December 8th, 2024

Saturday, March 4, 2023


By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 4, 2023.

YATES, Thomas Thomas Yates
1932 ~ 2023
The family of Thomas Harold Yates are sad to announce his passing at the Bow Island Health Centre on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at the age of 90 years. Tom leaves behind his children, Russel (Rochelle) Yates, Pat McCray, Shelly Lambert and Murray (Jayne) Yates; grandchildren, Bailey McCray, Miles McCray, Kaelin Lambert, Clayton Yates and Rohdy Yates as well as his great-granddaughter Mekah McCray. Tom was predeceased by his beloved wife, Midge in 2009; son-in-law, Scott McCray; parents, Harold and Ethel Yates; sister, Pat (Mick) Brooks; brothers, Bill (Toody) Yates and Richard Yates as well as all of Midge’s siblings. A Celebration of Tom’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Murray Jaster officiating. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION FACILITY 901 – 13TH STREET S.W., MEDICINE HAT T1A 4V4 1-877-528-6455 http://WWW.COOKSOUTHLAND.COM “Locally owned & directed”

CHRISTIANSEN, Caroline CHRISTIANSEN, Caroline 1942-2023 It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our dear mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, Caroline Christiansen (nee: Jensen) on February 25, 2023 at the age of 81 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced once completed.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
CLEARWATER, Helen CLEARWATER, Helen 1937-2023 Helen Ione Clearwater (nee: Keller) passed away peacefully at Buffalo Grace Manor on February 13, 2023 at the age of 85.
Helen was born in Elk Point, Alberta in 1937 to William and Rene Keller; and grew up with her loving brothers and sisters, George, Marie, Judy, and Terry.
As a teenager, she moved to Edmonton and worked for Alberta Government Telephones as a switchboard operator and it was in Edmonton where she would meet her husband, Arthur Clearwater, a young RCMP officer. The couple would be transferred across the province and lived in Peace River, Valleyview, Stettler, and Lethbridge as they raised their children: Karen, Brenda, and David.
After her children were grown and after Art passed away, she moved to Calgary and worked in retail sales, real estate, and volunteered for community fundraising efforts. In Calgary, she met Jack Hudon and the couple would eventually retire to Vernon, B.C. where they enjoyed being outdoors in the sunshine, hiking, golfing, and travelling. While in Vernon, Helen would take up painting again and she enjoyed taking art classes and painting in watercolour.
Eventually, she moved back to Lethbridge, where she enjoyed walking, painting, going for coffee with her friends, and holiday celebrations and family get-togethers.
Helen is survived by her brother, George Keller; sister, Marie McGinnis (and partner Ron); sister, Judy Orchison (and her husband Bob); brother, Terry Keller (and wife Lorraine); daughter, Karen Clearwater; granddaughter Danielle MacGregor (with husband, Conor; and their son, Elliott); daughter, Brenda Krause (with husband Kevin); and son David.
Helen’s children would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at AgeCare Columbia and the staff of Buffalo Grace Manor for taking such good care of our dear mother in the last years of her life.
To share condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca
BABIN, Eric BABIN ERIC RICHARD BABIN, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Nancy Babin, passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at the age of 46 years.
A Private family service will be held on Saturday, March, 11, 2023 at 3:00 PM with Pat Siedlecki officiating. The service will be live-streamed and can be accessed via Eric’s obituary page on the Cornerstone website.
Following the service, a Celebration of Eric’s Life will be held at BULLY’S UNDER THE GRANDSTAND, 3401 Parkside Drive S., Lethbridge, AB, starting at 4:30 P.M.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
PARK, Gayle PARK GAYLE PATRICIA PARK passed away peacefully at the South Health Campus in Calgary, on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at the age of 72 years.
A Visitation will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, March 10, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
A Celebration of Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME on Friday, March 10, 2023 at 11:30 AM officiated by Pat Siedlecki.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
CORBETT, Helen CORBETT HELEN JOHNSTONE CORBETT of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at the St. Michael’s Health Centre on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at the age of 97 years.
She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Sapphire Lucas of Lethbridge, Glen (Darlene) Lucas of Ontario, and Jodi Corbett and Kym Hoffman, both of Australia, great- grandchildren, Devon (Ahmed) Overbo and Sydney Lucas of Calgary, and Denise Lucas of Ontario as well as many great-great-grandchildren.
Helen was sadly predeceased by her children and their spouses, Hazel (Louis) Lucas and Derek (Penny) Corbett.
Helen was born in Scotland and immigrated to Canada in the early 60’s. She earned her education as a Registered Nurse and worked at St. Michael’s Hospital for many years.
Helen loved her family, especially in the special times she had all five generations together.
She was a spunky lady with a zest for life and a good sense of humour.
Helen was an original member of the Victory Church in Lethbridge and confident in her faith, she knew she was going home to Jesus.
Helen was an amazing lady and will be missed dearly by her family.
A Celebration of Helen’s Life will be held for family and friends at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
DELUDE, Vivian Vivian Delude Vivian Yvonne Delude passed on February 21 2023, in her home at the lovely Revera Inglewood Residence at the age of 82 years, 20 days. A service to remember Vivian will be held at Eventide Funeral Home, 4820 45 Street, Red Deer, Alberta on March 11, 2023 at 2:00 pm with viewing at 1:00 pm.
Condolences may be left for the family at http://www.eventidefuneralchapels.com
WILDE, Marlene WILDE 1937-2023 MARLENE ANNE WILDE of Lethbridge, AB, passed away peacefully at Good Samaritan Park Meadows Village on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at the age of 85 years.
Marlene leaves to mourn her beloved sons Kelly Wilde and Darrel Brown, her siblings Peggy Marklinger and Bryan Wilde, as well as many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
At Marlene’s request, there will be no service. Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
DILSE, Leona DILSE LEONA GERTRUDE DILSE (nee: Lund), fighting the brave battle of Alzheimer’s, passed away in Lethbridge on Saturday, February 25th, 2023, at the age of 93 years.
Leona was predeceased by her son, Chuck, granddaughter-in-law Antoinette (late wife of Chris) Neuwirth, a great- granddaughter, brother-in-law Marvin Henrickson, and three husbands Leo Bottom, Van Vanderhoof, and Bill Dilse.
Leona is survived by her daughter Wanda (John) Neuwirth, sister Helene Henrickson and family, grandchildren: Chris Neuwirth; Kim (Joe) Kennedy; Jason (Liz) Neuwirth, and 8 great-grandchildren.
Her love of life and people touched the lives of all those who knew her. She had a wonderful personality, full of laughter and the joy of life, which was with her until the very end.
Leona will be laid to rest in a private ceremony in Vulcan, AB.
In her memory, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Society.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
MCNAMARA, Jacqueline JACQUELINE (JACKIE) MCNAMARA 1945 – 2023 Jacqueline (Jackie) McNamara of Lethbridge AB, beloved wife of Larry McNamara, passed away suddenly on February 24th at the age of 77 years.
Family and friends are invited to meet with the family at 9:00 AM, on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at ST. MARTHA’S PARISH, 355 Columbia Blvd W, Lethbridge.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 AM, on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at ST. MARTHA’S PARISH, 355 Columbia Blvd W, Lethbridge.
Friends are invited to join Jackie’s family at Paradise Canyon Golf Course for a social hour remembering Jackie immediately following mass.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Southern Alberta Art Gallery or Community Foundation both located in Lethbridge.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
POCZA, Roy ROY POCZA 1944 – 2023 Mr. Roy Pocza of Lethbridge, beloved partner of the late Gwen Willimont, passed away peacefully with family by his side, at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Monday, February 27, 2023, at the age of 78 years.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Monday, March 6, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Roy-Pocza and scroll to the bottom of the obituary page to find the link.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 325 Manning Rd NE #200, Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 or the Lethbridge & District Humane Society, 2920 16 Ave N, Lethbridge, AB T1H 5E9.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
DUNSMORE, Daryl DARYL DUNSMORE 1949 – 2023 Daryl Dunsmore of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Karen, passed away suddenly at home on Friday, February 24, 2023 at the age of 73 years.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at MCKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 15 AVE S, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Trevor Potter, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to http://www.mckillopunited.ca/ funerals.
In lieu of flowers for those who wish, memorial donations may be made to: The Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, 800 College Plaza, 8215 – 112 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2C8 (www.stollerykids.com).
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BLACK WATER, Gilbert Sr. Gilbert Black Water Sr. Mummum Jan. 23, 1938 ~ Feb. 25, 2023 It is with great sadness, that we the family, announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Cousin and Friend. Gilbert (Mummum) Black Water Sr., of the Blood Reserve passed away peacefully surrounded by family after an illness on February 25th, 2023 at Chinook Regional Hospital at the age of 85 years.
Gilbert was born on January 23, 1938 at the Blood Indian Hospital to his parents Bill Blackwater and Rosie Red Crow (nee Crop Eared Wolf). Gilbert is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Emelda. His children: Gilbert Jr. & Carmen, Clement (Ann), Dawn, Lani (Elliot) and Ritchie. His grandchildren: Kes (Sarah), Cara (Eric), Judd (Courtney), Jason (Kate), Wacey (Kes), Dr. Neill Fox (Charmaine), Dustin and Britney. His great grandchildren: Tahner, Boogie, Jolt, Chipper, Noah, Dekoa, Payton, Tee, Calla, and Burke. Adopted Children: Clarence (Trish) Black Water Jr., Lane Little Bear, Pierre Many Chief and LouAnn (Troy) Day Chief.
Gilbert is also survived by his close relatives and friends, brother Norbert Blackwater Sr., sisters Rosie and Stella Red Crow, sister-in-laws Teresa Blackwater, Evangeline Provost and Joan Eagle Speaker, cousin Eugene (Chief) Creighton, Leroy and Harriet Heavy Runner, Don and Hank Shade, Stand Off Colony cousins, retired dairy boss, Sam, Joe and retired sheep boss, Sam Hofer.
In his school years, Gilbert attended St. Mary’s residential school on the Blood Reserve. This is where he found the love of his life, Mary Emelda Knife. Gilbert and Emelda were joined in marriage on December 18, 1956.
Gilbert was a cadet and a great all-around athlete who competed in boxing, hockey, rodeo and basketball (aka Mr. Sure Shot). In his later years he took up pool and golfing and was an avid wrestling fan.
Gilbert learned to box in the 1950s while he was a student at the St. Mary Residential School. His coach was the late Rufus Goodstriker Sr., who was a well-known champion boxer at the time. Gilbert’s earlier matches were fought in the 80lb. class and then eventually he fought in both Canada and the United States in the welterweight division.
In 1953-54, he won the Golden Glove titles in Edmonton, AB. In 1954, in Yakima, WA., he fought Tony George and defeated him in three rounds to claim the Washington State welterweight championship title. Gilbert was 16 years old at the time. He was awarded a trophy for his skill and effort. His trainer at that time was the late Gus Calf Robe, also a great boxing champion. Throughout his years in the ring, Gilbert won numerous matches and titles.
After his boxing career, Gilbert Sr. moved home to raise his family and became a farmer and rancher, farming 200 acres of cropland and raising over 100 head of Hereford cattle with his sons. Gilbert was a Blood Tribe Administration employee for 33 years.
Gilbert was also a talented hockey player who was recruited by the New York Rangers in his younger days, but due to family responsibilities, he was unable to attend training camp. He was deeply involved in the development of Kainai youth as he coached minor and Jr. B hockey and went on to win various championships. His hockey advice and support continued with his children, grandchildren and numerous Kainai youth until his passing. Gilbert was a very proud grandfather when his grandson, Judd, was a key player with the Spokane Chiefs when they won the Memorial Cup in 2008.
Gilbert became very well known in the rodeo arena as he competed in the steer decorating, calf and team roping events and won numerous championships over the years. Gilbert’s late uncle and best friend, Pat Crop Eared Wolf, taught and mentored him in his rodeo skills when he was growing up. Gilbert’s support and encouragement were also a factor in the rodeo arena as his children, grandchildren and numerous relatives, friends and youth carried his advice to many pay windows and championship titles. Gilbert and his late brother Levi Sr. were instrumental in establishing the Blood Reserve Rodeo Club, where cowboys and cowgirls, young and old, would hone their skills at different arenas around the Blood Reserve.
When Gilbert got older, he and one of his best friends and mentors, the late Fred Gladstone, established the annual Kainai Senior Pro Rodeo in 1985 that attracted competitors from all over the United States and Canada. This rodeo became the biggest stop on the Sr. Pro Rodeo circuit.
Gilbert took great pride in his children and grandchildren’s educational and athletic pursuits, to which he attended all of their milestones such as graduations, hockey games, rodeos, weddings, and other celebrations. He also took every opportunity to show his skills as a singer, usually singing “That’s Amore” by Dean Martin.
Gilbert was predeceased by his parents; his parents in-law, Louis Knife I and Louise; brothers, Levi, Andy, and Clarence Sr. Blackwater and Jimmy Red Crow; his brothers in-law, Louis II, Ralph, Randy and Butch Knife and sisters in-law, Bernadette Small Legs.
Mummum left a legacy of love, kindness and humbleness, he was loved and will be missed tremendously by all who knew him.
The family would like to thank the Fort Macleod Extendicare and the Chinook Regional Hospital staff for Gilbert’s care, and for the monetary and food donations from family, friends and Blood Tribe Chief and Council. The family apologizes for anyone who may have been missed.
A Wake Service will be held at Gladstone Hall, Blood Tribe, on Sunday, March 5, 2023, from 6:00 P.M. until 11:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Tribe, on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. with Father Pawel Andrasz O.M.I. celebrating.
Gilbert will be laid to rest at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Blood Tribe, Alberta.
Condolences may be sent through http://www.edensfuneralhome.com
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