Saturday, May 6, 2023

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on May 6, 2023.

HAUFE, Helen Helen Haufe December 11th, 1926 – Thursday, April 27th, 2023 On Thursday, April 27, 2023 Helen Doreen Haufe (Schaus) passed away peacefully at the Providence Care Centre in Calgary at the age of 96 years. Helen was predeceased by her beloved husband Wilbert (Wib) of 66 years, and her granddaughter Erin Stewart. She is survived by her sister Anne Snyder; her four children Tim Haufe (Lori), Christine Stewart (Darrel), Robin King (Brian), and Mark Haufe (Kari); her nine grandchildren Mark, Craig, Blaire, Kimberly, Cameron, Amanda, Kinnon, Samuel, and Sarah; her three great grandchildren Emilie, Farrah, and Oscar; and her three extended great grandchildren Matheo, Aysia, and Lexus. Born in Waterloo, Ontario, Helen graduated from Queens University with a Bachelor of Physical Education degree, and from the University of Toronto with a teacher’s certificate. While in university she met her husband Wib, and they married on September 8, 1951. In 1953 they moved to Lethbridge where they lived for 62 years, raising their family, making many life-long friends, supporting the community, and worshiping at Immanuel Lutheran church. In 2015 they moved to a senior’s residence in Okotoks, and then in Calgary to be closer to family. Helen was a devoted wife and mother and a seamless homemaker. In addition she was a life-long member of Beta Sigma Phi and volunteered at the YWCA. She loved to swim, camp, sing, dance, read, knit, play bridge, and for many years enjoyed preparing tax returns for seniors. She was adventurous and loved to travel. After Wib retired, they travelled often and extensively in Europe as well as to Africa, South America, China, South East Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. Helen’s greatest pride and joy was her family, celebrated often and at memorable reunions in Mexico and Montana for her 50th and 60th wedding anniversaries. An indomitable spirit, joy in life and a desire to help others defined Mom’s approach to the world. We will miss her quick wit, her ready laughter, and most of all, her love for us all. The family will gather later in the fall for a private celebration of Helen’s and Wib’s life and to attend a graveside service at Mountainview Cemetery in Lethbridge. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask people to consider donating to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Canadian Lutheran World Relief, or the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.
To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Helen please visit http://www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.

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KLIPPERT, Thomas Thomas Howard Klippert July 26, 1950 – April 21, 2023 Thomas Howard Klippert, age 72, of Wawanesa, Manitoba, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023. He was born on July 26, 1950, in Magrath, Alberta, to Howard and Lillian Klippert.
Tom grew up in southern Alberta and graduated from high school in Vulcan. He had a passion for sports and was named athlete of the year during his senior year. Tom earned a scholarship to play college football in the United States before transferring to the University of Lethbridge. There, he played varsity volleyball and obtained a social sciences degree. Tom’s love for sports was evident throughout his life. He accomplished many impressive feats, including hitting a hole-in-one at 14 years old while playing in a men’s golf tournament, an eight-ender in curling, and making it to the finals in the men’s provincial curling playdowns. He was also an accomplished pool player, playing against the likes of Cliff Thorburn (1980 world champion).
Apart from sports, Tom enjoyed spending time outdoors, fishing, and camping. He also dedicated his time to coaching youth soccer for many years and was an enthusiastic crossword puzzle solver. He was a caregiver to many and cherished spending time with family and friends.
Tom is survived by his son Greg, daughter-in-law Amy, granddaughter Sophie, brother Rick (Louise), sisters Beverley and Lorene, nephew Randy (Diane), and great-nephew Marsellus, as well as numerous extended family members.
At his request, Tom was cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

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YOSHIDA, Ronald RONALD MAMORU YOSHIDA Ron (Mamo) Yoshida passed away on April 26, 2023 at the age of 85. He was born in Seattle, WA on Feb. 25, 1938, the eldest child of Herb (Minoru) and Eiko Yoshida. Ron is survived by his wife, Kathryn and sons David (Colleen) of Cold Lake and Doug (Amy) of Calgary as well as three grandchildren – Jaime, Ethan and Kieren. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Eileen) of Kirkland, WA and a large extended family in the Seattle area.
Ron graduated from Garfield High School in Seattle, served for three years in the U.S. Army and obtained degrees, including a PhD in philosophy, from the University of Washington. In 1968, Ron and Kathryn moved to Lethbridge where Ron became an associate professor in the Philosophy Department at the University of Lethbridge and where he was recognized for his teaching in Philosophy of Science, 20th Century Analytic Philosophy and Logic. He was passionate about the importance of a liberal arts education. Moving to Lethbridge was also when the Ichikawas became family. Ron was an avid swimmer, swimming coach, drummer, band leader, record collector, author, reader, researcher, modeller (not to be confused with being a model), Seahawks fan, painter (Guernica on the fence), diner and jazz aficionado. In describing his life, he wrote: philosophy takes care of the mind; music, the soul; and swimming, the body.
The family is grateful for all of the support and kindness that they have received during this time. We wish to thank Dr. Mark Musk for his years of compassionate care and also all of the health care workers, including the team at the St. Michael’s Palliative Care unit. In keeping with Ron’s wishes, he will be privately remembered by his family. We will be supporting pancreatic cancer research through the Canadian Cancer Society and welcome donations in remembrance of him.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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MANTLER, Diane DIANE MANTLER 1944 – 2023 Diane Mantler of Lethbridge, beloved mom and granny, passed away peacefully at Legacy Lodge, surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at the age of 78 years.
Diane was born October 19, 1944, in North Battleford and spent her early childhood in Abbey. The family then moved to Alberta, eventually settling in Magrath. She married Erich Nikkel on June 13, 1964, and they started their family in 1966.
Over the years mom held various off farm jobs including LPN, house painter, kitchen staff and hospital housekeeper, all while helping out on the farm. Her yard was her pride and joy, from starting her flowers and other plants in her greenhouse to nurturing them to full bloom. Even in her later years she had a green thumb, still growing her own tomatoes up until last summer. Mom loved to celebrate and decorate for all holiday seasons and occasions.
Diane is survived by her children James (Robin Fraser) and Kim (Darin) Bodell; grandchildren Clayton (Telly), Aspen and Mika, Kinzie (Cody), Madilyn and Laynee, Kiley (Cody), Cohen (Paige), Kea (Tate), Ashley (Anthony), and Kyle (Jesse).
She was predeceased by her husband Erich (1987).
A Memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Monday, May 8, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson’s Canada, 4211 Yonge St #316, North York, ON M2P 2A9, or a charity of your choice.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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KONYNENBELT, Patricia “Pat” PATRICIA “PAT” KONYNENBELT May 2, 1937 – April 27, 2023 Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom….” We celebrate the life of Patricia (Visser) Konynenbelt, who passed away peacefully, on April 27, 2023, at Buffalo Grace Manor in Lethbridge, Alberta. Pat was 85 years old.
Patricia was known to many as “Pat,” “Grandma K,” and “Mom.” She was the beloved wife of the late Lambert Fredrick (Bert. F) Konynenbelt.
Mom was an assertive woman. She balanced her roles as a homemaker/mother and an accomplished secretary/ bookkeeper for more than two decades with Dominion Motors, Little Bow Gas Co-op, and Immanuel Christian School.
In her personal life, Pat was an active member of the Nobleford Christian Reformed Church, where she was a faithful servant of Christ. She loved music and was an enthusiastic alto singer in the church choir and the Lethbridge Christian Women’s Choir. She was also a contributing writer to the Nobleford News. Pat had a passion for understanding the world beyond her. She was an avid reader of fiction, current events, and politics. She advocated for non-profit governance for several groups like the Elim Society for Senior’s Care and was always focused on applying her faith to her community and friends. As a keen sports fan, Pat cheered loudly for CFL Edmonton Elks, the NHL Oilers and anything curling.
Mom met Dad at a youth rally in 1958 and married on July 6, 1960. They were blessed with one daughter and three sons, building a life centred around family, faith, and community.
Her four children remember Pat’s life; Christine (George) Vanderberg, Eldon (Jackie), Berwyn (Nellie), and Darryl (Anne-Marie), along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Brad and Kerri Lynn Vanderberg (Damen and Kadence); Trevor and Chelsy Vanderberg (Arya and Remy); David and Claire Vanderberg (Magali, Beau, and Margot); Lindsay and Jordan Van Dyk (Finn, Norah, and Miles); Kyle and Tracy Konynenbelt (Kade, Kacey and Ashtyn); Denae Konynenbelt, Ryan and Marianna Konynenbelt (Rhett); Chantelle and Derek Rohatynski; Mikaela Konynenbelt; Annabel, Maxim, and Libby Konynenbelt. Also remembering Pat’s life are her siblings Wilma Wierenga, George (Ineke) Visser, Frank (Sina) Visser, Elizabeth (Henry) Scholte, brother-in-law Peter Piers and Bert’s family, Fanny Kuipers, Seenie Bouwman and Carol Konynenbelt along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Pat was also predeceased by her infant great-grandson Brandon Vanderberg; her parents, Frank and Rachael Visser; her sister, Grace Piers; brother, John Visser; and in-laws, Henk and Dena Konynenbelt, Martin Wierenga, Margaret Visser, Case Kuipers, Ben Bouwman and Herman Konynenbelt.
As a family, we have peace believing that Grandma K, although swept away in the sleep of death, is safe in the arms of Jesus and finally with Dad.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, on Monday, May 8, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta.
A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at NOBLEFORD MONARCH CEMETERY, Nobleford, Alberta.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 pm, at NOBLEFORD CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH, 522 Hwy Ave, Nobleford Alberta, with Pastor Jim Zondervan officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.youtube.com/@noblefordlivestream6532 Nobleford CRC Youtube Channel.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a charity of your choice.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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KLASSEN, Erna ERNA KLASSEN 1934 – 2023 Mrs. Erna Klassen (Penner) of Coaldale, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend to many, passed away at Cedar Creek Adaptacare in Lethbridge, on Monday, April 3, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.
Mom is survived by her loving husband Jake; her children John (Anneliese) Klassen, Bill (Sylvia) Klassen, Allen (Jodi) Klassen, Betty (Del) Dueck, Vic (Laura) Klassen, Ben (Helen) Klassen; 39 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; one sister; one brother; one sister-in-law; one Brother in law; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents; Father and Mother in law; two sisters; one brother; 4 sisters in law; 4 brothers in law; and several other family members who went before her.
Erna was born May 26, 1934, to John and Tina Penner in Coaldale. She had 9 years of public schooling and attended bible school in Didsbury for one year. Erna and Jake met at a church function in 1948 and were baptized upon confession of faith together in the Coaldale Mennonite Church in 1951. Mom and Dad were married on November 8, 1952, starting their farming career at this time. Farming in the Coaldale/Tempest area they raised their family of six children until retiring to their home in Coaldale in 1991. Here they enjoyed camping, fishing, gardening, vacationing and of course spending as much time as possible with family until mom was no longer able. Through all of life’s trials and tribulations, Mom and Dad stood steadfast together for 70 years until Moms passing with God as their guide and comfort. Mom dedicated her life to service and hospitality. She will be dearly missed. We love you so much Mom and you will be in our hearts forever. Auf wierdersehen.
A private family Interment will be held.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 AM, on Friday, May 12, 2023, at the COALDALE MENNONITE CONFERENCE CHURCH, 2316 17 Street, Coaldale, Alberta, with Pastor Lil Thompson and Eric Giesbrecht, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSGqghuTZbgq4eRHhvEcPHA and select Erna’s service.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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JOHNSON, Doran DORAN JOHNSON 1929 – 2023 Doran Reed Johnson born October 10, 1929, passed away April 30, 2023 after a brief illness.
Doran was born in Taber, Alberta, he was the oldest of 8 children of Sheldon and Edna Johnson. Doran was predeceased by four siblings, Orval, Rex, Anabelle, and Heather. Surviving Doran are Karl (Doreen) Johnson, Jerry (Lorraine) Johnson, and Sandra (Neil) Hahn. Family life began in Barnwell, Alberta and after a childhood full of memories the family moved to Lethbridge. It was in Lethbridge soon after completing high school that Doran met Audrey Stevens, the lady he would marry on September 03, 1950, and spend the next 73 years with. Together they had two children, a daughter Cidnee (Jim) Chalmers and a son Blake (Brenda) Johnson.
Doran was a “Lethbridge” guy, there weren’t too many organizations that he didn’t support or belong to. In the early years it was Kinsman, Lethbridge Trap Club and Whoop Up Saddle Club, then a season ticket holder to the Lethbridge Broncos and the Hurricanes. Doran was honored by the Henderson Lake Golf Course in 2017, he bought his first membership to Henderson Lake in 1951 and played every year until 2017, a total of 66 years.
Doran certainly enjoyed the outdoors, golfing, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and he enjoyed each to the fullest. Some of his happiest outdoor moments were after driving nonstop to the west coast to go salmon fishing. Other times it was to saddle up his horse to ride through the Porcupine Hills. His golf trips were legendary, with trips to Arizona, Nevada, California, all over Alberta and B.C., and a highlight was golfing in Dubai.
As much as he enjoyed his outdoor adventures it was trips to see his grandchildren that filled him with the most joy. Grandpa was the King of Slurpees for the grandchildren. Doran was a very proud grandfather and great grandfather. Doran and Audrey have 4 grandchildren Erin Harrison (Jordan), Kelly Hluschayk (Blair), Blake Chalmers (Sara), and Colin Johnson, as well as 8 great grandchildren. All the grandchildren and great grandchildren have their unique and special Grandpa story.
A very special thank you to Dad’s lifelong friends, Phil Leier, Steve Tollestrup, and Doug Clark. Each one of these gentlemen and their families were and are part of our family.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Good Samaritan West Highlands Centre for their compassionate care. As a family we have our most heartfelt and sincere thanks to Sandra and Neil Hahn. Sandra and Neil, you provided so much love and care for our parents, words cannot express how important you are to us.
A private family internment will be held.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Canadian Diabetes Association in memory of Doran.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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CHIEF BODY, Gina CHIEF BODY April 7, 1986 – April 28, 2023 GINA CHIEF BODY, beloved Daughter, Mother, Auntie, Niece, Cousin and Friend passed away on April 28, 2023 on the Blood Reserve, AB at the age of 37 years. A Wake Service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Monday, May 8 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall on Tuesday, May 9 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in St. Catherine’s cemetery, Stand Off.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

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NADEAU, Ida IDA NADEAU 1927 – 2023 Mrs. Ida Nadeau of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Marcel Nadeau, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at the age of 96 years.
Mom was born January 20, 1927, in Cadillac, Sask. to Lydia and Laurent Guy. She was the 2nd oldest of 5 siblings. Her father passed away when she was 2 years old, and her mom was left to raise 5 children under the age of 7. Mom completed her Practical Nurses training in 1948 and worked at the hospital in Val Marie, Sask. It was during her nursing career that she met Dad. They were married in Val Marie and eventually moved out west living in a few communities before settling in Lethbridge where they started a family. Our family moved to Grassy Lake in 1966 and farmed for 12 years before selling the farm and moving to Taber in 1978. They worked side by side at the Taber Legion as custodians and enjoyed camping.
A few years after Dad passed away, Mom moved to Lethbridge to be closer to her children. She volunteered in the Boutique at LSCO where she enjoyed meeting people and making friends. She kept busy by crocheting dish cloths, loved doing her wonder word puzzles and spent hours reading her family history book. She was the matriarch of our family, with a vast knowledge of our family’s history. Mom moved to the Legion Terrace approximately 14 years ago and became friends with many of the residents. She had her driver’s license up to the age of 90 which gave her a feeling of independence. She always tried to keep busy and her apartment was always spotless. Mom was a very kind and thoughtful person who loved her family very much and she will be sadly missed.
She is survived by her daughter, Georgette (Gerrit) Vandesteeg; her son Derald Nadeau; and daughter-in-law, Louise Nadeau. She is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Lisa Vandesteeg (Graham Johnson), Michael Vandesteeg, Therese Nadeau; 3 great granddaughters, Ella and Olivia Johnson, Mia Nadeau; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband Marcel (1993); son Larry (1999); infant daughter Vivian (1958); grandson Stefan (2021); her parents, 1 sister and 3 brothers.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 1:00 pm, on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at ST. BASIL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604, 13 STREET N, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Father Derek Remus, celebrant.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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KONYNENBELT, Rosemary ROSEMARY KONYNENBELT 1939 – 2023 It is with great sadness that we share Rosemary Konynenbelt, age 83, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2023, with her son, Kevin Konynenbelt, and daughter, Pamela Bender, by her side. She was uplifted and showered in love by our extended family throughout the day until Kevin and Pam could arrive.
We invite you to share in a Celebration of Life which will be held at 3:00 pm, on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at MARANATHA CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH, 260 McGill Blvd W, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Pastor Jim Zondervan, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCua0ndvGcQvkahtBWQCTjAw
As a celebration of Rosemary, who loved flowers and springtime, we encourage wearing colours of the season.
A private family Interment will be held prior at the Nobleford/Monarch Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Cancer Research Agency.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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CLAY, Robert “Bob” CLAY ROBERT “BOB” GERALD CLAY, beloved husband of Barbara Clay, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Friday, May 5, 2023 at the age of 89 years.
Arrangements will be announced when completed.

To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

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CRANE CHIEF, Lucien CRANE CHIEF LUCIEN MAURICE CRANE CHIEF, beloved brother to Wanda Crane Chief and Kelly Crane Chief and nephew to Uncle Clarence Crane Chief, passed away on April 26, 2023 in Calgary, AB at the age of 49 years. A Wake Service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Friday, May 12 from 7:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at Senator Gladstone Hall on Saturday, May 13 at 11:00 am. Interment will take place in Pioneer Cemetery, Levern, AB.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

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