Ronald Walter Abell, loving husband and father, passed away in Lethbridge on Monday, July 29, 2019 at the age of 85 years.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.
Ron is survived by his wife Corrie and their two children, Sue Krchnak of Taber and Ryan (Emma) Abell of Red Deer; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Ron was born in Taber on March 23, 1934 to Walter and Leona (nee Coates) Abell. On February 18, 1958, he married Cornelia Margaretha Stolk in Taber where they raised their family.
Ron worked in construction and operated a back hoe business for many years. His skill, precision and speed at moving earth with the hoe was admired and appreciated by his coworkers for the safe environment he created. Ron was known for his talent of problem solving and his ability to repair almost anything and thus was affectionately known as “Doc” by many.
He loved all things western and explored his artistic side during his retirement years through painting, woodworking and carving. Ron had a lifetime passion for dancing and regularly attended dances, even during recent years while battling health issues. He was known for his work ethic, patience, humility and his kind and compassionate spirit.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
Doreen Anderson
1925 – 2019
Doreen Marguerite Anderson (nee Riley), was reunited with her forever sweetheart Heber in the early hours of Sunday, July 28, 2019, after a full and rich life of 93 years.
A private burial service will be held at the Barnwell Cemetery prior to the funeral service.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the church prior to the funeral service on Saturday, August 3, 2019 between 11:00 A.M. and 11:40 A.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 14 – 3 Avenue East, Barnwell on Saturday, August 3, 2019 at 12:00 P.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at
http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Doreen is survived by her seven children Rick (Dixie) Anderson of Barnwell, Laurie Stone of Calgary, Craig Anderson of Barnwell, Bill (Tammy) Anderson of Barnwell, Kent (Lori) Anderson of DeWinton, Ronda Anderson of Cardston and Brad (Tanya) Anderson of Regina; thirty grandchildren, fifty seven great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Dennis (Brenda) Riley of Parksville, British Columbia and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Heber Anderson in 2002, her brother William Roy (Doriene) Riley and sister-in-law Fay Riley.
Grandma D or Grandma Dreams as the grandchildren called her, was a truly unique individual. She was a person who related to both young and old. Doreen had an incredible sense of humour and love for people. Rarely was there not a car in the driveway of a friend or family member to enjoy her quick wit and love of conversation. It was not unusual for her to chat on the phone for hours. Many of her children and grandchildren were lucky enough to inherit traits and attributes such as a love of talking and laughing with friends and family. Many have her brown eyes or curly hair. Her memory for detail was amazing and she loved to share stories with those that were lucky enough to call her a friend.
Doreen had many interests including reading which motivated her in being instrumental in opening Barnwell’s first library. The people she chose for her library board were a diverse group because she felt the community’s needs would be best served with people who had a unique perspective. Both Doreen and Heber had friends that came from a wide variety of ethnic and social backgrounds.
Doreen was a person who loved music. Hours on end would be spent in her sun room listening to the likes of Josh Groban or Pavarotti. She had a beautiful singing voice and sang for many years at special events with her friends Hazel Tanner and Jean Jensen. A highlight in her music career was singing with the Canadian Singing Mothers with her church in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Doreen served in many capacities with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, demonstrating her faith and through these, cultivated many life long friendships.
Having had our mother, grandmother and friend in our lives has made us all richer and encouraged us all to strive to be better people. Doreen will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to thank the caregivers at the Linden View Care Centre. Their compassion and care are much appreciated.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
BRAVE ROCK
LEONARD BRAVE ROCK SR. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on July 26th, 2019 at the age of 66 years. Leonard is survived by his loving wife, Emma Brave Rock (Spear Chief) and their grand babies Sakara Brave Rock & Mirika Brave Rock plus numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, along with their children Lloyd (Kelly), Yolanda, Leonard Jr., Stephanie (Late Keith Jr.), Cameron (Sharon), Candace, Teddi (Martin), Weston (Laurlene) and Timothy. His sister Sheila (Alvin) Red Crow, brothers Rocky and Ross Brave Rock. Special thanks to Dr. Wong, Dr. Erin Nelson, Dr. Henkleman, the Dialysis Unit, the nurses from unit 3C, 4B and the ICU nurses who gave very special care of Leonard during his last 24 hours, Brian and Noemie. The Family Service will be held at Legacy Funeral home on Monday, August 5th from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. followed by the Wake Service at White Calf Hall, Standoff from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church,
Blood Reserve, Tuesday, August 6th, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. Interment in St. Paul’s Cemetery, Blood Reserve.
Condolences may be sent at:
http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
ANN DE VALOIS
September 6, 1924 – July 29, 2019
Annigje (Ann) de Valois ( nee van Bree) passed away at Claresholm General Hospital on Monday July 29 2019 following a brief illness at the age of 94 years. She is survived by her daughter Dr Beverley de Valois (Lee Cotton), her granddaughters Dr Kari McLeod (Chris McKerley) and Carmen McLeod, and granddaughters Tamsen, Roslyn, Jessamine and Skye McKerley and Hayden McLeod, and by her sister Jannie Kooyman van Bree. She was predeceased by her husband Peter de Valois and her eldest daughter Jeanne Cornelia de Valois. A Celebration of Life will be held at WILLOW CREEK FUNERAL HOME- 4079 1st Street West on August 2, 2019 at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Stefan Ulrich officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Ann’s name to Porcupine Hills Lodge and Senior’s Foundation, P.O. Box 790, Claresholm AB TOL OTO.
Ray and Helen Feenstra
1934/1938 – 2019
Rein “Ray” and Hiltje “Helen” Feenstra went home to be with their Heavenly Father on Saturday, July 27, 2019.
Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at the First Christian Reformed Church, 3902 Heritage Drive, Taber on Thursday, August 1, 2019 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 3902 Heritage Drive, Taber on Friday, August 2, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at
http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Ray was born on May 18, 1934 in The Netherlands and was the eldest of nine children. He immigrated to Canada in 1951 with his family. Helen was born on September 1, 1938 in The Netherlands and was the eldest of four children. She immigrated to Canada in 1948 with her family.
Ray and Helen met in Iron Springs in a youth group at the Christian Reformed Church. They married on December 2, 1958 at the United Church in Iron Springs.
Ray and Helen are survived by their five children Raymond (Stephanie) Feenstra of Lethbridge, Loretta (Pekka) Lucas of Carstairs, Alan (Yvonne) Feenstra of Calgary, Ron (Sheri) Feenstra of Calgary and Carolyn (Richard) Feenstra of Coalhurst. They are also survived by fifteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren and numerous family members and friends.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Ray and Helen’s name may be made directly to the Bible League of Canada, P.O. Box 368 Station Main, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 4H8 (
http://www.bibleleague.ca).
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
Zelma Gilbertson1924 – 2019The family of Zelma Maude Gilbertson (nee Anderson), are pleased to announce her graduation from this life on Friday, July 26, 2019 at the age of 95 years.
A private burial service will be held at the Taber Memorial Garden on Saturday, August 3, 2019. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at
http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
Zelma is survived by her daughter Lori Gilbertson of Taber, Bruce (Lorna) Gilbertson of Taber and Byron Gilbertson (Dawn Ohashi) of Taber; grandchildren Ryan Gilbertson (fiancée Brittany Firth), Megan Gilbertson (Brad Rawlinson) and Nolan Gilbertson (Olivia Williams).
She was predeceased by her husband Dale Gilbertson; parents Arnold and Eva (nee Williams) Anderson; siblings Arthur Anderson, Norman Anderson and Lillian Anderson; sisters-in-law Irene Anderson and Irma Anderson.
Zelma was born February 18, 1924 in Barnwell in her parents two room house located on her grandfather’s homestead. She was raised and educated in Barnwell, graduating in 1942. In June of 1942, she attended Normal School in Edmonton after which she spent time teaching grades one to ten in the Wainwright area. In 1943, she went back to Normal School this time in Calgary and in the fall secured a teaching position at the Barnwell School. She received her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. From 1948 to 1951 she taught in Lethbridge, the years 1952 to 1989 found her in various full-time and substitute teaching positions within Taber. Zelma never met a student she didn’t like.
Zelma loved to learn and was an avid reader. She also did many crossword puzzles in her life and was still doing word find puzzles until a few days before her passing. She was a provincial badminton champion and loved curling. Zelma participated in many bonspiels over the years and watched hours of the sport often while knitting. Many have been blessed by her passion for gardening and baking. She was always willing to share her produce. Her tomatoes were plentiful and delicious. The chiffon cakes and butterhorns were two of her favorites to bake and share. Zelma played the piano and loved to dance. Music was important to her and she often played the war time songs. She could sew and quilt, refinish floors and furniture and was known to do many of her own repairs including fixing her refrigerator. Zelma seemed to have the talent to do most things she put her mind to. She loved this country and the history of this area. Her mind was able to recall many details of the events and people that have lived here over the years. Her favorite place to go was Waterton.
Zelma married Dale Gilbertson on February 9, 1962 and together they raised their three children Lori, Bruce and Byron. In 1976 Zelma bought the shares of Dale’s business partner in Charlton and Gilbertson Farm Equipment Ltd. Zelma was often found on the road to Lethbridge to pick up parts. She was still the business owner at the time of her passing.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Zelma’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (
http://www.tdhf.ca).
The family would like to express appreciation to the staff at the Taber Health Centre and the Good Samaritan Linden View for the care given to Zelma over this past year. Your compassion will never be forgotten.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
KLASSEN
ISABEL VIOLET KLASSEN (née Derksen) of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Manuel Lorent Klassen, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, July 28, 2019 at the age of 85 years.
Isabel will be remembered by her son Larry Klassen (Sandra Koliasko); sisters Clara (Walter) Willms and Joyce Colley (Don Bernhart); brothers Jim (Rita) Derksen and Jack (Anna) Derksen; and sisters-in-law Nellie (John) Penner and Martha Wall. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Isabel is predeceased by her husband Manuel Lorent Klassen, parents Frank and Margaret Derksen and sister Irene Derksen.
Isabel resided in Coaldale until 2015. She loved making lunches for Larry on weekdays for years, and loved get-togethers with family and friends. Isabel looked forward to visits from Larry and Sandra and getting up and enjoying a beautiful view each morning. She lived at Blackrock Terrace and enjoyed the wonderful friends and staff. Thank you all. Greatest Mom ever, remember that always!
A Celebration of Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, August 2, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. with Patrick Siedlecki officiating.
In memory of Isabel, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, #200, 119 – 14 Street N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 1Z6.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Kam Ho Mah
1924 – 2019
Mrs. Kam Ho Mah of Lethbridge passed away in Lethbridge on Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at the age of 94 years. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a private condolence.
MORNING OWL
MARGARET BITA MORNING OWL, 83, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2019 in Lethbridge. Born November 3, 1935 in Cardston.
Survived by: Children: Patrick Charlie (Verdun nee Hind Bull) Morning Owl, Debra Ann (Clifford Van Horn) Morning Owl & Clifford Howard Morning Owl. Sisters: Vera Eagle Plume, Kathleen Panther Bone, Justine Stimson, Valentine (Barry) Matheson, & Pearl Heavy Runner. Grandchildren: Patrick DeLoy Morning Owl, Chantelle Hamilton & Nicole Morning Owl. Step Grandchildren: Abigail (Matthew) Bennett, Angel (A. J.) Many Bears & Amy (Landric) Ieremia. Adopted son: Brian Panther Bone.
Predeceased by: 1st husband: Patrick Rodger Morning Owl. 2nd husband: Robert Charles Cleveland. Children: Baby Boy, Tina & May Morning Owl. Adopted son: Kenneth Panther Bone. Parents: Charlie Panther Bone & Louise (nee Takes The Gun Strong). Siblings: Michael Panther Bone, Ruth Panther Bone. Half Sisters: Cecile Wolf Child, Emma Fox & Mary Eva Spotted Bull. Grandson: James Allen Morning Owl.
A Wake Service will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Friday, Aug. 2nd from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be at the Cardston Alberta West Stake Centre, (Waterton Hwy), Cardston on Saturday, August 3rd at 11:00 a.m.
Condolences may be sent at http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
Sherry Musial
1953 – 2019
Mrs. Sherry Musial of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Mr. Stan Musial, passed away with her family by her side at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at the age of 66 years. Besides her loving husband Stan, Sherry is survived by her 3 children, and 7 grandchildren, Derek (Lori), Ian, Isabelle, Brennah, Emma, Kevin (Lisa), Amy, Noah, Michelle (John) and Alyssa. She is also survived by her sisters Margaret (Frank), Chris (Jim); brother Raymond, and numerous nieces and nephews. A private family service will be held at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish may make memorial donations in Sherry’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200, 325 Manning Road N.E, Calgary, Alberta T2E 2P5, or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, Box 2211, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 1A3
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
SKENE
Edward (Ted) Skene, beloved husband of the late Eva Skene passed away after a lengthy illness on July 25th, 2019 at the age of 91 years. Besides his loving wife Eva, Ted is survived by his daughters Lynda (Werner) Skene and Cindy (Barry) Welsh, grandchildren Rob Welsh, Christy (BJ) Boot, Wes (Zoe) Skene, great grandchildren Brady, Jordy, Kody Welsh, Josh, Ali, Tanner, Nikki, Jaxson, Nathan Boot, Addison, and Belle Skene. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish may make donations to the Fort Macleod Community Support Beds, P.O. Box 520, Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0
TAMAKI
Shirley Diane Tamaki, loving wife of Jack Tamaki of Lethbridge, passed away at home on July 29, 2019 at the age of 65 years. Service will be held at Hays Cemetery in Hays AB on August 3, 2019 at 11:00 am with lunch to follow at Hays Senior Centre.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
VAN LEUKEN
In the loving presence of his family, John Philip Van Leuken, joined his Heavenly Father on July 20th, 2019 at Mesa Arizona. John was born in Lethbridge, Alberta on November 26, 1934, to Martin and Marie Van Leuken. In 1955, John married his lifelong sweetheart, Audrey Galts. They celebrated 64 years of marriage this year. John is survived by his wife, Audrey, and three children: Irene (Ken) Keeler, Larry (Edith) Van Leuken and Carina Wheatley, six grandchildren (Justin, Brent, Lisa, Shawn, Victoria and Griffin) their spouses and many great grand-children along with his siblings Tony, Agnes and Anita. John was predeceased by his parents, his brother Marineo (Doc), his sister Catherine (Cay), as well as many loved in-laws.
John attended St. Joseph’s High School (CCHS) and enjoyed a lengthy career with AGT/Telus, retiring in 1989. He was a charter member of the Knights of Columbus, a longtime member of the Elks, the Telephone Pioneer Campers, and the Arizona Phone Pholks. Upon retirement, John and Audrey moved to Phoenix, Arizona and enjoyed their second stage of life surrounded by their children, grandchildren and extended family. Fulfilling a lifelong dream, they hit the road in their RV full-time for two and a half years of travel through North America. He loved the people and time he spent with his camping family. John’s welcoming nature endeared him to all those he met – he made friends readily. John was as renowned as a prankster and purveyor of corny jokes as he was for his hearty laugh, inclusive kindness and generosity. He loved gathering to play games, especially when he won! He lived his life according to his deep faith in God. His priorities centered on his family, and he shared his love generously as dad, brother, grandpa and Uncle John. He was Audrey’s compassionate and loving caregiver for the last several years. His wife, Audrey, and their family were his north star. John was exceptionally proud to be a whole body donor to the University of Arizona Medical Program. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local Alzheimers Association. A funeral mass will be held at St. Benedict’s Parish in Phoenix, Arizona on September 14, 2019. Inquiries to carina.wheatley@gmail.com