Saturday, October 7, 2023

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on October 7, 2023.

COWARD, Gail COWARD GAIL LORRAINE COWARD, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Fred Coward, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre Palliative Care Unit, on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at the age of 87 years.
Gail’s keen mind and sense of humour made “Grammy” the heart of her family and she will be dearly missed by her husband, Fred; children, Bill and Beth (Reza); and grandchildren, Roshan and Arman. Whether at the hockey rink or the soccer field, Gail’s support for her family was constant. She attended concerts and recitals and created countless costumes for speech and drama performances. She supported Fred’s many endeavours and was also the perfect hostess and quintessential lady. Special occasions were always marked by incredible food, impeccable centrepieces, lively conversation, and mouth-watering desserts.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, where she became a nurse and met Fred, Gail maintained strong ties to friends and family in that area even after moving to Alberta. The family cottage in Minaki was her home every summer and she was known around the lake for the beautiful flowers adorning the deck. Picnics on the dock, drinks on the deck, hosting friends and family from afar and “Christmas in July” were summer staples.
A lifelong learner, Gail attended the University of Lethbridge in her 50s to obtain her Bachelor of Nursing degree. She read voraciously, travelled extensively with Fred and immersed herself in genealogy, tracing her family tree back more than 200 years. One of her most memorable trips was to Maubert-Fontaine, France, to visit the grave site of her beloved brother Lorne, whose plane was shot down in World War II.
Gail’s faith was the foundation of her life. From choir director and costume designer to youth group leader and banner maker, Gail was an active and beloved member of each parish she was a part of. Even when COVID-19 shut services down, she enjoyed accessing the livestream and “attending” church weekly.
Gail’s quick wit and enduring spirit were an inspiration to the very end. All who cared for and visited Gail marvelled at how her sense of humour and good spirits never wavered. Ever the caregiver, she was never one to complain, instead focussing on putting those around her at ease.
A Celebration of Gail’s Life will be held at ST. AUGUSTINE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 411-11th Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. with Reverend Steve Bateman officiating.

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

---

SALOFF, Frankie “Frank” SALOFF March 27, 1943 – Sept. 23, 2023 FRANKIE “FRANK” BILL SALOFF, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Louise Saloff, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Saturday, September 23, 2023. He had just celebrated his 80th birthday with his family at home where he still lived independently last spring.
Frank is survived by his daughter Catharine (Brian) Schamber of Calgary; and three granddaughters: Grace, Sarah and Victoria Schamber; son Calvin (Cheryl) Saloff of Drayton Valley; Calvin’s children: Cpl Denele Saloff of Edgerton, Kaelin of Edmonton and Stefan of Langdon; and brother Stan of Calgary.
Besides his loving wife Louise, Frank was predeceased by his siblings: Barnie and Stevie Saloff and sister Anne Vivian.
Frank was born and grew up in old Coleman. He was the youngest son of hard-working immigrants who worked in the coal mines and raised five children. His mother, Katherine Kisil, was from Poland and father Samuel Saloff from Russia. Frank enjoyed the Crowsnest Pass mountains and all nature and wildlife. In his youth, he worked in the forestry industry before attending NAIT, where he became an electronics technician. He worked for CBC for years, keeping transmitter signals and towers in working order so that everyone in southern Alberta could watch their favorite TV shows. He married Louise in 1984 and was gifted an instant family with two teenagers, Catharine and Calvin. He and Louise were a perfect match. She would talk and he would listen. Frank was a fan of all sports, especially hockey. He was patriotic and was like a book of knowledge for Canadian history. He had a large and fruitful garden each year that could feed a neighborhood.
His wife, Louise, passed away suddenly in April 2021. Frank said he “lost his backbone.” He then lived in solitude in the house they had shared for 37 years. He likened being alone to his younger days in the mountains. However, this time, he had TV sports and movie channels and frequent visits from his daughter and granddaughters, who helped to keep loneliness at bay.
We’d like to thank all the people who helped him stay at home as long as possible: LSCO Meals on Wheels and the health care staff who helped these last few months at the hospital and at Legacy Lodge.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 355 Columbia Blvd. West, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. with Father William Monis celebrating.
Following the Memorial Mass, Frank will be laid to rest with his beloved wife Louise in Royal View Cemetery.

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

---

DODDRIDGE, Heather DODDRIDGE It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of our loving mother, HEATHER ANNE DODDRIDGE, of Lethbridge, at the Chinook Regional Hospital surrounded by family, on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at the age of 80 years.
Left to cherish her memory are her children: Adele Votary (Paul) and Stephan Doddridge (Joy); grandsons: Kyle, Russell, Kaden, and Stephen; granddaughters: Anna, Chloe, and Eunice; great-grandchildren: Tay-Lynn and Lilly; and her loving brother, Robert Sanders (Lucy); as well as many extended family and friends. Heather will also be dearly remembered by the many friends she made at St. Therese Villa in Lethbridge.
Heather was predeceased by her father Robert Sanders and mother Nellie Kirby.
Her life was a balance between raising her children as a single mother and building a career at the Lethbridge Research Center for 27 years. Once she retired, she enjoyed her days playing crib, gardening, making delicious foods, while sharing laughter and time with loved ones.
A special thank you to the compassionate healthcare professionals of Chinook Regional Hospital and St. Therese Villa.
To honour Heather’s last wishes, there will be no funeral service.
If family and friends so desire, in Heather’s memory and in honour of her lifelong battle with MS, memorial contributions may be made to the MS Society (mscanada.ca) in lieu of flowers.
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

---

FORSMAN, Ron “Barney” RONALD “BARNEY” FORSMAN 1955 – 2023 Ron “Barney” Forsman of Lethbridge, passed away in his home of natural causes on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at the age of 67 years.
Barney’s entire career was spent at Canada Post, retiring in 2008 after 34 years (and not a moment to soon, to hear him say it). He had many interests, music being foremost, growing beautiful flowers, especially orchids, and he was a big fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He played floor hockey and golfed with an irrepressible group of characters who would become like family. Barney never met a puff he didn’t like or a nickel he wouldn’t spend on others or himself.
Although he faced many trials in his life, Barney always met them head on, living his life in his own unique way.
Special thanks to his Decapo caregivers, especially Cheryl and neighbors, and Pepe his crib partner.
He is survived by his brother Ken (Lena); three nephews; one niece; his sister-in-law; his cat Florence and a small circle of true friends.
He was predeceased by his mom Mia, Dad Floyd and brother Don.
A come and go Celebration will be held on Barney’s birthday, Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 1820, 2A Avenue North.
R.I.P Ya B.F.O.P!!
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

SMITH, Cheryl SMITH CHERYL ANN SMITH, passed away on October 1, 2023 in Calgary, AB at the age of 47 years. The Wake Service will be held on Thursday, October 12 at Holy Ground Ministries, Old Agency Road, Blood Reserve from 7:00 pm continuing all night. The Funeral Service will take place on Friday, October 13 at the Tanner Center (260 1 St W), Cardston at 11:00 am. Interment will follow the service at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Stand Off.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

---

MADSON, Effie EFFIE LILLIAN MADSON 1944 – 2023 Effie Lillian Madson of Coaldale, beloved wife of Waine Madson, passed away on September 29, 2023, at the age of 79 years.
Effie was born in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan on September 3, 1944, to Norman Beck and Gladys Manning. She attended school in Ravenscrag for 2 years then the family moved into Eastend. After graduating grade 12, Effie went to Balfour Technical School in Regina for a secretarial course.
Waine and Effie were married in Eastend on June 27, 1964. They lived in Eastend, moved to Taber, then to Lethbridge. In 1992, they moved to Coaldale. They enjoyed camping and golf. Effie curled for several years.
Besides her loving husband Waine, Effie is survived by her two sons; Dean (Tanya) in Kelowna, BC and Mark in Sherbrooke, Quebec; grandchildren, Riki, Danielle, Kevin, Ashley, Alexandre; great-grandchildren Caleb, Samuel, Oliver, Liam, and James; sisters, Marion and June; and sisters-in-law, Inez and Joyce.
She is predeceased by her daughter Sherry Handsaeme in 2015.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00PM, on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at Coaldale United Church. A private family interment is to follow at the Coaldale Cemetery.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada 306, 10430 – 61 Avenue, Edmonton AB T6H 2J3.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

BLAZEK, Jacob “Jake” JACOB “JAKE” BLAZEK 1996 – 2023 Mr. Jacob “Jake” Blazek of Lethbridge County and beloved son of Verle and Corrine Blazek, died in his parent’s arms at home on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at the age of 27 years.
Jake will be laid to rest at 11:00am on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the ROYAL VIEW CEMETERY, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

WATT, Wendy WENDY ANNE WATT 1949 – 2023 Mrs. Wendy Anne Watt of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Mr. Ron Watt, passed away at St. Michael’s Health Centre on Monday, October 2, 2023, at the age of 73 years.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am, on Friday, October 20, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

HEALY, Marlene Marlene Healy Kipitaipokaa Dec. 21, 1959 – October 1, 2023 The family of Marlene are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away the day of Sunday, October 1st, at the age of 63 years old.
Marlene was called home to her son, Jonas Murray Robin Healy; father, Johnny Healy; maternal grandmother, Mary Stabsdown; maternal grandfather, Fred Stabsdown; paternal grandmother, Kate Healy; paternal grandfather, Mike Healy; brothers, Rudy John Healy, Aldwin Mike Healy, and Jimmy John Healy; nephews, Cory Scout, and Aldwin Jr. Healy; and all her relations who have gone home to Creator before her.
Marlene was born on December 21, 1959, at the Blood Indian Hospital to her parents, Isabel Healy (Pi’kssipitaakii) and the late Johnny Healy. Marlene was the wife and soulmate to Lonnie A. Heavy Runner, and mother to their beloved son Jonas Murray Robin Healy, and grandmother to her beautiful granddaughter Hilary Isabel Healy whom she loved dearly. Marlene shared many special years and adventures with her husband Lonnie. Marlene made her home in Old Agency and the Belly Buttes on the Blood Reserve where she was raised.
Marlene received her education in Fort Macleod, as well as attending Lethbridge College. Her compassion and love for helping others was seen in the work she did taking care of many children at the Kookonnoonii Group Home. Marlene was generous, and kind, and she embodied the Blackfoot Value of Kimapiiyipitssinoon (to have compassion and kindness for others) as she was always willing to help anyone, she crossed paths with.
Marlene always made her family and friends feel welcomed in her home. She had many relatives and friends who she enjoyed visiting with throughout her life. Marlene shared a special connection with her nieces and nephews, as well as her siblings who she was very close to.
Marlene is survived by her husband, Lonnie A. Heavy Runner; mother, Isabel Healy; granddaughter, Hilary Isabel Healy; siblings, Mary (Gordon Alex) Fox, Casey (Charlotte) Healy, Debra Healy, and Mark (Iris) Healy; nieces and nephews, Patricia Soop/Healy, Marlin Bottle/Healy, Terrance Bottle/Healy, Lenny Fox, Shaneen (Neal) Fox, Andrea (Javier) True Joy Fox, Martie (Wylie) Gros Ventreboy, Michael Healy, Lacey Healy, Chelsea Healy, Chynell Shade, and Haley Shade; and many great nieces and nephews, as well as many friends. We apologize if we have missed any names of family and friends.
For those who were blessed to know Marlene, will forever remember the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed and smiled.
A Wake Service will be held at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2324 5 Avenue, Fort Macleod, on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, from 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM.
A Funeral Service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Tribe, on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Following the Funeral Service, Marlene will be laid to rest at One Spot Cemetery (Old Agency), Blood Tribe.
Condolences may be sent through http://www.edensfuneralhome.com

---

ROSE, Antonietta In Loving Memory ANTONIETTA MARIA ROSE November 16, 1941 РSeptember 30, 2023 It is with broken hearts and tear-filled eyes that we, the family of ANTONIETTA MARIA ROSE (n̩e Suriano) of Lethbridge, AB, announce her peaceful passing at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at the age of 81 years.
A Prayer Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 7:00 P.M. with Sharon Hagel officiating.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. with Father Santiago Torres celebrating. The Funeral Mass will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Antoninetta’s obituary on the Cornerstone website. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather and honour her remarkable journey.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to the Jack Ady Cancer Centre or the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation (crhfoundation.ca).

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

---

SORENSEN, Peter PETER SORENSEN 1939 – 2023 Mr. Peter Sorensen of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Joyce Sorensen, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the age of 84 years.
Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

---

MCKNIGHT-HOGAN, Jax MCKNIGHT-HOGAN JAX MCKNIGHT-HOGAN, of Lethbridge, cherished son of Shanda McKnight and Ken Hogan, passed away at home on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at the tender age of 14 years.
Along with his parents, he is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Kyle (Amanda) Hogan, Courtney (Tanner) Barendregt (son Bennett), Jamie Turner (daughter Piper), Stephanie Hogan, Rich (Tessa) Hogan (children, Hunter, Prezlie and Beuxy), furry brother Sporty as well as aunts, Trina (Kim) Tymko (children, Jordan, Kalyna, Noah), Sherry Eisel (daughters, Lacey (James), Jennifer Eisel), Cathy Stockton (Roger) (children Garret, Brianna, Kaley) and Uncle Brian Etter (Mabel) and grandparents, Connie McKnight (Claude Giurissevich) and Dwayne (Geselle) McKnight.
Jax was predeceased by his grandparents, Dorothy Etter and Terry Hogan as well as one cousin, Trevor Eisel.
Jax was born and raised in Lethbridge. All through his life, he was a natural athlete and musician. He was talented at anything he tried: track, golf and especially baseball and skateboarding. Jax loved music. He was naturally gifted; writing and composing his own songs. He was a talented guitarist, drummer, pianist and percussionist. Not only did he have an ear for music and could quickly learn a new song, but he also shared his love of music by mentoring others. He spent this past summer writing and recording punk albums.
Jax was an adventurer and loved the outdoors. He loved to be in nature. The crisp mountain air and skipping rocks made him feel alive. He would often venture down into the coulees to create in, and explore nature.
Jax’s spirit was spontaneous, sometimes extreme, however quietly fierce and laser focused when doing something he loved, especially when pitching during a baseball game. He was also a dreamer and had visions of living in a van and travelling around, booking gigs with his band in beautiful B.C. Known affectionately in our families as “Boo”, “Boo-Bear”, “Jaxie” and “Grandpa Swagger”, Jax was a much-loved son, brother, grandson, uncle, cousin, boyfriend and friend. He loved spending time with his family and friends and was a natural and caring protector. Jax would do anything for anyone, was generous with his time and energy, and empathetic to the plights of others. His maturity was beyond his years. His impact was far-reaching.
Jax will be remembered for his quick-wit, goofball antics, smart-aleck comebacks, and fun sense of humour. He was gone too soon, and his tragic passing has left a huge hole in our hearts. Jax will be deeply and forever missed.
A Celebration of Life service for Jax will be held at SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH, 1011 – 4 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 4:30 P.M. with Pat Siedlecki officiating. The Celebration of Life service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Jax’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In memory of Jax, donations can be made to the “Jax McKnight-Hogan Music Fund”, at the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta, http://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/54121?v2=true

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

---

HEINZ, Melody HEINZ MELODY GAY HEINZ, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Les Heinz and cherished mother of Jamie Aeichele & Josh Heinz, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Friday, October 6, 2023 at the age of 59 years.
A Celebration of Melody’s Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. The service will be live streamed and may be accessed via Melody’s obituary page on the Cornerstone website.

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

---

WELLS, Nona WELLS NONA MARIE WELLS, of the Blood Reserve, passed away in Lethbridge on Monday, October 2, 2023 at the age of 36 years.
A Wake service will be held at the SENATOR GLADSTONE HALL – Blood Reserve, AB on Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 7:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH – Blood Reserve, AB on Friday, October 13, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Pawel Andrasz O.M.I. celebrating.
Nona will be laid to rest at the St. Catherines Cemetery.

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

---

<5

Comments are closed.