Saturday, November 25, 2023

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on November 25, 2023.

CHAPMAN, Marjorie MARJORIE MELBA (JERRY) CHAPMAN May 5, 1941 – November 15, 2023 It is with deep sadness that we wish to share the passing of Marjorie Melba Chapman. To her friends and family, she was known as Jerry. She peacefully passed away after a long battle with cancer.
Jerry was born in Lethbridge, Alberta but lived in Fort Macleod her whole life. She loved everything about small town living. Jerry was a devoted mother, sister, daughter, aunt, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a member of many local coffee crews as she shared stories about her life and her family with her friends.
Jerry is survived by her three daughters, Linda (Scott), Cindy, Judy, sister-in-law Charlene, four grandchildren, Amy (Byron), Jackie (Ryan), Stephen, and Michael (Kylie) and four great-grandchildren, Cohen, Dylan, Declan, and Clayton. She will be missed by her long-time friends Sharon and Charlotte.
Jerry was predeceased by her husband Harry, mother Margaret, Father Jim, brother Bobby, and two sisters Jeannie and Joanie.
In honor of Jerry’s wishes, a Memorial Service will not take place. Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Empress Theatre Society, or the Community Care Beds at the Fort Macleod Health Centre.
Condolences may be sent through http://www.edensfuneralhome.com

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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.

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COIA, Elaine ELAINE COIA 1976 – 2023 Elaine Coia, born on February 6th, 1976, embraced life with a warmth and kindness that touched the hearts of all who knew her. On November 19th, 2023, in Milk River, Alberta, Elaine passed away at the age of 47, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter that will forever be cherished.
Elaine’s life was beautifully intertwined with the joy of shared moments. She found immense happiness working side by side with her husband, Justin, at the Milk River bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked goods became a testament to their shared passion. Whether it was in the kitchen or on the trails, Elaine and Justin created a life filled with the sweetness of love and the richness of shared experiences.
Family was at the heart of Elaine’s world. She reveled in the warmth of family gatherings, finding solace and joy in the connections she shared with her loved ones. She found serenity in trail hikes and the simplicity of camping, especially when shared with Justin in the picturesque landscapes of Medicine Hat. Her infectious laughter and perpetual smile were the hallmarks of her character, a testament to her ability to find the silver lining in any situation.
Besides her loving husband, Justin Seitz, Elaine Coia is survived by her sons Shawn Coia, James Heigh; daughters Autumn Seitz, Brooklynne Seitz; mother and father-in-law, Gloria and Wayne Swanson; sister-in-law Crystal Seitz; brother-in-law Jon Seitz; and her grandchildren Athena Seitz, Lily Seitz, and May Coia.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Services.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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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.

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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.

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BOND, Barbara Joyce Barbara Joyce BOND Feb. 26, 1931 – Nov. 23, 2023 Barbara Bond passed away peacefully on November 23 in her home at Garden View Lodge with her family at her side. She lived 92 years filled with love and laughter. Barbara was predeceased by her husband Jack, her parents- Bill and Kate Andrews and her sisters Dorothy, Norah and Elizabeth. She leaves to mourn her passing children Tom, Joyce, Bill and daughter of her heart Debbie, 11 Grandchildren, 17 Great Grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Dec 2, 2023, at 2 p.m. in the Coaldale United Church. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Coaldale United Church in her memory.
Please send condolences to http://www.evergreenfh.ca

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BEEBE, Douglas BEEBE It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of DOUGLAS ALAN BEEBE on Thursday, November 9th at the age of 75 years.
A Celebration of Doug’s Life will be held at COAST HOTEL, 526 Mayor Magrath Drive S, Lethbridge, AB, on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 1:30 P.M. with Reverend Glenda Wert officiating. The Celebration of Life will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Doug’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

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

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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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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

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SHANKLAND, Geraldine SHANKLAND GERALDINE “GERI” VICTORIA MARIE SHANKLAND, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mervin Shankland, passed away peacefully at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit, on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at the age of 81 years.
Arrangements will be announced when completed.

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

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GIBSON, Walter Walter Warren Gibson, 1958-2023 Walter passed away peacefully with his family by his side after a long battle with cancer on Wednesday, November 22, 2023.
He is survived by his wife Judy and six children; Amanda (Kevin) Shantz, Scott (Shantelle) Gibson, Jeffrey Gibson, Mathew Gibson, Darrel Gibson, and Billy (Tamara) Gibson. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren: Kayleigh, Brandt, Colby, Mia, Carter, Caleb, Amelia, Sawyer, Zoey, Noah, Nevaeh, Dean, and Ezra; beloved nieces Tina Taylor and Sarah Csonka, nephew Cory Gibson, brothers Douglas Gibson, George Gibson, and Richard Gibson; sisters Sharon Gibson, Beverly Loder, Elizabeth Taylor, and Brenda Gibson.
Walter was predeceased by his mother Elizabeth Gibson and his father George Gibson.
There will be a viewing and time to greet Walter’s family starting at 10:00AM on Saturday, December 2, 2023, with funeral service to follow at 11:00AM at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home 703-13 St N, Lethbridge, AB. Live stream of the service will be available, and a link will appear below Walter’s obituary on the funeral home website,15 minutes before service time.
Cremation will follow with private interment at Temple Hill Cemetery at a later date.
To send a message of condolence please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

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