THURSDAY, February 25, 2021

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on February 25, 2021.

Ihoko Asakuma

1943 – 2021

Mrs. Ihoko Asakuma of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Mr. Hideki Asakuma, passed away at St. Michael’s Health Centre, on Monday, February 22, 2021, at the age of 77 years.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

BROWN

GORDON EDWIN BROWN, 65, passed away on February 19, 2021 at his home in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Gordan was preceded in death by his parents Norman and Mary. He is survived by his children Amanda, Alicia (Christopher), William (Amanda), Nicholas (Keith), Serena (Brandon), and Timothy, as well as six grandchildren. Gordon is also survived by his siblings Vivian (Val), Elaine (Brian), Stephen, and Barry, as well as many nieces and nephews, and his best friend, Allan.

A Funeral Service will be held at Salmon & Sons Funeral Home in Lethbridge on February 26, 2021 at 11:00 am. A livestream will be available to view at the Salmon and Sons website. Bishop Randy Oliver will be officiating.

Burial will follow at the Temple Hill Cemetery near Raymond, Alberta.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Mental Health Foundation Alberta or the Canadian Diabetes Foundation.

To send a condolence, please

visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

CHRISTIE

With profound sadness we announce that Jean Christie passed away peacefully in her sleep at St Michael’s Health Centre on Feb 17, 2021.

Born in Regina Sask. she grew up on a farm near Colfax, moved to the U.K. for a time and returned west to nursing in Weyburn. She eventually moved to Lethbridge AB where she met her husband Hugh.

Raising her three children and running a household, she worked at Eaton’s and Greens shoe store. Jean enjoyed camping trips, golf, x-country skiing and was a lifelong member of the 5pin bowling association.

She is predeceased by her parents, Jim & Alice Barrett, and sister Margaret Bigg.

She was the proud mother of Linda Christie, Doug (Karen) Christie and Brenda (Dave) Howe;

Grandmother of Jim (Laura) & Roy Scarrow, Kate (Ryan) Vogelaar, Riley Black, Sarah Christie, John (Monique) Howe & Christie Howe; Great Grandmother of Joey Scarrow, Ruby Rosas, Ava & Oliver Vogelaar, Payton, Madison & Parker Howe.

Jean will be dearly missed but shall remain forever in our hearts.

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

DAY CHIEF

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that the Day Chief family announces the sudden passing of Sipinaamaayaakii (Night Gun Woman) BRENDA DAY CHIEF on February 15, 2021 at the age of 59 after a courageous battle with Covid 19. Brenda was born on May 12,1961 to Rosaline Day Chief and Joe Rabbit. She leaves to mourn her husband Robert Delaney, daughters Lana (Kelvin Shouting) Day Chief, Charnelle (Jiggs), and son Corey (Erika) Day Chief. Grandchildren: Brenda raised her granddaughter Dakota, who she referred to as “my Kipitaipokaa”, Trez, Karlee, Coco, Jeziah and Kaylin. Sisters: Louann (Troy Many Fingers) and Julie Birdstone. brothers: Wayne Day Chief, Andrew (Michealina) Rabbit, Norman Black Plume and Bruce (Trina) Iron Shirt. Uncles: Wilton (Trina) Day Chief, Chester (Bonnie) Day Chief, Bruce (Carla) Day Chief and Perry (Lorena) Day Chief, Aunties: Mary Ruth McDougall, Christine Shade, Mae Singer, Myrna Chief Moon, Martha Day Chief, June Day Chief, Rita (Kieth) Red Crow, Harriet Day Chief, Laverne (Rod) First Rider, Patsy Day Chief and Delia (John) Chief Moon. Nieces & Nephews: Jamie (Gina) Eagle Bear, Chelsi-lynia (Brad) Wolf Child, Kaycee Twigg, Markee (Tealson) Smith, Lane (Cara) Day Chief, Dacia (Slade) Delaney, Nat Iron Heart (Tessia), Celina Rabbit, Chris Rabbit, Andrew Jr. Rabbit, Brian Rabbit, Rueben Rabbit, Audrey Rabbit, Joseph Rabbit, Desmond Rabbit, Amber Rabbit, Joey Iron Shirt, Carlos Iron Shirt, Stacey Iron Shirt, Candace Black Plume, Kelly Black Plume and Eric Jr. Black Plume. Brothers: Winston Jr, Barney, Dexter, Dale, Ernest, Tracy, Kelly, Chris, Tyler, Charles, Matt, Leon, Kesley, Victor, John, Terrance, Radford, Brad, Darryl and Bryce. Sisters: Lucille (Eugene) White Quills, Debbie (Johnny) McDougall, Karen (Tom) Healy, Annette (Brian), Margi, Kim (BJ) Little Bear, Charlene, Tracy (Geoff) Healy, Renita, and Dennis and Melissa Calling Last. When our niece Claire joined the family she accepted her with open arms. Brenda was raised at the Belly Buttes and Saokoioohtss on the Blood reserve where she lived most of her life. It was a life typical of family togetherness where everyone knew everyone else. In 1977 Brenda met Robert Delaney, who is from the Blood/Siksika reserve, and they later married in 2005. They made their home on the Blood reserve and together they raised their family. Brenda took great pride in her grandchildren who were a major source of fulfillment for her. Her grandson Jeziah’s interest of chicken dancing launched a joint interest for her family to join the pow wow trail. Trez and Coco became chicken dancers learning from family member Nat Iron Heart, while Kaylin’s interest was to jingle dance. Brenda took the time to travel and bring her grandchildren to any destination the pow wow trail would take them. Black Otter, Sorrel Rider, Young Spirit, Northern Cree became her favourite pow wow singers and during this time she met and took Nick Running Rabbit/Chief Moon as a son and good friend. The family was very proud of Brenda for all her accomplishments, as she was the first to graduate from High School; the first to receive a degree (1993) from the University of Lethbridge and the first one to receive a Masters of Education: Reading Specialist/Special Education from Sinte Gleska University (2007). Brenda was employed by Kainai Board of Education from 1993-2021 and dedicated her life to her students. In 2005-2011 she served in the capacity as SPED/Learning Support Teacher at both elementary schools. In 2011-2013, she became the Associate Principal and Learning Support Teacher for Aahsaopi Elementary School and for the past eight years (2013-2021) Brenda took on the role of Student Services Coordinator. It was in this position that she along with the Learning Support Teachers worked on the development of a Student Services Handbook and Policies; in which the Board then recommended a Special Education Ad Hoc Committee be formed. In her pursuit to provide the best care for the KBE students, Brenda developed the Elders-In-Residence program and worked closely with School Counselors and the Learning Support Teachers in all KBE schools. Brenda consistently demonstrated her excellent work ethics throughout her time with KBE and always went over and above to ensure the best for all students. Throughout her years with KBE, Brenda generously provided Christmas hampers for her students who were less fortunate. She encouraged family and friends to focus on their physical health and well-being. The relationships that we have in our lives help to form who we are as a person; who we surround ourselves with speaks mountains about us, and to us. True, supportive friends become family. Losing a loved one is not easy, but the support we received from Connie Wells, Lauretta Many Bears, Donna Russell and her friends’, have made this time easier for us. These friendships just feel right and take very little effort to uphold. Brenda actively practiced both Catholicism and traditional ways. She was so proud to complete a four year vow in which she immersed herself as a participant dancer at a Sundance. This past year she proudly assisted her granddaughter Dakota when she was asked to take part in the Okaan, at Aahko’ka’tssin. She was interested in joining the Maotokiiks (Buffalo Women Society), although this never came to pass. She attended church every Sunday and said her rosaries unfailingly. Sipinaamaayaakii (Night Gun Woman) is also survived by extended families, Ronald and Dick Day Chief family members, Hunts, Rabbits, Little Bears, Beebe, Heavy Head, Heavy Runner, Mountain Horse, Weasel Head, Shade, Singer, McDougall. We are sorry if we left anyone out as she had so many relatives. Sipinaamaayaakii was predeceased by her: Mother: Rosaline Day Chief, Father: Joe Rabbit. Sister: Jodie Marie, Nephew: Joey. Brothers: Michael, James, Curtis, Robert and Joseph. Maternal Grandparents: Victor and Lucy Day Chief. Uncles: Winston, Jarvis and Ervin Shade. Aunties: Alfreda, Doris and Judy. Paternal Grandfather: Bob Rabbit and Louise Healy, Uncle: Bernard Rabbit, Aunties: Emma Rabbit and Irene Weasel Head. In accordance with the families wishes and in light of the Covid pandemic, a family celebration of life will be held at a later date. We would like to thank the staff of KBE for their contribution. Many thanks to the staff at the Lethbridge Chinook Regional Hospital for their loving care. And for all your prayers, all your text messages, and to those who stopped by the hospital in our time of need. We would like to thank Southwest Collaborative Support Services’ for their kind donation to a charity of choice in Brenda’s honour. A Viewing will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Thursday, February 25th from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. A Viewing will also be held on Friday, February 26th from 9:00 – 11:00 am with a Private Family Service to follow at 11:00 am at Legacy Funeral Home. Due to COVID -19 Restrictions only 20 people will be allowed into the service at a time.

To WATCH the service Online or to send condolences please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

Marilyn Fletcher
1941 – 2021
 Marilyn Jean Fletcher, beloved wife of Grant Fletcher, passed away in Lethbridge on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at the age of 79 years.
 As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID-19 and the government recommendations, a private funeral service will be held at Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber on Saturday, February 27, 2021 with Shelly Bassett officiating. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
 Due to the fact that in person attendance at the service is limited and by invitation only, those who wish to view the service may do so by visiting Marilyn’s obituary page on our website after 12:00 P.M. on Monday, March 1, 2021.
 Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

Huibertje Adriana Mans

1927 – 2021

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Mrs. Huibertje Adriana Mans of Picture Butte, beloved wife of the late Mr. Johannes Mans, passed away at Bethesda Care Home on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at the age of 94 years.

Due to current health restrictions, a private family Graveside Service will be held at the Memorial Cemetery of Picture Butte.

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

Craig Patterson

1956 – 2021

With great sadness and achy hearts, Craig Allen Patterson passed away suddenly on February 2, 2021 at the age of 64 years.

Craig is survived by his daughter Carma Lynn Patterson; 5 grandchildren and the mother of his children, Theresa Marie Selnes; brothers Gilbert Patterson, Grant Patterson and family, along with his brother and sister in laws Tom Greg Selnes, Linda Jean Selnes; nephews, nieces and mother-in-law Ruth Virginia Selnes.

Craig is predeceased by his son Chad James Patterson.

He will be tremendously missed by all that knew him.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

PITCHER

ALLEN KENT PITCHER, beloved husband of Donna Pitcher passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in Calgary, Alberta on February 21, 2021 at the age of 79.

Kent was born in Cardston, Alberta on May 23, 1941. He was the fourth child of Willis and Ethel Pitcher. Kent was predeceased by his parents and his two sisters, Charlene Shields and Karen Scanlon, and his youngest brother, Dee Pitcher. He is survived by his oldest sister, Rhea Card, and his older brother, LeRon (Sharon) Pitcher. He is also survived by five loving sisters-in-law: Della (Jim) McLean, Dixie (Ray Barr) Diebert, Darlene (Tom) Scott, Debbie (Bob Mantler) Zuback, Dorsey (Jim) Jaworsky who looked to him more like a big brother than a brother-in-law.

Kent lived on a farm south of Cardston until he was ten. In 1951, they moved into town. He graduated from Cardston High School in 1959, then left to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in North Carolina and Virginia. After returning from his mission he married his highschool sweetheart, Donna Diebert in the Cardston Alberta Temple on May 4, 1963. He started his career in the teaching profession. He taught in Del Bonita, Grand Prairie, and Mountain View. After Kent had taught for a couple of years, he joined Pitcher Realty, with his brother and dad. But in 1971 an opportunity came to rent a farm in the Woolford District and thus began his farming career. Kent’s passion was farming. He loved planting crops and calving out cows. He loved the feel of the soil and was a diehard farmer and rancher to the very end. He especially loved his Maine-Anjou cattle. He often commented that they would be the only breed of cattle allowed in heaven.

Kent was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Day Saints. He loved his Savior and was always looking for ways to stay in His service. He served as a bishop of the Aetna Ward, later on the high council and many other church callings. Some of his greatest memories were made with his favorite companion, Donna on their two missions to Ireland and Cove Fort. Those 6 months in Cove Fort felt like a Zion experience for them and for all the missionaries they served with. He also truly enjoyed his five years as director of the Cardston Temple Information Centre and later as service missionaries there. At the time of his passing Donna and Kent were currently serving together in the Chinook Lodge Branch.

He leaves to mourn his wife of 57 years, Donna and their six children: Gregg and Donna Pitcher, Tim and Beth Pitcher, Shawn and Patty Pitcher, Dan and Jen Pitcher, Angie and John Bennett and Tiffany and Michael Spencer. Along with 28 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, whom he loved and was very proud of. We know he was greeted by his two sweet great-granddaughters, Merida and Eliza who preceded him

Friends may meet the family at the Temple Street Chapel, Cardston on Friday, February 26th, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Private Family Service will be held at Legacy Funeral Home on Saturday, February 27th, at 2:00 pm. Interment in the Cardston Cemetery.

To WATCH the service Online or to send condolences please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

UYTDEWILLIGEN

CORNELIUS “KEES” UYTDEWILLIGEN passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at the age of 89 years.

He leaves behind his children: Harriet (Tom) Evans, Joanne (Peter) Coldham, Ken (Serena) Uytdewilligen, Jackie (Dave) Reich, Margaret (Kevin) Munchrath and Michael (Patti) Uytdewilligen; grandchildren: Katie (John Davis Shields) and Leanne (Brad Reed) Evans; Karen (Dan) Dykeman, David Coldham (Sarah Carson); Ryan Uytdewilligen (Mariana Aramburu); Nick, Ben, and Emily Reich; Rebecca, Sarah, and Camryn Munchrath; Lucas Uytdewilligen; and Casey and Piper Uytdewilligen as well as great-grandchildren Ellie and Andrew Shields; and Sienna Dykeman. Cornelius is also survived by brothers, sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews in Holland.

He is predeceased by beloved wife Francis, son Andrew and daughter-in-law Kim.

Born on September 23, 1931 in Halsteren, Holland to Marinus and Henritte, Cornelius grew up on the family farm with twelve siblings and later served as cook and sharpshooter for the Royal Netherlands Army. He married Francis on February 4, 1959 and made the long journey by boat and train to start a new life in Coaldale, Alberta, soon after.

Cornelius was known as a hard worker, having held many jobs to feed his family. He worked as a hired-hand, sanded drywall for home construction, and milked cows for the Lethbridge Research Station while establishing his own hog operation and sugar beet farm. Volunteer work was significant in Cornelius’ life; he started the Coaldale 4-H Swine Club with several other parents in the area and served as a Fourth-Degree-Knight of the Knights of Columbus. Religion was also an important fixture; as a devout Catholic, he sat on several boards for St. Ambrose Parish and served as an usher and minister delivering communion to the sick.

After retiring in his 60s, Cornelius filled much of his time gardening with his wife, visiting and touring around family from Holland, and lovingly teasing his many grandchildren who called him “Opa.” He would move to Lethbridge in 2011, and spend his final years in St. Michael’s where he would battle numerous health ailments including a lengthy struggle with diabetes.

Cornelius is remembered as a gentle and easygoing man; well liked by many in the community. Often referred to as an “instigator” by many members of his family, thanks to his playful and humorous spirit; he will be sorely missed by all who knew him. His much-enjoyed words of wisdom “big man at night, big man in the morning” have and will live on for many generations to come.

The family would like to thank the staff at St. Michael’s Health Centre for their dedicated care over the past four years – particularly through this difficult time.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 1, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. with Father Ian Gagné celebrating. The Mass will be live streamed and may be accessed via Case’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

Case will be laid to rest in the Coaldale Cemetery during a private Family Graveside Service.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Cornelius, donations may be sent to St. Michael’s Health Centre (1400 9 Ave South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4V5).

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

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