By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on February 8, 2019.
CHELTE
NORMAN WAYNE NICHOLAI CHELTE, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at the St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit, on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at the age of 80 years.
Norman is survived by his children Robyn (Cory Gunness) Chelte of Lethbridge and Ryan (Alicia) Chelte of Aberdeen, Scotland; and grandchildren Cecilia and Harris of Aberdeen, Scotland and Taylor and Tanner of Lethbridge.
He was predeceased by his mother Dorothy Smid (Soper), sister Karen Smid and parents Arthur and Mary Chelte.
Norman was born on October 8, 1938 in Brooks, Alberta. As a child, he grew up in the Rainier and Scandia area, as well as Hope, BC. He attended school in Rainier at Alcoma to grade 11, and completed grade 12 in Brooks. He then went to SAIT in Calgary, where he completed a two year course in Survey Technology. Norman worked as a surveyor prior to purchasing his ranch in Scandia in 1972. He was married in 1973 and the births of his children followed soon after; Robyn in 1974 and Ryan in 1976.
When Norman moved to Lethbridge in 2014, he opened his home to renters and formed many caring relationships with the people who rented from him. A special thank you to Tonette, Jing and Joerem for their care and support over the past few years.
The family of Norman Chelte would like to thank the staff at the St. Michael’s Heath Centre – Palliative Care Unit, Lethbridge Home Care, and the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, as well as Dr. Claire Forestell for the excellent care provided to Norman.
A Celebration of Norman’s Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. with Pat Siedlecki celebrating.
In memory of Norman, donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, both c/o Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, 960 – 19 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 1W5.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
GAMBLER
We are sad to announce the sudden passing of our dear wife, mother, sister born November 27, 1995, TIFFANY RAE GAMBLER (CROW CHIEF) on January 30, 2019 on the Blood Reserve at the tender age of 23 years. She will be sadly missed by her companion of 5 yrs, Vernon Eagle Plume, their children; Franklin, Tahniika; sisters, Ashley (Russell) Crow Chief and Susanne Crow Chief. She was the daughter of the late Franklin Crow Chief and Patricia Gambler.
The Wake Service will be at White Calf Hall, Standoff, AB on Friday, February 8th from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. continuing all night at the Merlin (Lorna) Eagle Plume residence. The Funeral Service will be held at White Calf Hall on Saturday, February 9th at 11:00 a.m. Interment in St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
Harry Lenz
1938 ~ 2019
Mr. Harry Lenz of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Emily Lenz, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at the age of 80 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
KRAWCZYK
WILLIAM “BILL” STEPHEN KRAWCZYK passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at the age of 67 years. He was a beloved father to Tara, and grandfather to Michaila, both of Wiarton, Ontario.
Blessed with his memory are his loving sisters Jo Wiktorski of Lethbridge and Helen (Duane) Bartlett of Atlanta, GA., numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and co-workers as well as Ralph May who was like another brother.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Maria and John Krawczyk, stepfather Antoni Wiktorski, infant sister Krystyna Krawczyk and brother Walter Wiktorski.
Bill was raised in Lethbridge and moved to Kitchener, Ontario after completing his education. It was his love of family that drew him back to Lethbridge in 2005 until his passing. He was a free spirit, friendly to all and had a positive outlook on life. He was always a hard worker. His competitive nature from an early age led him to participate in sports such as baseball, golf, pool, a good game of cards and collecting things. He thought he was rarely wrong.
Bill recently retired from ADM Alliance Nutrition, where he enjoyed his work and made many friends over the years.
Bill’s family is grateful to the staff of the Chinook Regional Hospital for their care, and special thanks to Rev. Wybren Oord for ministering to Bill and our family through this time.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, #200, 325 Manning Road N.E., Calgary, AB, T2E 2P5.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
LACNY
Mrs. Zofia Lacny, beloved wife of the late Jan Lacny passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on January 28, 2019 at the age of 96 years. A Funeral Service will take place at a later date. Details will be announced when completed. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society, 1202 2 Ave S #40, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E3.
MEARS
1934 – 2019
It is a very sad day for the Mears Clan as we say good bye to CHARLES “CHUCK” WALTER MEARS, loving husband, amazing father, uncle, brother-in-law, grandpa, and great-grandpa. Chuck passed away on Monday, February 4, 2019 at the age of 84 years after a brief but courageous battle with cancer and dementia.
Chuck leaves to mourn his beautiful wife of 58 years, Marilyn, his daughters Debbie (Peter) and PJ (David) and son Brian (Sharon). He also leaves his three grandchildren Kailee, Travis and Chad along Christine and Melissa and three great-grandchildren Brayden, Bailey and Dylan Lewandowski. He also leaves sister-in law and brother-in law Patty and Raymond McSorley and their daughter Cari Lynn (Paul), along with numerous cousins.
Chuck was predeceased by his parents Frank and Leslie Mears.
Born in Empress, Alberta to parents Frank and Leslie, Chuck was raised in Fox Valley, Saskatchewan then later in Regina, Saskatchewan. Chuck enjoyed a very rewarding 26-year career in the RCMP that saw him serve in several western provinces and territories. He later worked as a petroleum land man in Medicine Hat. Chuck and Marilyn retired to Petawawa, Ontario for several years before the arrival of the grandchildren made them decide to move to Lethbridge. Chuck was the consummate family man, always supportive of everyone’s activities. He loved golf and fishing and on more than one occasion he was heard to say, “How the hell are you doing, come on in and can I get you a beer?” Chuck stayed active with volunteering with the Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association and the Lethbridge RCMP Veterans Association.
A Celebration of Life will be held at MCKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
PAUL
KEVIN BRUCE PAUL, of Lethbridge and formerly of Ponoka, A.B., passed away suddenly at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, February 5th, 2019 at the age of 57 years.
Kevin is lovingly survived by his Mother Shirlie Paul and siblings: Randy (Cathy), Mike and Nancy (Henry) Wiebe. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
At Kevin’s request, no formal Funeral Service will be held. A Private Family Burial will take place in Cardston at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
TOLLEY
MR. NORMAN DEWANE TOLLEY
February 9, 1932 – January 24, 2019
It is with deep sadness and a small measure of gentle relief we announce the passing of Norman Tolley at St. Michael’s Health Care Centre.
Besides his loving wife and companion, Dorothy Piekema, he is survived by her children; Cindy Dejager (Jason Thomas) and family, Roger Piekema (Jobina Antochow-Piekema) and family, his daughter; Kim Tolley and his brother; Elroy Tolley.
Norman was predeceased by his parents; Ralph and Vonda Tolley, sister; Judy Archibald and son; Mike Tolley.
Norman was a very competitive man who excelled at many sports especially bowling, golf and pool.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be held for him on his birthday, February 9, 2019 at Norbridge Senior Centre, 1904 – 13 Ave. N. Lethbridge from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
UREN
“There before me was a door standing open in heaven.”(Revelations 4:1)
GEORGE HERBERT FRANKLIN “FRANK” UREN, beloved husband of Elizabeth “Liz” Uren, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his family at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, February 4, 2019 at the age of 92 years.
Along with his wife, he is lovingly remembered by his children: Daphne (Daniel Chenard) Gugala, Judi (Murray) Paddon, Nancy (Tony) Bowman and Philip (Terri) Uren; eight grandchildren: Hillari (Joel) Blaylock, Ethan Paddon, Kye, Noël, Petra, Geneva, Gwyneth and Gideon Bowman; and two great-granddaughters, Sophia and Izabella Blaylock.
Frank is also remembered by Liz’s family whom he loved as his own: Kurt (Sharon) and Patrick (Marija) Veer, Nicole (Keith) Kawawaki, Jeff (Sandra) Veer and Dayna Veer; eight grandchildren: Nicolas, Maxwell and Natasha Veer, Jordan (Jason) Dement, Remick and Easton Kawawaki, and Kristen and Alexander Veer as well as one great-grandson, Moses Dement.
He was predeceased by his first wife, Gwen and his granddaughter, Madeline.
Frank was born on November 22, 1926 in Bremner, AB and grew up near Edmonton. He graduated from RCMP Depot in 1950 then met and married Gwen in 1953. Frank was proud of his rewarding career that took him and his family to many communities over the years. In 1972 they settled in Lethbridge and sadly, in 2000, Gwen passed away. After some time, Frank met Liz and they were married in 2002.
Frank showed unconditional love for his family and was very involved in their lives. His faith was paramount and was evident in his involvement in St. Augustine’s Anglican Church and First Baptist Church. The family has lost a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and those who knew him have lost a loyal and caring friend. Frank will be dearly missed.
A Memorial Service will be held at the LETHBRIDGE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 1614-5th Ave. South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, February 9th, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Dr. Bruce Martin and Canon James Robinson officiating, with a special Prayer by Rev. Stephen Reynolds.
In memory of Frank, donations may be made to L’Arche Association of Lethbridge, 240-12C Street North, Lethbridge, AB, T1H 2M7.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Mary Kathleen “Kathy” Warren
1956 – 2019
Mrs. Kathy Warren of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Dr. Jeff Warren, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, February 4, 2019 at the age of 62 years. Kathy was born in Waterloo, Ontario to Arthur and Marlene Litchi on November 26, 1956. Kathy moved on her own to Alberta in 1974, making Calgary her home. Kathy worked numerous jobs in Calgary and Edmonton before moving to Lethbridge in 1982 where she met Jeff. She worked at Time Air in Lethbridge, which led to a long career with numerous airline companies for 18 years. In 1983, Kathy asked Jeff to marry her and he accepted; they married and together they enjoyed travelling, running, golfing, and simply outdoor activities. In 1987, 1989, and 1991 they welcomed Jared, Austin, and then Spencer, and together they settled in Lethbridge making it their home. Kathy was an amazing athlete, specifically running and won many long distance races. She was also a very experienced skier and enjoyed many trips with family and friends. Jeff and Kathy spent many hours on the golf course, Kathy had said many times that she would not quit golfing until she won. Kathy was a woman with a very big heart, she was always willing to help others and her generous spirit, love and kindness will be forever missed. Besides her husband Jeff, Kathy is survived by her children Jared Warren, Austin Warren, Spencer Warren; mother Marlene Waugh; brother Paul Gatcke. Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
Dianne Wensveen
1937 – 2019
Mrs. Dianne Wensveen of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Mr. Quince Wensveen, passed away on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at the age of 81 years. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00am on Monday, February 11, 2019 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge AB, Deacon Frank Peta, officiating.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
WILFRED RANKIN HODGINS
(1921 – 2018)
Faithful in character, disciplined in all matters and committed to his family would simply describe the life of our father, Rankin Hodgins, who died on Dec. 25, 2018. From Dad’s humble beginnings on November 22, 1921 in a rural outpost hospital in Wakaw, SK, to his gentle passing at home with family surrounding him, his 97 years were championed by good health and satisfaction in the simple things that life offered.
Dad was predeceased by his wife, Daphne (Dundas) Hodgins in 2006, after 57 years of marriage, and his beloved granddaughter Jenna Lowen in 1991. Dad was also predeceased by his parents Wilfred and Rachel Hodgins and his treasured younger brothers Bill Hodgins and Dr. Ken Hodgins. Remembering with great fondness and admiration are sons Bill, Douglas (Kelly), Robert (Ivy), John (Maria) and only daughter Valerie (Mike Lowen). He is survived by sister-in-law Donna Hodgins and two nieces and two nephews. Dad had great hope for the next generation and was thrilled with news of the birth of each of his grandchildren, Daniel, Amy, Tess, Mckenzie, Anna-Lise, Cameron, Mark, Jenna, Kaitlyn, Erin, Carolina, Emily, Iliana, and then 7 great grandchildren.
Dad spent his early years on the family farm in Domremy, SK and saw firsthand the effects of the Great Depression followed by World War II. Dad entertained us with his stories of his early years in northern Saskatchewan, which included riding a horse several miles to school in the depth of winter at age 7, and living in an unheated granary during the winter on the school grounds where he attended high school. He often had tears about how difficult life was and was amazed at the progress he saw over his nearly 100 years of living. Following in his mother’s footsteps, he attended Teachers College in Saskatoon, at the age of 17. Dad’s strong work ethic was rewarded with excellent grades and he was awarded a teacher’s certificate at age 18. He struck off to the one-room schoolhouse teaching at Quill Lake, SK and then to a two-room schoolhouse in Harris, SK. Dad said he really didn’t see himself as much of a teacher and couldn’t see that he would have a financial future that was promising. With the looming threat of World War II, he was thankful for the opportunity to attend the University of Saskatchewan and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Physics in 1945.
After graduating, his entrepreneurial leanings look hold, and he began selling life insurance for Continental Life in Saskatoon. He was transferred to Regina and became the Branch Manager. A referred prospect in Pelly, SK was one Daphne Dundas. After 6 weeks of dating, which was largely done by correspondence, a marriage proposal was made and mum and dad were married 6 months later in 1949. They lived in Regina where Bill, Doug and Robert were born until an opportunity arose in Tisdale for Dad to buy a general insurance agency. Life in Tisdale saw the birth of daughter Valerie and son John, as well as establishing Hodgins Agencies. Dad was elected to a term on town council followed by a term as Mayor. Life in small-town Saskatchewan was good and included an active role in the Anglican church, Chamber of Commerce, and lifelong friends.
In 1973, Dad made the bold move of leaving his beloved Saskatchewan and found new business opportunities in Claresholm, AB with the purchase of another insurance agency. He and mum remained in Claresholm until retirement in 1987 when they moved closer to Valerie’s family in Lethbridge. Dad and Mum enjoyed retired life in Lethbridge as well as many happy winters in Mesa, AZ which afforded them to reconnect with old friends from Tisdale. In 2012, Dad accepted Valerie’s invitation to live with her family. That proved to be a lovely arrangement with the help of two very important ladies, Chona Quilog and Vivian Ebueza, who provided living support to Dad allowing him to live out his elder years surrounded by the love of his family. It was a wonderful place for all of Dad’s children and grandchildren to visit. A fond memory for all of us was Dad’s favourite goodbye, “Carry on; God Bless”.
A memorial service will be held Feb. 9 at 1 pm at Saint Augustine’s Anglican Church, 411- 11 Street South, Lethbridge. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
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