THURSDAY, August 25, 2022

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on August 25, 2022.

BIRCH

SHIRLEY JOY BIRCH, the beloved wife of the late Dennis Birch, passed away peacefully at Fairmont Extendicare on Monday, August 22nd, 2022, at the age of 92 years.

A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, on Monday, August 29th, at 1:00 P.M., with Rev. Dr. Carolyn Langford officiating. Cremation will follow. A private interment will be held on Tuesday at Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Helen Rose George

Mar. 29, 1926 – Dec. 12, 2020

A Celebration Mass of Helen’s Life will occur on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Basil’s Roman Catholic Church with Reverend Daniel Stevenot, concelebrant Father Wayne Poile.

Lanier, Diana Margaret Zoe

(Nee: Trotter)

August 11, 1933 – August 23, 2022

“There are many wonderful places in the world, but one of my favorite places is on the back of my horse.” (Rolf Kopfle)

The horse lover, farm superwoman, steadfast friend, eager adventurer, gracious hostess, loyal art supporter, insatiable reader, devoted wife, attentive Nana, mother, sister and aunt, rode off into the mountains on Tuesday, August 23 having recently celebrated her 89th birthday with family.

She had time to look out the windows and watch her horses grazing as she said her final goodbyes. She went peacefully while holding hands with Ike, as they had done for 65 years.

Family and friendship were the pillar of Diana’s life. She left this world after having been visited, called, written to and nourished by so many of those who loved her. Her sons, Addison and Rod and his wife Lori, cared for her at home, while her son Will called from Africa to check on her and surely her son David is waiting for her in the hereafter. Even her four cherished grandchildren: Zoey, Mark, Paul and Quinn, were able to spend precious moments with her.

Diana grew up on the back of a horse in Turner Valley with 2 siblings: Donna and Rod. It was this deeply rooted love of horses that shaped so much of her life and even brought her Ike, who won her heart by taking her to a horse show on their first date and later swept her off her feet at the Trianon Gallery dances. Family roots played a big part in the woman she became. She honored her family history and wove culture and traditions into life while including friends. She shared Trader King, pioneering and Ike’s Kentucky influences in a way that made you curious to know more. She hiked and rode the trails her father forged, she upheld the traditions started by both families and especially embraced Ike’s by baking the best corn bread and diligently following the Derby races each season.

Diana was a woman who knew herself and those who loved her knew her loves. Many of her closest friendships were made while in the company of horses. others, naturally blossomed in the pursuit of her varied interests. She had an unlimited capacity for friendship and anyone in her inner circle felt a deep and intimate connection. She had a way about her that made others feel special and treasured. She was easy to adore as she made others feel so adored. She shared fun and adventures with so many people. Her genuine sense of wonder and willingness to give everything a try was contagious. She was transparent, extraordinarily honest and accepting. Unknowingly, she inspired many as their role model.

Always a gracious hostess and provider, even when times were tight, she would be pragmatic, see the positive and find creative ways to share her sense of abundance to nurture those around her. The simple pleasure of picketing the grazing horses while sipping a five o’clock glass of red wine was enjoyed by many. Her culinary talents fed countless guests over the years, but the family favorites included: roasted ham or beef, game bird, corn bread and Nana’s fried eggs alongside Ike’s Sunday pancakes with maple syrup. Her quirky personal favorites were Brussel sprouts or peanut butter-banana-mayonnaise sandwiches but that is more of an acquired taste!

Diana’s home was your home. She made others feel comfortable, not only in her home but also about themselves. Home personified her unique sense of elegance, grace and easygoingness. She had an eye for style, beauty and a deep love of art that enriched her life. Her love of art was not only expressed in the art that filled her life but in her passionate support of local artists, her tireless connection with the SAAG and travel that took her and Ike to exhibits around the globe.

Diana embodied an attitude of gratitude long before it became a trend. She rarely missed an opportunity to send a message or make a call to express her thanks for someone’s efforts. So, even in this final tribute, from her to you: “Thank you for the lifetime of connection, especially these past weeks. Thank you for the visits, calls, messages, flowers, meals, soup, baking, cards, heartfelt words, laughs and showering me with kindness.” To all who loved her; know that she departed with her heart full from a life well lived; hold her in your heart, saddle up and ride on.

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

In lieu of cards or flowers, a memorial donation may be made in the name of Diana Lanier to: The Southern Alberta Art Gallery http://www.saag.ca/donate or Canadian Cancer Society –Lung Cancer Research 325 Manning Road NE #200, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 http://www.cancer.ca

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

Evelyn Lodermeier

1923 – 2022

Mrs. Evelyn Lodermeier, of Lethbridge and beloved wife of the late Mr. Leo Lodermeier, passed away at Milk River Health Care Centre on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at the age of 98 years.

Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

MILLER

MARY CATHERINE MILLER, of Milk River, beloved wife of the late Elmer Miller, passed away peacefully at the Milk River Health Centre, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at the age of 97 years.

Arrangements will be announced once completed.

To send a condolence, please visit

http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

Vernon “Vern” Morgan

1944 – 2022

Mr. Vernon “Vern” Morgan of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Ann Morgan, and father to Louise (Aidan) Gillic and Janet (Paul) Clamp, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre on Sunday, August 21, 2022 at the age of 78 years.

The youngest of 11 siblings, Vern was born January 14, 1944 in Berwyn, Alberta. The family lived on a farm until his parents and younger siblings moved to Edmonton when he was 6. They first lived in the west-end and later on moved closer to the city center. He spent time with his brother Don and his family in Stettler before joining the Royal Canadian Airforce at 17, working for 5 years in the services areas including fueling the jets. He then started in the propane industry, met and married Ann in 1968. They stayed on in Lethbridge where they raised their girls. He earned his college diploma in Management with top marks and began a varied career that saw him succeed as an insurance adjuster, realtor, and small- business man.

A man of many interests, Vern enjoyed outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, hunting, camping, fishing and golfing. An avid recreational shooter, he was a member and later president of the Lethbridge Trap Club. Indoor pursuits included being active in the Royal Canadian Legion, playing darts, and joining many bridge groups through the years.

Besides his loving wife, daughters and sons-in-law, Vern is survived by his five grandchildren; Abigail, Cadence, Samantha, Connor, and Carson; his sister Esther, as well as many nieces, nephews and their families.

He was predeceased by his parents, Dan and Rachel; sisters, Margaret, Florence, Esther, Joan, Karen; and brothers Don, Bill, George, Harold Jim.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm on Friday, August 26, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:30 pm on Friday, August 26, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta. For those who wish to watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Vernon Vern-Morgan.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel.

Interment will be held at a later date.

Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider donating to their preferred charity in Vern’s name.

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

Margaret Plain Eagle

(Mi’aniki’soyaakii – Red Flicker Bird)

January 18, 1931 – August 19, 2022

Margaret Plain Eagle passed away peacefully at her residence; surrounded by her family on the Piikani Nation on August 19, 2022. she was 92 years old. she is survived by her children Isabelle Wolf tail, Florence Plain Eagle, Alma Provost, Audrey Little Mustache, Stanford Plain Eagle, Richard (Noreen) Plain Eagle, Beverly (George) Four Horns, Douglas Plain Eagle, Laura (Doug) Iron Shirt, Calvin (Tammy) Plain Eagle, Bree (Tyler) Mutter, Vaness (Shawnee) Plain Eagle, Wade (Crystal) Plain Eagle, Trina (Charles First Rider) Terrance (Renee) Plain Eagle. Her sisters Catherine George, Louise English and numerous Nephews and nieces. 46 grandchildren, 98 great grandchildren 28 great great grandchildren. her adopted son Daniel Crow Shoe. Traditional Adopted Children Kelly Good Eagle, Dr. Sandra Peacock, Ken Armstrong, Day Chief family, Adam North Peigan, Troy Knowlton, Delores Iron Shirt, Doris Kicking Woman, Diane Kicking Woman, Delmyrna Yarlott, Scott Jessen, Amanda Grier, Anne Crow Shoe, Edwin Small Legs, Audrey Sure Chief, Nancy Niles. Special Friends Beth Russel, Dr. Brian Reeves.

She was predeceased by her husband Jim Plain Eagle, her children Judy Plain Eagle, Gary Plain Eagle, Harvey Plain Eagle, Melvin Plain Eagle, Leslie Plain Eagle, Cameron (cabbage) Plain Eagle. Grandchildren Crystal Plain Eagle, Leon Iron Shirt, Jenna Big Bull, Kayleen Pard, Miranda Pard, Wayne Plain Eagle, two great grandchildren Brent and Nadine Iron Shirt. Her father Willy Crow Shoe, mother Laura (The Old Lady) Buffalo. Her brothers David Crow Shoe, Richard Crow Shoe, Jackie Crow Shoe Sr. Joe Crow Shoe Sr., Arthur Crow Shoe. Her sisters Ethel Crow, Elsie Crow Shoe. Her son-in-laws Stanley Small Legs, Nelbert Little Mustache. Her Daughter in- laws Bridgette No Chief, Brenda Pard. Sister Suzy Strangling Wolf, Brother Chris Strangling Wolf, Daughter Daphene Good Eagle. Her brother George Kicking Women and Sister Molly Kicking women, sister Maggie Blackwater, Maude Prairie Chicken, Jenny Bastien, Patricia Provost.

In 1980 her Daughter Judy passed away. Stanley knew he couldn’t care for the children after Judy’s passing he asked Grandma to raise Vaness, Trina and Wade. She also raised Terrance and Wayne. Mom always said these are my children and souvenir’s they have a special place in my heart. Please don’t get jealous of them.

Mom/Grandma was born in the early morning in a tipi during winter 1931 on the Piikani Nation where she also attended the St. Cyprian Residential School until Grade 6. She left school to be with her father and mother to help at home and assist with the farm.

She learned to cook, sew at residential school… mom said this is what they learned school and she really enjoyed her time at school. Mom/grandma shared great memories from school and never complained of any wrongs from the Anglican Residential school. Mom/Grandma learned her horsemanship and hard work of farming from her mom and dad. She left the school with lifetime friends.

On October 16, 1952 mom married the love of her life Jim Plain Eagle at the St. Cyprian School on the Piikani Nation. Mom and dad had 14 Children and raised them to be strong, humble, kind and always be good to each other.

Mom enjoyed horsemanship and her children were in the rodeo at young ages and until early adult hood. Her daughter Judy was a Barrel Racer, Melvin and Leslie were bareback riders. Calvin started his Indian relay team Anatapsii. Her younger grandchildren participated in the steer riding, sheep riding, wild pony racing and calf riding.

Mom/Grandma dedicated her life to preserving the culture and traditional ways of the Piikani people. It was because of her commitment and dedication that she played a valuable role and advisor in the following;

• Elder advisor to the Federal/Provincial Governments during the negotiations for the Oldman River Dam.

• She was one of the Original organizers and Committee members for the Piikani Celebrations in the early 70’s

• She was an Elder advisor for the Little Bow Project for three years.

• She was a participant and committee member at the Indian Village for the Calgary Stampede for eight years.

• She was an elder advisor to Shell Canada Limited/Devon Energy for five years

• She hosted cross cultural camps for the RCMP, German Delegations and various corporations during the late 1990’s

• Elder Advisor to the PISKUN program at the Head Smashed Inn Buffalo Jump.

• In 1987 she was a culture advisor and participated in the opening ceremonies for the Head Smashed Inn buffalo when the Royal delegation came.

• Instrumental in various resource books for glacier, Waterton National Parks on Blackfoot plants and culture alongside Brian Reeves. Today they are still used as a resource and mom/ grandma legacy will continue through them resources.

• She had dance troop and made their regalia for over four years and travelled with the group throughout Canada and the USA.

• For over 20 years she travelled with the Peigan Eagles Ball Team throughout Canada and USA and played an active role when tournaments were hosted.

• She was the last living member and grandmother of the Feather game ceremony.

• Elder Advisor to the First Nation/Metis Program for the Lethbridge School District #51.

• She received Business awards from Treaty 7 for tipi making business.

• Since 2012 she actively participated for various feather ceremonies for graduation students throughout Southern Alberta.

• She was an Elder Advisor to her Daughters Company White Eagle Wellness.

• She participated with PRDL and Travel Alberta tourism along with Jordan No Chief in 2018 in creating the “CONNECTING TO THE LAND” Alberta’s Castle Provincial Park which is shown Nation Wide.

Mom/grandma loved all her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren. she always called them “my Special Angels”

She loved family get together especially Halloween and Christmas, mom/grandma always enjoyed seeing the joy these holidays brought to her “Special Angels” and always reminded us that we appreciate and be thankful for our many blessings in this journey.

She was an avid Calgary Flames fan no matter how their season ended … even though they were always on the golf course early. Because of her love of Hockey, she always made it to her grandchildren’s hockey games and supporting Hudson, Grayson and Joaquim no matter how cold it was.

She also loved attending and cheering her baby girl Keely at the many Basketball games, camps throughout the years.

Mom/Grandma loved her bingo with she played Bingo up until her illness took its toll, her bingo companions were Richard, Stanford, Vanessa, Shawnee, Wade and Longtime Friend Dale Whitecow.

A special thank you to Jill Brown, RN, Home Care Nurse, Dr. Bev. Burton, Associate Clinic Staff of Pincher Creek, Pincher Creek Hospital Nurses, for the excellent care of beloved mother and grandmother. She truly appreciated each and every one of you.

ITS GOING TO BE HARD TO SAY GOODBYE OUR MOTHERS LOVE WAS ENDLESS SHE WELCOMED AND ADOPTED SO MANY PEOPLE, SHE WAS EVRYONE’S MOM/GRANDMA.

MOM/GRANDMAS SAYING, “THE WORLD IS MY FRIEND” THAT’S JUST WHO SHE WAS.

The family apologizes for anybody that may have been missed. Mom/Grandma was very well known and loved.

Condolences may be sent through http://www.edensfuneralhome.com.

Rex Seely

1944 – 2022

Mr. Rex Seely of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Theresa Seely, passed away in his home on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at the age of 78 years.

A Viewing will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am, on Friday, August 26, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610- 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Trevor Potter, officiating.

Interment will follow at the Stirling Memorial Cemetery, Stirling, Alberta.

To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/ obituary/Rex-Seely and scroll to the bottom of the obituary page to find the link.

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

Frank Wolfe

1935 – 2022

Mr. Frank Wolfe of Calgary, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Elizabeth Wolfe, passed away peacefully at Age Care in Calgary.

Frank was born on June 2, 1935 to Isaac and Kathy Wolfe. He enjoyed fishing and camping when he was younger. He was a family driven man who loved a good joke. His favourite meal was home made perogies and farmer sausage.

Besides his loving wife Elizabeth, Frank is survived by his daughter Carol (Lloyd) Wolfe-Basines; sons Glen (Pamela) Wolfe and Norman (Susan) Wolfe; grandchildren Benjamin Selinger, Nathan Selinger and Amanda Wolfe; great grandchildren Mackenzie, Warren, Aubrey, Carter and Hailey.

Frank is predeceased by his parents Issac and Kathy Wolfe; brothers John Wolfe and Pete Wolfe; sister Mary Gawluk; daughter Nora Wolfe and son Ivan Wolfe.

Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.

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

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