Saturday, November 30, 2024

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on November 30, 2024.

HACKE, Madeline HACKE, MADELINE LEONA It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Madeline Leona Hacke on November 22, 2024 at the age of 89.
Madeline was reunited with her husband of 69 years, Warren and her son Marty. She leaves to mourn her children, Brad (LeaAnne) Hacke and Pam (Richard) Carr. Her five grandchild that will also cherish her memories are Mandy (Josh), Tara (Jesse), Jeff (Erin), Brittany (Sam) and Brent (Jenna). Her precious Great grand child, Colton who brought so much joy to her life will also miss his Nana.
Madeline was born to Louis and Mary Albert on August 30, 1935 on a homestead north of Coutts. She grew up on the farm with six siblings. Predeceased her are brothers Louis, Willard, and Ernie. She leaves behind sister, Jurreen Albert and Dorthy (Greg) Walton and brother Bert (Marlene) Albert . She was loved by so many people, nieces and nephews and many friends. She had a wonderful life and said she lived in the best of times.
We would like to thank the many people in Raymond that helped mom over the last couple years, especially the Ridgeview Lodge family, Prairie Ridge Good Samaritan Society, and lastly the staff at the Raymond Hospital.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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MCDONNELL, Raymond RAYMOND MCDONNELL 1937 – 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ray McDonnell on November 19, 2024, at the age of 87 years.
Ray was born on April 4, 1937, in Vancouver, BC to parents Leo and Katherine (Skipper) McDonnell. He grew up in Vancouver and eventually settled into a lengthy career on the Vancouver waterfront. Beginning as a long shoreman, working with Canadian Stevedoring he became a manager in the general cargo operations with BCR Marine. His many stories of working on the waterfront and various ships both fascinated and wowed us all.
He was passionate about all things sports related, especially hockey and baseball, he was a devoted Canucks and Blue Jays fan. Ray loved to play golf, curl, bowl and fish, a true sportsman to the end. Ray was also a master of the grill and prepared many a fine meal for family and friends.
Ray will be remembered as a sweet generous soul to all who knew him. An enormous heart and a witty dry sense of humour were two of his finest traits. He loved to sing and was never shy to share a song or two at the table. His rendition of “Danny Boy” was always a favorite as was anything Harry Belafonte!
Ray is survived by his loving companion and partner of forty years, Betty; stepdaughter Melody (Tom) Howell; stepson Mike Vandenameele, as well as a large family of nieces, nephews and friends.
His memory will live on with all who knew and cared about him, his was a life well lived.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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FREDSTOLTEITISWITHGREATSADNESST FRED STOLTE It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Fred Stolte at the age of 83. Dad was born in the Netherlands and immigrated to Canada with his family as a young boy after World War II. He worked for several farmers in Southern Alberta, Dunlop Ford and finally for Molson’s Brewery in Lethbridge. Dad took a transfer with Molson to Calgary then to Edmonton when the Lethbridge plant was closed. When Dad retired in 2003 he moved to Kelowna, where he resided until his passing.
Dad leaves behind his sons Mark (Sandra) children Melissa (Vincent Guinan) Emily (Travis Scott) and Courtney, Myron (Shannon) children Ashely and Kairi, Jason (Tabitha) children Dakota and Kaitlyn, Philip Hadford and Justin Freedom Michael’s sons. Seven Great Grandchildren, Betty, Lori, and his sister Monica. He was predeceased by his oldest son Michael, brother Cory, Sister Trudy and his parents.
As per dad’s request there will be no funeral service. Those who wish may make a donation to the SPCA or Alzheimer’s Chapter of their choice in Dad’s honour.

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JENNISON, Edward JENNISON Edward Clark Jennison passed away in Lethbridge, Alberta on November 25, 2024 at the age of 55 years.
A Memorial Service will be held at Streets Alive Mission, 323 4 St S, Lethbridge on Wednesday, December 4 at 5:00 pm. Interment to take place at Coronation Cemetery at a later date.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca.

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DONISON, Don DON DONISON 1953 – 2024 Our hearts are broken with the peaceful passing of our beloved, Don Donison, on November 26, 2024, at 71. Don was at home surrounded by his loving family.
Don leaves a legacy of life and love to his beloved wife and soul mate, Heather, our so loved children Angela (John) and their daughter Taylor (Dylan) and soon to be great grandchild, Lucas (Sara) and Sicily; Don (Trish) and their children Wesley, Walker, Chloe and Shaylee; Melissa (Rich) and their sons Cameron and Jasper; Lindsay (Nigel) and their daughter Bexley; siblings Karon Blaylock, Alice (Larry) Funnel, Barb (Allan) Hunt, Wayne (Leanne) Donison; by many nieces and nephews and by his bonus Belisle/Thompson family.
Don was predeceased by his parents Audrey and Wesley Donison, his sister and brother-in-law Glenda and Dale Dyck and by his parents-in-law Jack and Irene Thompson.
Don was recently honored with a Legacy award by Overhead Door Corp. for exemplary contribution to the Ribbon brand for which he has been the Lethbridge and Southern Alberta distributor since 1975. Don was also the past President of the Homebuilders Association, a past member of the Exhibition Board, a Kinsman and K40 member and he is a long-time member of the Lethbridge Country Club. Don worked tirelessly at building a successful business for his family and his work family. Don’s dedication and passion for his family was evident in everything he did.
Don’s has been a life well lived and he has touched and helped many on his journey. He faced his illness with the same stoicism, practicality and acceptance as he did all things in his life – a gift and legacy that he gives us all. Hold your loved ones close and spoil them with love and time.
At Don’s request there will be no funeral or memorial service. As we cherish our time, love and memories of Don and keep him in our hearts we hope for good memories for those of you whose lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, if so you wish, please honor Don’s memory with a donation to Pancreatic Cancer Canada, https://pancreaticcancercanada.ca/, the Canadian Neuroendocrine Tumor Society, https://cnets.ca/, or the Canadian Liver Foundation, https://www.liver.ca/ Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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VASELENAK, Michael “Mike” VASELENAK, Michael “Mike” April 21, 1932 – November 21, 2024 Our beloved Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather, Michael Vaselenak (92) of Lethbridge, AB passed away suddenly on November 21, 2024 at Chinook Regional Hospital.
We will miss him so very much.
Mike is survived by Daughters, Dr. Sharon Vaselenak (Dr. Glen Zenith), Dianne Vaselenak, and Dr. Lisa Chater (Mark). Grandchildren, Dr. Mila Zenith (Peter Dushenski), Laura Zenith (Fred Punter), Michael Zenith (Olia), and Kathleen Zenith. Great Grandchildren, Niko & Ari Dushenski, Julian & Maxim Zenith, and Bradley & Hayley Zenith-Punter. Ex-Wife & good Friend, Freda Wapple. Nephews, Larry Rasmussen, Steven Raben, Curtiss Vaselenak, and Rory Vaselenak. Nieces, Lorna Rasmussen, Linda Rasmussen, Cari MacLean, Cindi Vaselenak, Monique Raben, and Shannon Doyle.
Mike is also survived by beloved pets, Rigby, Zedd, Marty, Luke, & Neo.
Mike was pre-deceased by his parents, Michael & Mary Vaselenak, his sister, Mary Raben, and brothers, George & John Vaselenak.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Spring 2025. Announcement will be made closer to that date.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Last Chance Cat Ranch Rescue or Misty Creek Dog Rescue.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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VAS, Annie ANNIE VAS 1935 ~ 2024 Annie Barbara Vas, of Lethbridge, Alberta, beloved wife of Eugene (Gene) Balay, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, on November 11, 2024 at the age of 89 years.
A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 PM, Monday, December 2, 2024, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET SOUTH, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at ST. MARTHA’S PARISH, 355 COLUMBIA BLVD WEST, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta, with Father William Monis, celebrant. The Mass will be recorded and will be available to watch at https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Annie-Vas
For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 5241 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 5G8.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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UNRAU, Lorna UNRAU LORNA JEAN UNRAU, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Ronald Unrau, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge on November 12, 2024 at the age of 69 years.
She is the loving mother of Tabitha Unrau of Lethbridge; and is also survived by her sister, Linda Riedlinger-Lund; brother, David Riedlinger; and sister-in-law, Lorena Mangel, all of Penticton, BC; aunt, Lorna Cann of Sudbury, ON; mother-in-law, Mary Unrau, brothers-in-law: Keith Unrau, Darrell Unrau, Randy Unrau, Bradley Unrau, Kevin Unrau and Trevor Unrau; and sister-in-law, Janine Unrau; and Ron’s aunts and uncles: Margaret Petkau, Martha Shire, Art Braun and Richard Letkeman; as well as many surviving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Lorna is also survived by two special friends that she regarded as “sisters”, Wendy Boechler (the daughter of George and Carol McKill of Richmond, BC, who fostered Lorna for several years in the 1960s) and Tanja Selk, who Lorna met in 2020 while in the hospital recovering from major surgery.
She was predeceased by her mother, Eleanor Mangel (2013); brother, Randy Mangel (2016); and her father, Robert Riedlinger (2022).
Lorna was a kind and considerate person. She dealt with each adversity with a fierce determination, to recover while maintaining her quiet dignity and her great sense of humour.
Her family and friends will dearly miss her.
At Lorna’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation (kidney.ca) or a charity of your choice.
Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.

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

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PIERSON, Deborah PIERSON DEBORAH RAE PIERSON went home to be with her Lord and Saviour, November 28, 2024 at the Chinook Regional Hospital, slipping peacefully into His arms, surrounded by the love of family.
Deb was born in Lethbridge, Alberta to Ray and Kay Pierson on March 10, 1955. Deb was mom to Tiffany and beloved son Travis, who passed just three short days into his life. Deb was a proud grandmother of three; Savannah (Bailey), Payton and Sierra. She had two great-grandchildren, Freya and Aspen. She is also survived by her brother Ken (Joanne) Pierson, sister Donna (Glen) Alm, and brother David Pierson as well as numerous nieces and great-grandnephews and nieces. Deb loved her family!
Deb’s battle with cancer in these last eight months was hard fought; she took it on like she did everything, with a fierce work ethic that truly defined her life. Deb was loyal to everyone she ever worked for, she poured herself into her work, loving those she worked with as well as those she served in her various positions. It didn’t matter the work she was tending to; it was the people that mattered! Deb was set to retire and enjoy life when the ‘C’ word hit! She grieved briefly before taking up the challenge to win the battle and get back as quick as possible to her life of retirement with family and friends. Though we no longer have Deb, we all have the memories of her and all that her life has meant to so many, Deb had the best friends!!
Deb was predeceased by her father Ray Pierson when she was just twelve years old; she missed him dearly throughout her whole life. Deb also was predeceased by her mom Kay Pierson, who instilled the great work ethic that Deb had to the very end of her life. As well her stepfather John Lloyd Knight, who loved her like his own and finally her beloved infant son Travis. Heaven is rejoicing!
The family wishes to thank, first of all Deb’s friends who sought to simply love her better (little did you know, you succeeded). Also, over the passed 17 weeks, the Staff, Doctor’s and Nurses of the Chinook Regional Hospital; specifically, the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, and most every floor she landed on; thank you for tending to all of her many needs with gentleness and respect, your care was exemplary. Finally, to the Staff, Doctor’s and Nurses at St. Michael’s PARP ward, you made her feel like she could make it home again one day, not realizing it would be to her heavenly home. Bless all of you!
A Memorial Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825-32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Dawn Nelson officiating. A private family Interment will be held prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Deborah’s name to the Jack Ady Cancer Centre – 960-19 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 1W5

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

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BROWN, Marla BROWN With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the sudden passing of our beloved mother, MARLA BROWN at Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at the age of 80 years.
Born on March 3, 1944, in Vancouver, BC, Marla was a beacon of love, strength, and kindness. She shared a beautiful life with her devoted husband, Bob “Bobby” Brown, whose memory she cherished deeply after his passing. Marla’s greatest joy was her family, and her life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and connection. She found happiness in the simplest moments – playing cards, clogging, and sharing stories with those she loved most. Her warm smile, infectious laugh, and boundless generosity left a special place in the hearts of all those who knew her.
Marla was the heart of her family and will be forever missed by her children: Laurie (Kim), Kurt, Diane (Mike), and Renee (Mal); her cherished grandchildren: Graeme (Kirby), Cameron (Jamie), Perry (Jen), and Kim; and her seven (soon to be 8) great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Luba (Terry), and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and friends who were like family to her.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Chinook Regional Hospital for the compassion and care they showed Marla in her final days.
Marla’s legacy of love will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She gave us the gift of her unconditional love, and we will carry her memory with us every day. Until we meet again, Marla, may you dance among the stars and play cards with the angels.
A celebration of Marla’s incredible life and love will be held in the spring of 2025, a season she adored. Marla will also be laid to rest in the spring, details to follow at that time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in her memory to The National Poppy Trust Fund, (www.legion.ca) or Windy City Canine Rescue, (www.windycitycaninerescue.com), causes close to her heart.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”

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

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HOLZ, Hildegard HOLZ MRS. HILDEGARD HELENE HOLZ of Lethbridge, beloved wife of Willy Holz passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at the age of 83 years. Hildegard was a devoted daughter, wife, and mother who gave selflessly to her family. She will be greatly missed.

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

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DERGOUSOFF, Ione DERGOUSOFF IONE DERGOUSOFF, beloved wife of Jack Dergousoff, of Lethbridge, AB, passed away peacefully at the Fairmont Extendicare on Wednesday, November 28, 2024 at the age of 92 years.
A Reception celebrating Ione’s life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 12:00 P.M. till 2:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (www.heartandstroke.ca).

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

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WILLMS, Henry Henry Willms
1935 – 2024
Henry Willms, a proud farmer and family man, passed away in Taber on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at the age of 89 years.
 Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Sunday, December 1, 2024 between 3:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M.
The Burial Service will be held at the Westview Community Cemetery of Grassy Lake (formerly the Mennonite Brethren Cemetery), on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 10:30 A.M.
The Funeral Service will be held at the Evangelical Free Church, 5431 – 48 Avenue, Taber on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 1:00 P.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 funeral service online may do so by visiting Henry’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 12:45 P.M. on Monday, December 2, 2024. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 1:00 P.M.
Born on June 5, 1935, in Coaldale to John and Anna Willms (née Neufeld), Henry grew up surrounded by family, farming the rich and fertile lands of southern Alberta. Passionate and strong in his love for the Lord, Henry enjoyed working fields, growing crops and the occasional political conversation, but his true passion was for family.
Henry is survived by his wife Verna Willms (née Froese), his children Doug (Delaine) Willms, Brenda (Darrell) Norris, Janet (William) Tymburski, Tim (Michelle) Willms, Laurie (Mike) Kees, brother John (Olwen) Willms and numerous others.
He was predeceased by sisters Verna (Bill) Shurgelo and Anne (David) Braun, sister-in-law Katherine Willms and infant granddaughter Jolene Norris.
On October 8, 1960, Henry married Verna, the love of his life. Over the years, the Lord graced them with five children Doug, Brenda, Janet, Tim, and Laurie. Henry was a very proud grandfather to a large and loving family, including Kristen (Eric) Bylenga, Kandace (Brad) Willson, Drew (Emily) Willms, Reegan (Alanna) Willms, Stephanie (Jonathan) Reinke, Taralyn (Craig) Dillman, Joel (Megan) Norris, Jordan (Sarah) Tymburski, Ashley Tymburski, Eric (Frieda) Tymburski, Anthony (Judy) Tymburski, Joshua Tymburski, Matthew Willms, Austin Willms, Mya Willms, Raelyn Kees, Caitlin (Sam) Sasse and Colin Kees. Henry was blessed with twenty great grandchildren.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Henry’s name may be made directly to Harvest FM by visiting their website and choosing the donate link (www.ciamradio.com/harvest-fm), or to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, Box 767, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 2L4 (www.foodgrainsbank.ca) or to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (www.tdhf.ca).
You can take the farmer off the farm, but you cannot take the farm out of the farmer.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

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HUNT, Marguerite MARGUERITE HUNT 1928 ~ 2024 Mrs. Marguerite Hunt of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Norman Hunt, passed away at St. Therese Villa on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the age of 96 years.
Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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