Saturday, January 6, 2024

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 6, 2024.

ROGAN, Ernest

ERNEST ROGAN 1928 – 2023 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ernest Rogan, beloved husband of the late Anna Rogan, who left us peacefully on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at St. Therese Villa.
At the age of 95, Ernest’s remarkable journey through life has come to an end, leaving behind a legacy of cherished moments and a lifetime of memories.
Ernest was born on December 8, 1928, in the village Gornji Slaveči, Slovenia to Franc and Cecilija Rogan. While growing up, he gained a deep Catholic faith, finding strength and purpose in his beliefs. Ernest gained a great knowledge in bricklaying and after completing his apprenticeship, he continued to refine his craftmanship and dedication to the trade. Not only were Ernest’s hands skilled in the art of bricklaying, but he also found joy tending to his garden.
In 1955, Ernest married the love of his life Anna, and together they immigrated to Canada settling in Lethbridge, AB in pursuit of a brighter future. They embarked on a journey of courage and determination, leaving his parents and sisters behind. In 1958 they welcomed their only child Ernest Jr.
Ernest was predeceased by his parents Franc and Cecilija; his wife Anna; son Dr. Ernest Rogan and his wife Anne; brother in-law Stefan Zrim; and sister-in-law Marija Miholič.
Ernest will be greatly missed by his sister-in-law Emilia Zrim in Lethbridge; sister-in-law Terezija Sukič in Slovenia; as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Canada and Slovenia.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am, on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 2405 12 Ave S, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Father Kevin Tumback, celebrant.
Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

FENTON, Laurraine “Laurie”

LAURRAINE (LAURIE) YVONNE FENTON Age 62 It is with great sadness that the family of Laurraine (“Laurie”) Yvonne Fenton announces her passing.
Laurie Fenton was born on July 26, 1961. She was a caring partner, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world suddenly in her home in Sherwood Park, AB, on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.
Laurie loved spending time working in her garden, riding her horse (Jack), and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Laurie was a wonderful person, who never gave up on anything or anyone, and always made sure that she took the time to do things the right way. She left behind a legacy that will always be remembered, and she will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.
Left with a lifetime of memories are: father, Dewain Clyne; her partner, Del Caplette; children, Dorian Fenton (Jessica Bermel), and Dustan Fenton (Dana Fenton); step-children, Cassandra Caplette, and Layne Caplette (Keshia Obin); grandchildren, Harlyn Fenton, Raiyn Wilson, and Luna Caplette; brother, Dean Clyne (Vivenne Clyne); and nephew’s Ian and Neil Clyne. Laurie is predeceased by her mother Yvonne (Olive) Ripper, and her sister Sandra Clyne.
A celebration of Laurie’s life is scheduled to be held on January 13, 2024, at the Sherwood Park Log Cabin (50A Spruce Avenue, Sherwood Park, AB) at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Heart and Lung Foundation.

SKRETTING, Janet

SKRETTING Janet Lyn Skretting was born on April 15, 1964 in the Chinook Regional Hospital to parents, Carol (nee: Wright) and Edwin Skretting. She passed away in the same Hospital, on Saturday, December 30, 2023, a few months shy of her 60th birthday.
For those who wish to pay their respects, a visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with memories shared at 7:00 p.m. at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, 703-13 Street North, Lethbridge.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at the Enchant Community Hall, with burial to follow in the Enchant Cemetery. In tribute to our mother, we encourage everyone to wear what makes you feel great and brings you joy.
To send a message of condolence please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

MRAZEK, Mary

MARY ROSE MRAZEK 1933 – 2023 Mary Rose Mrazek passed away peacefully on December 25, 2023, at the age of 90 years, holding her granddaughter’s hand and surrounded by family and friends.
Born September 6, 1933, in Barnwell, Alberta, Mary Rose quickly established a strong work ethic, and growing up on her parents’ farm she learned the value of a dollar from a very young age. Her brilliance was acknowledged when, in grade 9, she was awarded the Governor Generals medal for the highest grades in mathematics for the province.
Mary Rose was determined, brilliant and incredibly hardworking, working as an accountant and bookkeeper at Davidson & Williams for over 50 years, and continued working until her passing.
Along with her dedication to her work, she was a well-renowned Bridge Master, committing countless hours towards her love of the game. From competitive Ballroom Dancing, and her love of crossword puzzles, snorkeling and swimming, to being a world traveler, and avid gardener, she was a woman who lived life fully and on her terms. She had an immense amount of inner strength after overcoming several health scares within her lifetime, with her mental acuity playing a large role in her passion for life.
Mary Rose loved and took immense pride in her two homes, one of which was her place in Marsh Harbour, Abaco in the Bahamas from 1980 until 2015.
She was very generous and philanthropic, supporting several charities that were dear to her heart.
We are truly grateful for the care of all those at Covenant Health, and the staff at Chinook Regional Hospital.
Mary Rose is survived by her granddaughter Kristen Mrazek; daughter Loretta Suttles; nephews David Hasiuk and Nick Hasiuk; as well as her beloved friends Peter Brown, Michal Cooper, and Leah Brown.
She was predeceased by her son Dr. Richard Mrazek (2013); parents Frank and Mary Kotasek; and her three sisters, Julia Monaster, Frances Mrak, and Agnes Brown.
A Viewing will be held at 12:00 pm, on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.
A Graveside Service will follow at 2:00 pm, on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY 1210 SCENIC DRIVE SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chinook Regional Hospital, 960, 19 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 1W5.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

THIESSEN, Margaret

MARGARET THIESSEN 1926 – 2024 Mrs. Margaret Thiessen of Coaldale, beloved wife of the late Mr. Jacob I. “Jake” Thiessen and beloved mother to Dorothy (Bill) Siemens, Grace (Dave) Matthies, Ed (Annemarie) Thiessen, Larry (Joyce) Thiessen and Leslie (Melody) Thiessen, passed away at the Coaldale Long Term Care on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at the age of 97 years.
Cremation entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

PLUMPTON, Harold

PLUMPTON, Harold It is with great sadness the family of Harold Plumpton announce his passing on January 1, 2024, at the age of 94.
He was predeceased by Edna, his loving wife of 71 years and his youngest son Tony.
He will be missed by his son Drew (Wanda); grandchildren Adam (Danae) and Cassie (Marcus); great grandchildren Aimilee, Aria, Emberlyn and Artaius and the many relatives living in Canada, US and the UK.
Harold started his life in a small industrial town in England. After his schooling he joined the British Army and spent 2 years overseas in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong. Upon his return home he met and married the love of his life, Edna. In 1956, they immigrated to Canada in search for a better life.
Harold was a heavy-duty mechanic by trade and his interests included drafting and engineering. These served him well in his career at Canadian Western Natural Gas (ATCO) where as the Shop Manager he designed and oversaw the construction of the Lethbridge Maintenance building. After 33 years he retired and pursued his hobbies of wood carving, wood turning, and furniture building; excelling at all. Harold spent hundreds of hours volunteering, joined several organizations and served as the president of the Kiwanis for a number of years. He really enjoyed reading technical manuals of any kind, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, camping, and generally anything to keep healthy in mind and body.
Harold was a very personable and learned man who could talk to almost anybody about almost anything! When asked, he loved to recount stories and adventures of his interesting life.
He will be dearly missed!
As requested, there will be no service, however, a gathering of family and friends may be organized at a later date.

ARROYO, Lucia

ARROYO LUCIA ARROYO passed away peacefully at Edith Cavell Care Centre, on Monday, January 1, 2024 at the age of 93 years.
Lucia is survived by her children: Aidee, Ruben (Miriam), Hector (Arlene), Oswaldo; grandchildren: Dario, Melanny, Luis, Igor (Lisa), Boris (Mari); and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two brothers-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lucia was predeceased by her loving husband, Diodoro Antonio; son, Luis Arturo; son-in-law, Kelton Norman; her parents, one sister, three brothers, three brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.
Lucia was born on March 11, 1930 in Guatemala. She married the love of her life and had five children. Unfortunately, her husband passed away soon after the youngest child was born. Lucia dedicated her life to raising her children on her own. Due to many uprisings in Guatemala in the 1980s, the family suddenly moved to Lethbridge. Lucia devoted her time and energy to help her children and grandchildren in Canada. She enjoyed visiting with her family in Canada, United States and Guatemala.
Lucia will be sadly missed by her family and friends and all who had a privilege of knowing her.
We would like to thank the staff at Edith Cavell Centre for their excellent care and compassion for Lucia.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405 – 12 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. with Father Santiago Torres celebrating.
Following the Funeral Mass, Lucia will be laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Edith Cavell Centre or a charity of your choice.

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

ZAYCHUK, Barbara

ZAYCHUK BARBARA ZAYCHUK, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, at Good Samaritans West Highlands, on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at the age of 90 years.
Arrangements will be announced when completed.

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

MILLS-WELLS, Andrew

MILLS-WELLS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear, son, father, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, on December 29, 2023, ANDREW Jr, (Mousie) MILLS/WELLS who passed away in Lethbridge AB.
Andrew Jr. Mills/Wells, leaves to mourn his loving daughter Rayney (Matthew) and his loving parents, Andrew and Evelyn, his older brother Todd (Cheryl) and sister Tylisha (Drae). Andrew Jr. (Mousie) also leaves behind his paternal grandmother Harriet Wells, uncle Melvin (Margaret) aunties, Ida & Laverne Wells; Maternal uncles Randy (Doreen), Edward, & Iver Mills.
Andrew Jr. (Mousie) had many people in his life that were very special to him, his aunt Connie Mills-Fox, Leslie Water Chief; Uncle Alvin Jake Mills, Cousins Garrett Wease Moccasin, Kenny Wells, Jon Wells, Melissa Crying Head, Charles Wells, and David Wells. Andrew attended Winston Churchill High School and Kainai High School throughout his secondary education. Later Andrew Jr. (Mousie) enrolled at Red Crow Community College to pursue his post secondary education in the Social Work Degree program. Andrew enjoyed his studies at the University of Lethbridge and would often boast about being in his final year of studies. Although, Mousie was in his last year of studies in the Social Work program at the U of L, Andrew faced many obstacles, and never dwelled on his setbacks, he took great pride and determination in his studies and practicum and put every effort in completing his goals. Andrew was to start in January 2024 to complete his Social Work Degree program. Andrew did his practicum at the Lethbridge Recovery Coaches of Alberta, also when placed at Blood Tribe Social Development practicum program, he really enjoyed working under Arnold Fox; he was hired on the spot for his hard work and determination. He was also employed with “Bringing The Spirit Home”, He supported our community members in accessing detox or residential treatment programs. Andrew really enjoyed his time volunteering at the Standoff Food Bank with his late Uncle Delbert Mills. Mousie’s talent as a basketball player was a prime example of his shining, he had newspaper clippings that made Mousie gleaming with pride that showed how great he was. Mousie’s parents living room had a shelf lined with Mouse’s basketball trophies, which showed the MVP player that he was, an all star to all his family members who watched and cheered him on. Mousie had his moment with the Winston Churchill Bulldogs and the Kainai Warriors High School. Numerous articles of Mousie in the newspaper showing how many points he scored and how good of an overall player he was. He also excelled in Football, and he was the most valuable quarterback player with Winston Churchill Bulldogs Jr. High. Andrew Jr. (Mousie) had many friends, and he grew a strong bond with all his cousins their bond turned into them becoming brothers and sisters. Mousie had a great sense of humor and he loved to laugh. Mousie always had encouraging words for people he met old and young alike. Mousie was very fond of all his nieces and nephews Tristan, Tyrell, Sadie, Easton, Deja, Mia, Liam, Laila and Amiah. Mousie was also very protective of his younger sister Tylisha especially his baby girl Rayney. He was very proud of his daughter that she attended Bow Valley College and that she was living on her own in Calgary, AB. He had a lot of plans with his daughter. Mousie loved his brother Todd and nothing could change that bond. Andrew Jr was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Christoper (Buster) & Eva (Good Rider) Mills, Aunties: Loretta (Gordan) Many Fingers, Gloria (Gerald) Shade, Virginia Mills, Mary Rose (Herbert) Many Fingers, Rosemarie Mills, Edith Mills, Liza Mills Uncles: Richard, Christopher, Franco, Delbert Mills. Paternal Great Grandparents: Mr. & Mrs. James Wells. Uncles: Matthew, Arnold & Henry Wells. Cousins: Dezeray, Skylar, Cody Wells, Aaliyah Day Chief-Hairy Bull, Sonya, Shyla Mills and Calvert Many Fingers.
A Wake Service will be held at the Tanner Senior Centre, Cardston on Monday, January 8 from 6:00 – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Reserve on Tuesday, January 9 at 11:00 am. Interment will take place in Mills Family Cemetery.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

SERA, Elizabeth

ELIZABETH SERA 1926 – 2024 Mrs. Elizabeth Sera of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Alex Sera passed away at Legacy Lodge on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the age of 97 years.
Elizabeth was born in Hungary on March 18, 1926. In the 1930’s, she and her family emigrated to Canada and settled in the Magrath area of Southern Alberta. She married the love of her life on May 24, 1945. She and her loving husband Alex purchased a farm together in Coaldale where they raised six children. The farm produced award winning purebred Angus cattle, sugar beets, and grain. In 1972, they sold the family farm and moved to Lethbridge. With their retirement they enjoyed many cold Alberta winters motor-homing in Arizona. Elizabeth’s greatest pride was in her family and enjoying her children and grandchildren. She felt very fortunate to have been blessed with a fulfilling life and 65 years of marriage with her husband Alex. Her life was defined by always selflessly being there for others.
Elizabeth is survived by her daughter Carolyn Handsaeme, and sons Ron (Darlene), Allen (Dorothy), Bob (Evelyn), Richard (Carrie), son-in-law Albert Medve, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband Alex, eldest daughter Shirley Medve, and son-in-law Clair Handsaeme.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1818 5 AVENUE SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Reverend Daniel Surya officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1202 2 Ave S #40 Lethbridge, Alberta, or online at https://alzheimer.ca/en or a charity of your choice.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

KADIJK, Chris

KADIJK Chris Kadijk, beloved husband of Linda of Lethbridge, Alberta, passed away at home on January 1, 2024, at the age of 52.
He is the loving father of: Jake (Esther), Eileigh (Noah), and Caleb (Martha). He is also survived by: Nellie Kadijk, Rowena (Sam) Shepherd, Mark (Sylvia) Kadijk, Willy (Hildegard) Fast, Fred (Margaret) Fast, Regina Fast, Erwin (Sharon) Fast, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Bert Kadijk, and in-laws Johannes and Mika Fast.
To know him was to be loved by him. He was a humble servant in work, in family, in church, and in music (never enough oboe!). Alongside designing and building his family’s home, Chris constructed and contributed to many landmarks and homes throughout Lethbridge and Vancouver. He meticulously pursued perfection in all that he did. From home building to coffee roasting, leading at Crowsnest Lake Bible Camp to competing in cycling, mountaineering to marathons, he did his best in everything. In June 2022 Chris was diagnosed with incurable advanced metastatic colorectal cancer. He lived courageously and bravely through every step to his last days. “You live every day, you only die once” – Chris Kadijk
The Memorial Service will be held at Evangelical Free Church (4717 24 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB) on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 2:00pm.
To send a message of condolence please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

HUIZING, Ali

Ali Huizing 1933 – 2024 Aaltje Jantina Huizing (nee Moorlag), beloved wife of the late Willem Huizing, passed away in Taber on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at the age of 90 years. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, January 8, 2024 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. A private burial service will be held at the Taber Memorial Garden prior to the funeral service on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. The Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 3902 Heritage Drive, Taber on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com. Those who are unable to attend and wish to view the service online may do so by visiting Ali’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 10:45 A.M. on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 11:00 A.M. Ali will be remembered by her children Henry (Janelle) Huizing of Burdett and their family Brant (Tavia) Huizing and Stefan Huizing; Douwe (Sandra) Huizing of Burdett and their family Amanda (Cody) Liske, Tanner Ulrich and Alies Huizing; John (Teresa) Huizing of Burdett and their family Jordan (Shay) Huizing (their children Easton and Makinley), Dylan Huizing and Dane (Taiah) Huizing. She will also be remembered by her extended family in The Netherlands. Ali was born the youngest of five children in Nieuw Weerdinge, The Netherlands on March 14, 1933. She married her beloved “Wim” in November 1956 and they began their life together farming and raising their family. Those years were rich in happy memories. In 1991, the family immigrated to Canada and Ali left behind all that was familiar, to start a new way of life in Taber. Ali was a true homemaker. Her talents were many including intricate needlework, creative cooking and providing a warm and welcoming home. Her husband and her boys were her everything. Her life was one of service to her family, friends and community. Ali was devoted to her Saviour, and was prepared to pass into her heavenly home. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is at peace. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Ali’s name may be made directly to the charity of one’s personal choosing. Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

BERGMAN, Homer “Mel”

BERGMAN June 24, 1928 – December 29, 2023 HOMER MELVIN “MEL” BERGMAN, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Melba Bergman (née Dewsbery) for 46 years, passed away peacefully with his wife holding his hand whenever she could, at Legacy Lodge, on Friday, December 29, 2023 at the age of 95 years.
Besides his loving wife Melba, Mel will be missed by her children: Dale Warnock, Bill Warnock, Sheila Elliott and Connie Smith; as well as their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all had the opportunity to visit Grandpa one last time on December 24, 2023. Mel made many special memories with each of these kids and they talk about them often.
During his working days, Mel sold Singer sewing machines at one time and he even became quite the sewer. He also sold Electrolux vacuums too. Mel worked for many years for Canadian Pacific Railway. He would share many a story of this time in his life. Later, he became a school teacher and was known for his great math abilities.
Camping in the summer consisted of Math text books and pencilling out math problems for relaxation. Mel and Melba, known as the “M & M’s”, loved to walk, camp, motorcycle ride and spend time with family. They had many camping holidays in Waterton, Victoria, Nakusp, and Enchant, that all started with the pulling of the “Silver Streak” trailer.
Mel loved to play hockey, until he broke his femur on the ice at the age of 72. They asked him what he wanted them to do with his hockey gear, and he said, “Just throw it out the window of the car on the way back to Coaldale.” He never played again.
Mel had many adventures and met many people through out his long life. He would chat with anyone anywhere and found out everything about them. He loved sitting outside the Big Scoop in Waterton, surrounded by people who would lend a listening ear, even though his ears couldn’t hear very well.
He will be in our hearts forever.
Thank you to all those who helped take care of Melvin. We appreciate you all!
A private family Service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (cancer.ca)
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

BEAULIEU, Gisele

BEAULIEU GISELE ANNE BEAULIEU, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital, on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at the age of 92 years.
Arrangements will be announced when completed.

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

LOCKE, Andrea

Andrea Dawn Locke (Farand) Oct 13, 1977 – Jan 1, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the tragic passing of Andrea Dawn Locke, beloved wife of Peter Locke, on New Year’s Day, 2024, at the age of 46 years.
Besides her loving husband Peter, Andrea is survived by her father Steve Farand, her son Ryan Locke, her daughter-in-law Maddi Bilec, and her grandchildren Liam and Aubrey. She is also survived by her brother Wes Farand, her niece Viktoria Farand, as well as many other friends and family.
Andrea was a beautiful, creative, and passionate person. She loved meeting and helping others and had a strong relationship with and love for Jesus.
She is finally at peace and in Heaven with her best friend Charity, her mother Ingrid, and her precious “Nan” Pauline. She will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, January 8, 2024 at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, 703 13th St N, Lethbridge, Alberta. Please come and remember her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Celebrate Recovery or Streets Alive.
To send a message of condolence please visit http://www.generationsfh.ca

PISKO, Shirley

PISKO SHIRLEY DIANE PATRICIA PISKO, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Ronald Clarence Pisko, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the age of 78 years.
A Funeral Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at STS. PETER & PAUL UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 643 – 12B Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 10:30 A.M. with Father Mark Bayrock celebrating.
Following the Funeral Divine Liturgy, Shirley will be laid to rest with her beloved husband Ron, in Mountain View Cemetery.

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

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