Saturday, July 22, 2023

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on July 22, 2023.

KOYATA, Ted

KOYATA It is with great sadness that the family of Ted Koyata announce the passing of our Father on July 16, 2023 in Taber, Alberta. Dad reached the incredible age of 102 years on June 6th, 2023.
Our Dad, Takeshi (Ted) Koyata was born in Raymond Alberta, June 6, 1921 and was the eldest son of Takejiro and Isa Koyata, who were early Japanese Canadian pioneers in Southern Alberta.
Dad is survived by 5 children Leslie (Marilyn); Alan (Carla); Gloria (Richard) Papworth; Wayne; Hugh (Ruth). His lasting legacy includes: 15 Grandchildren and 16 great Grandchildren.
He is also survived by one brother Isamu (Sam) of Toronto, 3 Sisters in law (Jane, Setchan, and Katie) and numerous nieces and nephews and their families.
Dad was predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years, Sueko, in September of 2014.
He was also predeceased by his parents, 7 siblings, and 19 in-laws.
Teds childhood was spent growing up on the farm south of Raymond on the “ridge “or Yama as it was known.
He loved the land and all that it represented.
Dad and Mom were married Jan 20 1947 and together they ran the family farm until 1963. A career change led him to the next step in life which was to become a mechanic and owner of his own shop, Teds Esso Service in Picture Butte. Retirement brought many travels for them, and they enjoyed trips to Hawaii,Paris, US, Japan and all across Canada.
For all who knew Ted, he was a man of great integrity who worked hard at everything he pursued. Whether he was farming, working in his own shop, volunteering on the Pic Butte fire dept, or helping out his many friends and family, no job was too big or too small.
Dad was a long serving member of the Buddhist church community in Raymond and Lethbridge serving in many roles. He was a member of the Raymond and Picture Butte Lions clubs for many years.
He was an avid golfer, bowler and curler well into his later years, and made many lasting friendships through sports and other events. His Love of gardening and ability to produce a bounty of vegetables has been passed down to many of his kids and grandkids.
We will remember our Dad as a caring father who was devoted to his family, a great brother, brother in law, uncle, great uncle, and an amazing Grandpa and great Grandpa.
Dad had a great sense of humour and was always smiling. His laugh will stay with all of us forever.
A service will be held on August 21, 2023 at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta in Lethbridge. Meet the Family at 10:00AM, service at 11:00AM.
Flowers and Koden are gratefully declined. Anyone wishing to honour Dads life can do so by donating to the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta or a charity of one’s choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

COTE, Velma

VELMA COTE 1929 – 2023 Velma Eva Cote, beloved wife of her late husband Leo Cote, passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday July 15, 2023 at the age of 93.
Velma was born on September 20, 1929, in the family farmhouse north of Shaunavon, Saskatchewan to Robert and Eva (Frederick) Hack.
She was the 6th of 10 children and after completing grade 9 decided to stay home to assist her mother with her younger siblings.
At age 16, Velma left home to work as a childcare giver, and then as a waitress at the Shaunavon Cafe.
Velma was 17 when she met the “love of her life” Leo, in the Hotel lobby while working as a housekeeper. As her story goes it was an instant attraction to a very handsome man. They were engaged on her 18th birthday and moved to the Lethbridge area in 1949 where they were married on August 13th.
Velma’s love for children became her prime goal in life as she raised her six children. She was a woman of routine and took great pleasure and pride in making sure her family was well clothed and fed. Being a very skilled seamstress, she sewed many clothes for the family and herself. She loved to cook large meals, while making a baker’s dozen of bread every Friday. Tending their large vegetable garden to can and freeze for the winter was one passion, but her flowers were her pride and joy.
Other interests Velma had were knitting, crafting, and reading. She meticulously read the Lethbridge Herald daily, from front to back making sure she read the comics and completed the crosswords and word search.
With camera in hand Velma captured snap shots of the many family camping trips they took. When the nest was finally empty her and Leo travelled to many places all over the world, be it by motorhome, train, or boat. Every trip was then documented, and photo albums made.
Velma had an amazing memory and even at 93, remembering all her family’s birthdays.
Velma was predeceased by her husband Leo, son Richard and grandson Jeffery (at birth).
She will be greatly missed by her sons Don (Linda), Ken (Rita), and David, and daughters Karen (Ed), Linda and daughter-in-law Bonnie (Richard, deceased). Velma is survived by her brother Albert (Geri), sisters Frieda (Maurice, deceased), Margaret (George, deceased), and Rose (John).
She was very proud to be a grandmother of 17, great-grandmother of 35 and great great-grandmother of 15. Her family will continue to grow.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET S Lethbridge, AB.
Public visitation from 10:00 – 10:45 am.
A private family internment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

BALDERSTON, Beulah

BEULAH BALDERSTON 1924 – 2023 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Beulah Balderston of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Glenn Balderston Sr. She left for Heaven to join the Lord on July 15, 2023 at the age of 98 years.
Born December 7, 1924 to parents Lester and Wava. She married Glenn and had five sons, moving from Oregon to California, and settling in Alberta in 1969. There they started the farm West of Coaldale. She cared for her family, ran the home and farm, all while working full time as Director of Revenue Accounting at Time Air. She retired in 1993 after 22 years, receiving her pilot’s wings, hat and ‘four stripes’. She later moved to her home in Lethbridge to be closer to family and church, where she lived until her passing.
Beulah was a devoted Christian and member of the Westside Community Church, where she made lifelong friends. She committed her life to service, volunteering countless hours as the office administrator for 30 years, before retiring for the 2nd time at 92 years. All this while making gloves and blankets for donation, school lunches for children without and supporting several charities. If there was ever a moment free, she enjoyed traveling, visiting friends, playing the organ, crocheting, latch hook, reading, tending to her flowers and making her famous raisin cookies and popcorn balls. Above all she was a loving, generous, and devoted mother, grandma, and great-grandma. She will be missed beyond words.
Beulah leaves behind three sons Glenn Balderston Jr., of Victoria and children Jason (Lisa), Derek (Martine), Tyler and great- grandchildren Alex and Danae; Gary Balderston of Lethbridge and Gordon (Louise) Balderston of Lethbridge and children Nicole and Jeffrey; spouse of the late Gerald, Olivia Balderston of Florida and children Richard, Louis, and Darren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; sister Shirley Starnes, of Idaho; and several nieces and nephews. She is reunited in Heaven with her husband Glenn, her sons Gerald and Gregory, and sister Jessie Stevens.
The world is a better place because of her.
A Celebration of Beulah’s Life will be held at 11:00am on Monday, July 24, 2023 at WESTSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH, 480 McMaster Blvd. W., Lethbridge, Alberta with Pastor Bert Faulkner, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to the PAOC Living Memorial Fund at the service or paoc.org/donate/thelivingmemorialfund or contact Westside Community Church.
For those unable to attend, the service will be streamed on YouTube on the “Westside Community Church Lethbridge” page.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

FONG, Violet

VIOLET CHUEN FONG Mrs. Violet Chuen Fong of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Lorne Fong, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 21, 2023.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

DRUMMOND, George

DRUMMOND George Drummond of Magrath passed away on July 15, 2023 at the age of 90 years. A family service will be held at a later date.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

MCNAB, Thomas

THOMAS MCNAB 1933 – 2023 Mr. Thomas McNab of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Luella “Lou” McNab, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, July 20, 2023 at the age of 90 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

WASTLE, Bryan

BRYAN WASTLE 1953 – 2023 It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Bryan Ross Wastle, a man as tough as nails and as ruggedly individualistic as only a long-time bachelor can be. Bryan’s gruff exterior was complemented by an immense heart that made him easy to befriend and even easier to care deeply about. On July 18th, 2023 Bryan left this world, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories.
Bryan’s greatest pride and joy were his beloved daughters, Katie D’Aoust and Laura Wastle, who held a special place in his heart. He was a doting grandfather to McKenzie D’Aouste, Hayden D’Aouste, and Juliana Crow, showering them with love and affection. Throughout his life, Bryan was a well-known figure in the construction world. Anyone who crossed paths with him has a story to tell – some of which were shared openly, and others reserved for a more private audience. Yet, all of his tales were seasoned with humor, leaving a lasting impression on those who heard them. In his leisure, Bryan found solace in the art of fly fishing, often venturing to the scenic Castles River to pursue this passion. A man of true grit, in his earlier years he fearlessly navigated the outdoors, driving his trusty 4×4 Ford onto his next adventure.
Bryan’s legacy will be guarded by his two brothers, Keith and Neil, who shared a close bond with him, particularly in their hometown of Lethbridge.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

SCHOOLER, Judith “Judy”

SCHOOLER JUDITH “JUDY” SCHOOLER, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Robert Schooler, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the age of 72 years.
Judy will be lovingly missed by her daughters, Sandra and Tracy (Sean) and granddaughters, Elizabeth, Allison, Kathryn, Rowan and Quinn. She leaves behind her sister, Terry, and her brother, Bob.
Judy loved to share her delicious baking and beautiful crafts with family and friends. Her kindness and quick wit will always be remembered.
A Celebration of Judy’s Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. with Travis Illingworth officiating. Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Scleroderma Canada can be made in her memory.
http://www.scleroderma.ca/donate

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

SKINNER

    JENNY SKINNER of Lethbridge, passed away with her family by her side on Sunday, July 2, 2023 at the age of 90 years.

    Mom was born in Lethbridge on August 6, 1932. The family lived in Lethbridge until she was about 9 years old, and then they moved to the McNally area.  She often talked about the White School and the horse and buggy being used at that time.

    After graduating she married George Skinner.  They lived in Lethbridge where they owned and operated Skinner Livestock Cartage. In 1962, they moved to a farm in West Lethbridge, better known as “The Bend.”  They continued operating Skinner Livestock for many years before eventually selling the business to farm on a full-time basis. 1999 was the last year of farming as the City began development.

    Mom was a Canada Trust Realtor in the early 80’s.

    Mom volunteered at St. Andrew’s Church, the Handicap Social Society, and the Lethbridge Food Bank. She was on the Food Bank Board of Directors for several years, then a volunteer Co-ordinator and then employed as the Co-ordinator until her retirement in 2001.

    In 1993 Mom received the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in recognition of significant contributions to Community and to Canada which was given by the Governor General of Canada. 

    Mom is survived by special friend, Bob Gray; daughters: Sharon (Cyril) Hubbard, Debbie (Dave) McGee, and Bev Hynes; grandchildren: Shannon (Shawn) Bullock, Chris (Erin) Hubbard, Karla McGee, Scott (Kelsie) McGee, Lisa McGee, Russell (Haylee) McGee and Jamie Hynes; great-grandchildren: Matthew and Lexie Bullock, Alexander and Lucas Hubbard, Liam and Kaiya McGee, Adelita and Wyatt McGee, and Casey McGee; her brother, Brounie (Joyce) Kaminski and sister, Tedda Kaminski; and numerous nieces and nephews.            

    Mom was predeceased by her husband, George; parents, Michael and Sophie Kaminski; brothers: Kaz Kaminski, Johnny Kaminski, and Teddy Kaminski; parents-in-law, George and Nellie Skinner; and son-in-law, Ross Hynes. 

    A Celebration of Jenny’s Life will be held at ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1818 – 5 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday July 29, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. Reverend Daniel Surya officiating.

    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lethbridge Food Bank (lethbridgefoodbank.ca).

To send condolences please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

TAYLOR, Wendy

Wendy A Taylor (Payson) April 18, 1963 – July 19, 2023 Wendy Taylor passed away peacefully with her daughter by her side at Raymond Health Centre on July 19, 2023. She was 60 years old.
Wendy will be missed by her loving husband Rick Taylor, daughter Bobbi-Jo and her fur grand-children Jinx and Tipper.
She is also survived by her brother Bill, sister Debbie and niece Faith Ann.
She is predeceased by her parents Lloyd and Hazel Payson, and her sister Leslie.
A visitation and service will take place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home (703-13 St. N Lethbridge) at 11:00AM. Please come prepared to share a story or memory.
To send condolences please go to http://www.generationsfh.ca

BAJNOCZI, Ida

BAJNOCZI IDA ROSE BAJNOCZI, 60, of Comox, BC, passed away June 24, 2023, in Comox Valley Hospice in Courtney, BC.
A Service of Remembrance will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 St. South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 11:00 am. Reception to follow at Cornerstone Funeral Home.

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

STIRTON, Pat

PAT STIRTON July 2, 1941 – July 12, 2023 Margaret Patricia Stirton (Pat) of Lethbridge, Alberta passed away peacefully in Calgary on July 12, 2023 at the age of 82 years old.
Pat was born in Calgary, Alberta to Wilfred and Margaret Jopp. She grew up and lived in Olds, Alberta and county until 1989 when she made Lethbridge, Alberta her home. Pat loved to share her many passions including music, photography and reading, over a cup of coffee or a walk along the river bottom. Pat will be greatly missed for her silly sense of humor and the kindness she showed to all.
Pat is lovingly remembered by her children Lin (Karl) Greatorex and Clarence Stirton (Erin Elford), Sister Sharon Paskin (and family), grandchildren: Dannielle (Aaron), Nelson (Shawney), Jamie Lin, Taylor, Annie, Colton and her many great grandchildren. As well as her nieces: Lilian, Victoria, Lindsay, Dallas, and Darelle.
Pat is pre-deceased by her son Jamie Stirton, Brother Ernie Jopp, and husband Lincoln Stirton.
Pat loved and cared deeply for those around her. Her legendary hugs will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in peace,
knowing that her memory will inspire and guide those who loved her.
Special mention to close friends Dr. Jack and Rita Haberman (and family), all of Pat’s friends and those supporting the family at this time.
A Celebration of Life for Pat will be held at Salmon & Sons Funeral Home in Lethbridge, Alberta, on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 2:30 pm.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

FRANK, Karly

FRANK KARLY ANDREA FRANK, of the Blood Reserve, beloved daughter of Harley & Lois Frank, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 17, 2023 at the age of 36 years.
A Wake will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 355 Columbia Blvd W, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. with Father William Monis celebrating.
Following the Funeral Mass, Karly will be laid to rest in the Frank family plot.

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

SWANSON, Brenda

SWANSON BRENDA ESTELLE SWANSON, of Lethbridge, AB, beloved daughter of the late Anita and Roy Swanson, passed away peacefully with family by her side, at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, July 20, 2023 at the age of 63 years.
Arrangements will be announced once completed.

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

THIESSEN, Verner

THIESSEN Verner Peter Thiessen of Lethbridge passed away on July 20, 2023 at the age of 75 years. Funeral arrangement will be announced when completed. To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

WOLFER, Pearl

PEARL GRACE WOLFER 1933 – 2023 Pearl Grace Wolfer, beloved wife of the late Allen Wolfer, passed away peacefully in Lethbridge, Alberta on Friday, July 14, 2023 at the age of 90 years.
Pearl was born on January 9, 1933 to parents Ollie and Ellen Anderberg of Rainier, Alberta. When Pearl was eighteen years old, she moved to the small hamlet of Tilley in southern Alberta and was working as a post office mistress when she met and fell in love with Allen Wolfer. The two were married on December 18, 1952 and together they raised their four children Shirley, Kenny, Terry, and Murray.
She is survived by her son Terry (Donna), her daughter-in-law Annette, her son-in-law Jack, her grandchildren Shaun (Karlie), Jesse (Crystal), and Valerica, and by her great grandchildren Lucas, Joshua, Reagan, Emmeline, and Jackson.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Allen, her sons Murray and Kenny, and by her daughter Shirley.
A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Monday, July 24, 2023, at the Hays Community Hall, Hays, AB, T0K 1B0. Interment to follow at Hays Cemetery.
For more information or to send condolences, please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

SAKAMOTO, Norman

Norman Sakamoto 1944 – 2023 Norman Sakamoto passed away peacefully on July 19, 2023, at Chinook Regional Hospital. He was 79 years old.
Norman was survived by his sisters; Irene Sakamoto, Evelyn (Jim) Cozac, Janice (Bob) Foster and Carolyn Sakamoto, his brother-in-law Al Leavens, and sister-in-laws; Tobie Sakamoto and Louise Sakamoto.
He is predeceased by his parents Masahiro and Asaye Sakamoto and siblings; George Sakamoto, Lillian Leavens, Larry Sakamoto and Darren Sakamoto.
A private family gathering will take place.
To send condolences please go to http://www.generationsfh.ca

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