By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on June 17, 2016.
BARAN
ROSE passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa in Lethbridge, Alberta on Tuesday, June 14th, 2016 at the age of 95 years.
She was predeceased by her husband Mike (Michal) in 1980, her infant son Mike, parents Frank and Amalia Benci, as well as her younger brother Louis and sister-in-law Mary.
She is survived by her son, Jerry (Ann) of Turin, grandchildren Stephanie (Jon), David (Andrea), Nancy, and Shelley (Derek). She is also survived by her daughter: Ann (Stan) Varva and family; her brother, Frank (Helen) Benci, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Rose also leaves behind her dear friend, Mary Ann Kubik of St. Therese Villa, and godchildren, Shirley Gruending and Gladys Hamilton.
Rose was born in Zavar, Slovakia on March 9th, 1921. She immigrated to Canada with her parents and brothers in 1937 to Tilley, Alberta. The family later moved to Picture Butte where Rose met her husband, Mike while working on a farm in the area. Mike and Rose were married on November 28, 1939. They bought a farm in Turin where she resided with Mike and raised their family. In 1972, Mike and Rosie retired and moved to Lethbridge where she resided in her own home until 2010.
She had a wonderful personality and was full of laughter and joy. She was a great cook and especially enjoyed making her favorite foods: perogies, cabbage rolls, chow mein and apple strudel. She also loved to play cards, working in her garden and enjoyed watching wrestling on television (farm life stopped for Saturday afternoon wrestling). Rose was always interested in what was happening on the farm – she always asked if seeding was finished, how the crops were doing, how many calves were born and if harvesting was finished. She loved her grandchildren, enjoyed spending time with them and always inquired about their well-being.
In February 2010, Rose left her home and moved to St. Theresa Villa where she touched the lives of many people living there including staff. She recently celebrated her 95th birthday in the place she called her home.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 – Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, on Friday, June 17th, 2016 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, on Saturday, June 18th, 2016 at 11:00 A.M., with Deacon Frank Peta officiating.
Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Barton “Bart” Kesler
1933 – 2016
Mr. Bart Kesler of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Shirley Kesler, passed away at the Legacy Lodge on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at the age of 83 years.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects from 6:00pm – 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 St. S., Lethbridge, AB.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at the COAST HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE, 526 Mayor Magrath Drive, Lethbridge, AB T1J 3M2. A private family interment will be held in the Royal View Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
BIG THROAT
It is with great and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our Son, Father, Husband, Grandfather and Brother, DARCY ALBERT BIG THROAT, “Ninaapiitaohkiitopii” (Eagle Chief Riding), of Lethbridge, at the St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit, on Sunday, June 12th, 2016 at the age of 55 years.
Darcy is survived by his loving soulmate Donna Oka. His Mother and Step-father Veronica and Raymond Brewer. His six daughters, Janelle (Adam) Veronica (Darryl) Darcelle, Amanda (Jaye) Simon, Michelle (Cody) and Hannah. Step-Children Tiffany, Cody, Leslie, Tamara (Brad), Tashina and Trinity. His Grandchildren Darcy-James, Lilianna, Adam Lane, Danica, Rosaliya, Marcus, Lennox, Noelle, Josie, Jaylin, Leillah, Autumn, Sienna, Treycen, Shea, Conan, Rowan, Esperanza, Kora, Bexley, Trelly, Luke and Suraye.Sisters, Michelle (Byron), Theresa (Ed), Maria (Darwin), Valerie (Tony), Janice (Owen), Lana (Sheldon), and Melissa (Levi). Brothers, Ron Good Striker, Jason (Ellen), Darrell (Olivia) and Kelvin (Tobi). Special Brothers; Stanley Black Water Jr. Henry (Roxanne) Big Throat, Jimmy First Rider and Warren (Kathy) Twigg. Special Cousins, Wanda Big Throat, Doris (Richard) Fox, Carolyn Twigg, Annette Twigg, Melanie Three Persons. Special Nephew Nathan Brewer. Aunts Donalda Big Throat, Christine Good Dagger, Elizabeth Big Throat, Linda (Darryl) Three Persons, Celina Good Striker and Doreen Little Shields. He is also survived by numerous relatives.
Darcy was born and raised on the Blood Reserve. He was the first born son to Veronica; but was fortunate to also be a Kipitapoka to his Maternal Grandparents Harry and Clara Big Throat. Growing up as a young boy he spent a lot of time in lower Standoff with all his cousins where they loved to play down by the river and enjoyed everything the outdoors had to offer, such as picking berries, fishing, swimming and exploring.
Darcy received his early education in Fort Macleod. He also attended The Lethbridge Community College Adult Upgrading Program in 1985 where he was the Valedictorian for his class.
Darcy worked for many years in Carpentry in Lethbridge and surrounding areas to support and provide for his growing family. He was employed by Triple E Housing from 1990-1997. He worked for Braman Furniture International, as a foreman from 1997-2007. After his years at Braman he worked alongside his brother Sonny Black Water for Treaty Seven Housing. Darcy worked until he was unable to work any longer. He took much pride in his trade, he was always a very hard worker in all his endeavors.
Darcy was always athletic and will always be known and remembered for his accomplishments in his beloved sport of boxing. He fell in love with his sport at an early age, admiring such athletes like Muhammed Ali. He took it upon himself to be involved in the sport and he trained under the late Sugar Red Crow and The Bullhorn Boxing Club. His love and competitiveness took him many places where he would compete. He travelled to Provinces across Canada and the U.S to compete at such events as the NIAA (Fort Totten, ND – 1988), the Western Canadian Championships in 1986, 1987 & 1988, and also the Provincials in 1987 and 1988. Windspeaker – March 1988 “Darcy Big Throat has numerous peaks in his boxing career Big Throat’s next quest is that of capturing the national championship of Canada at Edmonton’s Convention Center†Some of his accomplishments include; 1985 – Provincial Golden Gloves, Kainai Gloves Best Senior, Best Novice Alberta; 1986 – Western Canadian Champion in 1986 & 1987. His final record was 18-5 without getting KO’d. He used to always say “I was the prettiest fighter†as he never had his nose broke or other boxing injuries. Darcy trained many young boys and girls in his later years.
Darcy was a man of many hobbies such as reading, fishing, golfing, painting, drawing and singing. He always enjoyed attending concerts and collecting his favorite music genres. Darcy loved music and in the early 90s he played in a band called Ruckus, as lead bass guitarist. In Darcy’s later years he shared his love of music with his close friends singing karaoke. A highlight in Darcy’s golfing career was when he got a hole in one on a par 3 in 2003. Darcy also enjoyed playing in the Lethbridge VNEA pool league for numerous years.
Darcy loved and adored his six daughters and in 2003 he was promoted to grandfather. He finally got his boy, Darcy-James. All together he had 13 grandchildren whom all loved and adored their Papa.
He was pre-deceased by his father James Good Striker (wife Annie Mae Good Striker). Maternal Grandparents Harry and Clara Big Throat. Paternal Grandparents Frank Sr. and Marion Good Striker. Uncles; Horace Big Throat, Maxwell Big Throat, Frank Good Striker, Rufus Good Striker, and George Good Striker. Aunts; Albertine Plume, Celina Twigg, Theresa Black Water, Pauline Healy, Evelyn Twigg, Queenie Fox, Marjorie Manyfingers, Dorothy Boutland, Mary Singer, Irene Tail Feathers and Marion Good Striker. Special Brother; Charlie Twigg. Cousins; Harley Black Water, George Healy Jr, Keith Healy, Maxwell Healy, Gilmore Healy, Tony Twigg, Sheldon (Kim) Twigg, Richard Plume, Jonathon Red Crow, Harry Red Crow and Marvin Red Crow. Clinton Big Throat, Lloyd Big Throat, and Orville Big Throat. Brenda Quesnelle, Doreen Zuback, Bernice Many Fingers, and Judy Red Crow.
Darcy will always be remember as a kind, gentle and silly man. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
The Family Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB., on Sunday, June 19, 2016 at 5:00 P.M., followed by an all night Wake at SENATOR GLADSTONE HALL, Blood Reserve, AB., starting at 6:00 P.M.
The Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at ST. MARY’S IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, Blood Reserve, AB., on Monday, June 20, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Angelo D’Costa, Celebrant.
Interment to follow at St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
BROWN WEASEL-BIG SNAKE
JOAN BROWN WEASEL-BIG SNAKE passed away in Lethbridge on June 11, 2016 at the age of 47 years.
A Wake Service will be at the Old Saipoyi Gym, Stand Off on Wednesday June 22nd from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Thursday, June 23rd at 11:00 a.m. Interment in St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
Email condolences to: legacycardston@gmail.com
FORSYTH
KARYN (COURT) FORSYTH, beloved wife of Tim Forsyth, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 12th, 2016 at the age of 62 years.
Friends may meet the family at Legacy Funeral Home, on Friday, June 17th from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. or at the church from 2:00 to 2:45 p.m. prior to the service.
The Funeral Service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cardston Alberta West Stake Center, 846 1st Ave W, Cardston, Alberta on Saturday, June 18th, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. Interment to follow in the Leavitt Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
Abe Friesen
1932 – 2016
Abraham Friesen, beloved husband of Helena Friesen, passed away in Taber on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at the age of 84 years.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, June 19, 2016 between 3:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, June 20, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
MANY SHOTS
ROLANDA MANY SHOTS passed away in Lethbridge on June 10th, 2016 at the age of 39 years.
A Wake Service will be at the Old Saipoyi Gym, Stand Off on Tuesday, June 21st from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be at the Old Saipoyi Gym, Stand Off on Wednesday, June 22nd at 11:00 a.m. Interment in Blood Band Cemetery.
Email condolences to: legacycardston@gmail.com
Alex Molnar
1930 – 2016
Alex Molnar, beloved husband of the late Anne Molnar, passed away in Lethbridge on Thursday, June 16, 2016 at the age of 85 years.
Further information including service details will follow once arrangements have been finalized.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
Mrs. Helen Campbell
1936 – 2016
Mrs. Helen Campbell of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Mr. Dale Campbell, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at the age of 79 years. A Celebration of Helen’s Life will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, June 20, 2016 at the MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Roberta Bagnall
1937 – 2016
Mrs. Roberta Bagnall, beloved wife of Mr. Donald Bagnall, passed away on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary at the age of 79 years.
A Celebration of Roberta’s Life will be held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at the MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 4th Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta with Pastor Al Litchfield officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
JUSTINE “JESSIE†SERA
JUST-ANK HARMONY
Our loving mother and wife, JUSTINE SERA, 77, of Lethbridge, Alberta, passed away suddenly on March 17th, 2016.
She will be dearly missed by her husband, Frank Sera of 17 years, as well as her ten children: Beverly (Wayne) Johnson, Sandi (Todd) Williamson, Pat (Kerry) Grzech, Brenda (Mike) Bateman, Mike (Lucille) Penner, Polly (Chris) Andrews, Carmen (Wayne) Trockstad, Kevin (Carole) Sera, Randy Sera and Leigh-Ann Sera.
Also left to cherish her memory are her 23 grandchildren, 14 great-granchildren, and three great-great grandchildren and many friends.
Justine was predeceased by her parents Franz and Maria Miller, nine older siblings and first husband George Penner.
Justine was born on June 24th, 1938 in Winkler, Manitoba. She enjoyed singing, fishing, camping, spending time with family and entertaining. Along with Frank, they loved to spend time with friends and various activities.
Justine and Frank enjoyed spending time with family and friends and camping and fishing, especially when she caught the first and largest fish. She loved to sing alone or with others. After Justine and Frank married (17 very happy years) they started to sing duets and dress up in different costumes they made for various occasions. They were called the goofie couple. Most of their costumes were homemade from old drapes and bean bags. Their reward was seeing all the smiles and laughter from those around them, while tapping their feet to the songs. They entertained many at Senior Lodge and old folk’s homes.
Justine was active in several clubs. She was Honoured Royal Lady in the Elks Royal Purple Ladies, both Seniors Centres, Hungarian Old Timers Club, Readymade 50+ Club, and she loved to sing in different choirs. Justine also traveled to many parts of the U.S.A., as well as Cuba, Mexico, and United Arab Emirates. She was kind hearted and ready to help anybody, especially those with special needs.
Upon Justine’s request, cremation has taken place.
A Memorial Service will be held MCKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15th Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta on Wednesday, June 29th, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in her name to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, 1620 – 29 Street N.W., Calgary, AB., T2N 4L7 in support of breast cancer research or to a charity of your choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
TAILFEATHERS
IRENE TAILFEATHERS was called home by our Creator on June 11, 2016. “AIPINAWAKII” (Far Seen Woman) was born into the Ni’taitsskaiksi (Lone Fighter) clan on November 20, 1929.
Irene is survived by her daughters Sherry, Pam (Kirk) Buffalo, Heather, and son Laurie (Rachel) Tailfeathers; sister Doreen (George) Little Shields; sisters-in-law Celina Good Striker; Sophie Tail Feathers; and Rosemarie Tail Feathers; brothers-in-law Joe Boutland; 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her parents Frank Sr. and Marion (Weasel Fat) Good Striker; husband Gerald Tail Feathers; brothers Frank Jr., Rufus, George Sr. and James, sister Queenie, Marjorie, Dorothy, Marion, Rubianne and Eileen, Brothers-in-law Harvey Tail Feathers, Kenneth Tail Feathers, Allen Tail Feathers, Fred Jr. Tail Feathers; sister-in-law Phyllis Wells and Rosie Tail Feathers.
Special thanks to Dr. Christensen and the staff at The Good Samaritan Society Lee Crest.
A Family Service will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Friday, June 17, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. The Wake Service will be held at the Old Saipoyi School, Blood Reserve on Friday June 17, 2016 from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Blood Reserve on June 18, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Interment in St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
Email condolences to: legacycardston@gmail.com
VENECHUK
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our mom, PAULINE “POLLY” JEANETTE VENECHUK (nee PAVKA), on June 12, 2016, at the age of 92 years.
Polly was born in Czechoslovakia on February 6, 1924 and immigrated with her family to Canada when she was two years old.
She married John Venechuk in 1948 and was blessed with three children, Rose Ann, Bev and Don.
Polly is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Cindy, Tony, Elaina and Blake; great-grandchildren, Sarah and Avery, Ava and Arianna; her sister Mildred (Ray) Bagozzi and brothers, Frank (Mary Ann) Pavka and Laddie (Anne) Pavka, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband John and her sister, Lydia Pavka.
Polly made a lasting impression in the lives of her family and friends and was an inspiration to us all.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405-12 Ave. South, Lethbridge, Alberta, on Monday, June 20th, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Kevin Tumback, Celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Polly’s memory to the C.N.I.B., #100, 410 Stafford Drive South, Lethbridge, AB., T1J 2L2
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com