By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on December 13, 2022.
GURNEY, Doreen
GURNEY DOREEN GAYLE GURNEY, passed away on December 7, 2022 in Magrath, AB atthe age of 74 years.
The Funeral Service will be held on Friday,December 16 at 11:00 am at the Magrath Stake Center. Friends may meet thefamily prior to the service from 10:00 – 10:45 am.
Interment will takeplace in the Magrath Cemetery, Magrath, AB.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca.
HURT, Jeff
JEFFERY HURT 1971 – 2022 Jeff Hurt of Lethbridge, beloved son of Blair and Carol Hurt, passed away suddenly after a short illness, at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at the age of 51 years.
Jeff was born on April 13, 1971, in Lethbridge at St. Michael’s Hospital, to proud new parents Blair and Carol Hurt. He attended school in Lethbridge and graduated in 1989 from Winston Churchill High School. Throughout his childhood Jeff enjoyed playing sports, with a love for hockey. Like most of his family, he was an avid Toronto Maple Leafs fan. After his playing days were over, he spent a few years as an umpire across Southern Alberta which was something he really enjoyed and resulted in a lot of great friendships.
Jeff spent time living in Cranbrook, Prince George and Denver opening and operating stores for Players Bench Sports, before returning to Lethbridge to settle down into a career as a truck driver or “cow hauler” as Jeff would say. He very much appreciated all the friendships he made on the road and across the trucking industry, especially the last few years spent with the great people at Gateway Carriers whom he considered family.
Jeff was a hardworking, proud and devoted father, son, brother and uncle, who felt his greatest accomplishment was becoming a father to his two treasured children, whom he cherished more than life and never did anything without their wellbeing in mind. Jeff will be remembered fondly for his kindness, thoughtfulness, storytelling and of course his great laugh.
Besides his parents Jeff is survived by his son Tanner and his daughter Graysen. Also left to mourn are his brothers Kevin (Becky), Darren (Lorissa) Brad (Tricia) and nephews Kelton, Kade, Beckett, Foster and Carter, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Jeff will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at a later date.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
HUOT, Gloria
Huot, Gloria Joyce (nee Bjornson) It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, sister and grandmother Gloria Huot on December 9, 2022 at the Vulcan Community Health Center.
Gloria was born August 15, 1955 to Ken and Mary Bjornson of Champion, AB. Gloria leaves behind her two daughters Desirae (Shantel) Huot of Edmonton, Danielle (Matt) Sywenky, Granddaughter Skyler Sywenky of Chestemere, two Sisters Rosella Bjornson of Sherwood Park and Grace (Arnie) Klitmoller of Champion two nieces: Valerie Pratt and Ellen McKay two nephews Ken Pratt and Eric Klitmoller.
Gloria was predeceased by her husband Raymond Huot and her parents.
Gloria began school in Champion continued high school at County Central High in Vulcan she continued her education at Mount Royal College taking the Interior Design Course. She married Raymond in 1978 following his passing in 2011, she moved to Vulcan in 2013 from the Edmonton area, were she has resided since.
Gloria enjoyed her association with the Vulcan United Church, the Carmangay Seniors group and had many friends. She enjoyed traveling and did several cruises. One highlight, a trip to Australia and New Zealand.
A service is being planned for at a later date, with inurement in the Vulcan Cemetery Columbarium.
Her family wishes to thank the hospital staff at South Health Campus, Foothills Hospital, Tom Baker Cancer Clinic, High River Cancer Clinic as well as Vulcan Community Health Centre.
If friends desire tributes in Gloria’s memory can be made to the Vulcan United Church Box 275, Vulcan T0L 2B0 or the Vulcan Health Care Auxiliary, Box 299 or e-donations to vhcaux@hotmail.com.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences through http://www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca.
LEITCH, Kenneth
LEITCH Jun. 5, 1953 – Dec. 8, 2022 On December 8, 2022, just after two in the afternoon with Ang at his side, KENNETH CLIFFORD LEITCH lost his short, but courageous battle with cancer. Our family lost a great mechanic, a talented mentor, and a loyal friend.
He is lovingly remembered by his partner of the last 20 years, Angela Bechtel, his son from his first marriage, Shawn, as well as Shawn’s daughters, Tayler and Kaitlyn.
Also left to cherish Ken’s memory are his sisters, Judy Richards, Shirley Hyslop and Pat See, brother George Leitch as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins, all from Ontario.
Sadly, he was predeceased by his son Gary in August, 1999.
On his 16th birthday Ken signed his apprenticeship papers, earned his driver’s license and 53 years later, was still pulling wrenches and working with tow trucks. He started at his Dad’s shop near Guelph, Ontario and worked through many different shops, dealerships and companies, eventually spending his last years at TNT Towing in Lethbridge.
In December of 2006 Ken met the love of his life when his Peanut, Kalei Ruth was born. He was devoted to her as she wrapped him around her little finger just minutes after birth. Ken started pulling back from driving and not working quite so much to watch her grow. Anybody who knew him knew all about his Peanut.
We hope Ken is busy now meeting up with all the animals he loved so much, from dogs and cats to horses. Surely, his Herman J. Whompominkie, was first in line to greet him. His Amber is already lost without him.
Ken will be missed by many friends and colleagues, including members of the RCMP and LPS, that he met and worked with along his way. His reputation as a skilled and trusted mechanic was widely known, bringing many into the fold as his customers.
We would like to extend a huge Thank You to the following – the amazing nurses and staff of the Chinook Regional Hospital, especially on unit 3C as well as those at St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit, the Respiratory team of doctors that did their best for him, Dr. Wilde for always keeping us informed of his condition and all who visited and brought him treats or coffee that was always very appreciated. Special appreciation goes to Ken’s long-time friend, Ernie Woodgate, who visited him daily and kept him company. Our heartfelt gratitude is extended to Ken’s family at TNT Towing for all their love and support – we really don’t know where we’d be without you.
Ken will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. He would not want fuss or fanfare. A Celebration of his Life will be planned for a later date when everyone can attend, share stories, laugh, shed tears and toast to his memory.
Until we meet again..
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
HODGSON, William
HODGSON WILLIAM “BUD” HODGSON passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at the age of 92 years.
A Memorial Service / Reception will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. for anyone wishing to attend, with Pastor Rodger Halvorsen officiating.
In lieu of flowers and in memory of Bud, please donate to a charity of one’s choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
LINDSAY, Anne
ANNE LINDSAY 1932 – 2022 Mrs. Anne Lindsay passed away peacefully with family at her side at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at the age of 90 years.
She is survived by companion Peter, and children Linda (Arnie), Ruth, Glen (Denise), Jim (Bonnie), Carol (Bob), Brian (Anne), and daughter in law Kim, as well as 17 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren.
Anne is predeceased by her husband Hamilton, sons Ray (Joyce), Wayne, and Alan, daughter in law Linda, and son in law Dennis.
She was a loving mom, grandma, and great grandma. A private family graveside will be held at Carmangay Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
ERICKSON, Namie
NAMIE ERICKSON 1925 – 2022 Mrs. Namie Erickson of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. William “Bill” Erickson, passed away peacefully, with family by her side at St. Therese Villa on Thursday, December 8, 2022 at the age of 97 years.
Namie is survived by her children Kent (Dianne), Elizabeth (Henry), Amy Jo (Stephen); 7 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
RABL, Antal
RABL ANTAL “TONY” RABL, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at the age of 83 years.
At Tony’s request, a private family service will be held at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
SCHIMANSKI, Michael
MICHAEL SCHIMANSKI 1970 – 2022 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Mike Schimanski on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at the age of 52 years. Mike passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital ICU due to complications from a heart attack. He was surrounded by his loving family.
He was the beloved husband of Judy and father to Greg (Whitney) and Jamie (Raelene), but his proudest role was being Papa to Ryeker (7) Willa (2), and Everly (1).
Mike was born in Calgary, Alberta, on March 12, 1970, and grew up on a farm north of Picture Butte. When Mike was 16, he met the love of his life, Judy, and not long after they welcomed their son, Gregory, at the young age of 17. Together they moved into Lethbridge and were married May 2, 1992. Shortly after, they welcome their honeymoon baby, Jamie, who completed their family of 4. This year Mike and Judy celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary will all their closest family and friends.
He was an honest, loyal, hardworking man with a big heart whose laugh was contagious and always brought a smile to your face. If you didn’t see Mike working at Honda, you could find him at a hockey rink cheering on his boys or relaxing at his trailer in the mountains. He also loved fishing on the river, working on his truck (Kiki), tinkering in the shop/garage, or spending quality time with his family, which usually meant working around his boys’ houses followed by a good drink.
To know Mike was to love him. He will be dearly missed but would want his life to be celebrated. Hold your loved ones close.
A Celebration of Mike’s life will be held at 11:30 am, on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at the EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF LETHBRIDGE, 4717 24 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1K 7C1.
The family would like to thank the staff at CRH emergency and ICU for all their care of our sweet Papa. Donations in memory can be made to Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation ICU department, 960 19 St S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
SCHULTCHEN, Christopher
CHRISTOPHER FRANZ SCHULTCHEN 1982 – 2022 Our shining son, brother, grandson, nephew, and cousin has left us. Christopher Franz SCHULTCHEN was born July 10, 1982, in Penticton, British Columbia. He died on November 10, 2022 in Trail, BC.
He was educated at L’Ecole Agnes Davidson, Gilbert Patterson Junior High, and graduated with his bilingual certificate in English and French from Lethbridge Collegiate Institute in Lethbridge. After high school, his adventures and work took him to Calgary, Cochrane, Toronto, as well as Nelson and Trail, BC.
His knowledge of collectables and music memorabilia was encyclopedic. A talented musician, he loved to listen, perform, and write music. Finding inspiration in the works of The Who and The Beach Boys, he performed with Lethbridge bands such as James Leroy and NCL.
He loved nature and the outdoors. The highlights of his last few years included hiking and swimming in the interior of British Columbia. Christopher had a wonderful sense of humour, and nothing made him happier than making his parents and siblings laugh at his pranks. Some of our fondest memories are the stories he told and the things he did to make us laugh. We were so proud of him.
Mourning his loss are his mother Jane Harris-Zsovan, his father Martin Schultchen, stepmother Gwena Schultchen, sister Jessica Schultchen (Matt Murray), brother Jason Schultchen (Michaela Thompson), stepsister Daylean Mutch (Harley), and stepbrother Dave Olfert (Serena) as well as his grandparents, Ken and Norma Harris of Bluffton Alberta. He also leaves numerous aunts and uncles as well as many cousins.
He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Mary and Franz SCHULTCHEN, several aunts and uncles, and his stepfather.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta. with Reverend Gillian Breckenridge, officiating.
A private family Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Chris’s honour to the LCI music department c/o Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel,. Please call 403-328-2361 for more details.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
WILLIAMS, Alfred
DR. ALFRED “ERIC” WILLIAMS 1936 – 2022 “And him shall heavenly arms enfold ” Dr. Alfred Richard Frederick Williams passed peacefully in his 87th year on 7th December 2022.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Eric’s life will be held at 11:00 am, on Friday, December 16, 2022 at ST. AUGUSTINE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 411 11 St S, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Steve Bateman, officiating.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity: 20 Rocky Mtn Blvd W. Lethbridge AB. T1K 8E1
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
ERICKSON, Jean
REGINA “JEAN” ERICKSON 1932 – 2022 Mrs. Regina “Jean” Erickson of Milk River passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at the age of 90 years.
Jean was born in Rogowka, Ukraine. She was the eldest of 3 daughters born to Adina and Eduard Kube. Her father was taken in WWII, one sister died as an infant, and the whereabouts of her other sister is unknown. Jean and her mother then fled to Germany in 1943. When she was 19, she decided to immigrate to Winnipeg by herself where she learned English and worked in a hospital. She later moved to Lethbridge and worked (by trade) at a jewellery store. In 1953 she took a domestic position at Dick and Bernice Losey’s where she met Leif Erickson. They married in 1954 and resided on the Erickson homestead at Masinasin. Together they had 5 children. Jean also grew a large garden and canned a lot.
Jean had many health issues but overcame all of them. She was such a strong woman. When Leif passed away in 1980, Jean remained on the farm. She learned how to drive and took many trips around the world. She had a passion for cooking and baking and loved hosting big holiday meals…the more, the merrier! She also kept Dave and Wanda and the kids supplied with cookies, chiffon cakes and pies. Bingo was another passion of hers, and she drove every week rain or shine. She moved into the Prairie Rose Lodge in Milk River in 2012. She loved to play Bingo there until it got too difficult to participate. That is when she fell in love with Bingo scratch tickets. Every time we went in for a visit, the first question was “did you get me some tickets?”.
Jean adored visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was so proud of them.
She is survived by her sons Edward (Karen), David (Wanda) and Dale (Laurie); 19 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.
Besides her beloved husband, Leif, Jean was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Beverly and her son Allan.
A private family service will be held. For those who wish to attend via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Jean- Erickson at 10:00 am on Thursday, December 15, 2022.
Flowers are gratefully declined. For those who wish, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, https://www.diabetes.ca/
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
SZARKO, Julius
JULIUS SZARKO 1929 – 2022 Mr. Julius Szarko of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Dallas Szarko, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 years.
Funeral Arrangements will be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.