FRIDAY, March 20, 2020

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 20, 2020.

Kay Biholar

1918 – 2020

Kasia Biholar, beloved wife of the late John Biholar, passed away in Taber on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at the age of 101 years. The private graveside service will be held at the Taber Memorial Garden. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com. Kay was a wonderful mother to Gloria Frizzell, June (Gerald) Pierson (both deceased) and Robert (Marilyn) Perini. Kay loved all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her loving husband John in 2011, her dear friend and daughter June in 2016 and by her six brothers. Kay was born April 29, 1918 at Lake Eliza, Alberta to Joseg and Maryna Yakimowich. She was raised in a log shack with six brothers and three sisters. Kay came to Taber via train to work as a waitress and after several other occupations, became a certified hair dresser. She was a prudent shopper, but a very generous giver. One of her lessons to family was to know the difference between a want and a need. Kay built her own home during the Second World War and lived there until 2012. She then kept an apartment at Pioneer Place and for the last year she has resided at Clearview Lodge. We will remember her for her genuine love and kindness and for the many lessons in life she taught us. Kay will never be forgotten by her friends and family. Rest in peace. Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

Archie Fehr

1935 – 2020

Archie Fehr was born on June 15, 1935 and passed away at the Fairmont Park Extendicare on Sunday, March 15, 2020, following a long battle that taught us all a lot about strength, patience, and love. He was 84 years old. Archie was a quiet man with a big heart and a keen sense of humour. Anyone who knew him likely heard at least one of his favourite jokes at one time or another. He laughed easily, and we were blessed that he continued to enjoy telling a joke or turning a phrase well into his later years and ailing health. He was born in Saskatchewan, and lived much of his life in Alberta, where he completed courses to obtain his license as an automobile mechanic. He had a true gift for working with automobiles, and spent many hours working on vehicles for friends and acquaintances in many driveways in Alberta and British Columbia. Archie was always generous with his time and talents, and often completed repairs for little or no return. He worked both in Taber, as well as in several mechanic’s positions at mining operations in Sparwood and Elkford, British Columbia. Always a country music fan, Archie enjoyed the old classic country sound, and fancied himself a yodeller at times, much to our amusement. He enjoyed spending time with his family, whether that meant snowmobiling in the mountains, or vacationing in the sun of B.C.’s interior. Once his children were grown, he enjoyed a few trips, to Hawaii, as well as Guaymas, Mexico, where he and Marge delivered clothing and other items to orphaned children in addition to enjoying vacation time. Archie is survived by his wife, Marge, children Jim (Anita) Fehr, Justin and Dylan; Marilyn (Mark) Dechief, Nathan (Jolie), Zoey; Carmen (AJ) Struyk, Alison and Catherine; Kevin Fehr (Julie), Emily and Erik. Archie was predeceased by his son Cameron. Many thanks to the management and staff at Extendicare Fairmont Park, who assisted Archie for several years prior to his passing. In respect for Archie’s private nature, and due to the health concerns currently impacting our communities, Archie’s family will say their goodbyes at a small private gathering.

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

FRITZ

FLORENCE FRITZ, beloved wife of the late Wallace Fritz, passed away peacefully at Edith Cavell Care Centre on Thursday, March 19, 2020 at the age of 91 years.

Funeral arrangements will be announced once completed.

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

KACIK

IRENE KACIK passed away at the Coaldale Health Care Centre on Sunday, March 15, 2020, at the age of 93 years, after a lengthy stay in hospital.

She is lovingly remembered by her many friends.

Irene was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Paul Kacik and her brother Paul.

Irene was born on November 7, 1926, in Czechoslovakia and came to Canada with her mom in 1938 to join her father who had settled in the Readymade area.

She remained in Readymade for most of her life and farmed with her parents and then with her brother. While living on the farm she took great care of many different animals including chickens, cats, ducks, dogs and even the owls who had made her yard their home. This was not unusual as she would look after any animal that came into her life including the cat that was dropped off on her doorstep that she lovingly named “City Slicker”.

After her brother passed away she continued to live on the farm and kept up a very impressive garden for several years. She eventually moved into Coaldale where she lived on her own until January of this year. Other than gardening and animals her passions were crafting and baking, two things that she excelled at. Her plum buns and cream rolls were legendary among friends and will be greatly missed along with her fun-loving personality.

She was truly young at heart and loved to laugh and joke around with close friends.

Thank you to the staff of Unit 3B of the Chinook Regional Hospital and of the Coaldale Health Centre for their compassionate care.

At her request, a private service will be held to celebrate her life.

Donations in memory of Irene can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, #200, 119-14th Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6.

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

John William “Jack” O’Connor

November 26, 1953 – March 12, 2020

We are heartbroken to share that we have lost Jack—Dad, brother and ‘papa’—suddenly and unexpectedly this past week. In many ways he was heartbroken too, since the death of his son Daniel in 2008, and since the love of his life, wife Trudi, became ill with early-onset dementia in the last few years. This sweet, shy man is survived by Trudi, their daughter Jen O’Connor, and her children Jordan O’Connor (John Morin) and Mason Crawford, as well as Daniel’s children Jesse, Spencer and Caley O’Connor. Jack also leaves behind two sisters Kathleen Stuckert (Terry) and Shannon Spenceley (Bill), sister-in-law Holly Wight, two great grandchildren, James and Brooks Morin, as well as niece Alexandra Cattoni, and nephews Eric Cattoni and Ted Spenceley. He was pre-deceased by his parents Mary O’Connor-Coutts and Patrick O’Connor, sister Maureen, and of course his son Daniel. Jack was a wizard at all things electronic, and his basement was always buzzing with beeps, bings and buzzes that the rest of us would roll our eyes at as he patiently explained what these things were indicating. He was always very bright, and his mom Mary used to brag that his teachers had trouble keeping Jack interested in the same materials his classmates worked on—so his teachers got him into university calculus in middle school. He eventually studied at SAIT and graduated as an electrical mechanic, married his beloved Trudi and had Jen and Dan, and worked at Hagen’s Electric for over 40 years– only retiring when Trudi became ill in 2016. He had an absolutely hilarious, witty sense of humour, and a keen interest in the politics of the day—he and kid sister Shannon enjoyed summarizing the state of the world over coffee over the last few years—and sharing their reviews of the latest Star Trek movie or series. He was also so proud of his family—he would softly brag about his daughter Jen becoming a Registered Nurse in 2016, privately marvel at the accomplishments of his grandchildren, and although he never met Brooks, he would joyfully snuggle little James with Trudi at his side. He was kind, shy and generous—and would blush furiously when you hugged him or told him you loved him—which we did often anyways! In these last few years, Jack was devoted to the care of his dear wife, even as he battled depression and alcoholism. His laughter became rare, and we all struggled with how to best help him. We can only hope he is finally at peace. We write these words as a reminder to always keep the lines of communication open with the ones you love, keep trying to help even if it is rebuffed, and express your love often (even when it is received with discomfort). At Jack’s request, we will be holding a private family gathering at a later date.

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

Stanley “Stan” Vavra

1937 – 2020

Stanley “Stan” Vavra of Lethbridge beloved husband of Ann, passed away suddenly, after a brief illness, on March 17, 2020 at the age of 82 years. Besides his loving wife Ann, Stan is survived by his 3 children and their families, Mark (Lori) their children Kyle (Chelsey), Kristy (Trent), and Brianne, Chris (Karen) their children Kailey (Curtis) Jakober and their daughter Raylee, Courtney, and Karissa (Scott), Louise (Jack) Peacock and their children Riley (Jasmine), Taylor, Cole (Erin), Austyn and Shaye (Lindsay). Also, brother Steve (Murdeen) Vavra and family, and numerous relatives in Slovakia. He was predeceased by his parents Louis (1960) and Bertha (2009). Stan was born in the Slovak Republic (formerly Czechoslovakia) on October 28, 1937. At the young age of 9 months Stan was brought to Canada by his family in hopes of a better life. They settled in the Picture Butte Area. Stan grew up a farmer. Farming as a young man beside his father, mother and brother, then beside his wife, sons and grandsons until his passing, Stan farmed and owned land in the Barrhill, Keho Lake, Magrath and Cardston areas. Stan was a devout Catholic, faithful, hardworking and fun loving- to name just a few of his great qualities. He greatly enjoyed his family and friends, telling stories and making people laugh, over a beer or a “Snort” of whiskey. He enjoyed making people laugh up until his very last day. And Stan was especially proud of his grandchildren, and great granddaughter. Despite his busy life, Stan still found time to serve his community on various boards and organizations. And after moving to Lethbridge in 2012, Stan and Ann became involved in many Lethbridge Social and Dance clubs- making new friends and filling their social calendar with many fun afternoons and evenings. Due to current COVID-19 concerns a private Family Funeral Mass will be held, with Father Ian Gagne officiating. A Celebration of Stans life for family and friends will be held at a later date to be determined. Flowers are gratefully declined, and for those who wish, Memorial Donations can be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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

Margaret Pardoski
1936 – 2020

Margaret Rose Pardoski, beloved wife of Edmund Pardoski, passed away in Taber on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at the age of 83 years. 
As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID-19, and the government’s recommendations, a private Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 – 48 Avenue, Taber. 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.

RENNING

DARREN “TROY” RENNING, passed away suddenly on Friday, March 13, 2020 at the age of 48 years.

He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Darryl & Shirley Renning, brother, Todd Renning, sister, Tabetha Renning (Bob Fortin – deceased), only nephew, Markus Renning, longtime best friend, Alisha Fraser as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Troy was born in Calgary, AB and raised in Picture Butte, AB. As a young man he was passionate about hockey and started playing in Picture Butte, eventually moving into Lethbridge to play in the Triple “A” Minor Hockey League. Unfortunately his career ended shortly after a knee injury but his passion continued with coaching PeeWee teams in Picture Butte.

Troy had an adventurous spirit and one day, just up and decided to go backpacking with a few of his buddies. They traveled in and around Thailand and then Australia which gave him quite a few memorable stories to tell when he came home.

Troy always wanted to be his own boss and became interested in designing his own shirts. He went to Pittsburg, PA and talked with a manufacturer there then came home with tons of boxes of his own designer shirts called “I Snap” which he sold in a tanning salon. The smart-alec catchy sayings and drawings of the characters were all designed by Troy himself.

Troy’s journey began to decline when he became ill with unknown diagnoses that he struggled with for years. Many visits with doctors and specialists became tiresome and took a physical and emotional toll on him. He was finally diagnosed with a form of rheumatoid arthritis which eventually left him crippled.

His family and friends will miss him terribly but take comfort in knowing he is finally at peace and free from the rigors of his debilitating disease. Troy will forever be in our hearts and never forgotten.

Due to recent circumstances, Troy’s Celebration of Life is postponed and future arrangements will be announced once completed.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Shaughnessy Community Association, Box 22, Shaughnessy, AB T0K 2A0.

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

SILLITO

SHIRLEY BROADBENT SHAW SILLITO, was born February 23rd, 1933 at Cardston, AB and passed away on March 17th, 2020 in Cardston. She was the eighth child of William and Emma Broadbent.

Shirley grew up on the family farm in Leavitt, AB. She had many fond memories of life there with family and friends.

While at a high school dance in Cardston she met Keith Shaw whom she later married. They had two children; Dave and Susan. While together, they had many good years of hiking, camping, and travelling.

A few years after Shirley and Keith divorced, she met Weldon Sillito. They were married and spent several happy years together.

Shirley had a life-long love of nature, bird watching, baseball and spending time with her family.

She was recently pre-deceased by her beloved daughter-in-law Pam. Shirley is survived by her children: David Shaw, Susan Gorrie (Glen) and her grandson Cameron Gorrie. She is survived by Pam’s sons Jayson, Matt and James Bitz and by Pam and Dave’s grandchildren Carter and Kauua. She is also survived by her much loved sisters: Thora (Allan) Zemp, Lorna Hatch and Joyce Cahoon and several nieces and nephews.

Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, there will be no funeral service. If circumstances allow, there may be a memorial service at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

SPOTTED BULL

DORIAN “BOSS” SPOTTED BULL, passed away in Calgary, AB on March 15, 2020 at the age of 27 years old.

The Funeral Service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Monday, March 23rd at 11:00 a.m. Interment in St. Paul’s Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent at: http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

TAYLOR

NADINE TAYLOR of Lethbridge, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away at the St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit, on Friday, March 13, 2020 at the age of 84 years.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband Jack; children, Clara (Darran) Hollihan, Nancy (Trevor) Brassard and Ray (Delaine) Taylor of Lethbridge; grandchildren, Carley (Dave) Wewoira, Nikki (Andrea) Wojtowicz, Jenna (Hugo) Schenkel, Jerrid Taylor (Briana Van Zeggelaar) Jarod (Kristen) Hollihan, Lindsay (Bryan) Burrows and Cassidy Taylor; great-grandchildren, Ava & Ethan Wewiora, Rowan Schenkel, Hailie Hollihan and Lucy, Emma & Owen Burrows; as well as her sister, Pat Hanly.

Nadine was predeceased by her father, Harold Newcombe, mother and step-father, Mary and Mac McInnes, sister Margaret Bojda and brothers-in-law, Tony Bojda and Ralph Hanly.

Nadine was a dedicated community member, volunteering for the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and a life-time member of the NORD-Bridge Senior Centre.

She loved floor curling and lawn bowling but her passion was loving and supporting her family as the biggest sports fan of all for her children and grandchildren.

“Mom was selfless and always put everyone before herself, fiercely protecting the ones she loved. She embodied what a mom should be and made each and everyone believe we were her favourite; which we all were. Mom stood by her family but helped anyone needing a helping hand whether friend, neighbour or family. Roles were reversed in the last few years with us becoming her caregivers and although we tried, we were never as good as she was at looking after us. She was an amazing person.”

Special thank you is extended to the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Team for their outstanding care and compassion to Nadine and her family.

A Private Family Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation, in memory of Nadine, to St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit, 1400-9th Ave. South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V5.

“Gone for a Walk, Mom”

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

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