Friday, November 24, 2023
By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on November 24, 2023.
DEYS, Johanna DEYS JOHANNA ANTHOINETTA DEYS, of Lethbridge, Alberta, beloved wife of John Deys, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, at St. Therese Villa, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at the age of 85 years.A Celebration of Joanne’s Life will be held at MARANATHA CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH, 260 McGill Blvd. West, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 11:00 A.M.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
SHILKA, Les Les Shilka
1947 ~ 2023
Les Shilka passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in Redcliff, AB, on Friday, November 17, 2023, at the age of 76. Les was born on February 8, 1947, in Elk Point, AB. He was married on June 28, 1969, to Ann (McLeod) Shilka. He was a young mechanic apprentice in Worsley, AB, when he was offered more money to go work on an oil rig. He moved with Ann to the Crowsnest Pass where he worked on oil rigs and coal mines. He started truck driving and moved to Coaldale, AB, then Champion AB. After retiring, Les and Ann would tour Western Canada during the summer and spend winters in Osoyoos, BC. He was a father, grandfather, uncle, brother, friend, and above all things, a husband. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, it was on point and meaningful to everyone. Les leaves to cherish his memory: son, Kenton Shilka and daughter, Gloria Shilka; granddaughters, Trinity Shilka and Shay-Ann and Tristen Rangen; brothers, Don Shilka, Louis Shilka, Blair Shilka and Ernie Shilka; sisters, Muriel Loos and Hazel Lubeck along with his numerous and loving relatives and friends. Along with his beloved wife Ann, Les was predeceased by his parents, Barry and Ellen Shilka; mother-in-law, Margaret McLeod and father-in-law, Rod McLeod. A celebration of life will occur in the summer of 2024, at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Les may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion in Redcliff, AB, or your local Legion. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting Cook Southland’s website at http://www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is COOK SOUTHLAND FUNERAL CHAPEL
CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION FACILITY
901 – 13TH ST. S.W., MEDICINE HAT T1A 4V4
1-877-528-6455
http://WWW.COOKSOUTHLAND.COM
“Locally owned & directed”
THOMAS, Earl John EARL JOHN THOMAS 1926 – 2023 Earl John Thomas of Lethbridge, husband of Avis Kay Thomas, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at the age of 97 years.
Born September 27, 1926, to William and Ella Thomas, Earl attended Powell School until grade 9, after which he began helping on the family farm. In 1943 his parents moved back to Iowa and Earl and his brother Bill took over the farm. Earl took great pride in his farm and loved his John Deere tractors. On November 3, 1956, he married Kay Finley. They had two children together, Rick and Barbara. Earl enjoyed curling during the winter months and later he and Kay wintered for 30 years in Mesa, Arizona. Kay and Earl moved off the farm and lived in Warner for 20 years and moved to Lethbridge in 2010. Earl enjoyed spending time and visiting with his six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Earl’s sense of humor remained intact until his passing. Many thanks to the staff at St. Therese Villa for their care over the past three years.
Besides his loving wife Kay, Earl is survived by his daughter Barbara; son Rick (Shelly); grandchildren Jaime (Ariel), Shayla and Tyler; Lianne (Ben), Cameron and Kennedy; Jordan (Tarilie), Nolan and Natalya; Rachelle; Lexi (Simon), Luca and Max; and Cherise; sisters Myrtle and Eleanor of Dewitt, Iowa; and brother Bill.
Earl was predeceased by his parents William and Ella, and sisters Hazel and Laura.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00PM on Monday, November 27, 2023, at WARNER ELKS HALL, 210 4 AVE, Warner, Alberta.
A Private Family graveside service has taken place in the Warner Cemetery.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Warner Fire Department, 200 County Rd, Warner, AB T0K 2L0.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
ROBERTS, Dorine DORINE ROBERTS 1930 – 2023 Dorine Agnes Roberts (nee Weagle) passed away peacefully at 93 years of age on November 13, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.
Friends and family are invited to a come-and-go Celebration of Life at the Hammond residence (1317 – 4th Avenue South) from 1:00 – 4:00 PM on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Veterans Association Food Bank https://veteransassociation.ca/
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
INSLEY, John JOHN INSLEY 1940 – 2023 John Douglas Insley passed away on November 15, 2023, at the age of 83 years.
John was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his four sisters, one brother, close family members, friends, and his furry friend Ziggy.
John was a kind man of few words. He got the most joy out of life when visiting family and helping others in need. He was a devoted member of the Host Lions Club of Lethbridge for 56 years.
A tree will be planted by the Host Lions Club in memory of John Insley in the Lions Memorial Forest in Olds, Alberta.
Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
BURTON, Rita Karen BURTON Rita Karen Burton passed away November 14, 2023 at Claresholm, Alberta.
Rita was born June 1, 1936 at Dixonville, Alberta to Albert and Ruth Sorensen. She was the second in a family of six children. At a very early age Rita learned to care for people by looking after her younger siblings. Albert purchased a farm and moved the family near Berwyn, Alberta where Rita grew up and graduated high school. Furthering her caregiving talents, she pursued nursing at the University of Alberta, graduating as a registered nurse in 1959. Shortly after graduation, she embarked on a trip to Hawaii with several classmates including Marilyn (Murdoch) Mouser. They nursed in Hawaii for about a year, returned to Alberta to work in various hospitals before arriving in Claresholm to work at the Claresholm General Hospital. Rita and Marilyn ended up going out on a date with two local Claresholm boys Ross and Tim. There was some note trading going on after the date, not sure whose idea it was, but Rita went with Tim and Marilyn with Ross.
Tim and Rita were married Feb 8, 1964 in Rita’s home town of Berwyn. The trip up to northern Alberta in February proved to be fairly eventful with driving through a blizzard but everyone made it and actually welcomed a chinook the wedding day. They returned to live in Claresholm where Rita continued working as a nurse. Doug arrived on the scene in December of 1964 and Catherine in June of 1969. In 1973, they moved to the family ranch on Meadow Creek. Rita continued working shifts at the hospital until 1975, then stayed home working along side Tim, busy looking after everyone, cooking for hired men, raising kids, gardening etc. Living on Meadow Creek, Rita belonged to the Meadow Creek Ladies Club and always helped out with all the club functions.
Rita had a great love for playing cards, especially Bridge, after learning at a young age from her father. Playing Bridge and gardening became lifelong passions for Rita.
In 2002, Rita worked with Butch Norby, a lifelong friend and neighbor to design a house that was built in Claresholm on a lot where her dear friend Ruth McKinney had lived. After moving to town in 2003, Rita enjoyed her life to the fullest looking after her yard, growing her Hydrangeas along with many favorite flowers over the years. Bridge playing got a whole lot more serious and she played weekly for many years with the Bridge Gang. Rita served on the Claresholm Museum board and organized the first Old Fashioned Tea on the Lawn at the museum which became an annual favorite for many to enjoy a cup of tea and homemade cookies.
Rita enjoyed travelling with Tim, quite often to a car show but did several cruises and a trip to Mexico. She always loved getting together for family gatherings and cooked countless meals. Even though Rita quit nursing in 1975, she was always caring for or feeding someone who needed help, delivered Meals on Wheels and was checking in on friends and neighbors.
After Tim’s passing in Nov 2022, Rita moved into the Porcupine Hills Lodge. It was now time someone looked after her. She continued playing Bridge every week and loved to help out in courtyard garden and going for her daily walks.
Rita is predeceased by her brothers Ted and Allan. She is survived and dearly missed by her brother Paul, sisters Linda and Elaine, her son Doug, granddaughter Layne, Shawna Burton, daughter Catherine (Todd) and grandsons Max and Finn Buhmiller.
A Celebration of life will be held at Zentner Funeral Homes – 4079 1st Street West on Friday, November 24, 2023 at 1:00 P.M.
Photos, cherished memories and condolences may be shared at http://www.zentnerfuneralhomes.com 1-844-ZENTNER
MELLING, Dr. Michael Thomas DR. MICHAEL THOMAS “TOM” MELLING 1932 – 2023 Dr. Michael Thomas “Tom” Melling of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Mrs. Teresa Melling, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa, on Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023, at the age of 91 years.
Funeral arrangements to be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.
HANNA, Marion HANNA After 94 years that was beautifully lived, Mom passed calmly and peacefully as the sun set on November 22, 2023.
MARION SYLVIA HANNA (née Johnson) was born at the family farm near Lindbergh, Alberta on June 26, 1929. She was welcomed lovingly by her parents, Thomas Robert and Marion Kathleen (Wolfe) Johnson. Along with her four siblings, the close-knit family shared in the hard work of pioneer farming life through the depression years yet enjoyed picnics at Whitney Lake, times with extended family, literature, classical music, and learning at every opportunity. Mom always felt she had a very blessed childhood and loved her family dearly.
With a keen mind and exceptional organizational skills, Marion had the opportunity to attend the University of Alberta where she pursued Education. Her first position was in a one-room school responsible for all grades in a remote community near Spirit River. Although she was very young, her dedication to teaching was bar none. Her love, compassion and understanding of children and her desire to help them reach their potential was immeasurable. Her teaching ethic continued throughout her career and touched many young lives which is evident even today by past students (and student teachers) who still recall and share the impact and supportive influence mom had on their lives. Marion taught in the communities of Bonanza, Westlock, Ponoka, Diamond City, Lethbridge, Shaughnessy, and Picture Butte.
After accepting the teaching position in Diamond City, Marion met her loving life partner, Allan Hanna. They were married on March 31, 1956, and five children (and many pets) soon followed.
Marion gained a very large, very close and “lively” extended family with the Hanna clan. Many family gatherings were shared over the years. Mom played an integral role in keeping family and friends connected, always welcoming and hosting many gatherings. So many wonderful memories for us!
In her quiet and unassuming way, Marion gave back freely to her loved community of Picture Butte; School teacher, Adult literacy teacher, Sunday school teacher, Library board member, Church board member, Meals on Wheels volunteer, Pastoral care volunteer, and the list goes on.
The Picture Butte Trinity United Church family had an extra special place in Mom’s heart. She was a committed and active member of Trinity and had many close friendships whom she cherished dearly.
Mom had remarkable insight into recognizing the needs of others. In her quiet way, she would reach out to many throughout the years. This showed through her role as a teacher, through her connection with friends and neighbours but mostly as our mom and Gram. She was so excited welcoming each grandchild and embracing each one with unconditional love, treasuring every moment with them, making sure they always felt extra special.
In recent years, her great-grandchildren brought many warm smiles and much joy to her eyes when words became difficult for her to speak.
Mom’s sincere and humble way, her gracious and kind spirit, her wisdom and insight, and her love and devotion to family and the greater good, will be in our hearts always.
Marion was predeceased by her husband Allan, her parents, her siblings: Pat, Sue, Tommy and Fred, and many of Allan’s family members through the years.
Marion’s legacy continues with her five children and their families: David (Karen) Hanna, their children (Connor, Erik); Don (Sharon), their children (Kate, Kieran, Mac); Mark (Holly) their child Cory; Laurel (Greg) Van Vaerenbergh, their children Chelsey (Scott) Slomp, (son Colson) Brittany (Cale) Hubka, (sons, Gray and Nova), Kimberly (Ty) Bodnar (children, Bo, Benny & Maeve), and Curtis (Stephanie) Van Vaerenbergh (daughter, Blake); Wade (Karen), their children, Trevor (Madison, baby boy soon to arrive), Taylor (Morgan, baby soon to arrive) Eaton.
She is also survived by sisters-in-law, Doreen Youngens, Fonda Hanna and Rosalie Hanna and many, many nieces, nephews and their families.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Marion’s “family” at Piyami Lodge/Place and Dr Mohammed for the loving care provided to Mom throughout the years. Thank you very much to Cornerstone for their personal and professional care. We are most grateful to all.
In lieu of flowers, and if you so desire, donations will be graciously accepted to Trinity United Church.
Marion’s Memorial Service will be held at TRINITY UNITED CHURCH, 528 Maple Crescent, Picture Butte, AB, on Monday, November 27, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Glenda Wert officiating. The Memorial Service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Marion’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
THOMPSON, Violet THOMPSON VIOLET LILY THOMPSON, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Douglas Thompson, passed away peacefully at the Cedar Creek Adaptacare with family by her side on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at the age of 90 years.
A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 12:00 Noon with Archbishop Daniel Zapoula officiating. Following the service, mom and dad will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery, during a Private Family Interment.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
PAULHUS, Carol PAULHUS It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of CAROL PAULHUS, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished friend, surrounded by family, at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit after bravely facing a short battle with pancreatic cancer, on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at the age of 80 years.
Carol is survived by her loving husband, Romeo; daughter, Michelle (Brent) Weninger, and their children: Ashlyn (great-grandson Austin), Matthew, and Zachary; son, Grant (Maureen Butters), and their children: Spencer, and Tanner (Danielle Bohn-Meyer) (great-grandson Kayson); son, Bryan (Karen Yungwirth), and their children: Casey (Stewart Wilson) (twin great-grandsons Bennett and Ryder), Katlyn and Jacob; daughter, Shevonne; son, Dean (Amanda Mulherin) and their children: Esme and Jack; and son, Colin (Tracy Hebig) and their sons: Nicholas and Joshua.
Carol was born October 1, 1943 in Cudworth, Saskatchewan to Lillian and Tony Kaminecki. A blind date introduced Carol to Romeo, and they married in 1961. Mom was devoted to Dad for 62 years. She was most proud of her six children, 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She welcomed our spouses as her own and was delighted with each new baby blessed into our family. Most had their first baths and haircuts by “Baba”. There was nothing mom couldn’t accomplish. Carol was a great host in her home, making wonderful meals of cabbage rolls, perogies and “Carolizing” any recipe into something delicious. She was charitable in sharing food with others. Chiffon cakes for birthdays were her specialty. She took great pride in her beautiful yard and shared plants with anyone admiring her own. Her hands created lovely blankets and knitted creations for our children.
Mom spent many happy years working for Gray Chemists in Prince Albert and growing her family.
Mom and Dad travelled throughout their years to many places, with the highlights being time in Malaysia and surrounding countries, spending time with Dean and Amanda, and welcoming the births of their children. Another memorable time was an audience with the Pope in Rome.
Mom’s strong Catholic faith helped her accept her diagnosis in recent weeks.
We have loved you Mom, your whole life, and we will miss you the rest of our own.
The family thanks the staff of St. Michael’s “G House” and the Palliative Care Unit for their kind care of Mom.
A Prayer Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, Friday, November 24, 2023 at 7:00 P.M. with Deacon Michael Pollard officiating.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 355 Columbia Blvd. West, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. with Father Tim Boyle celebrating. Both the Prayer Service and Funeral Mass will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Carol’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
A Memorial and Graveside Service will be held in Cudworth, Saskatchewan at a later date. Details will be announced once completed.
Donations in memory of Carol, may be made to St. Michael’s Health Centre, 1400 – 9 Avenue S, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 4V5 or Lethbridge & District Humane Society, 2920 – 16 Avenue N, Lethbridge, AB, T1H 5E9.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
GUGALA, Irena GUGALA It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of IRENA GUGALA (née Wiaderny), of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Rudolf “Rudy” Gugala, and cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, at St. Therese Villa on November 6, 2023 at the age of 93 years.
Irene is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Steve) Lea; grandchildren: Angela (Jeff) Mitchell and James Lea; and great-grandchildren: Hayden and Harry Mitchell.
Besides her beloved husband Rudy, she was predeceased by her son, Tom Gugala and her granddaughter, Madeline Gugala.
Irene was born July 14, 1930 in Pilichowici, Poland, to the late Josef and Tekla Wiaderny.
Her formative years were spent in Poland till up to the age of nine. With the outbreak of WW II, her family was forced to Germany to do free labour till the end of the war. After two and a half years in a refugee camp, she, along with her three brothers, immigrated to Raymond, Alberta in 1948. She met and married the love of her life, Rudy, in 1950.
She worked in Raymond Municipal Hospital as a nursing aid until 1969, when the family moved to Lethbridge. She was employed at Lethbridge Auxillary Hospital, where she worked until her retirement. She had the patience, love and virtue in helping people.
She loved spending time with her family, and formed a special bond with her grandchildren, Angela and James. She especially enjoyed looking after her great-grandchildren, Hayden and Harry, when they were babies.
She will be remembered for her delicious baked goods and polish dishes. Her beautiful garden was appreciated by all, especially her roses. Her faith, along with the music, was very important to her and singing remained part of her life right till the end.
Irene will be remembered for her kindness, positivity and unwavering love of her family. She will be greatly missed, but now is resting in peace.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, 2405-12 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB on Monday, November 27, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Kevin Tumback, Celebrant.
Irena will be laid to rest in a private Graveside Service in Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge, AB, with her husband Rudolf.
Donations to the Alzheimer Society appreciated (alzheimer.ca)
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com
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