Vulcan, AB passed away peacefully at the age of 93 years on January 22, 2016. Bill was born to John and Sophia Kiczula in Firlejiw, Ukraine; he survived his wife, Margaret Kiczula, who enjoyed each other’s company in marriage for 56 years. Bill lived in a small village in the Ukraine until 1940 when – at the age of 17 – his, and other families from the area, were taken from their home by the KGB to the Siberia work camps. After 3 years in the camp, Bill entered the Polish army where he became the gunner on a tank, traveling across Europe and the Middle East. To the humour of those who knew his sense of direction later in life, Bill was the main navigator on the tank. After the war, he volunteered for assignment in Canada with the Canadian Agricultural Commission. Having arrived in Southern Alberta, Bill worked on various farms and in trades around the province before finally settling in Vulcan and taking a job with the local hotel where he worked as a bartender for nearly thirty years. Bill was jovial and entertaining, making many friends in town and eventually he met and later married Margaret MacLean with whom he had three children, all raised in Vulcan. Bill worked for the Canadian Legion in Vulcan before retiring to spend time with his family and on his hobbies: carpentry, playing cards, and making wisecracks. Loving to work with his hands, Bill enjoyed building and refurbishing furniture, making repairs, and working outdoors whenever he could. He was always ready with a smile and a laugh, reminding those around him to enjoy life and to only take seriously the things that mattered. Known for his kindness and wonderful personality, Bill lit up the lives of all those he met, and he will be missed by family and friends, who will always remember the sound of his intoxicating laugh. Bill was predeceased by: his wife Margaret Kiczula of Vulcan, AB; parents John and Sophia Kiczula; two sons in child birth John and David Kiczula; brothers Steve, Elias, Gabriel, and Mike Kiczula, sisters Olga, Ann, and Kathrina Kiczula; brothers-in-law Wally Krall of Lethbridge, AB, Ed Zilke, Vulcan, AB; sisters-in-law Mary Zilke of Vulcan, AB, Dorothy Krall of Lethbridge, AB; and nephew John Kiczula of Hamilton, ON. Bill is survived and dearly missed by: his children: Mary Van Zwol and Bernice Kiczula of Lethbridge, AB; Donald Kiczula of Picture Butte, AB; his grandchildren Cindy and Leslie Van Zwol of Lethbridge, AB, and Ryan and Dylan Kiczula of Picture Butte, AB; sister-in-law Rose (Wayne) Schellhorn of Lethbridge, AB; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate a Funeral Mass for Bill at ST. ANDREWS CATHOLIC CHURCH: 330 – 1st Street South, Vulcan, AB on Thursday January 28th at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Ed Hospet Celebrant. Interment to follow at Vulcan Cemetery. In memory of Bill, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Legion – Branch #21, Box 175, Vulcan, AB T0L 2B0.

1952 – 2016

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Charles Larter on January 21, 2016 at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, at the age of 63 years. Michael was the beloved father of Rob and Keltie (mother Melanie) grandfather of Tyler and Karen’s best friend.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm, Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, AB.

Donations may be made in Michael’s name to the The Lung Association, Alberta & NWT, #208, 17420 Stony Plain Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T56 1K6.

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

Erma passed away peacefully in Lethbridge on January 22,2016. She is survived by a son Dave Peters, and a brother Bert (Vera) Schwartzkopf. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews: BettyLou (Bob), Doug (Rita) Medve of Lethbridge, Albert (Pat) Medve of Lethbridge, Margret Jones of Calgary, Joyce (Bill) Erickson of Bow Island, Marlene (Jim) Jurris of Picture Butte, Arlene (Doug) Fox of Lethbridge, Steve (Shelly) Ramius of Diamond City, Kathy Ment of Lethbridge, Laurie (Brant) Baker of Nobleford, Karen (Bernie) Genswien of Lethbridge, and Brian (Crystal) Schwartzkopf of Coalhurst. Erma is survived by 16 great nieces, 3 great nephews, and 21 great great nieces. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

1935 – 2016

FRANK SCHAFFER, passed away on Tuesday, January 25, 2016 at the age of 80 years, after a long battle with prostate cancer.

Frank is survived by his loving wife Judith, their children Gregory (Sally), Douglas (Lisa) and Susan (Denis) Letourneau as well as five grandchildren, Laurel, Claire, Neil, Cole and Ella. He was predeceased by his parents and siblings.

Frank much enjoyed XC skiing, hiking and gardening. Frank has chosen cremation and it is his wish that there be no funeral service.

To send a condolence, and in lieu of flowers, for memorial donation

information, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

STODDARD

REATHA ADA WALBURGER STODDARD, beloved wife of the late Ray Stoddard, passed away on January 22, 2016 at Good Samaritans in Magrath, AB. where she has resided for the last 6 years.

Reatha is survived by her three children, Raeola (Baker), Randy and Wade Stoddard; 11 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren; as well as daughter in laws, Judy Greig, Pat and Linda Stoddard. She was predeceased by her husband Ray in 2003; son Terry; daughter Shelly Dee; son in-law Dan Baker; and grandson Todd Stoddard. She was also predeceased by her parents Henry and Ivy Walburger; brothers Mick and Ted; and sister Margeria Lemieux.

Reatha was born in Magrath on July 24, 1918 and was the first child of Henry and Ivy Walburger. She was raised in Del Bonita with her siblings Mick, Ted, and Margeria and spent many happy hours playing in the hills, herding the families large sheep herd, and playing with her friends who lived just across the U.S. Border. She also attended school in Del Bonita, Cardston, and Lethbridge.

Reatha married Ray on September 21, 1939 in the Cardston Alberta Temple, and they established their first home in Picture Butte. Further moves took them to Jefferson, Spring Coulee, Cardston, Medicine Hat, and Lethbridge. Reatha was an ambitious, hard worker who loved her garden, yard, and flowers. She always beautified her surroundings wherever she lived. Reatha was involved in her community through service on town council as well as activity in church organizations. She opened “The Owls Nest”, a craft store in Cardston, and enjoyed operating her own business in the community. Her home was always open to friends and family where many delicious meals were served and shared. Ray and Reatha enjoyed time spent traveling both personally and through service in the Cardston Lion’s Club to Japan, Australia, Hawaii and many weekends throughout Montana.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 28th at 11:30 AM in the Cardston Cemetery with Bishop Ryan Anderson of the Magrath 1st Ward officiating. Friends and Family of Reatha are invited to attend the graveside service and join the family to celebrate her life at the Cardston Senior Center (260 -1st street West) following the interment. Condolences may be sent to: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Reatha’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society, 317- 10th St. South, Lethbridge AB T1J 2M7

OKA-DILLON

HAILEY MAY OKA-DILLON, daughter of Kennedy Oka and Evan Dillon, passed away in Cardston, Alberta on January 23, 2016 at the age of 7 years.

The Wake Service will be held at the Moses Lake Community Hall, Blood Reserve on Thursday, January 28th from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Friday, January 29th at 11:00 a.m.

Send condolences to: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

RONALD VANEE, of Lethbridge, beloved spouse of Leanna Currie, passed away at the St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at the age of 56 years.

A Private Family Graveside Service and Interment will be held at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY.

A Come and Go Reception will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB., on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 from 2:30 – 4:30 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ron may be made to the St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit, 1400-9th Ave. South, Lethbridge, AB., T1J 4V5

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

SUSAN WALL, beloved mother, grandmother and great- grandmother, of Lethbridge, passed away at the St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit, on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the age of 73 years.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at the ARMY, NAVY & AIRFORCE CLUB, 517 – 5th Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at 2:00 P.M. with Pastor Dick Deweert officiating.

An Interment Service will take place at a later date in Manitoba.

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