By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on February 17, 2018.
Alma Wiebe
1929 – 2018
Alma Wiebe (née Reimer), beloved wife of the late Albert Wiebe, of Lethbridge, Alberta passed away peacefully on February 10, 2018 at the age of 89 years. Born January 26, 1929 in Steinbach, Manitoba, Alma was the youngest in a large family, and the last surviving sibling at the time of her passing. Following her years of growing up in Steinbach, Alma and one of her sisters obtained seasonal employment for about five years in a canning factory in St. Catherine’s, Ontario, during which time they also enjoyed traveling to various locations in the United States. Alma especially loved taking bus tours, something she also enjoyed later on with her husband in their retirement years. Alma married Albert Wiebe on October 1, 1955, initially residing in Winnipeg where Albert was foreman of a construction crew. All five of their children were born while they still lived in the city. In 1964, they began 14 years of life on the farm, followed by a move to Coaldale, Alberta, where Albert started his own company building houses and Alma continued to support his work, helping out in any way she could. Throughout the years, Alma was a hard-working, dedicated and loving wife and mother with a warm personality that made visitors feel welcome in their home. The arrival of a grandchild was always a highlight in Alma’s life. She loved spending time with all of her grandchildren, making each one feel special to her. Alma also had her own interests with activities including shuffleboard, knitting, participating in singing groups, and getting together with friends and neighbors for coffee. She was also an active member in the Coaldale Senior Centre and did volunteer work in the MCC (Mennonite Central Committee) store. In later years, Alma suffered various health problems including arthritis that often caused her discomfort. She spent her last few years in St. Michael’s Health Centre as her health declined further and requirements for a supported lifestyle increased. Yet Alma’s positive disposition and sense of humor shone through. Pain or no pain, she had a constant smile on her face and was described as a model resident by her care-providers. Alma is survived by two daughters, Laureen (Kevin) Hayes and Marcia (Ken) Janzen, and three sons, Alan (Melinda) Wiebe, Randy Wiebe (Laura Gilchrist), and Rick Wiebe. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Keila (Ryan) Lammertsen, Ryan (Kristin) Janzen, Michael (Alessandra) Hayes, Karen Hayes (Adrian Pacula), Jennifer Wiebe (Advin Omic), Kenzie Wiebe, Brett Wiebe, Derek Wiebe, Dani Pettersen, and Sarah Gilchrist; and four great grandchildren, Rebecca Lammertsen, Jayden Wiebe, Payton Wiebe, and Odin Omic. Alma is also survived by two sisters-in-law, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. Alma was predeceased by her husband Albert in 2013, her parents Isaac and Margaretha Reimer, eight sisters, eight brothers, four sisters-in-law and six brothers-in-law. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 6:00pm and 8:00pm on Monday, February 19, 2018 at the COALDALE MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, 2114 – 18 Street, Coaldale, Alberta. A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 in the Coaldale Mennonite Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at the COALDALE MENNONITE BRETHREN CHURCH, with Pastor Gary Burke officiating. For those who desire, donations may be made in memory of Alma to the Canadian Diabetes Association, #204, 2323 – 32nd Avenue NE, Calgary, Alberta T2E 6Z3 or http://www.diabetes.ca.
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Bruce Segboer
1950 – 2018
Bruce Patrick Segboer, 67, of Nobleford, AB, passed away peacefully at St. Michaels Palliative care, surrounded by his family and friends, on February 13, 2018. Bruce is survived by his wife JoAnne of 46 years; Mother, Leah Segboer; daughters Terrilee Byam (Shane), Tammy (Ken) Taft and Alyshia (Mark) Rogers; son Jason (Leisha) Segboer; brothers Gary (Myrna) Segboer and Rick (Tracy) Segboer; sisters Marie (Jim) Butler and Marie Ann (Clarence) Segboer; and many loving grandchildren including: Brandon, Bailey, Bryce, Dalton, Jesse, Eric, Makayli and Cowen. Bruce was a loving father, husband, grandfather and a friend to all. Bruce loved the outdoors and his morning coffee time, he also enjoyed taking walks with family and friends. Bruce worked in the maintenance department for Haul-All Equipment for 13+ years until illness forced him to stop. He thoroughly enjoyed fishing and attending sporting events with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed camping with family and friends. Bruce was always there to help anyone in need. A special thank you to all the staff at St. Michaels Palliative Care, in Lethbridge, for their loving care and support. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, memorial donations can be made to the St. Michaels Health Centre Foundation, 1400 – 9 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 4V5.
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COOK
KENNETH ‘KEN’ COOK passed away on Wednesday February 14th, 2018 at the St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit in Lethbridge, Alberta at the age of 74.
Ken is survived by his three sons, Darren, Mark and Jeffrey, daughter Renee, brother Larry (Vickey) Cook and five grand children. He was predeceased by his wife Dawna, parents Ruby and Fred Cook and sister Marjorie Cook.
Ken led a full life in a wide variety of careers and will always be remembered for his sense of humor and adventurous attitude. Whether working, hunting, touring on his Harley or having coffee with his friends, every day was memorable. A cowboy at heart, his fondest memories remain of his days ranching in the Crowsnest Pass, where his ashes will be returned.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday February 20, 2018 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. At Mr Mike’s Steak House at 2375 Mayor Magrath Drive South in Lethbridge. Please join Ken’s family and friends for refreshments and to share memories and stories. In his own words “Enjoy, as this is the last time that Cook’s buying!”
Gordon Herbert Richard Frayn
September 12, 1926 –
February 10, 2018
With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Gordon Frayn, beloved husband of Donna Frayn of Lethbridge, AB. Gordon passed away peacefully in the hospital surrounded by his loving family on February 10th, 2018 at the age of 91 years.
Gordon was a loving father to Kurt (Karen) Hoppman-Frayn of Carmel, New York, USA, Lana (Russell) Benson of Lethbridge, and Karla Trimble (Gord McDonald) of Taber. He was a devoted grandpa to Kaitlyn (Wyatt) Mallia and Jay-Ryan Frayn, Brendon and Alyssa Benson, Jordan (Jackie) Trimble, Tiana Trimble, Jessica (Jordan) Herbst, Allie Trimble and one great granddaughter, Halie Herbst. He was predeceased by his parents Anson and Mabel Frayn, his brothers John, Carl and Cyril Frayn, sister Luella Hadford. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Gordon was retired for 30 years but was a handy man who continued his passion for fixing things and building projects big or small. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s sports, playing pool and having coffee with friends and spending time with his dog Max. He loved to travel, camp and meet new people. He had a generous heart, calm demeanour, and contagious smile that brightened the room and will forever be missed by those who knew him.
A special thanks to Dr. Burke, Dr. MacIntyre, Dr. Amatto and the nurses from 4C at the Chinook Regional Hospital who provided excellent care to him. Further details for Gordon’s Celebration of Life will be announced in the spring of 2018. Condolences can be sent to http://www.evergreenfh.ca
Irene Kovacs Anderson
Irene was peacefully ushered into heaven Feb 13th, 2018 at the age of 87 after a full and satisfying life. She is survived by her four children, Alan Anderson(Sue), Joan Perugini (John), Judy Butkus (Dave), Valerie Hill (Brian) and her nine grandchildren: Ian, Anthony, Lina, Jacob, Samantha, Sara, Matt, Jeff, and Naomi.
Irene was born April 6th, 1930 and raised in Stirling, Alberta. She was the daughter of Luee and Irene Kovacs, wheat farmers in the Hungarian Community.
Irene received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology from the University of Washington and was affiliated with Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. She became one of the first female Engineers for Bell Telephone Company in Seattle. Irene married Orland Anderson and together they designed and built their Redmond home where they raised their family.
Irene was an avid world traveler and enjoyed golf, bridge, reading, dancing and gardening. She loved roses, diamonds, china and crystal, hummingbirds, martinis, cashmere sweaters, rocky road ice cream, weekend brunch with her grandkids and was most proud of her family and farm.
She was a loving and loyal friend to many and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Irene’s family would like to thank Evergreen Hospice for their compassionate care for Irene and her family! Those wishing to honor Irene’s memory are encouraged to consider a donation to Evergreen Hospice, Kirkland, Washington, also online at http://www.evergreenhealth.com/hospice-care.
Joseph “Joe” Grodzicky
1923 – 2018
Joseph Grodzicky passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at the age of 95, beloved husband of the late Maria Grodzicky. Joe is survived by two children, son Ron Grodzicky and daughter Eileen (Phil) Dussome, granddaughters Jen (Jerry) Dussome, Darrah (Aaron) Bailey, Carrie (Cody) Dahl, as well as 8 great grandchildren, Connor Dussome, Madison and Cayden Bailey, Aliyah, Braydee, Claire, Jordan and Maygen Dahl. He was predeceased by his wife Maria Grodzicky and youngest son Peter Grodzicky.A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Pastor Matt Funk officiating. Interment to follow in the Mountain View Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Larry Lehto
1952 – 2018
“Uncle” Larry William Lehto of Picture Butte, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 2, 2018 at Piyami Place at the age of 65 years. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at THE ELKS HALL, 112 – 4 Street South, Picture Butte, AB. A private family Inurnment will be held at Bowville Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Larry’s memory to Green Acres Foundation C/O Piyami Place, 122 5th Ave S, Lethbridge AB, T1J 0S9.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Arthur Vance
1934 – 2018
Arthur Thomas Vance of Picture Butte, beloved husband of the late Juanita Vance, passed away peacefully at Piyami Place on February 14, 2018 at the age of 83 years. Dad was born on September 1, 1934 in Windsor, Ontario to Arthur and Isabel Vance. He was the older and only brother to 4 sisters, Carol, Janet, Marge and Verna. Dad went to school in Windsor until they moved to the family farm in Richwood, Ontario in 1950. After his schooling Dad worked with his father as a cement contractor, digging wells and a number of other jobs. In 1955, he headed to Calgary to look for work and met Mom, the love of his life. They were married in March 1957 in Lethbridge and moved to Paris, Ontario the same year. Jim was born in February 1958 and Frank soon followed in December 1959. In 1960 the family moved to Taber to work for Brian Sproule, then in May of 1964 we moved to Picture Butte where Dad got a job running a feedlot for the Canadian Sugar Factory. In October of that same year, Arlene was born, and their family was complete. In 1978, he started as a night watchman for the sugar factory and worked up to equipment operator loading the sugar beets. He retired from the factory in February 1994. Dad was very community minded, he served several terms on town council, was on the volunteer fire department and was a member of the Picture Butte Elks. Dad and Mom loved to camp, and Dad especially loved to fish. Every summer we headed out to somewhere different, the Oregon coast, California, Barkersville, B.C. and many other places. Dad couldn’t have been more thrilled when the grandkids started arriving. They were taken on many of those camping trips and even went on a cross country trip to visit relatives in Ontario. In 2002, Mom passed away and knowing Dad would be lonely, she made arrangements for him to find long term companionship with her new friend Audrey Smith. Dad and Audrey travelled extensively across Canada and the United States, including Alaska. They enjoyed many years together. Mom truly knew what was best for Dad. In 2012, Dad moved across the street to Piyami Lodge, then just lately to Piyami Place. We have been told he kept the staff at Piyami entertained. He lived a happy and fulfilled life before his passing. Besides Mom, Dad was predeceased by his parents; his son Frank; sisters Carol and Marge; and step grandson Jason Gergel. He is survived by his friend Audrey Smith, his son Jim (Linda), granddaughter Danielle (Blair) Ross, their girls Molly and Maddyn, his grandson Derek (Brooke), their son Jaxten, his daughter Arlene (Ken) Steward, grandson Josh (Mackenzie), step grandson Barry (Lorelei) Gergel and their family, sisters Janet Atkinson and Verna (Rick) Fries and brothers in law Jim Cochrane and Melvin Godlonton. We would like to thank Dr. Janzen, Monique and the staff at the Heart Function Clinic, as well as Dr. Mohamed and the staff at Piyami for all their love, care and support they gave to Dad. As per Dads wishes there will not be a funeral. There will be a private family burial at a later date. Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Yanosik, Margaret Marie “Peg” January 31, 1937 –
February 12, 2018
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret. Peg is survived by her loving family: Monte (Jeanette), Bonie (Raymond) Boisvert, Jody (Dean) Desroches, Barry (Ariene); numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother, Kenny (Maria) Rasmussen as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her spouse, Ronald; parents, Howard and Mary; sister, Patricia (Ceasar) Copieters; son-in-law, Dean Desroches as well as numerous relatives and friends. There will be no service held at this time, however, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.connelly-mckinley.com
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
Harold Wesley
1928 – 2018
Harold George Wesley, beloved husband of Laura Wesley, passed away in Lethbridge on Thursday, February 16, 2018 at the age of 89 years.
Further information will follow once arrangements have been finalized.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.