By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on March 18, 2023.
CULLEY, Phyllis
Phyllis Naomi CULLEY (née Wetherup) Mom passed away peacefully on Monday, 13 March after a long and fulfilling life. She was predeceased by her husband Raymond (2008) to whom she was married for almost 57 years. She leaves behind her children Colleen Metge (Denis Champagne), Jill Asbell (Bernie) and Brooke Culley (Katherine); grandchildren Kate Pedlow (Michael), Emily Martinson (Adam), Harrison Culley (Alexandra Seidman) and Wyatt Culley; and great-grandchildren Lochlan, Savannah, Taylor and Isabelle.
Phyllis was born on July 18, 1928 in the CPR station house in Travers Alberta. Her father George HW Wetherup was the station agent and her mother Alberta Viola was a mother of five with Phyllis being the youngest. She spoke about moving around to various small towns in Southern Alberta and eventually spent most of her childhood in Macleod Alberta with four brothers all of whom have predeceased her (Harold, Howard, Gordon and Fred).
After graduating from Mount Royal College in Calgary, Phyllis enrolled in the Galt School of Nursing program at the Galt Hospital in Lethbridge. She was one of 14 women in the Class of 1950. Most of them survived into their late 80s and she met with them regularly over 60 years for reunions. Over the years Mom worked in a TB hospital, as a clinic and head nurse, a case-room nurse and a surgical nurse. She was elected President of the Operating Nurses Association of Alberta in 1981. She retired from nursing to start consulting for American Hospital Supply and then acted as a real-estate broker in Vancouver. We still marvel at the courage and capacity she had to learn, adapt and successfully create three careers while being a wife and mom.
A memory of her would be incomplete without mentioning her love of sports. She was an avid curler and took up both golf and skiing later in life. Phyllis swore that intently following organized sports kept her mind sharp. PGA Golf was her true passion but Canucks hockey and Stampeder football on TV were close seconds. As for baseball the Blue Jays were her boys and even in her nineties she managed to see a few games in person!
Phyllis will be remembered by her family as being fiercely independent–never wanting help with her suitcase and always finding her own way forward. Mom was energetic, spontaneous and full of spunk while being a fine planner in orchestrating all the activities of a busy and, at times, far-flung family. Mom was an enthusiastic traveler and she was fortunate to be able to travel with Ray to Europe, the UK, Japan, Hawaii and on cruises. Her travelling carried on with her children when he passed and even as recently as July 2022 Mom took a week-long Alaska cruise!
Our family would like to acknowledge Phyllis’ son Brooke for his compassion and tireless efforts in helping to make her final weeks as comfortable as possible. Thanks also go to her dear friends, Gaylen and Marilyn Armstrong, who were often at her bedside over the last weeks. We would also like to thank the doctors and nursing staff at the Chinook Regional Hospital and St Michael’s Health Centre for their excellent care and compassion. Their dedication and comforting words made this journey easier to bear for her family. A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Royal Canadian Legion in support of our veterans and their families (www.legion.ca), Lethbridge Pride (www.lethbridgepride.com) or a charity of your choice. Evergreen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
LEAVITT, Wallace
Leavitt, Wallace Garth September 16, 1941 – March 14, 2023 Garth Leavitt passed away on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at the age of 81 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his five daughters, Karen (Richard) Phillips of Vauxhall, AB, Shauna Leavitt, of Calgary, AB, Mary (Kevin) Fleming, of Innisfail, AB, Cindy Leavitt, of Red Deer, AB, and Lisa (Wayne) Smith, of Stettler, AB; wife Carol (nee Smith); twelve grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; siblings, Pam (Murray) Stovel, of Calgary, AB, Steven (Pat) Leavitt, of Raymond, AB and Carma (Duane) Thomson of Magrath, AB; sister-in-law Sue Leavitt, of Red Deer, AB; and many more family and friends. He was predeceased by his first wife Carol (nee Stallings), second wife Beverly (nee Cooper), parents Wallace & Helen Leavitt, grandson Ryan Phillips, sister LaVonne Gehmlich and brother Bruce Leavitt.
A Funeral Service will be held for Garth at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Tipton Road Chapel (5927 Tipton Road NW, Calgary) on Friday, March 24, 2023 at 12:30 pm, visitation will start at 11:00 am. If friends so desire, donations may be made in memory of Garth to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Canada (www.makeawish.ca).
Messages of condolence may be forwarded to the family at http://www.piersons.ca.
WHITE QUILLS-BULLSHIELDS, Naomi
WHITE QUILLS-BULLSHIELDS NAOMI JEWEL WHITE QUILLS – BULLSHIELDS, Na’toyii’sa’ka’tsim, passed away on March 8, 2023 in Lethbridge, AB at the age of 25 years.
A Wake Service will be held at the Tanner Center, Cardston (260 1 St W) on Tuesday, March 21 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Wednesday, March 22 at 11:00 am.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
DEVARNICHUK, Katherine
KATHERINE FAYE DEVARNICHUK 1951 – 2023 Katherine Faye Devarnichuk of Lethbridge, passed away at the Taber Hospital after a lengthy illness on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at the age of 71 years.
Katherine was born on November 2, 1951 in Lethbridge, Alberta to John and Bessie Devarnichuk. She was the owner and operator of her own restaurant with her mother Bessie. She loved bingo, playing card games, computer games, baking and cooking for her family. She was a member of the Moose Association where her and her mom cooked in the kitchen.
Katherine is survived by her daughters Laurie Brown, Jennie Brown; son Mark Brown; grandchildren Shayna Brown, Matthew Beitschat, Terry Brown, Corey Brown; sister Irene Macintosh; brother Jody Devarnichuk; Makayla Beitschat as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.
She was predeceased by her parents John and Bessie Devarnichuk; Sharon Devarnichuk and Carol Petersen.
A Celebration of Katherine’s Life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 102 Peigan Court W, Lethbridge, Alberta.
For those who wish, memorial donations in Katherine’s name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
MILLS, Chanel
MILLS CHANEL TABETHA MILLS, passed away on March 13, 2023 in Lethbridge, AB at the age of 24 years. A Wake Service will be held at the Tanner Center, Cardston on Thursday, March 23 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at the Tanner Center on Friday, March 24 at 11:00 am.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca
ENGSTROM, Ruth
RUTH ENGSTROM 1939 – 2023 Mrs. Ruth Engstrom of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Carl Engstrom, passed away peacefully at Edith Cavell Care Centre on Friday, March 10, 2023, at the age of 83 years.
Ruth was born in Saskatoon at St. Paul’s Hospital to parents Jacob Dickman and Helen Janzen at 11am on July 14, 1939. After attending Saskatoon business college, Ruth worked as a secretary at city hall in Saskatoon, and later in Wetaskiwin. She married Carl July 15, 1967, and had 2 children: Darren and Warren. She enjoyed reading, studying the Word, watching hockey and golf and writing letters. A major accomplishment was leading a ladies Bible study for a number of years.
Ruth is survived by her son Warren; sister Gladys Procyshen, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.
Besides her loving husband Carl, Ruth was predeceased by her parents Jacob and Helen Dickman; son Darren; and first husband Arnold Krahn.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 21. 2023 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta with Dr. Bruce Martin, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Ruth-Engstrom and scroll to the bottom of Ruth’s obituary page to find the link.
A private family Interment will be held.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
CLAMPITT, Beth
BETH CLAMPITT 1930 – 2023 It is with very sad hearts that we announce the passing of Elizabeth (Beth) Clampitt on Friday, March 10, 2023, at the age of 92 years.
Beth was born June 18, 1930, in Buchanan, Saskatchewan to Mary and Frank Slogotski. She attended Monastyr school and nursing school, then nursed in Kincaid Hospital until she met Lynn Clampitt. They married on October 14, 1952, moved to Lethbridge, and were blessed with 4 children. She worked at St. Michael’s Hospital on the maternity ward, did private nursing, and then worked 35 years with Devon/Parkland/ Extendicare Nursing Home.
Beth devoted her life lovingly and with so much fun and laughter to her husband, children, Alan Hagen, grandchildren, Del and great grandchildren; She loved to play cards, dance, garden, visit family, bowl, camp and travel. She visited Mexico often, Singapore, Dominican Republic, Florida, Australia, New Zealand, Portugal, Hawaii, Alaska by cruising, and drove all through the Western states. Beth weas a great cook and baker (which we all appreciated often).
She was able to stay in her own home until June of 2021, when she moved into St. Therese Villa. She loved living there saying it was like a holiday on a cruise ship. The staff was wonderful to her, and she loved them, her friends, and all of the recreation. A special thank you to the staff of St. Therese for their loving care as she lived with dementia). Beth passed peacefully with her family by her side.
Beth is survived by her companion and dear friend Del Lowenburg; children Brian Clampitt, Betty (Dale) Lumley, and Allen (Fahle) Clampitt; grandchildren Randi Knight, Lyle (Ashley) Knight/Clampitt; Tammy (Brent) Nunweiler, Trevor (Megan) Brown; Chanelle (Aaron) Bauer, and Adam (Katie) Clampitt; great grandson Tyson Knight; great granddaughters Mia Knight/Clampitt, Luca, Calla, and Asha Nunweiler, Helena Brown; and Avarie and Monroe Bauer.
Beth was predeceased by her son Lyle; her husband Lynn; 8 brothers Julius, Joe, Ben, Albert, Walter, Edwin, Bernard and Ben; and 3 sisters Rozalia, Sister Jerome (Helen), and Jean.
Mom will be so very missed, but her memories cherished forever.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
POPSON, Janice
JANICE ANN STUART MILLAR POPSON 1956 – 2023 Our hearts are broken as we all mourn the loss of our beloved wife, daughter, mother, grandmother and sister, Janice, after a lengthy and courageous battle with ALS.
She leaves to mourn her husband Larry; mother Alvina (Jack); daughter Micha; grandchildren Haivyn, Lily and Payson; brother A. Mitch; sister Laurie-Lynne (Shar, Garth, Ang, Brandon, Breanna). She is predeceased by her father A.G.
It’s Jannie’s request that there only be a family viewing before cremation.
We also request that in lieu of flowers you donate to the ALS society, 7874 10 St NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8W1.
“Butterflies are free.” Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
ALLEN, Jane
ALLEN, Jane Dee (nee Kenney) July 24, 1948 – Lethbridge, Alberta March 12, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta Dee Allen, beloved wife of Dennis Allen, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, March 12 at the age of 74 years. Born and raised in Lethbridge, AB, Dee was a member of the elite choral group, the Teen Clefs, under the direction of Anne Campbell, and competed in the 1968 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales.
Happily married for 53 years, Dee is survived by her devoted husband Dennis, her children Givenne Allen (James Reeves), Jason Allen, and Kenney Sherlock (Brendan Sherlock), and her grandchildren Clayton Hodgins, Cohen Reeves, and Keeley Hodgins. Dee is also survived by her siblings Kathrine Roberts (nee Kenney), Dr. John Kenney, and Tex Kenney, her sister-in-law Barbara Kenney, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Dee was predeceased by her infant son Shaun David Allen, her parents Ethel and Clyde Kenney, and her brothers, Ross and Perry Kenney.
Dee dedicated 35 years to being an Elementary school educator, firstly, for the Yellowhead School Division and later for the CBE. She enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, travelling, family camping, her book club, sewing, and crafting. She will be most remembered for her outstanding flower garden, her infectious laugh, and the mischievous twinkle she often had in her eyes. The family would like to thank the staff of Unit 68 at South Health Campus for their wonderful care over the past 2.5 months.
Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at http://www.McInnisandHolloway.com.
In living memory of Dee Allen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, Telephone: 403-256-9575.
JANZEN, Peter
PETER JANZEN 1924 – 2023 Peter Janzen, cherished husband of Margaret Janzen, slipped gently into divine, endless peace on March 14, 2023.
Besides Margaret, his wife of 71 years, he leaves to honor and celebrate his life their four children: Ernest (Rebecca) Janzen, Werner (Linda) Janzen, Henry (Sandra) Janzen, and Helen (Chris) Enns; 11 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Peter was predeceased by his parents, his sister (Helene Wiebe), one grandchild (Richard Janzen), and innumerable friends and extended family members.
Peter was born in Osterwick, Ukraine to Peter and Helene (Neudorf) Janzen during the upheavals following the Russian Revolution. His father died just months before his birth, so Peter and sister Helene were raised by their widowed mother and extended family. Despite famines, collectivization, exile of family members, religious persecution, and other hardships, Peter had fond memories of his childhood: the lush gardens and orchards of his home village, swimming in the reservoir, working in the fields with horses, and, especially, the extravagant, persevering love of his mother and wider family. Through all the fears and deprivations of that period, Peter always knew that he was loved.
Though still a teen when World War II erupted, Peter was drawn progressively into its violence and was severely injured in a harrowing munition explosion, which claimed the lives of young friends. After convalescing in Germany, and later imprisonment as a prisoner of war, he found work as farm laborer in Bavaria, before eventually emigrating to Canada in 1948, eventually settling in Coaldale, Alberta.
Peter and Margaret were married in 1951, and began a lifelong partnership in raising a family, securing a vocation, and building a growing community. Peter initially worked in construction, first as common laborer, but eventually as carpenter, and was able to build three new houses, in succession, for his young family. In 1957, Peter realized a childhood dream with the purchase of a small, irrigated farm near Readymade. This farm became an abiding passion. Together, Peter and Margaret managed a wide assortment of crops (sugar beets, wheat, barley, alfalfa, clover, pasture), dairy cows, beef cattle, pigs (briefly), and honeybees. And it was here that they raised their children and eventually enjoyed hosting also their grandchildren. In 1991, Peter and Margaret retired to Coaldale where they spent another three decades in contented retirement together. Just months before he died, Peter mustered the strength for a beautiful autumn visit to his beloved land; this may have been the last time I see this farm, he said wistfully, upon leaving.
Peter had a restless, inquisitive spirit. Although equipped with only a brief formal education, he was fluent in German, Russian, Ukrainian, and (eventually) English. He read widely, and was invested in understanding underlying processes, whether in farm machines or in language or in beehives. Even in the last year of his life, he was still a formidable opponent in chess. His impulsive inquiry sometimes sparked impatience when others seemed more sluggish, but his relentless curiosity always remained a motivating example for his children and grandchildren.
Another driving force in Peter’s life was his faith. Though church attendance was forbidden in his childhood, he became a stalwart disciple of Christ and a long-serving member of the Coaldale Mennonite Church, where he participated vigorously in diverse ways: as youth leader, Sunday School teacher, German School teacher, deacon, choir member, choir conductor, and lay pastor. Together, Peter and Margaret spent countless hours tending to people in grief, loneliness, and other heartaches. And as his end neared, he held steadfastly to the assurance of a loving, merciful God.
We, as his family, remain forever grateful for the love our father and grandfather invested in us and for the wisdom and mentorship he offers us still through the memories he left us. His was a full life, richly lived, not always without flaws, but always motivated by compassion, faith, learning, and hope.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM, on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the COALDALE MENNONITE CHURCH, 2316 17th St, Coaldale, Alberta. A private family Interment will be held prior in the Coaldale Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
DURAND, Shirley
DURAND SHIRLEY DURAND, beloved wife of the late Adrian Durand, passed away in Lethbridge on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at the age of 84 years.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Linda (Rod) Jones; sons Glen (Crystal) Durand, Dale (Susan) Durand, and Jason (Jessica) Durand; grandchildren Samuel Jones, Raine Jones, Michaela (Clayton) Holt, Brendan (Reagan) Durand, Tanner Durand, Janay Hein, Blaine Laughlin (mom – Colleen), Melissa Durand, Zachary Durand, and Riley Durand; five great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; sister Doreen (Gene) Waskiewich; sisters-in-law Cathy (Bill) Dacyshyn, Laurie Luciani, Rose (Pat) Matsuoka; and numerous relatives and friends.
Shirley was the youngest daughter of Bob and Frieda Buller. She was born in Hanna, AB on March 14, 1939. She grew up in Hanna and married the love of her life for over 50 years of marriage, Adrian Durand. Shortly after their marriage, they purchased a family farm near Bashaw, AB and started their family. In 1978, they sold their farm and purchased a much larger mixed farm in the Spondin community north east of Hanna.
Shirley worked tirelessly alongside Adrian to make a memorable life on the farm, from putting three meals a day on the table to taking dinners out to the field, helping with all the livestock and especially taking care of her chickens. She will always be remembered for her collection of ornamental chickens in every color and design in her home and on her doorstep.
In 1985, the farm was sold and Adrian and Shirley started a very successful feed and farm supply store in Hanna known as A&S Feeds. They eventually sold out and spent three years delivering mail on a rural route in Hanna before retiring and moving to Coaldale, followed by Barnwell. After Adrian’s passing in January of 2012, Shirley moved to Lethbridge to be closer to Linda until her passing.
Shirley had many hobbies over the years such as embroidery, sewing quilts and pillows, crocheting, knitting, coloring, reading, and gardening.
She enjoyed travelling to various destinations over the years, including a few winters in the southern states, especially the Arizona area, with a trip to Australia being one of the most memorable.
Shirley enjoyed camping, going to community events, dances, potlucks, ball tournaments, bonspiels, and numerous parties with friends and neighbors. You could count on her to be the number one fan and cheerleader at the games.
Shirley was active in the church for many years, she volunteered for various functions and was a loyal member of the CWL.
Shirley’s most cherished accomplishment was being a loving wife and mother. She was a very patient, kind, hardworking soul with a great sense of humor. When her life was hard, she never complained. As she would often say “Well that’s just how it is.”
Mom, you have endured so much. We are sure gonna miss you until we meet again, but “that’s just how it is.”
Shirley’s life will be celebrated with a private family gathering at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of one’s choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
WILDE, Mabel
WILDE Mabel Lillian Wilde, beloved wife of the late Marlin David Wilde, passed away at Fort Macleod Extendicare on Monday, March 13, 2023 at the age of 98 years. A month and a half before her 99th birthday.
Friends may meet the family on Saturday, March 18, 2023 from 12:00 to 12:50 p.m. prior to the service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lethbridge East Stake Chapel, 4105 Forestry Ave. S. The Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2023. Interment will follow in the Temple Hill Cemetery, Raymond.
For more information and to send condolences please go to http://www.generationsfh.ca
LITTLE PLUME, Teeara
TEEARA SHAE LITTLE PLUME – ALVAREZ “PIITAPOYII” (STAND WITH THE EAGLE) 2003 – 2023 Ms. Teeara Shae Little Plume – Alvarez of Lethbridge, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at the age of 20 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
HODDER, Norma
NORMA HODDER passed away surrounded by her family on March 16, 2023 at the age of 71 years.
Norma is survived by her husband; Ted Hodder.
Son; Michael (Janet) Hodder, grandchildren- Morgan, Jackson, Hansen, Ainsley and Marlowe.
Daughter; Allison (Kevin) Strate, grandchildren- Brock, Ava and Cole.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at 1:00 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints FORESTRY AVE CHAPEL, 4105 Forestry Ave S, Lethbridge, Alberta.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca
COON, Kenneth
Kenneth G. Coon June 16, 1938 ~ March 12, 2023 It is with a heavy heart that the family of Kenneth “Ken” Garfield Coon announces his peaceful passing on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the Chinook Regional Hospital, at the age of 84 years.
Left to love and cherish his memory are his children, Ruby (Clark) Tailfeathers, Trudy Coon-Freeman, and Kenneth S. Coon (Pam); his grandchildren Jewel, Danielle, Skyler, and Craig; his great-grandchildren, Atticus, Scotty, Kenneth and Jory; his siblings, W
ayne (Bev) Coon, Sandra, and Sonya (Wilf); his sisters-in-law, Marcy (Daniel) and Lydia (Casey); as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Ken was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Thelma E. “Tiny” Grier of the Piikani First Nation; two younger siblings, Paul Coon and Penny Sue Coon; three brothers-in-law, Leonard Little Bear, Norman Grier, and Robert Manyfingers; two sisters-in-law, Ann (Grier) Manyfingers and Beverly (Grier) Little Bear; and his first wife, Doreen (Goodstriker) Little Shields, and his adopted son Marvin Coon (Goodstriker).
Ken was born June 16, 1938, to Kenneth E. Coon and Ada Jean Coon (nee Dugan), in Carnduff, Saskatchewan. He grew up on a farm and knew the meaning of hard work from a young age. He moved to Alberta in 1959 and worked on farms near the Blood Reserve. He married Doreen Goodstriker (1964-1974), adopted her son and together they had two daughters. He began working in the oil field industry, moving to various places in Alberta and Saskatchewan. With further technical training in the oil field industry, Ken was offered a job overseas. He and Doreen divorced amicably, and he got remarried to Tiny Grier (1975-2004) and they had their son Ken Jr.
During the years from 1975 to 1982, Ken worked in the Sahara Desert, with his family home base in a small village near Oran, Algeria, he then later worked in the Turkish desert, and the home base was in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. After retiring from the oil field industry, he still worked various jobs like truck and bus driving. He was also an experienced carpenter, mechanic, excellent gardener, hunter, and all-round “MacGyver”. Ken will be remembered as a good-hearted, down-to-earth, type of guy, who was also very intelligent. He made friends everywhere he went in the world, which included at least 12 different countries. He loved the Blackfoot people and had many friends and relatives during his 60 years amongst them. He recently received a well-deserved Blackfoot name Siksikaikoan, meaning Blackfoot Man.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the doctors and nursing staff at the Chinook Regional Hospital, for their care and compassion.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on March 22, 2023, at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2424 5 Avenue, Fort Macleod, AB.
Condolences may be sent through http://www.edensfuneralhome.com
CREIGHTON, Andy
CREIGHTON Andy Winold Creighton “Sisakki’kayioohkitopi” Appaloosa horse rider Sisakki’kayioohkitopi (Andy) passed away on March 11, 2023, at the age of 84 after saving his beloved daughter Angela from a house fire.
Andy married the love of his life, Benita, on December 2, 1987. Andy deeply treasured this bond and friendship and was very grateful for Benita. At the age of 80 years, Andy retired from his Back-Hoe Business to spend time with his wife, children, and grandchildren, whom he cherished. Andy had a special bond with each of his grandchildren. His bond with his oldest grandson Hudson and youngest grandson Danny Ray, raising his granddaughters Lorali and Maddison, and Anika and caring for his daughter Angela were the highlights of his daily life. Throughout his years, Andy excelled in his work. At the age of 15 years, Andy escaped from the Residential School. He left for the United States and was employed at one of the largest ranches (Harder Ranch). Andy was an avid Rodeo Competitor; he excelled in Steer Wrestling, and in his younger years, competed in Bronc Riding, Saddle Bronc, and Calf Roping. He carried on this tradition by passing the love of rodeo to his sons Hank and Gordie and travelled with them throughout the United States and Canada.
Andy made his Cursillo in 1973 and was active in the Cursillo Movement. He strongly believed in his faith. Andy was a jack of all trades. He excelled in carpentry, farming, diesel mechanics, and his Back-Hoe Business, which involved family. Along his trails he made a lot of friends and was always willing to help his friends and family. Andy was very generous and kind to all. He will always be remembered for his sense of humour. Together Andy and Benita raised their children in Lower Standoff and took a lot of pride in their home. His is survived by his wife of 37 years Benita, his children Hank (Kristy) Bruised Head, Gordie (Chelsea) Bruised Head, Lydia (Clement) Bruised Head, Mary Creighton, Angela Creighton; grandchildren: Hudson, Micheala, Martina, Zeb, Stryder, Straduss, Antoine, Zane, Charlie, Hayden, Ayla, Madison, Anika, Lorali, Danny Ray. Andy is survived by his sons, Sheridan Denton, Craig (Shannon) Wells, Darcey Day Chief and other extended family and many caring friends. The family of Andy would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses at the Lethbridge Hospital for the excellent care they gave during the heart breaking final moments of Andy’s amazing life. Andy is reunited with his daughter Tara, grandsons baby Micheal and Micheal. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A Wake Service will be held at the Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Sunday, March 19 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Basil’s Catholic Church, Lethbridge (604 13 St N) on Monday, March 20 at 11:00 am. Interment in the Bruised Head Family Cemetery.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca.
MCRAE, Eileen
EILEEN PATRICIA MCRAE 1924 – 2023 It is with sadness we announce the passing of Eileen “Pat” McRae, nee Jackson, at the age of 99, a loving Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother.
She was born on February 17, 1924, in Brighton, Sussex England, and came to Canada as a Warbride in 1946. She is survived by her children Bruce, Heather, Shirley, Neil; 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Duncan; sister Doreen; son Ian; son in laws Earl and Keith and grandson Spencer.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Monday, March 20, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge.
We would like to extend thanks to the staff at the Lethbridge Hospital and St. Michaels Palliative Care team. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Salvation Army, 1811 2 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0E8 and STARS, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8M7.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
VIELLE, Josephine
VIELLE Josephine Vielle, passed away on March 15, 2023 at the age of 78 years. A Wake Service will be held at the Legacy Funeral Home, Cardston on Monday, March 20 from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Tuesday March 21 at 11:00 am. Interment will take place in St. Catherine’s cemetery, Blood Reserve. To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca