FRIDAY, January 21, 2022
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 21, 2022.
BLACK, Dorothy Frances
July 19, 1920 – Medicine Hat, Alberta
January 13, 2022 – Calgary, Alberta
Our Mother loved life. Even at her advanced age she greeted each new day with optimism. We wish to announce the gentle passing of Dorothy Frances “Dode” Black at the age of 101 years, on January 13th, 2022, in her Calgary home.
Dorothy was born July 19, 1920, to Dr. Sydney and Amy McEwen in Medicine Hat, AB. Younger sister to Hilda Beatrice McEwen, Dode attended school in “the Hat” until she went to the University of Alberta, where she had “way too much fun in her first year”. Moving on to the University of Manitoba, she obtained a BSc in Home Economics. In 1943, she married Gordon Black, who predeceased her in 2003. Their family was raised in Lethbridge, AB. After moving to Calgary in 1971, Dode and Gordon built the home she resided in until her passing. Her friend and sister Hilda predeceased her in 2007.
Dorothy’s connections to Medicine Hat, Lethbridge and Waterton were deep and life long. She first went to Waterton in the 1920’s with her parents. On dusty gravel roads, the trip was considerably more challenging than now. The Black family have had a cottage there since 1937. When asked for her favourite place in the world, she declared “Waterton, always!” This was especially meaningful as Dode and Gordon were widely traveled and had visited every continent, except Antarctica. Mum’s travels were the source of aviation stories, lifelong interests, and learning. Her memory of details of people and places was impressive.
Dorothy was more diplomat than politician. She quietly created the stage where the people she loved could thrive and contribute. Hers is a profound legacy. Thank you, Mum, for a lifetime of contributions that represent the best you could give. They are well received, and you will be greatly missed.
Her children, Barbara (Bryan) Huston, Margaret (Roy) Nelson, Kenneth (Bonny) Black and Robert Black celebrate her loving contributions to them and the larger community she touched. She also leaves seven grandchildren and their families, Kevin Huston, Megan (Mark) Rappaport, Timothy (Kristy) Nelson, Paul (Sarah Jane) Nelson, Sydney Black, Cameron Black (Carolynn), and Allison Black (Stephan). She cherished her great-grandchildren, who enlivened her later life, Antonia, Amelia, Madelyn, Georgia, Kyla, Oakley, Simon, Amber, Elwood, Katherine, Riley, Seva and Avery.
Mum’s open, loving nature led her to enjoy the friendship and exceptional care of Kathryn Rehm, Dory Monleon, Zuliyka Sultan Sabir, Puneet Gill, Kendra Kyle, Nancy Rogers, Marvie Egpit and Rose Parker in her later years. They, along with the 40-year contribution of Pearl Lewin, allowed Mum to live at home as she wished, surrounded by laughter, dignity, good food and friendship. Their compassionate, professional care was a gift to Mum and to her children.
A Celebration of Dorothy’s Life will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at http://www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Waterton Foundation, PO BOX 112, Waterton Park, AB T0K2M0, watertonfoundation@gmail.com, or to Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation, 2124 16 Ave, Coaldale, AB T1M 1J8, Phone: (403) 345-4262, http://www.burrowingowl.com/support/donate.php.
In living memory of Dorothy “Dode” Black, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.
Marg Boyd
1936 – 2022
Marg (Isobel Marguerite) Boyd passed away peacefully on Sunday January 16, 2022 at the age of 85 years.
Marg is survived by her children Brad (Sue) Bengry and Brent Bengry: grandchildren Jess, Tanner and Kate Bengry; great grandchildren Zahara, Jackson, Cayden, Alexa and Sophie Bengry; sister Evelyn (George) Pinsky and brother Doug Smith; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Marg was predeceased by brothers George and Jim and sister Jean.
She was born in Spring Coulee on September 16,1936 and received her schooling in Magrath. She moved to Cardston and then Lethbridge where she raised her two sons. Most of her career was spent in the grocery business where she rose to the level of manager. Marg additionally owned a H&R Block franchise and was still doing taxes up to the time of her passing.
Marg was a strong willed, independent person with a kind and generous heart who sought out opportunities to help others. She was close to her family, cherished her grandchildren and had many life-long friendships. She was also a loyal and long standing member of the Legion.
Marg made an impression on all who knew her well and will be greatly missed.
At Marg’s request, she will be remembered privately by her family and friends.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Christina Cowan
1981 – 2022
Ms. Christina Cowan of Magrath lost her courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at the age of 40 years.
Chris was born April 22, 1981 and lived most of her life in Magrath, receiving her formal education there, and graduated from Magrath High School in 1999. She was the first girl to play junior football there and enjoyed knocking the tough “guys” on their butts.
After graduation she worked various jobs before attending Training Inc. to become a Health Care Aide. She then trained at Edith Cavell Care Centre in Lethbridge, where she eventually became a full-time employee. Chris made many lifelong friends through her health care career, with co- workers as well as patients and their families.
Chris and her fiancé Rick had many enjoyable times with family and friends; along with the children, they loved to go camping, fishing and quadding, and spent many memorable times at the “cabin” in Duck Lake, Montana.
In 2018 she was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she fought valiantly to her very last day. She never gave up and was happily planning her upcoming nuptials and even helped decorate her house for Christmas a few weeks ago.
Mourning her loss are her children, Tristen, Lexy and Madyson; her mother Loretta Cowan (Jim Troman); and beloved fiancé Rick Villa and his son Spencer. Also mourning her loss are many aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as the Villa families and a never-ending list of great friends.
She was predeceased by her grandparents, Grenald and Jean Cowan; and her infant cousin Gunnar Cowan.
A Visitation will be held from 1:00pm to 2:00pm at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, Lethbridge, Alberta. Due to the ongoing Covid 19 restrictions in person attendance at the visitation is limited. Those who wish to attend may do so by selecting the ‘Click here to RSVP” on Christina’s obituary and selecting a time slot. Or you may call Martin Brothers at (403) 328-2361 to schedule a time.
A private family Funeral Service will follow.
Chris was a fun-loving spirit and always the life of the party. Although she will be deeply missed, we are relieved her pain is finally over. She will remain in our hearts forever.
“To know her is to love her” – The Beatles
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
DEMPSEY
April 27, 1933 – January 14, 2022
DONALD JOSEPH DEMPSEY passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa, Lethbridge Alberta, on January 14th, 2022 at the age of 88 years.
Don was predeceased by his wife Jean Ann (Feb 27, 2021) and daughters Beverly Leger (December 2, 2021) and Donna Dempsey (March 25, 2014). He is survived by sons Bryan of Port Hardy, BC, Darren (Jacqueline) of Nanaimo, BC, and Glenn (Michelle) of Lyons Brook, NS.; Grandchildren: Patrick, Michael (Jen), Robert (Janet), Teri-Lynn, Katelyn, Alex, Ethan and great grandchildren: Dominique, Brenna, Jack and McKenna.
Born on the Miramichi River in New Brunswick, he loved fishing and going to the beach along the river to dig clams and swim with his family. Corn boils and tractor pulls with the Church community and good friends was a regular summer Sunday ritual. He had a contagious laugh and was quick to make a joke.
Don was a proud veteran of the Canadian Air Force with 23 years of service. He was a weapons specialist and served in the Korean War, as a helicopter gunner.
He loved country music and was an avid guitar player. Don was active in his community and volunteered at the local homeless shelter’s kitchen in Lethbridge for many years.
Dad will be deeply missed by his family and friends and will always be in our hearts.
Don will be laid to rest alongside Jean at the Miramichi Cemetery on the Old King George Highway, Miramichi in the spring of 2022.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
FIRST CHARGER
RICHARD FIRST CHARGER passed away surrounded by his family at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the age of 34 years.
Richard will be remembered by his mother, Veronica Eagle Bear, precious daughter Amathea Grey First Charger and the mother of their daughter Abby Morning Bull, siblings: Danny First Charger, Tamara First Charger, Patti First Charger and Deliah Cochrane as well as his loving companion Daisy Chief Body.
Richard was predeceased by his father, Richard Sr First Charger.
A public Wake will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, January 27, 2022 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendance will be limited to 50 guests at a time. Kindly RSVP your attendance to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@cornerstonefh.ca
A Private Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 28, 2022 at 1:30 P.M. with Father Derek Remus celebrating. The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed and may be accessed via Richard’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
Following the Funeral Mass, Richard will be laid to rest in St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Sandra Griffiths
1936 – 2022
Mrs. Sandra Griffiths, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Roy Griffiths and mother to Joyce Griffiths and Allen Griffiths, passed away at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at the age of 85 years.
Sandra will be privately remembered by her family and friends.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BRUCE ZEMP HARKER
Sept. 20, 1948 – Jan. 11, 2022
Bruce Harker of Raymond, Alberta passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving wife Joan (Hicken) Harker and family. Bruce was a devoted husband, father of nine children, grandpa to forty-one grandchildren, and great grandpa to four grandchildren. He worked for 46 years as a social worker for the Government of Alberta.
There will be a viewing Saturday January 22, 2022 from 12:00 – 12:45pm with a Service following at 1:00pm at the RAYMOND STAKE CENTRE. Interment will be at the Temple Hill Cemetery.
Funeral livestream available at http://www.salmonandsons.ca
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca
HAWRYLUK
DEBORAH “DEBBIE” JEAN HAWRYLUK of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at the age of 61 years.
Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Lillian Hillen
1918 – 2022
With profound sadness we announce that Lillian Isobel Hillen (nee Rutledge) of Lethbridge, AB, beloved wife of the late William Stuart Hillen, passed away peacefully after a short illness on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at the impressive age of 103.5 years.
Born on July 13, 1918 in Toronto, Ontario, Lillian was raised in Thunder Bay and returned to Toronto in her 20’s to enjoy life in the big city, working at the T. Eaton Company as a switchboard operator. While living in High Park she met a dashing hockey player on the ice of Grenadier Pond. This led to a life-long love story as they married on August 29, 1944 and created the legacy that she was most proud of, her four children Bill (Marian), Heather (Brian), Rod (Paula) and Carolyn (Roy); her grandchildren, Craig, Paul, Adam, Christopher, Jonathan, Katherine, and Shawn Hillen; Jacob and Caitlin Zinner; and her great-grandchildren, Aiden, Scarlet, Norah, Owen, Olivia, Kyra, Grace, Carter, Marlo and Misha Hillen. Sadly, Lillian was predeceased by her beloved grandson Christopher in 2007.
Lillian is also lovingly remembered by a large extended family, her nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews; and friends and neighbours she met along the way.
Over the years Lillian supported many causes, most notably, the Newtonbrook United Church, Willowdale, ON; Oxtrail Scout Camp, Hockley Valley, ON; and the Great Canadian Railway Society, Lethbridge, AB.
One of Lillian’s greatest pleasures was to enjoy a meal prepared by someone else, particularly Marian and Paula. She loved to bake and made legendary rice pudding, but when cooking dinner she was the master of all things well-done and crispy. Lillian never met a donut she didn’t like and passed her sweet-tooth along to many in the family.
Lillian was an avid speed skater, baker, painter, walker, gardener, bowler, knitter, seamstress, traveler, and card player. She loved to shop and was always beautifully dressed. She was also quite the dancer back in the day, and lamented her lack of mobility over the past few years. She had a kind and loving heart, combined with a quick wit and a feisty no-nonsense attitude. She charmed everyone she met and would light up the room with her smile and beautiful blue-gray eyes.
Lillian endured many losses in her long life. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Ethel Rutledge, her beloved siblings, Alberta, Ethel, Marion, and the twins, June and Jack; her Hillen family; Samuel and Margaret, Victor, Ernie, Isobel, Kaye, and Pat, and especially her husband Bill who passed away in January 2000.
After living an active and healthy life, Mom has been reunited with Dad at last. No doubt Lill and Bill are dancing with joy to Harbour Lights surrounded by their loving heavenly family once again. Although we deeply mourn her passing, we are grateful for the many years we were able to share with this strong, resilient and remarkable woman, the irreplaceable Queen of our little family.
We wish to thank the staff at Extendicare Fairmont Park for their kind compassion during this difficult time, and for the excellent care given to Lillian as she made this her home for the past few years. You always made her feel safe, secure and special and we thank you from the bottom of our grateful hearts.
A Celebration of Lillian’s Life and internment at Highland Memory Gardens in Toronto will take place in the summer of 2022.
“Behind all your stories is always your mother’s story. Because hers is where yours begins.”
—Mitch Albom
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Dexter Johnson
2006 – 2022
Dexter Johnson of Lethbridge, passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at the age of 15 years.
A private family service will be held at 2:00 pm, on Friday, January 21, 2022. The family invites those who wish to watch the service VIA livestream by going to https://www.mbfunerals .com/obituary/Dexter-Johnson.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Dexter suggests donations to the Dexter Johnson Musical Instrument Fund at Winston Churchill High School can be made at the following address: https://lethbridge. schoolcashonline.com/Fee/ Details/148/38/false/true. People can then choose the amount, and the destination (which would be Winston Churchill High School), and then they select tribute information and identify Dexter as the honoree. People can also write an individual message if they would like to. Donors then receive an instant tax receipt as well.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Larry (Crazy) Wayne Malchow
Nov. 21, 1941 – Jan. 16, 2022
From Southern Alberta where he loved stock car racing, rodeo, and fishing, to the Yukon where he found his forever home and loving wife Ginny. Larry was a unique person, if he met you, he remembered your name. His family will miss his instant recall, he was such a skilled player in the “What’s their name?” game. Larry was never short on smart remarks, if he met you and you were obviously busy with work, he’d always say “Sorry, did I wake you”
Fishing with his boys and brothers was one of his greatest enjoyments. How often he would lament he caught the smallest fish or no fish at all. His fishing partners mocking him every chance they got.
His brother Rod always called him “Crazy Legs” which eventually was shortened to “Crazy”. We never knew how that name came about and it’s likely just as well. Later, Larry named his boat Crazy Gin…so now you know the rest of the story.
In his last few years, he had been blessed to have Dayna as his homecare nurse. They hit it off from day one. Although Larry was no stranger to the rain, Dayna always left him with a sense of comfort. Another blessing was his long time Physician, Dr. Jamieson, she knew him well and no matter the diagnosis, he came away feeling uplifted and hopeful.
Although there will be no buildings named after him or monuments erected in his name, he loved his family fiercely and they loved him. How much more blessed can a man be.
Larry is survived by his wife Virginia, his boys, Darren (Diane), Scott (LeAnne), Mitch (Vicki), his girls, Pamela Bergen (Terry), Patty Ann Barton, and his 3 siblings, Kay (Maria), Harry, and Rod (Cynthia). He is also survived by his Grandchildren, Lindsey (Ryan), Vance, Brenna, Jeff (Nicole), Travis (Sarah), Berkley, Ruby, Clayton (Joscelyne), Spencer (Melina), Brandon (Amy), Genevieve, and Great-Grandchildren, Peyton, Greyson, Paxton, Trevor, Grace, Macen and Lilly.
He will be forever loved,
The Malchow, Bergen & Barton Families
No services planned at this time. In lieu of flowers donations in Larry’s name may be made to Yukon Hospital Foundation Pediatrics at https://bit.ly/2ZvkmHg, or a charity of your choice.
MURAKAMI
GEORGE KATSUNORI MURAKAMI passed away peacefully on Monday, January 17, 2022 at the age of 96.
Survived by his daughter Carol (Garry) Pickett and son Wesley (Sheila) Murakami. Brother in law Tokio Hori. Nephew John (Pauline) Murakami and families and Niece Linda Gallant (Al) & Zach.
George will lovingly be remembered by his granddaughters Chiyoko Kensley, Crystal (Brent) Weitz, Michelle Kensley (Paul), Jacinda Gatz-Murakami (Barry), and Mysha Murakami (James). Along with his great grandchildren Paytyn, Mia, Noa and Kobe.
Predeceased by his devoted wife of 59 years Mary Murakami, son Brian and parents Morehei & Suki Murakami. Sister Hayako and brothers Phillip and Luke. In laws Kahichi and Yone Hori and brother in law George Hori.
Born in Ganges, Salt Spring Island, B.C. on May 15, 1925. George and his family resettled in southern Alberta after the war. George and his wife Mary planted roots in Coaldale, AB where he established George’s barbershop and sporting goods from 1949-1976. George took pride in his vegetable and flower gardens. His love of fishing, fly tying and the great outdoors were shared with his family and friends. He was a local kinsmen and active with the Coaldale fish and game association.
Our family would like to thank the staff at Sunny South Lodge, and Adapt-a-care Cedar Creek for their loving care over the years.
A celebration of Georges life and graveside internment will take place at Mountain View Cemetery in Lethbridge, AB on May 14th, 2022 where family will lay George and Mary to rest. The family graciously declines flowers and Koden.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca
NAKAMA
DOUGLAS ALLAN YONEO NAKAMA, of Lethbridge, passed away suddenly at home, on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at the age of 70 years.
Doug is survived by his children that he had with Peggy – son Aaron (grandson Jack), son Eric (grandsons Kyler and Griffin), son Brock (Liisa and granddaughters Katriina, Hailey, and Lauren), and daughter Kari (Brad, grandson Noah, granddaughter Chloe, and youngest grandson Blake). He is also survived by his brother Ken (Maureen), sister Pam (Al), brother Cam (Denise), and sister Shawna (Rick). Doug loved his family and always made time to attend family gatherings, and bonding over sports. It’s certain that his love of sports continued later in life, playing Oldtimers hockey and golfing with his buddies out at Picture Butte Golf Course. A loving big brother and protector – whether he was your brother, father, friend, grandfather, relative, teammate, or at the rink, diamonds, the golf course, or the finest skate sharpening – he will be missed by many.
A Come and Go Celebration of Doug’s Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendance will be limited to 50 guests per 30 minute time slot. Kindly RSVP your attendance to Cornerstone at 403-381-7777 or care@ cornerstonefh.ca
To send a condolence, please visit
http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
Larry Slywka
1953 – 2022
Mr. Larry Nestor Slywka of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Elenora Slywka, passed away at St. Michaels Health Centre on Friday, January 14th, 2022, at the age of 68 years.
Larry will be privately remembered by family and friends.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
Urasaki, Roy Masayoshi
Nov. 25, 1938 – Jan. 15, 2022
It is with great sorrow that we announce that Roy Masayoshi Urasaki, passed away on Saturday, January 15th, 2022 at the age of 83 years, after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Roy is survived by his son Jim (Cindy) and their children Jenna and Kobe, his daughter Rumi and her children Evian, Ocean and Skyy and their father Miro Kyjac. He is pre-deceased by his loving wife, Shizuko and his son, George.
On Friday, January 21, 2022, friends of the family are welcome to attend a viewing from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home 703 -13 St N, Lethbridge.
A Memorial Service celebrating Dad’s life will be held later in the spring.
To send condolences and to view obituary please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
Kathleen Wheeler
1928 – 2022
Mrs. Kathleen Wheeler of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Allan Wheeler, passed away at St. Michaels Health Centre on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at the age of 93 years.
Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
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