SATURDAY, January 9, 2021

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 9, 2021.

Joyce Arnold

1926 – 2021

It is with sadness and love that we announce the death of Joyce Arnold, beloved wife of the late Millar Arnold, on January 4, 2021, at Extendicare Fairmont at the age of 94.

Joyce is survived by her son Dalton (Diana); grandson Erik, of Lethbridge; son Bob, of Calgary; brother Bob Sproule (Cheryl) of Melfort, Saskatchewan; sisters Isla Lustig of Prince Albert, and Hazel Gordon of Prince George, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

She was predeceased by her parents Herbert and Jennifer Sproule, of Melfort; sister Dorothy Mather of Calgary and Shirley Glass of Prince Albert.

Joyce was born on the family farm west of Melfort, Saskatchewan to Herb and Jennifer Sproule. Because of severe allergies to farm animals, Joyce attended elementary school in Prince Albert, living with her Grandma Plaxton. Her family then moved into the town of Melfort and she was able to complete her schooling while living at home. In 1945 she moved to Calgary where she lived with Mr. and Mrs. Coombs while working as a pharmacist’s assistant at McDermid Drug. There, she met pharmacist George Willoughby and his family, and moved with them to Ponoka in 1947, where George managed Byrd Drug and Joyce worked in the store. After six months they all moved to Lethbridge, where George was a partner in Willoughby McDermid Drug Store. She began her studies at the University of Alberta in 1949 in the faculty of Pharmacy, but was unable to complete her exams due to illness. She returned to Lethbridge, and while working in the drug store, Joyce met former Mountie, Millar Arnold. They were married in 1951 in Calgary.

Joyce was one of the early residents on the second floor of the newly established YWCA Residence from 1950 to 1951, where she was an active participant in both social and community programs. After their marriage, Joyce and Millar continued to be active in the community. They developed lifelong friendships with their neighbors on 15th Avenue. Joyce loved to entertain friends and family.

When Joyce and Millar’s sons were in school, Joyce attended the University of Lethbridge, completing her B. Ed, and teaching at Agnes Davidson Elementary School for six years. She loved being a teacher and was sorry that her career was cut short due to her asthma.

Joyce and Millar loved to travel, first in a travel trailer with their sons, and later on tours to Australia and Europe and many wonderful cruises. They enjoyed a winter home in Palm Desert for over 30 years, where they hosted many friends and family. Summers in Lethbridge meant many hours enjoying golf at the Country Club and visits to their farm near Pincher Creek.

Joyce believed in community service and was active in both her church and other community organizations. She was President of the YWCA Board of Directors in the early 1960s and played a strong role as a Team Leader in the Building Campaign for the new YWCA in 1980-82.

Joyce was a beautiful woman who shared her kindness, warmth and generosity with so many. In her later life, she knew all of her caregivers by name, and listened with sincere interest to their stories about their families, remembering to ask about their children by name. She loved her years in Martha’s House where she enjoyed friends, old and new. She arranged bridge nights for the men and taught another friend to play crib. She will be missed by all who knew her.

A private family Graveside Service will be held, with a celebration of life planned for June of this year 2021.

Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the YWCA Lethbridge and District, 604 8 St S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2K1.

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

CECIL ROY BLACKBURN

August 21, 1948 – January 3, 2021

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Cecil R. Blackburn who passed away at his farm in the Utopia District. He was 72 years old.

Cecil was born to Dorothy and Cecil Blackburn on August 21, 1948 at the Pincher Creek Hospital. The Blackburn family recognizes that Cecil was the last male descendent of the “Blackburn” name.

Cecil graduated from Matthew Halton and went on to the U of A where he achieved his Masters in Physical Education, fulfilling his dream of playing basketball for the Golden Bears. He worked at the Drumheller Penitentiary, oil rigs and seismic, before settling down on the family farm buying in to the cattle he loved. He has become a part of the intricate fabric of the community, especially with the Butcher Creek Cattle Co., the Fishburn United Church, and the Lethbridge Toastmasters. Helping his neighbors was second nature for him. He will be sorely missed by his family and his many friends.

He is survived by his sisters: Sandra (Stuart) Kastelic of Sangudo, AB; Verna (Dennis) Shewchuk of Calgary, AB; his nieces and nephews: Kathryn (Kevin) Miller and son Ethan; Joseph (Laura) Kastelic and daughters Taylor and Morgan; Stephen (Amy) Kastelic and children: Dylan, Colby and Sienna; Derek (Jennifer) Shewchuk and Kristen Shewchuk and many extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents: Cecil LeRoy Blackburn and Dorothy Marie (Golling) Blackburn.

A private interment at Fishburn United Church will take place on Saturday, January 9, 2021, with Rev. Judith Walker officiating. There will be a memorial celebration of Cecil’s life at a later date, once restrictions have lifted.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Heart & Stroke foundation (www.heartandstroke.ca/donate) or to the Fishburn United Church (Box 2732, Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0) or to the Pincher Creek United Church (Box 667, Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0).

Snodgrass Funeral Homes assisting the Blackburn family

with funeral arrangements, (403) 627-4864.

BRAILEAN

WILDA (BETH) THOMPSON BRAILEAN passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital, on Sunday, January 3, 2021, at the age of 74 years.

Beth was born in Eston, Saskatchewan and grew up on the family farm. Beth spent time in Denmark as an agricultural exchange student. She then moved to Toronto where she worked for Bell Canada for many years. Beth met her future husband by chance on an airline flight. She returned to Saskatchewan and they eventually married. A favorite pastime was their involvement in the Equine community, spending time at Spruce Meadows and various other horse shows.

Beth and Roy later moved to their dream acreage Sandy Ridge Ranch, and then relocated to Lethbridge.

Beth was predeceased by her husband Roy in 2008 and leaves behind her companion, Neil Frandsen, Roy’s daughter Brenda (Jeremy) Nightingale, her sister Meda (Don) Nesselbeck, brother Grant (Verna) Thompson, nephews Mark (Melanie), Brian (Veronica) Nesselbeck, nieces Diane (Paul) Bothwell, Kim (Praveen) Jain, Bronwen Thompson, Jennifer Thompson, great-nieces Kyla, Sydney and Alex Bothwell, great-nephews Cameron, Jordan, Spencer, Thomas (Sam), Matthew Nesselbeck, Kasi and Kole Jain and numerous cousins.

At Beth’s request, there will be no service. The family would like to thank the staff at Chinook Regional Hospital Unit 4c for their excellent care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada (hsf.donorportal.ca) or a charity of your choice.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

CONVERSE

Apr. 30, 1947 – Jan. 7, 2021

VINCENT CONVERSE passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the age of 73 years.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Kathy Converse (Lethbridge), sons Dwayne (Carol) Converse (Lethbridge) and Trevor (Tara) Converse (San Antonio, Texas) and daughter Kara Converse (Calgary), brother John (Gwen) Converse (Edmonton) and sister Barb (Bill) Clark (North Battleford, SK) and grandchildren Alicia, Shae Lynn, Blake and Emma, numerous Fur Babies and nieces and nephews.

Vince was predeceased by his parents Carl and Jessie Converse and his in-laws Joe and Helen Boyer.

Thank you to the staff of St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit, especially Celeste, Chinook Regional Hospital Drs and Nurses on unit 4B, Jack Ady Cancer Centre, Tom Baker Cancer Centre and the Foothills ER family.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 9th, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. with Father Kevin Celebrating. The Mass will be live-streamed and may be accessed via Vince’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

DIENER: Eileen Joyce “Feather” Diener passed away peacefully at Brandon Regional Health Centre on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at the age of 96 years. Feather was born in Lemberg, Saskatchewan in 1924. A registered nurse, she worked in hospitals and clinics across the prairies. While working in Nipawin, she met her husband Lloyd after he returned from WWII military service. Feather and Lloyd were founding members of McKillop United Church in Lethbridge, and were active community volunteers in youth groups and service clubs while raising their two boys. As empty nesters, they relocated to Manitoba: first to Neepawa, then to Rivers (OO-za-we-kwun), and finally to Brandon. Feather was a lifelong curler and golfer and an astute follower of Canadian politics and current affairs. Feather was predeceased by husband Lloyd (1926-1985); sisters: Florence Maynes and Vera Henderson and brother Don Featherstone. She is survived by her son Clint Diener and daughter-in-law Diane Lasko of Seattle, Washington, and by her son Glen Diener and daughter-in-law Carol Engelhardt of Boulder, Colorado, and by Glen’s children: daughter Livia, son Ben, and step-daughter Katie. A Memorial Service will be held at a future date when travel and gathering guidance permits. Arrangements are in care of Brockie Donovan Funeral & Cremation Services, Brandon, MB, (204) 727-0694.

Messages of condolence

may be placed at

http://www.brockiedonovan.com.

HASLAM

ROBERT HASLAM, 77, passed away Thursday January 7, 2021.

Survived by his wife, Lydia, and his children, Lisa, Sarah (Kade), Cory, and Steven and eight grandchildren as well as five siblings.

Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.

To send a condolence, please

visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

Alexander “Alec” How

1927 – 2021

Alexander How (Alec) was born on February 28, 1927, in Taber, Alberta to Eng Shee and Joe “Ken” How.

All Eng Shee and Ken’s children were born at home, delivered by Dr. Hammond. When Alec was 9 years old, his mother took his siblings to China to get some Chinese education and left Alec to keep his Dad company. Unfortunately, it would be another 10 years before his mom and siblings were able to return home because of the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong and China. Alec took it all in stride, attending school and helping his Dad in his grocery business, J.K. How Foods. In 1946, Ken gave the keys to the business to his three sons as he wanted to move back to China. From then on it was a very successful partnership and the store was expanded to become How’s IGA Foodliner in 1963. When the IGA was sold in 1975, Alec worked for several years as the night manager at the Heritage Inn. This suited him very well as he was well known as a night owl. A few years later, Alec, his nephew, Alan How, and Alan’s wife Fawn, formed a partnership and opened a restaurant called the Golden Pagoda (largest restaurant at the time) which also was the Greyhound Depot. Alan and Fawn cooked and ran the restaurant. Alec was responsible for the front of the house, the depot and the accounting. The business thrived until Alan and Fawn moved to Calgary in 1992 to be with their sons and other family. Alec retired at that time.

Alec was a lover of sports, mainly from his armchair. However, he started the Taber Badminton club in the early 60’s. He rented the high school gym two evenings a week and there were people waiting their turn to play almost all the time. The club was very popular for several decades until Alec retired from play when he was well into his eighties! He was also an early women’s libber: on behalf of IGA, he sponsored a women’s softball team in Taber called How’s Hustlers.

Alec lived humbly and frugally, though he did enjoy flagship sedans, buying a new one every few years. But after retiring, he gave up his leather seats for an average family sedan and he lived in the same house for over 50 years.

Alec was a voracious reader, subscribing to several magazines and taking books out of the Public Library. His daily routine was having a small breakfast at MacDonald’s, visit with friends if they happen to be there, and then return home to read, work on word find or crossword puzzles, play computer games, or watch game shows. Alec also loved to play card games and board games with relatives and family friends.

Alec also loved music. His customer’s enjoyed the easy listening and jazz music piped throughout the store. He had a very large library of LPs, cassette tapes and CDs and his tastes ran from Nana Mouskouri to Shania Twain!

Although Alec never married, he had strong family ties with his brothers, sister and their families. He was also very close to the Lorne Fong family and was included in many facets of their lives. In essence, they were his second family.

Farther from home, Alec had also enjoyed trips abroad sponsored for IGA owners. He regularly went on car trips to destinations mainly in the US with his extended family and the Lorne Fong family. He especially looked forward to his trips to Reno.

He found faith in Jesus late in his life and appeared to be at peace in his final years. He passed away quietly in his sleep on January 4, 2021

He will be very much missed by his many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and one great great niece.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Alec’s family would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the staff of Fairmont Extendicare for their exemplary care of Alec over the two years that he lived there.

For those who wish, memorial donations can be made in Alec’s name to the Safe Haven Women’s Shelter Society, Box 4113, Taber, AB T1G 2C6, Heart and Stroke Foundation, 119 14 St NW #100, Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6, Alberta Children’s Hospital 28 Oki Dr NW, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8, or a charity of your choice.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

JARVIE

WENDY LYNN JARVIE, beloved wife of Robert “Rob” Jarvie, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at the age of 67 years.

Along with her husband, she is lovingly remembered by her brother Doug (Rosemary) Martin, niece, Rhonda (Neil) Berent and nephew, Bryan (Wendy) Martin.

Wendy was predeceased by her parents, James and Gertie Martin. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, she was comforted by God’s promise of a resurrection of family members who predeceased her in life.

Wendy loved her dogs, who were cherished companions whom she adored like children. She enjoyed getting together with friends for a good game of cards or a board game. Wendy was especially happy when she beat her husband and came out the winner. Her and Rob spent countless hours enjoying the outdoors, hiking, snow-shoeing and biking.

Wendy’s sudden passing was a shock to her family and friends who considered her the healthiest person they knew. Those left behind can look forward to the time when they can welcome her back in the resurrection under Jehovah God’s Kingdom.

Revelation 21:3,4

Thank you to all, especially for their kindness and support. Thank you also to Travis Illingworth and the team at Cornerstone Funeral Home for their professionalism and guidance through this time of grief.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

JOHN MARTIN

John Martin passed away Sunday, January 3, 2021 at St. Michael’s Health Centre with family by his side after a courageous 6-year battle with cancer.

He leaves to mourn his wife Pauline; two sons whom he was so proud of, Trevor (Martina) and David (Jenn); 5 grandchildren and his sister Barbara (Jack)

At John’s request there will be no funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John’s name to the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, 960 19 St S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home.

To send a message of

condolence please visit

http://www.generationsfh.ca.

PEDERSEN

MARSHA RAE PEDERSEN of Lethbridge, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend passed away with her family at her side on Monday, January 4, 2021 at the Fort Macleod Care Centre.

Along with her husband Walter, Marsha is lovingly remembered by her son Bob and his son Brayden of Lethbridge, her son Chris of Calgary, as well as her sister Charlotte (John) of Barriere, BC.

She was predeceased by her parents, Alex and Lillian Guminy.

Marsha and Walter were married on July 21, 1962. She accomplished much in her life but was most dedicated to raising her two boys. In her spare time Marsha enjoyed making crafts, golfing, camping and visiting with friends but she especially looked forward to spending time with her grandson, Brayden. Marsha loved to travel and recently enjoyed a trip with Walter to Denmark.

She touched us all and our time with her was marvelous.

A special thank you to the staff in Community Support Beds in the Fort Macleod Care Centre for their compassionate care of Marsha and family.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Alex Schwarz

1954 – 2021

Mr. Alex Schwarz of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Susan Schwarz, passed away at St. Michaels Palliative Care after a lengthy illness on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at the age of 66 years.

Alex loved camping, fishing and riding his motorbike. He had amazing ability to build, create or repair anything that was thrown at him. Our motto at home was “If Papa can’t fix it, we’re all screwed”.

He began working in the trailer/mobile home industry in the early 1970’s and spent the last 28 years at Triple M Housing. For many of those years, he was the maintenance man keeping equipment and buildings in good repair.

Besides his loving wife Susan, Alex is survived by his 2 sons James and Michael; 2 sisters Olga (Frank) Ress, Zena (Gil) Maggs; brothers Albert (Loretta) and Alvin; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and all of their families.

Alex was predeceased by his parents August and Alvina, sister Annie and brother Peter.

Our heartfelt gratitude to all of the family members who supported him during his illness. He will be forever remembered and sadly missed by Susan, James and Michael.

A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date.

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

Randy Shield

1956 – 2021

My true love and best friend of 30 years has been released from this life of suffering with MS to join Jesus and loved ones at his eternal home.

Randy was the life of the party, he enjoyed singing, dancing, playing spoons and sitting around a fire and drinking some cold brewskies.

He was loving and devoted and cherished times with family and friends. He always had a smile and a charming personality that served him well in his employment in the automotive industry and with the many friendships he had.

He will be forever loved by his soulmate and partner Doris Larson; her daughter Dina Larson; his son Tyrell Shield and his children Maci and Max; his daughter Desiree and family; his mom Helen Shield; 2 brothers Rick and Cam Shield as well as numerous other family members and friends.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Randy’s name may be made to the Lethbridge Christian Tabernacle, 1805 – 9 Avenue North, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 1H8.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of Randy’s life will be held at a later date when we can once again gather together.

Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

SMITH

The family of RANDAL ROY SMITH, are so sad to announce his sudden peaceful passing on Monday, January 4, 2021 at the age of 73 years. Randy is survived by his loving wife, Valerie; his children, Kandice (Kevin), TJ (Thea) and his special granddaughter Kynsli.

Due to COVID-19 a Private Family Service was held.

To send a condolence visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

SOMERVILLE

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of RON TIMOTHY SOMERVILLE, our beloved husband, father and Pa. Ron took his final ride on Sunday, December 20, 2020 at the age of 66 years.

Ron was born May 31, 1954 in Pincher Creek, Alberta, to Frank and Grace Somerville. He attended Kate Andrews High School in Coaldale, Alberta, where he met and married his highschool sweetheart and soulmate, Jeanette (Potts). Together, they had two beautiful children.

Ron was a Power Engineer working most of his life in the Lethbridge area for Swifts, Canada Packers, St. Michael’s and Chinook Regional Hospital and senior lodges.

He was a devoted family man who was very proud of his children and grandchildren. His love for his Harley Davidson motorcycle took him on many adventures, including trips to Sturgis, where he loved the hum of the bikes going through the mountains. He also enjoyed the simple things in life: music, dancing, fishing, camping, good coffee, ice cream and hotdogs. He couldn’t pass a hotdog stand without stopping.

Ron is survived by his wife of 47 years, Jeanette Somerville (Potts), son Tim (Carey Starner) Somerville of Coalhurst and daughter Jenn (Jeremy) Watterworth of Lethbridge, along with six grandchildren: Trystin Somerville, Cole Somerville, Julian Watterworth, Amelia Reid, Mak Watterworth and Shelby Watterworth. Ron is also survived by his sisters: Audrey Somerville of Edmonton and Linda (Frans) Kuilboer of Lessard Lake, brothers and sisters-in-law John and Carolyn (Woods) Potts of Coaldale, Kathleen Potts of Vulcan, Jim and Maryann (Stotz) Potts of Lethbridge, Lori (Potts) and Mark Harold of Coalhurst and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by both his parents Frank and Grace (Peters)Somerville, sister Carol Tymchuk, father-in-law and mother-in-law Ernest and Joyce (Newman) Potts, sister-in-law Betty (Potts) Brousseau, brothers-in-law Bill McMahon and Lloyd Dalton and two nieces: Mindy and Madison Potts.

Ron will forever be remembered by many for his smile, goofy sense of humour and big heart.

A Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations be made to the Alzheimer Society (#40, 1202 – 2 Avenue S, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0E3).

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

SPINKS – Marie-José (Jo) Peacefully on December 25th, 2020 aged 86 years, after a steady decline in health. Beloved wife of the late David and much loved mother of Elisabeth and the late Jonathan. She will be sadly missed by many friends in England and Canada. Anyone wishing to view a webcast of the funeral service at Ipswich Crematorium, England on Friday January 15th is asked to contact the Funeral Director. If wished, donation to The Lewy Body Society may be made at http://www.farthingfunerals.co.uk

Timothy “Tim” Stanton

1952 – 2021

Timothy Allan Stanton of Lethbridge, born September 17, 1952, beloved son of Peggy and the late Bill Stanton, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2021 at the age of 68 years.

Tim had a contagious joy for the simple things in his life and brought a smile to the faces of all who knew him. Tim loved all holidays, but especially Christmas, and could often be heard with his Christmas music playing year-round. His love for music extended to the great classics and he enjoyed singing along. He will always be remembered for his interest in cars, fire trucks, puzzles and painting, but most importantly, the love for his family.

Tim is survived by his mother Peggy, 3 sisters, JoAnne (Allen) Wiebe, Susan (Warren) McEwen, Patricia (Brian) Quinn and brother Robin (Becky) Stanton, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. He was predeceased by his twin David and his father Bill.

The family would like to thank Tim’s extended family of staff from SACLA and the Lethbridge Family Services DaCapo program. Family meant a lot to Tim and we are grateful for everyone who was a part of his.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to, may make memorial donations to the Lethbridge Family Services DaCapo program, 1107 2 Avenue a N, Lethbridge, AB T1H 0E6.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

CAMILLIA (RED CROW) WADSWORTH ‘POOK’AAKII’

With great sadness we announce the passing of CAMILLIA (RED CROW) WADSWORTH, born September 10, 1947 in Fort Macleod, AB, passed January 4, 2021 in Lethbridge, AB, at the age of 73 years.

A Visitation will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Sunday, January 10, 2021 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendance will be limited to 10 guests at a time. Kindly RSVP your attendance to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@cornerstonefh.ca Facemasks are mandatory and will be available upon entry.

A Private Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 11, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Rocky Brave Rock officiating. The service will be live streamed and may be accessed via Camillia’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

GEORGIA GALE WOOD

August 8, 1945 – December 30, 2020

Passed away unexpectedly at her Vancouver home. Born in Lethbridge, Georgia graduated from the LCI, she attended the UofA and UBC graduating with BA and BSW degrees.

Georgia is survived by sister, Margaret Wood and brother-in-law, Herb Brown, in Vancouver and a large extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ian and Isabel Wood. Donations to the Vancouver Food Bank or BCSPCA are suggested. Virtual service to be announced later. Please visit kearneyfs.com

CHRISTENSEN-WRIGHT, Susanna Maria

February 23, 1960 – Calgary, Alberta

December 16, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

It has been said that laughter is ‘sunshine in the house.’ It is with heavy hearts that the family of Sue Christensen Wright share the loss of one of the brightest rays there ever was. Susanna Maria Christensen Wright (nee Konrad) passed away in Calgary, AB, on December 16th, 2020. After a courageous battle with cancer, Sue went gently ‘into that good night’ with family members lovingly by her side.

Born in Calgary on February 23, 1960 to Mary and Frank Konrad, Sue spent her formative years in Lethbridge, AB. A high academic achiever, Sue’s childhood and youth were filled with endless extra-curricular activities that included ballet, jazz, piano, cheerleading and speech arts. She loved travelling with her family, working at her parent’s delicatessen and celebrating her family’s Hungarian heritage. After graduating from C.C.H.S., she furthered her studies at the University of Alberta where she obtained a Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology. For most of her career Sue had a private practise as an SLP and Speech Arts teacher and worked for the past 16 years with the Rocky View School Division.

Sue had a myriad of passions, but her favourites were travelling, watching films, reading, shopping, solving escape rooms and planning elaborate parties. Those that had the honour of working with Sue will always remember her zest for life, hard work ethic, and genuine compassion. Those that were gifted with her friendship will forever remember her contagious laughter, sense of humour, dynamic personality, and vibrant conversations. She inspired and touched all the lives she graciously spread her beams to.

Amidst a wealth of career achievements and recognitions, her greatest legacy lies in her daughters, Madison and Lexi. Sue took great pride and joy in watching them grow and flourish into incredibly talented, beautiful, and creative young women. Her greatest sadness was knowing that she would be unable to witness their future life accomplishments.

However, she was comforted knowing that the wonderful memories they shared together would sustain them for the rest of their lives.

Not surprisingly, her bright energy continued to shine in her final weeks. Sadly, amidst strict Covid restrictions, Sue’s last battle was fought quietly and bravely at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. Her caregivers called her a “ray of sunshine” even in her darkest days. Although her light was extinguished far too early, her echoing laughter and verve for life will emanate in all those she left behind.

Sue lived an extraordinary life as a mother, wife, daughter, and sister. Blessed with an abundance of wonderful friends, she was also adored by her loyal canine companions Dante and Finnigan. Sue is survived by her daughters Madison (David) Wright and Lexi Wright; her mother Mary Konrad; three siblings, George (Jane) Konrad, Shirley (Shawn) Konrad, and Francis (Barb) Konrad; niece Elizabeth Konrad and eldest daughter, Kira Christensen. Her loss will also be felt by countless extended family and found family members. Sue was preceded in death by her father, Francis “Frank” Konrad and devoted husband David Wright.

At her request, no funeral service will be held. A celebration of Sue’s incredible life will be planned at time yet to be determined. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Sue’s obituary at http://www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Susanna Christensen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.

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