Friday, November 1, 2024

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on November 1, 2024.

ELFORD, Donald “Gordon” ELFORD DONALD “GORDON” ELFORD, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Sheila Elford, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday October 15, 2024 at the age of 76 years.
A Celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at the SOUTHERN AERO HANGER, 150 Kenyon Drive South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. with Rick Saban officiating. The Celebration of Life will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Gordon’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gordon’s name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (heartandstroke.ca) or a charity of one’s choice.

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

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SHIGEHIRO, Minoru “Bob” Minoru “Bob” Shigehiro It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Minoru “Bob” Shigehiro on October 28, 2024, at the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale at the age of 95.
Bob was born in Vancouver, BC to Saburo and Shizuko Shigehiro. He spent his childhood in both Canada and Japan. He farmed grains and sugar beets with his father and brothers in Coaldale and raised his family in Readymade. After his retirement, Bob enjoyed creating Japanese Calligraphy art and painting, playing cards with Eiko and friends, playing the GO game and fishing.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Eiko, as well as his children; Irene (Pat) Hager, Ruby (Brian) Brett, Michael (Mary) Shigehiro, Sally (Gord) Allan and Susan (Chris) Goodman; grandchildren Michelle (Zach) Rhodes, Nicholas Hager, Steven (Noirin) Brett, Jenna Brett, Cole Shigehiro, Sean Allan and Brody Allan; and great grandchild Evan Rhodes. He will be fondly remembered by his brothers, Tom (Mitsuko) Shigehiro and Joe (Mary) Shigehiro, brother-in-law Masatoshi (Sadako) Wakimoto and sister-in-law Mitsuko Kaneko as well as several nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, Saburo and Shizuko Shigehiro and his sister-in-law, Mieko Oshima
The family would like to thank the staff at the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale for their care of Bob during the past two years.
As per Bob’s wishes, a private family service will be held. The family respectfully declines flowers or Koden. If so desired, memorial donations can be made to the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta or the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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HNATIUK, Richard HNATIUK Richard David Hnatiuk of Lethbridge, formerly of Coaldale, passed away on October 25, 2024 at the Foothills Medical Center in Calgary surrounded by his family. He was 73 years old.
Richard was born on July 18, 1951 in Cudworth, Saskatchewan to Peter and Mary Hnatiuk. He was raised on a farm near Wakaw, Saskatchewan, where he learned the values of hard work, and making a dollar stretch. He was proud of his Ukrainian heritage and delighted every year in the many traditional Ukrainian festivals and ceremonies held in the area. At 14, Richard lost his mother, an incident that effected him deeply, and you could always here Richard telling people to “hug their loved ones tight, when they got home”.
After childhood, Richard found himself in Yellowknife NWT, driving taxi cab on the ice roads and generally causing mayhem!! While there he met Kathleen Forrest, and they were married. The happy couple then moved even farther North to Cambridge Bay, but when Richard found out he was going to be a father, he decided it was time to head south to be more stable and secure, and so they settled in Coaldale, Alberta.
Once in Coaldale Richard spent most of his career working for Well’s Construction and McNally in the construction and equipment trades. A self admitted work-a-holic, Richard made sure his wife and boys were left for naught. It wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows but Richard always found time to spend with his boys whether it was camping, garage saling or simply enjoying one another’s company. Good food, good drinks, good friends, good conversation, and good laughs were the cornerstones of Richard’s life, but they meant nothing without his most important commodity, his family.
Left to mourn his passing and celebrate his life are his wife of 48 years Kathy of Lethbridge, AB. His son David (Crystal Arseneault) of Lethbridge, AB his adopted Grandson Alex Newman of Lethbridge, AB, his sisters Iris Johnson of Prince Albert, Sask and Marg Miller of Calgary, AB, as well as a large extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents Peter and Mary Hnatiuk, his brother Peter Hnatiuk and his son Alan Hnatiuk.
As per Richard’s wishes there will be no funeral services.
Richard’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Foothills Medical Centre ICU for all their care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers please give a donation in Richard’s memory to:
Parkinson Canada – 4211 Yonge Street, Suite 316, Toronto, ON M2P 2A9. Email: Donate@parkinsons.ca

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TODD, Veryl TODD It is with profound sadness and loss that we share the unexpected passing of our dear, Veryl George Mann Todd. We had just celebrated his 83rd birthday a week ago. Veryl was the cherished husband and best friend of 61 years to Ingrid Todd. Veryl and Ingrid were lifetime soul mates, marrying when they were 22 and 18 years old and spent their time together very much in love until the last minute of his life.
Veryl was born October 20, 1941 in Carmangay to a family with five cherished brothers. Veryl was loved by his many nieces, nephews and cousins. He spent many happy and fun times laughing with his close friendships with his extended family. Veryl’s large personality, kind heart and love for his family, friends and community, were trademarks of his life. He was never more proud than when he spent time with Ingrid, his children, his friends and his colleagues, in both his 40+ year radio career, 25 year career teaching at the Lethbridge Community College and brewing and tasting beers with his friends. He was a true Stampeders fan and attended decades of games, won many awards for his skills in brewing, and was well loved in the broadcasting world. He often told his family how grateful he was to “Have the best job in the world”. Veryl won “Teacher of the Year” at the LCC and was a mentor to his students. He loved seeing them all grow and succeed, and always shared how they kept in touch with him over the years.
His laugh and double dimple smile were seen and felt by all and he was known to share an opinion or two. Many friends he had for over 60 years, with colleagues becoming friends, and these important relationships helped to stoke his love for debate and continued late night chats he enjoyed so much. We cannot forget his many furry friends, with the last one, Peanut, who passed away earlier this year. He loved with his whole heart and you could feel it in every moment that you spent with Veryl. Above all, Veryl loved his wife Ingrid and their three children. He was the best, most devoted father that his kids could ask for and there are not enough words to speak to the loss of their dad. He was an adoring grandfather and always loved spending time with his grandkids, sharing in their lives, laughs, tears and many chats about his favourite topics, like politics, history and world news. He will be forever missed.
Veryl is survived by his wife Ingrid Todd; his children: Stephanie and Grant Waddell, Pamela Todd and Larry Fontaine, and Jason and Karen Todd; grandchildren: Haley and Brett Lyons, Sam Waddell and Brianne McJunkin, Tavin Todd and Eric Smith, Talin Todd, Alyaynna Heintz, Kelsey Heintz, and Isaac and Noah Fontaine; and great-grandchildren: Kohen and Sawyer French. Veryl is also survived by his brothers: Ken Todd and Russell (Edna) Todd; numerous nieces and nephews; as well as family on Ingrid’s side: Helga Ragan, Debby and Pat Mcillhargy, Elisabeth Garland and numerous nieces and nephews. He very deeply loved spending time with all of them.
Veryl was predeceased by his parents Gaye and George Todd; brothers Timmy Todd and Dennis Todd; and nephews Travis and Christopher Todd.
Ingrid and the family extend so much gratitude to the cherished neighbours that pitched in to help them over the years, all the people that came to their home to provide everything from haircuts to pedicures, and the stellar staff at AHS that helped to make their lives better every day. It truly takes a village.
A Celebration of Veryl’s life will be held at THE CANADIAN POLISH ASSOCIATION OF LETHBRIDGE, 745 – 13 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Sunday, November 3, 2024 from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M., with remarks at 3:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lethbridge Humane Society and spend time with your friends and family debating politics, history, watching football and tasting beer – like Veryl would have.

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

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BELSHER, Ella Elizabeth “Betty” BELSHER Ella Elizabeth (Betty) Belsher formerly of Lethbridge, Alberta passed away peacefully with her four boys at her side in Calgary on October 21st, 2024 at the age of 91. She was predeceased by her husband Ken. She is survived by sons Bob (Marilyn), Brent (Slavica), Dale (Corry), and Lane (Lisa), 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She is also survived by brother Ken, sister-in-law Irma, brother-in- law Keith and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Calgary at Eden Brook Funeral Home, 24223 Township Road 242, Calgary, Alberta at 1:00 PM on November 2nd, 2024. To view the livestream on the day of the service, please proceed to the following link: https://youtube.com/live/C_duOSPKT3A?feature=share

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LAUERSDORF, Traute LAUERSDORF TRAUTE LAUERSDORF, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Werner Lauersdorf, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at the age of 89 years.
Arrangements will be announced once completed.

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

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CHIEF MOON, John CHIEF MOON January 14, 1933 – October 26, 2024 It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch, John Joseph Chief Moon Sr. (Ninnai’kisomm) at the age of 91. John was the eldest son of the late Dan (Kakato’si) Chief Moon and the late Rosie (Noosi) Sleeping Woman. His paternal grandparents were the late Chief Moon (Ninnai’kisomm) and the late Many Gun Women, (Aakainamaya’kii); his maternal grandfather was White Wolf (Aapistamik) who was his mentor. John was a member of the Fish Eater clan. He embodied knowledge transferred to him from his father and grandfather. The knowledge he acquired from his mentors laid the foundation for his leadership roles. Accolades of John’s Leadership roles and hereditary chief position include; Kainai Minor Chiefs, one of the last remaining minor hereditary chiefs of Kainai Nation. A minor hereditary chief is a lifelong position, recognized as subsequent to the chief position. He served on the Blood Band council from the mid 60’s to late 70’s. John was a Ninnaipo’ka (a chief’s descendant). He carried the principal ancestral lineage of Chief Red Crow, who was his paternal great grandfather. John learned to lead with a humble solid leadership, demonstrating the spirit of one who inherited the leadership lineage of Chief Red Crow (Mi’kai’stoo), he was the eldest great grandson. At one point he was appointed to act as the Chief. He was also instrumental in naming buildings in Calgary, Medicine Hat as well as Lethbridge. John was also a composer of many many songs.
John will be sadly missed by his children Vernon Sr., John Jr. (Monica), Evelyn (LeRoy), Leonard (Ethel), Gloria and Dr. Kathrina. His grandchildren Annie, Vernon Jr., Samara, Patricia, Amanda (Olivier), John Ross, Tiffany, Toni (Chris Sr.), Diamond, Devon (Josie), Randi, Ty, and Leonard Jr. His great grandchildren Tegan, Bailey, Darius, Xavier, Zayden, Chris Jr., Lilli, Sofia, Jovin and Nevaeh. Great great grandchildren Havana and Zeniyah. John will be missed by his dog Maui. His adopted children, Marlene Chief Moon and Dan Fox (Jenn) and their children Asher and Phoenix. John attended St. Paul’s Anglican Residential School. After he left school he started working by utilizing the skills he learned in school and was one of the few farmers that did his own farming. John was also a rancher; he took care of over 400 head of cattle for his father and uncle Victor, as well as his own, then later became a politician. On December 12, 1953 he married the late Mildred (Aanatsinokaomitaakii) Shot Both Sides. Together John and Mildred raised their seven children. He also served as a politician with the Indian Association of Alberta for many years. He worked with the late Harold Cardinal. Harold’s parents Frank and Agnes adopted John. One of his portfolios that resonated with him was his work with justice. John has always been an advocate for justice. He wanted to shed light on the brutal treatment Indigenous people endured from Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
John Sr. was transferred the Big Drum at Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump from his father, the late Dan Chief Moon. John then transferred it to his two sons, John Jr. and Leonard. This drum once belonged to Sitting Bull. Dr. Joe and Josephine Crow Shoe initiated John to be a Bracelet Keeper to the Short Thunder Pipe Bundle. John and Mildred took part in the ceremonies of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary and he composed the song that was used for those ceremonies. John was asked to serve as an Elder for many organizations on and off reserve due to his leadership, knowledge of treaties, advocacy, his composition of many songs and his drumming abilities. They include: Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society, Kainai Corrections, Bringing the Spirit Home, Kainai Fire Department, Wellness Program, University of Lethbridge Research team that focused on Indigenous Health issues, and recently with the Elder’s Knowledge Circle Society in Calgary. The family would like to thank the Kainai Continuing Care, especially his grandson Tommy Bare Shin Bone, Dr. S. Eagle Bear, Dr. Wong, and the nurses and staff at the Cardston Municipal Hospital for their exceptional care for John as well as the support of uncles, aunts, friends and acquaintances. John will also be missed by his siblings Ed (Elaine), Virginia, Keith (Karen), and Bertha; numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, his sisters and brothers-in-law, and all the friends he made during his lifetime. John had many, many relatives too numerous to mention. John was predeceased by his beloved wife Mildred, his son Oral, grandchildren Noel and Cassidy, great granddaughter Mikayla; his parents Rosie Sleeping Woman, Dan and Philomena Chief Moon; his brothers, Guston, Wilfred Sr., Daniel, Jordan, Horace and Burton. Daughter-in-law Brenda Mistaken Chief and son-in-law Robert Tailfeathers. A Wake Service celebrating John’s life will be held on Sunday, November 3 at the Senator Gladstone Hall from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will follow on Monday, November 4, at the Gladstone Hall at 11:00 a.m. Interment at the Chief Moon cemetery.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca.

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