FRIDAY, October 29, 2021
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on October 29, 2021.
Dr. Harry Ernest Afaganis
1937 – 2021
Dr. Harry Ernest Afaganis beloved husband of Betty, passed away peacefully Monday morning October 25, 2021 at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital at age 84 after a long struggle with MS. He is survived by his wife Betty, sons Alex (Rachelle) and Jim of Calgary, his much-loved grandchildren Matthias, Alexa, Sarah, and Charlotte and his sister Irene Bogusky of Newmarket, ON. He was predeceased by his parents Alexander and Frosso and his sisters Alexandra Vlassie and Helen Christou.
Harry was born and raised in Lethbridge, later graduated in Medicine from University of Alberta in 1961 and completed his specialty in ear, nose and throat surgery from University of Pennsylvania in 1965. He returned to Lethbridge where he and Betty raised their family and he practiced until 1995 when he retired to his garage.
Those who knew him will remember his sense of humor. His philosophy was “Life is a Joke”.
There will be no funeral, however an extended family celebration will be organized in the summer. In lieu of flowers, please send a card with your favorite memories of Harry.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Del Allen
March 8, 1939 – October 23, 2021
It is with great sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Deloy David Allen in Claresholm, Alberta on October 23, 2021 at the age of 82.
A private family service will be held in November.
Please visit zentnerfuneralhomes.ca
to leave a condolence.
1-844-ZENTNER
Antonia Ambrozic
1931 – 2021
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Antonia Ambrozic (nee Hribar), beloved wife of Mirko (Mike) Ambrozic.
Antonia was born on July 22, 1931, in Zlato Polje, Slovenia. As victims of political strife, the Hribar family relocated to Austria in 1942 and Antonia spent her teenage years with her family in refugee camps. The family immigrated to Canada in 1949, settling in southern Alberta. After working on sugar beet farms for two years, the family moved to Lethbridge, Alberta.
A few years later, Antonia met Mirko from Bled, Slovenia and they were married in October of 1958, recently celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary. Together they raised three children, Evelyn, Caroline and Richard.
Antonia was a kind, loving and caring spouse, mother and grandmother, often putting her families needs ahead of her own. Antonia enjoyed working at St. Michael’s Hospital for over 22 years in the CSR and Dietary departments. Antonia and Mike were active members of Assumption Church, where Antonia also volunteered through the Catholic Woman’s League. Antonia came from a musical family and enjoyed being in the Slovenian Choir at Assumption Church. Family was everything to Antonia. She looked forward to family get togethers and did all the cooking for these events. Antonia would often be found in the kitchen playing Slovenian music while baking her delicious potica, strudel, pies and cookies.
One of Antonia’s special experiences was a visit back to her birthplace in Slovenia in 2015 with her daughter Caroline, and her grandchildren Christopher and Kimberly.
Antonia is survived by her husband Mirko, twin sister Ann (Steve) Dimnik, brother Bart (Betty) Hribar, sister-in-law Johanna Hribar, daughters Evelyn (Peter) Watson, Caroline (John) Hatcher, and her son Dr. Richard Ambrozic.
She is also survived by her grandsons Daniel (Tess), Christopher, Michael, Bradley and Nicholas, granddaughter Kimberly, great grandson James, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Antonija, father Jernej and brothers Stanley and John.
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Therese Villa in Lethbridge for their care of Antonia. A special thanks to Chaplain Prince Mookkanotti Lukose for the comfort he provided to both Antonia and Mike.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am, on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405-12 Avenue South Lethbridge, AB. Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) research at UHN Foundation, in memory of Antonia, would be appreciated by the family. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute or call 416-603-5300.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BELL, Donald Hugh
January 4, 1939 – October 22, 2021
With deep sadness and love, Donald’s family would like to announce his passing. Born in Fort MacLeod, Alberta, he had a well lived life of 82 years.
Donald will be forever remembered by his wife Mary of 58 years and sister Evelyn; children Clark; Brent (Stephanie) and Laura; grandchildren Theresa (Trevor), Stephen, Ryan, Kalyna, Nadia, Gabi, Michael and Robert; and great grandchildren Lucas and Axel; and many friends. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Theresa.
Donald completed his education at W.R. Myers High School in Taber, Alberta. He moved to Edmonton and completed a 36 year career with the Alberta Government.
Donald was blessed with a 20 year second career of caring for and maintaining a church he helped build. At Good Shepherd Catholic Church, he fulfilled his passion for serving his faith community.
He was a lifelong volunteer with Knights of Columbus, and community volunteer with many charities. He was always looking for ways to help others. Dad is remembered for his zest for woodworking, record and book collecting and square dancing.
Mary was the center of Donald’s world. He was a partner in all things home, yard and parenting. He tenderly reminded Mary how much he cherished her.
Donald’s pride and joy was watching his children grow into adults and pursuing personal interests and careers. Whether it was chauffeuring Clark to band, Brent to hockey or Laura to Girl Guides, his support of his children was unwavering. Grandchildren brought a special joy to his life. From dance concerts, science fairs, sporting events, and graduations, he was eager to see his grandchildren experience life.
A Christian funeral service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, November 5, 2021 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 18407 60 Avenue, Edmonton, AB. RSVP to shewlaur@telus.net or 780-999-4459 as space is limited.
Reception to follow at Westlawn Funeral Home. Proof of vaccination or proof of a negative covid test is required to attend reception. RSVP required.
The family is sincerely grateful to the loving home care provided by Nelina, the staff at Shepherd’s Care Dementia cottages and the staff at the Edmonton General Hospital for their care of dad in his last days.
Memorial donations may be made to Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Alzheimer’s Society or Diabetes Association
FAI
GARTH STEPHEN “NICK” FAI passed away in his home on Sunday, October 24, 2021.
He was born in Estevan, Saskatchewan, on June 18, 1978, to Garth and Helen Fai, and was the youngest brother of Mike and Quent Fai. The family moved from Bienfait, Saskatchewan, to Lethbridge, Alberta, where Nick attended Assumption, St. Basil’s, St. Francis, and graduated from Catholic Central High School. He went on to obtain a Physics Degree from the U of L. He later went back to the U of L to obtain his Bachelor Degree in Finance, and obtained his CPA designation. At the time of death, he was employed as the Director of Corporate Services for the County of Vulcan.
Nick is survived by his parents, Garth and Helen Fai; brothers Michael and Quentin Fai; sister-in-law Dr. Jessica Zjurski as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He is also survived by his two special cats, Toki Wartooth and Nathan Explosion.
He was predeceased by both his paternal and maternal grandparents, and cousin Gordon Resler.
A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME (2825 – 32nd Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta) on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at 2:00 PM, with Patrick Siedlecki officiating.
Due to Covid restrictions, seating is limited to 50 people. Please RSVP to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@ cornerstonefh.ca. The Service will be livestreamed and available to view via Nick’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Gail Fitch
1937 – 2021
Mead Gail “M.G.” Fitch, beloved partner of Roxy Ferguson of twenty six years, passed away in Lethbridge surrounded by his family on Monday, October 25, 2021. He was 84 years of age.
A private funeral service will be held at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, November 1, 2021. A private burial service will 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 Gail’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 1:45 P.M. on Monday, November 1, 2021.
Gail will be sadly missed by his sons Gary (Kerry) Fitch of Taber and their children Taylor (Bailey) and Jordynn (Cody); Grant (BJ) Fitch of Taber and their children Zachary and Ty. He will also be sadly missed by Roxy’s daughter Rhonda (Joe) Colby and their children Courtney (Cody), Kelcie (Cory) and Ryan (Kaylee); Roxy’s sons Kevin Ferguson and his daughter Mia and Brad (Billie Jo) Ferguson and their children Mackenzie (Matthew) and Brandon (Toni); as well as ten great grandchildren whom he loved and adored so much. He will also be fondly remembered by his extended family.
He was predeceased by his wife Ruby Fitch; his parents Earl and Inga Fitch; stepmother Thelma Fitch; brothers Maurice, Neil, Glen, Kent and Lee Fitch; Ruby’s parents James and Dell Spence, her brother Tom (Isabelle) Spence and their son Ross.
Gail started Baker and Fitch Tire with Ed Baker in 1969 and they operated it together until 1977 when Gail took sole ownership. He continued running a very successful shop with his boys at his side. Gail’s grandsons also had the opportunity to work with “Poppa” at the shop, making it a true family business. The friendly easy going atmosphere offered by the Fitch’s while always maintaining a high standard of professionalism, is what contributed to their success. Gail continued running the shop until his retirement. Once Gary and Grant took over, he continued to be a daily presence to “chit chat” with customers and friends.
One of Gail’s many passions was to travel with Roxy. They were able to visit many tropical places, but their favorite and most cherished trip was to Australia. When at home you could find them working in their beautiful yard and garden. He also loved to golf with his buddies and shared many adventures and laughs with them.
Gail had a special place in his heart and a great love for each of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with them and watching them grow. We will all miss him dearly.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gail’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (http://www.tdhf.ca).
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.
FOX
Norbert Angus Fox – Pisstsskia’taa (River Bend), passed away peacefully at the age of 81 years and left to join the ancestors on October 24, 2021. Norbert was born on December 10, 1939 at the Blood Indian Hospital to his parents, the late George and Margaret (nee Many Fingers) Fox. Norbert was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and Elder. He grew up in the Fox Lake/BullHorn area on the Blood Reserve with his parents, siblings, and extended family of the Foxes and Many Fingers. At the age of seven he was placed in the St. Mary’s Indian Residential School (IRS). While in IRS, Norbert excelled in his athletic interests of football, basketball, hockey and boxing. When Norbert left St. Mary’s IRS he continued helping his parents on the Fox Ranch and became an exceptional horseman and cattle rancher and pursued his athletic interests of Boxing, Hockey, Horse Racing (jockey, owner/trainer), in the rodeo arena as a steer decorator and steer wrestler, and as an outrider for chuckwagon racing.
Norbert was a gifted athlete and the following are some of the highlights of his athletic career: Norbert was named the “Golden Boy” at the 3rd Annual Edmonton Optimists Club Golden Gloves Tournament and was undefeated in three bouts. He became the first Jr. fighter ever to win a “Golden Boy” award and was coached by the late Rufus Goodstriker Sr. in 1954, Norbert played with the St. Mary’s Warriors High School basketball team who won the southern Alberta championship in Lethbridge and later, the Alberta provincial championship in Red Deer. The Warriors were coached by the late Gerry Dawson. In March 1970, Norbert was an Assistant Captain when he helped the Kainai Chiefs Sr. Men’s Hockey team win the prestigious Alberta Foothills Hockey League Championship alongside three of his brothers, Marvin, Tony and Roy. The Chiefs were coached by the late James Goodstriker and Rev. Tony Duhaime.
Norbert and his wife Mary Louise, joined the Sacred Horn Society – Iitskinayiiksi, in 1990 and they became lifetime members of the I’nakotskina Society and rejoined the Sikapiootasiksi Society. They became the caretakers of the Aihtsiisihtsi Medicine Pipe, which remained in their possession up to his passing. Pisstsskia’ta was an active Elder for the Horn Society and other community organizations including the Kainai Board of Education and the Transition Society Job Ready Program.
Norbert leaves behind his wife Mary Louise Fox; his children Gifford Fox; Elliot (Lani) Fox; Shauna (Joe) Fox; Jason (Deb) Fox; Lionel (Roxanne) Weasel Head; Zana Fox; Charlton Weasel Head; Tami Many Grey Horses; Norbert Many Grey Horses; Vincent Many Grey Horses, Shawn Many Grey Horses, Skye Many Grey Horses; Chevy Many Grey Horses and Raime Many Grey Horses; adopted children: Eldon Weasel Child, Arnold Mountain Horse, Les Wolf Child, Duane Mistaken Chief, and Winston Bruised Head; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; his brothers and sisters: Delphine Good Striker, Tony Fox, Leo (David) Fox, Bernard (Barb) Fox, Chief Roy (Genevieve) Fox, Arnold Fox, Genevieve Fox, Jacinta Fox, Wilton Good Striker, and Jack Red Crow; brother-in-law: David (Evelyn) Striped Wolf; and sisters-in-law: Lillian Fox and Christina Fox; Sacred Society brothers and sisters of the I’nakotskina Society and the Sikapioota’siksi Society and all the Ninnaimmsska; uncles and aunts: Charlie Fox, Lambert Fox, Marge Small Face, Gerald Fox, Dan Fox, Anne Fox, and Mike Fox; and numerous nieces and nephews. Also, his former teammates/friends/brothers/sister: Jim Baird, Greg Eagle Plume, Leroy and Harriet Heavy Runner and Lawrence Panther Bone, Ben Red Crow, and May Weasel Fat.
Norbert was predeceased by his daughter Roanna Weasel Head; brother Marvin Fox; children: Shelley Chief Body, Melvin and Travis Many Grey Horses; and his parents George and Margaret Fox, also his long-time teammates and friends: Lawrence Plain Woman, C.M. Tallow, Woodrow Goodstriker, Lyman Tail Feathers, John Red Crow, Gilbert Weasel Fat and Eugene Twigg.
The family wishes to acknowledge and thank Dr. S. Eagle Bear as his family physician & the Chinook Regional Hospital ICU staff including Dr. Spence & Dr. Low and the many nurses who cared for our Dad.
A Wake service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Friday, October 29, 2021 from 7:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral service will follow at Immaculate Conception (St. Mary’s) Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Saturday, October 30 at 11:00 am. Father Pawel Andrasz officiating. Interment to follow at Blood Band Cemetery, Blood Reserve, AB.
A Wake service will be held at Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Friday, October 29, 2021 from 7:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral service will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Saturday, October 30 at 11:00 am. Father Pawel Andrasz officiating. Interment to follow at Blood Band Cemetery, Blood Reserve, AB.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
KNELSEN
DAVID KNELSEN, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Louise Knelsen, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital with his loving family at his side, on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at the age of 80 years.
Funeral arrangements will be announced once completed.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
MCKENZIE
With love and appreciation of a life well lived, and gratitude for many years of memories, the family of KENNETH “KEN” MCKENZIE announce his peaceful passing on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at the age of 72.
Ken is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mona; son Scott (Kennedy); granddaughter Abigail; brother John (Jo Ann); sister Kathi (Wayne); brother-in-law Ray (Jeannette) and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Elizabeth Stanek
1930 – 2021
Mrs. Elizabeth Stanek of Magrath, beloved wife of the late Mr. Eugene “Geno” Stanek, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 24, 2021 at the age of 90 years.
Elizabeth was born in Magrath, Alberta on November 20, 1930 to Steve and Theresa Gruninger. She grew up on the Gruninger family farm just west of town. Elizabeth walked a long 4 miles to school each day! She met her husband Eugene “Geno” Stanek and married him on November 24, 1951 at St. Joseph’s. They had 2 children, John and Liz, that they raised together in the same home on Main Street that Elizabeth lived in until she moved into Garden Vista seven years ago.
Elizabeth and Geno travelled to Europe three times. She loved to travel and continued to visit places like the Dominican Republic, New Mexico, San Francisco and toured the East Coast. Elizabeth loved to dance at the Polish Hall, loved Christmas and her family. She was a member of the CWL since 1961.
Elizabeth is survived by her son John Stanek (Kelly Sharp); grandchildren Lauren and Matthew Stanek; her daughter Liz Kerner (Dan Mezei); grandchildren Jennifer (Adam) Ross, Janine Kerner, Michael Kerner, Brett (Tela) Kerner; great grandchildren Justin (Brittany) Bourk; Rory, Layla and Quinn Ross; Colton, Kiedon and Kinzey Kerner; Cami Charlee and Kade Olshaski; Matthew Kerkhoff, Abbie, Jaxon and Mica Kerner, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her loving husband Eugene “Geno” Stanek, Elizabeth is predeceased by her parents Steve and Theresa Gruninger; brothers Steve (Eva) Gruninger and George (Irene) Gruninger.
The family would like to extend and special thank you to Luellen Lee for being “our other sister” and moms’ helper when we couldn’t be there for her.
Due to Covid 19 restrictions, a Private Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 30, 2021.
Interment will follow at the Magrath Cemetery at 12:30 pm. The family welcomes those who wish to attend.
Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Good Samaritans Garden Vista, 37 East 2nd Avenue North, Magrath, Alberta T0K 1J0 or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 110 – 1525 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 8R9.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
THOMPSON
JAMES “JIM” THOMPSON, of Lethbridge AB, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at the age of 87.
Jim was born James Matthew Thompson on January 21, 1934 to Matthew and Marion Thompson on the farm near Bredenbury, Saskatchewan. Jim spent his early years helping on the farm; tending the cattle and the fields with his father and brothers.
In 1952, Jim had enough of farm life and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Mechanic. After serving for 3 years, Jim was honourably discharged and returned back to Saskatchewan, where in 1958 he met the love of his life, his wife Evelyn. In 1959, Jim and Evelyn were married, and they enjoyed many years together building a life. Jim was a jack of all trades, but his greatest pleasure was his family. Times weren’t always easy, but Jim’s strong work ethic and devotion to his family saw them through.
Jim retired in 1986, and that’s when his second life began. Jim spent the following years being the best Papa to his grandchildren, taking numerous bus trips with Evelyn, visiting with his family and friends, and telling more and more of his famous stories. In his later years, Jim struggled with health issues, but he never lost his sense of humour or spark. You always knew when you had been ‘Jimmed’ when you saw the twinkle in his eye and the knowing grin on his face. In 2018, Jim lost his beloved wife Evelyn after 59 years of marriage. Losing ‘Mother’ was hard on Jim, but he carried on stoically. Towards the end, Jim was surrounded by his family, and received the best of care from the staff at Good Samaritans.
He is survived by his children Allan, Laurie (Dale), Les (Janet), and Randy, his 4 grandchildren Crystal (Trevor), Tara (Andrew), Travis, and Jennifer, and his 8 great-grandchildren Kalia, Gaetana, Anton (Crystal and Trevor), Brynn, Brooke, Charlotte (Tara and Andrew), Kahleah, and Declan (Jennifer) who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his brothers Gerald and Wilf, his sisters Jean Paxman (Ken), Merle Froelich, Lyla Prokopishin (Mike), Doreen Haubrich (Wendel), many brothers and sisters-in-law, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.
Jim was predeceased by his devoted wife Evelyn, parents Matthew and Marion, his brothers Ken, Paul, Bob and Rae, his sisters Carol, Velma, and Margaret, his son-in-law Dale, his mother and father-in-law Edward and Phyllis, and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Saltcoats, Saskatchewan.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Good Samaritans Society – Park Meadows in his memory.
Jim will be deeply missed by his family, and by all who knew him.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
WALTER
JOHANNA MARIE WALTER passed away in Lethbridge on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at the age of 93 years.
Marie is survived by her son, Lionel (Nancy) Stokell; daughters Carol Stokell and Annette Walter (Barry Lorne); grandchildren Aric, Adam, and Ethan Stokell, David Stokell, Christin Werner, Jared Stokell, and Kegan Lorne-Walter, as well as eight great- grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Goldi (Andy) Martin, Linda Goodman, and Diane (Eric) Schmidt.
She was predeceased by her two husbands, David Stokell and Kurt Walter; sisters Virginia, Erna, Loretta, Elsie, Olga and brother Austin.
Marie was born in Iron Springs, Alberta, on March 11, 1928, to Maren Kristine and Andres Peter Jorgensen. She lived in Lethbridge, and worked in the tile industry from 1967 to 2008. She loved family, dancing and music.
She lived a life full of love and gratitude.
A private family Service will be held at a later date.
In memory of Marie, donations may be made to the Lethbridge and District Humane Society (lethbridgehumanesociety.com)
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
ZEINSTRA
CELESTE ZEINSTRA, beloved wife of John Zeinstra, passed away peacefully with her loving husband and family by her side, at the St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit, on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the age of 66 years.
Due to Covid restrictions, the Service scheduled for October 29th has been CANCELLED.
Hopefully we can celebrate “Celeste style” in December!
Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
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