FRIDAY, October 16, 2020

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on October 16, 2020.

DE RAAF

Nov. 27, 1932 – Oct. 13, 2020

Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day that the Lord has made”

MARTIN DE RAAF, beloved husband of Hennie De Raaf (née Tessemaker), passed away at Fairmont Extendicare on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at the age of 87 years.

Besides his loving wife of 57 years, he is survived by his four children: Mike (Jenny), Jodi (Mike), Kari and Sharon; seven grandchildren: Marnie (Jeff), Deric (Whitney) and Jesse (Emma) Koop, Riley and Joshua De Raaf and Ashlynn and Kale Gitzel. as well as three sisters in the Netherlands.

Martin was born in Naaldwijk, NL, on November 27, 1932. He immigrated to Canada in 1951 at the age of 18. In 1962, he married Hennie Tessemaker and together were blessed with four children. During their time in Brooks, he and Hennie owned and operated BRK Equipment Rentals. In 1995, they sold the Brooks business and retired to Lethbridge. After retirement, Martin and Hennie were able to volunteer with Disaster Relief work for 11 years. He also volunteered at Interfaith Food Bank and Lethbridge Soup Kitchen. He was a member of the Lethbridge Christian Men’s Choir for many years and he loved to sing! Martin’s faith in his Lord and Saviour was especially important to him, and he was an active member of Maranatha CRC.

The family would like to thank Dr. Garden, Janelle from Lethbridge Home Care and the caring staff at Fairmont Extendicare.

A Viewing will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 10:00 AM, with a service at 11:00 AM with Pastor Martin Boardman officiating. Interment to follow in Mountain View Cemetery.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, kindly RSVP your attendance to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@cornerstonefh.ca. Seating will be limited to 90 guests. Facemasks are mandatory and will be available upon entry.

For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and may be accessed via Martin’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

In memory of Martin, donations may be made to Interfaith Food Bank (1103 – 3 Avenue N, Lethbridge, AB, T1H 0H7).

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

DORCHAK
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of VICTORIA (VICKI) DORCHAK of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Stewart Dorchak.  She passed peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Center with her family by her side on Tuesday October 13, 2020 at 85 years of age.  Cherished mother of Ron (Debbie) Slawosky, Dan Dorchak (Brenda), Cindy (Merlyn) Howg, Brad Dorchak, Kathy Dorchak (Ken), Joel (Gwen) Dorchak and Monte (Ildiko) Dorchak, 15 Grandchildren and 16 Great Grandchildren.  She is also survived by her sister-in-laws Mary Slawosky, Taletta Dorchak, Lillian Davies and Karen Dorchak.

Vicki was predeceased by her husband; Stewart, her daughter-in-law; Lynne Dorchak, her granddaughter; Heather Dorchak, her parents; Alexander and Katrina Slawosky, her brothers; George, Mike and Edward Slawosky.

Our Mom was born on May 24, 1935 and was raised in Lethbridge, AB.  She married Dad on March 20, 1954.  Together they operated a grain and cattle farm east of Enchant until moving to Lethbridge in 1990.   Mom and Dad celebrated 52 years of marriage before Dad’s passing on October 13, 2006.
Mom was a farmer, cook and canner, seamstress, pie maker and baker.  In her later years she took up golf and was known to sink some long ones.  However Mom’s greatest passion was her family and friends.  No one knew the value of self-sacrifice like Mom.  For the entirety of her life, she worked tirelessly to provide her family and friends with the best of everything.   Whether preparing a Sunday feast, a Christmas or Easter dinner, or lunches in the field, Mom poured love into her food.  Her kitchen was her sanctuary, the place she felt most proud, because she knew her meals would bring her family together.

Mom will be dearly missed by her family and friends, but the memories we have of her will last a lifetime.  Her infectious smile, peppy spirit and sincerity of heart gave us all a chance to witness what it meant to enjoy a full life.

Private Funeral Service will be held on Monday October 19, 2020 at 11:00am at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 12 Ave South. With Father Derek Remus presiding.

The Service will be livestreamed by visiting the Salmon and Sons website.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

HANSEN

It is with great sadness, but also with an abundance of love, admiration and celebration that we say goodbye to our husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, VERNON GILBERT HANSEN. Vern passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2020, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He fought this battle with strength and determination and now he may be at peace.

Vern was born November 12, 1947 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His true fortune in life was meeting the love of his life, Sharan in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Vern proposed to, and married Sharan in 1968 and the ambitious couple left their families and moved to Calgary, Alberta to open the very first McDonald’s franchise in Alberta. Vernon and Sharan then travelled southward and opened the first McDonald franchise in Lethbridge in 1977 on Mayor Magrath Drive South. Vern loved his life as an entrepreneur and created opportunity for many within our community who will remember their times working for Vern with respect and fondness. Later in life, Vern changed careers and was a true craftsman in selling life, health and investment opportunities as an insurance broker.

Vern and Sharan were blessed with three amazing children: Alan, Trisha and Jason. For everyone that ever encountered the Hansen family, it was a blessing to meet a family that was so welcoming and embracing. To be a part of the Hansen family connection with Vern was an absolute treat and entertaining experience. Vern’s passion was his children and his family. As we all know, sports was also a big part of his life. Not only was he an avid football fan, he also supported the Lethbridge Amateur Wrestling Club for over 35 years as well as the Lethbridge Rugby Club. Vern was a generous and fun loving man. A quick wit and an understanding of all human kind, he exemplified the characteristics of being a truly extraordinary person and someone that everyone could call themselves blessed for having known.

Vern and Sharan are the very proud grandparents to Nathaniel and Isabelle. Grandpa and Grandma are the most rewarding titles that meant the world to Vern.

Vern is survived by his loving wife Sharan, his sisters Marie (Tom) Bjerke of Minnesota and Cheryl Best of Florida, his sisters-in-law Susan (Bill) Nice of Texas and Sandra Knochenmus of Wyoming, as well as his three children: eldest son Alan, daughter Trisha (Tony) Vanden Heuvel, youngest son Jason (Sabrina) and his grandchildren Nathaniel and Isabelle as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins located all over the US.

Vern was pre deceased by his father Vernon, mother Betty, grandson Samuel and his brother-in-law, Earl Best.

The family would like to thank all of the medical healthcare professionals that were instrumental in Vern’s care, especially Dr. Aaron Coma of Family Medical Centre and Jennifer at St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, the family will be having a private service at this time, as most of the remaining family is in the United States.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests anyone wishing to acknowledge the life of Vernon Hansen can kindly make a donation to the St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit (1400 – 9 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4V5).

Go Vikings, SKOL!

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

Carol Knox

1943 – 2020

Mrs. Carol Marie KNOX (Losey/Wilson) of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Paul Knox, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2020 at Chinook Regional Hospital at the age of 76. In keeping with her lifelong devotion to family and her caring and compassionate nature, Carol was able to stay with us long enough to give her family a chance to say goodbye.

Carol is survived by her mother Bernice Losey; her children Michele Wilson (Mike Rowland), Todd (Janice) Wilson, Dean Wilson; grandchildren Blaine and Courtney; siblings Donna Karl (Lorne Coyle), Gail (Roy) Hummel, Alan (Diane) Losey, Alyce Miller, Keith (Peggy) Losey, and Lyle Losey (Lois), along with a large extended family.

Carol was pre-deceased by her second husband Paul Knox; father Richard Losey; brother-in-law Greg Miller and her nephew Brad Karl. Her family will remember her as a spunky, happy, social, classy lady.

Carol was born in Lethbridge, AB and raised on the family farm in the Lucky Strike area. She attended Masinasin School and graduated from Erle Rivers High School in Milk River. She married her high school sweetheart Gary Wilson and together they raised their 3 children.

After raising her children, Carol went to business school and embarked on a long, successful career as an office manager and grain buyer. She was on a first name basis with almost every farmer in and around the Lethbridge area. She always found the time to stop and chat and was genuinely interested in their lives.

Carol married Paul Knox in 1989 where she also gained a stepson, Ian Knox. Although Carol and Paul only had 7 short years together before Paul passed away, it was a time of pure wedded bliss.

Carol’s devotion to her family was immeasurable. She loved large family gatherings and rarely backed down from an invitation to any social event. Carol opened her door to anybody who needed it. Her spare room was often occupied by a niece, nephew or grandchild who were more than willing to accept her generosity, home cooking and cheap rent.

When she became a grandma, she immersed herself in the lives of Blaine and Courtney by attending every Christmas concert, awards ceremony, volleyball, hockey and baseball game she could. Grandma may have thought she was the lucky one who was blessed with living so close to her grandkids when in fact the kids know, they were the lucky ones. Their fondest memories are weekends spent in her company.

After semi-retiring Carol chose to pursue another path and became a licensed realtor in the Lethbridge area for a few years before finally retiring for good at the age of 65. Carol loved a good party and had an attitude of the more the merrier. So, to celebrate retirement she decided to spend her entire first pension cheque (maybe more like several pension cheques) on a grand party for herself.

Carol was also a globetrotter. In fact, she travelled so much we had trouble coming up with an all-inclusive list. Some of the highlights were trips to Europe, Disneyland, South Africa, Hawaii, Mexico, the 2010 Winter Olympics, South Carolina, Australia, and a wild car trip from Corpus Christie, TX to Lethbridge.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Memory Care Unit of St. Therese for their wonderful care of Carol as her health declined in recent years.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all the blessings of our lives. There is nothing we are more grateful for than to have shared in her life’s journey. Love you forever and ever.

Due to the recent restrictions, a private family (invite only) service will be held at 11:00 am, on Saturday, October 17, 2020 with Reverend Trevor Potter, officiating.

The family invites you to watch the service via live stream at 11:00 am, on Saturday, October 17, 2020 on the Martin Brothers website https://www.fh websites.org/ymb/obituary/Carol-Knox. PLEASE NOTE: the link to watch the live service will be available at 10:45 am below Carol’s obituary.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carol’s name to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta, Lethbridge Chapter, 1202 2 Ave S #40, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E3.

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

LYBBERT

With great sadness we announce the passing of Mary Victoria (Finley) Lybbert. Mary passed away unexpectedly October 8, 2020 in Chetwynd, BC. She will be missed by her two surviving sisters, Pat and Kay, her sons – Shane, Kelly, and Ray Lybbert, 12 grand-children and 12 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 am on Saturday October 17, 2020 at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building – 260 East 200 North in Raymond, AB

MATKIN

February 5, 1954 to October 11, 2020

EVA DIANNE MATKIN was born on February 5, 1954 to Hebert Lamont Matkin and Rhea Pearl Card and resided in Lethbridge Alberta.

Eva was predeceased by her father Lamont in 2014 and is survived by her mother Rhea, 5 sisters; Gayle, Carol, Mary, Donna, Maren; 6 children, Cameron, Lindsay, Jennifer, David, Crystal, Ande; 15 grandchildren and multiple fur babies.

With an unrelenting sense of humor, an enduring love for her family, friends as well as anyone who crossed her path; Eva had a lasting impact on all. We will all remember her strong passion for her family, her unique outlook on life and her desire to spread laughter and love.

The family will host a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Lethbridge Humane Society or Lupus Canada.org.

Due to COVID-19 a Private Family Service will be held. To send a condolence or Watch the Funeral Live on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 11:00 am visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

To send condolences please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

DALE PILLING

1941 – 2020

Dale passed away suddenly Sunday October 4 after being attacked by a bull. Dale was a horseman and a cowboy, well known for his love and ability with horses and mules and for his respect for people. He was kind and thoughtful to all and had a wide range of friends; all appreciated and valued – (those who knew Dale liked him.) Sitting beside him was a privilege, especially at a horse sale – he knew a good horse, his judgement and opinions were respected and sought. He was genuine, a man of few words, what he said came straight from the heart.

Dale was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, he enjoyed being a Greeter ensuring everyone felt welcome attending Church.

He leaves his wife Karen, daughters: Kristine Reagh (Brad), Cheryl Millward (Murray), Jolaine Pilling, sons: Bronc (Lori) and Tyler (Jodi), sisters: Maxine Rodgers, Merna Coleman, Norma Hatch (Alvin) and brother Curtiss (Janice) and sister in law Norma Pilling Lybbert. He and Karen have 19 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter Valerie, his parents Leonard and Ida Pilling, his brothers Freeman and Gaelynd, his sister Kay LaRene, and brothers in law Ronald Rodgers and Reed Coleman.

A Graveside Service was held on October 7 at the Leavitt Cemetery.

VAN VLIET

1958 – 2020

BELLE VAN VLIET passed away peacefully on Saturday October 10, 2020 after a long battle of health issues, with her loving husband Henry and good friend Joyce Klassen by her side.

Belle is survived by her husband Henry of 28 years, 3 sisters, Surinder, Satwant, and Amrit, 3 nephews, 3 nieces, and a great-niece of Modesto California, as well as 3 sister-in-law’s and their families from Henry’s side. Belle was predeceased by her mother Resham and her father Gurmel, and a brother Balwant Singh.

Belle was born on December 19, 1958 in Nadi, Fiji. She immigrated to Canada in 1976, living in Richmond BC, Calgary AB, settling in Lethbridge AB in 1978. She had a few jobs before she started her 26 year career at the AMA. After AMA she pursued a career at Lethbridge College for several years, while there she obtained her business admin and accounting diploma which she worked very hard at and took great pride in.

In spite of Belle’s many health challenges over the past 6 years she remained positive and hopeful.

Belle was such a caring person, constantly thinking of others before herself. She always asked about the well being of friends and family. She will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her.

Flowers are gratefully declined, for those who wish memorial donations may be made to STARS Air Ambulance, Kidney Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or Diabetes Canada, all of which Belle depended on. Loving memories and words may be shared at the memorial by those who are willing.

A Funeral Service will be held at SALMON AND SONS FUNERAL HOME on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 4:00pm.

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, there is limited seating. Please register with Salmon and Sons if you plan on attending the Service.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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