Friday, January 3, 2025

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 3, 2025.

MALEC, John MALEC John (Roy) Malec of Lethbridge, Alberta, passed away peacefully in Edmonton on December 24, 2024. He was born on November 29, 1941, to Mary and John Malec and grew up on the family farm in Lethbridge, where he developed a lifelong love of farming.
He attended the University of Montana, where he earned an undergraduate degree in Chemistry and a Master’s in Education. He cherished his time in Missoula and enjoyed returning to visit with his wife and daughters during the summer.
Roy began his teaching career in Fort Macleod, where he met the love of his life, Sharon. Sharon was an elementary school teacher and her colleagues kept asking her to go borrow beakers from the high school chemistry teacher Roy. They were married in 1972 and moved to Lethbridge. In 1982, they settled in Claresholm, where they would live until 1997 and then retire in Lethbridge.
When he wasn’t working as a principal, Roy pursued his passions for building houses and investing in the stock market. The Norwood care team affectionately called him the “stock market guy”.
He was predeceased by his parents, Mary and John Malec; his wife, Sharon Malec; and his brother, Frank Malec.
He is survived by his daughters, Melissa (Alan) De Leon of Sherwood Park and Erin Malec of Sherwood Park; his cherished grandchildren, Matteo and Danica De Leon; his sister, Diane; and brother-in- law, Art; and his nieces, Janice (Scott) Beck, Joan (Kirk) Frenzel, Judy (Bob) Weing, and Joyce (Shane) Knox.
The family extends special thanks to the nursing staff on the hospice unit at Norwood Capital Care for their compassionate care and the Edmonton Pancreaticobiliary Inflammation and Cancer (EPIC) Program nursing team for all their support.
He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or STARS ambulance.

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MCANDREWS, Joan MCANDREWS, Joan Elaine (nee Morris) 1928 – 2024 With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Joan, our mother who passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at 96.
Joan’s life was a blend of love, laughter, and dedication. She’s fondly remembered by her children, Beverley (Frank), Suzanne (Douglas), Rodney (Dinah) and Ronald (Michele); 9 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Joan was predeceased by her husband of 72 years, Cyril; parents, Norma and Lloyd Morris; and sisters, Bette and Gwen.
Joan’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Memorial Donations may be made to The Sign of Hope Society, Archdiocese of Edmonton, Winnington Building, 12431 Stony Plain Rd, Edmonton, AB, T5N 3N3.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Good Shepard Catholic Church, 18407 60 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB. A private family Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 14611 Mark Messier Trail, Edmonton, AB, T6V 1H4.
To send condolences, please visit http://www.connelly-mckinley.com Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home Downtown Chapel (780) 422-2222

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SKOOG, Michael Michael Wayne Skoog April 16, 1950 – December 30, 2024 Michael Wayne Skoog passed away suddenly at the Chinook Regional Hospital on December 30, 2024. He was born on April 16, 1950 in Edmonton, Alberta, to Fritz Florian and Marta Lisa (Ella) Skoog. He had one sister, Audrey Leona.
On July 16, 1977, he married the love of his life, Valerie Jean Hirsche, in Lethbridge, Alberta. Together, they had three sons: Adam Michael, Jason John, and Lance Nyal Skoog.
Mike loved his family deeply, and each grandchild was a highlight in his life. He eagerly anticipated their births, cherishing every moment spent holding and playing with them. Later he enjoyed showing them magic tricks, and taking them on motorbike rides. He was a devoted father and grandfather who took great joy in watching his sons grow into accomplished men with various talents. He taught them to be hard working, while encouraging them to have fun and create special memories with their families, ultimately becoming loving fathers to their children.He loved to travel to his families homes enjoying his grandchildren, each child wonderful and unique.
Mike is mourned by his wife, Valerie; his three sons and their spouses; and his six grandchildren. Adam (Pamalyn Charles) Riley, Madison, and Clayton; Jason (Amber Draper) Ty and Alora; Lance (Alyssa Knelsen) and Raya. He leaves to mourn his mother-in-law, Jean Lucille (Shaffer) Hirsche; sister-in-laws, Maria Michelson and Randa L’Hirondelle and numerous nieces and nephews in the Hirsche and Graveland families. He was predeceased by his parents, Fritz and Marta Lisa (Ella) Skoog; his sister, Audrey (David Graveland); his father-in-law, John Roy Hirsche; brothers-in-law Nyal Hirsche, Gary Michelson, and Russell L’Hirondelle; nieces and nephews, Wanda, Travis, and Justin Hirsche, and Ryan Michelson. Mike loved playing baseball, dancing, playing music on the piano, guitar, and harmonica. He enjoyed magic tricks, camping with family and friends, riding motorbikes, hunting, building and repairing bikes, farming, crafting knives, and travelling. He cherished spending time with family, lifelong friends, neighbours, and many acquaintances. He was a friend to all and was loved by many. Throughout his life, Mike faced numerous health challenges, bravely battling various ailments. He cherished his life and wanted to witness his family and grandchildren’s accomplishments, but eventually grew tired and yearned to reunite with loved ones who had passed on. We are certain he will look down upon us, taking joy in our lives. We love him and will never forget him. Michael was a special person who touched the lives of many. He lived a full and enjoyable life and will be greatly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
Please join us for his viewing Friday January 3, 2025 at Salmon & Sons Funeral Home (433 Stubb Ross Rd, Lethbridge AB) from 7:00 – 8:00pm; and Funeral January 4, 2025 at Stirling LDS Chapel (413 3 St. Stirling AB) at 1:00pm. The cemetery service afterwards will be private.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, if people wish to donate to the Lethbridge Food Bank, Warner Cemetery, HALO or any charity of your choice.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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WEIR, David DAVID WEIR September 25, 1942 – December 28, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Weir, the beloved husband of Carolyn Weir, in Fort Macleod, on December 28, 2024, at the age of 81 years.
David is survived by his wife, Carolyn Weir; children, Sheldon Weir (Daurice), Brent Weir, and Mark Weir (Sarah); 7 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.
A Luncheon will be held at Fort Macleod Legion Branch #46, 159 23 St, Fort Macleod, on January 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.edensfuneralhome.com

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RICHARDSON, Jim Jim Richardson
1952 – 2024
Today the world lost a very kind and gentle soul. It comes with great sadness to announce the passing of James Arthur Richardson, who passed away in Coaldale on Monday, December 30, 2024 at the age of 72 years.
The Burial Service will be held at Union Cemetery, at the corner of 9 Avenue and 30 Street, Fort Macleod on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at http://www.southlandfuneral.com.
He will be greatly missed by his sister Peggy (Bruce) Brown of Coaldale.
Jim was born in Banff on March 6, 1952. He was adopted into his forever family in 1958, the home of Cal and Peggy Richardson. Jim grew up and attended school in Fort McLeod, graduating in 1970 and then went on to attend the University of Alberta for a short period of time.
Jim was active in many groups and clubs, especially the Holy Cross Parish in Fort Macleod, but enjoyed nothing better than being with his forever family. Jim faced many challenges and obstacles in life due to mental health issues, but with his faith, courage and kindness and along with the support from his family, he was able to overcome most everything and made a good life for himself. He loved to help others and worked hard at various jobs. He loved to garden and rescued and fed many homeless cats, which was his favorite hobby.
Jim deeply believed in his faith and it was truly his guiding light. Thank you to his Holy Cross Parish family, better known as “the church ladies”, for keeping a watchful eye on him.
At family gatherings, Jim could always be found amongst the children and pets, with maple cookies, which spoke measures of who he was.
In 2011, Jim needed a little extra love and care and moved to good Samaritans in Raymond where he resided until September 2023. He was then moved to the Coaldale Health Centre as he required more care.
It’s been a tough, but great journey Jim, until we meet again.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Jim’s name may be made directly to the Last Chance Cat Ranch, PO Box 30025, Park Place, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 4X3.
Thank you to all the caregivers who loved and cared for Jim along the way there were many great ones. Thank you Kate for sharing Jim’s love of cats and the picture. Thanks to Food Services for keeping Jim full and happy, to housekeeping, you do an excellent job and to recreation, thank you for the personal one on one time and the entertainment provided to Jim, you’re a great team. Special thanks to Bruce Nalder, Jim’s good friend for always being there and for the walks and talks and Sunday morning church, you’re a good man.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

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RESLER, Ernst “Ernie” RESLER It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, ERNST “ERNIE” RESLER.
A Celebration of Life will be held at IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 20 Rocky Mountain Blvd West, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Lee Loveridge officiating.

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

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GREENE, Clark GREENE On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, CLARK EDWARD GREENE, of Lethbridge, died, with his suffering finally coming to an end, at Edith Cavell Care Centre at the age of 87 years, following a difficult battle with cancer and paralysis.
A Celebration of Clark’s life will be held at McKILLOP UNITED CHURCH, 2329 – 15 Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Trevor Potter officiating. The Celebration of Life will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Clark’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

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

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ENGEL, Gertrude ENGEL GERTRUDE ENGEL of Lethbridge, AB, beloved wife of the late Allen Engel, passed away peacefully at St. Therese Villa on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the age of 93.
A private family service will be held.

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

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SAMUELS-FARNELL, Harper SAMUELS-FARNELL It is with broken hearts that Courtney Samuels and Scott Farnell announce the peaceful passing of their daughter, HARPER DAWN FARNELL, who arrived as a sleeping angel, at the Chinook Regional Hospital, on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with Pat Siedlecki officiating.
The Funeral Service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Harper’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

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

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BRANDSMA, Elly BRANDSMA ELLY BRANDSMA, of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Pieter Brandsma, passed away peacefully at the Fairmont Extendicare, on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at the age of 89 years.
A Visitation will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME – 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Sunday, January 5, 2025 from 7:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.
A Funeral Service will be held at GRACE REFORMED CHURCH – 1402 8th Avenue North, Lethbridge, AB on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Paul Van Stralen officiating. The service will be live-streamed and the link may be accessed via Elly’s obituary page on the Cornerstone website.
Elly will be laid to rest with her beloved Pieter, during a Private Family Graveside Service at Mountain View Cemetery.

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

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WALL, Lois WALL LOIS WALL, beloved wife of the late Rudy Wall, was freed from her earthly struggles on December 28, 2024. She is survived by her son Brandon Wall (Megan).
A Graveside Service will be held at the COALDALE MENNONITE CEMETERY, Coaldale, AB, on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with Pat Siedlecki officiating.

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

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MAIER, Mike Mike Maier
1955 – 2024
John Michael Maier, beloved husband of Elinda Leung-Maier, passed away peacefully in Lethbridge with Elinda by his side on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at the age of 69 years.
Further information will follow once arrangements have been finalized.
Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

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FAST, Otto OTTO FAST 1938 – 2024 Mr. Otto Fast of Pincher Creek, beloved husband of Mrs. Irene Fast, passed away at Edith Cavell Care Centre on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at the age of 86 years.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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LAVALLEY, Patricia “Pat” PATRICIA “PAT” LAVALLEY 1947 – 2024 Mrs. Patricia “Pat” LaValley of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Mr. Ray LaValley, passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Monday, December 23, 2024 at the age of 77 years.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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FLEMING, Harold HAROLD FLEMING 1942 – 2024 It is with great sadness that the family of Harold (Hap/Happer) Fleming announce his passing on December 27, 2024, at the age of 82.
Harold was born in Lethbridge, Alberta on October 1, 1942. He was raised and educated in Lethbridge until he moved to the family farm in Barons in the early 60’s. He resided at Garden View Lodge from 2019 until the time of his passing.
In his youth he played hockey (Lethbridge Native Sons, Edmonton Oil Kings, Knoxville/ Nashville, and many other clubs).
Harold enjoyed camping, fishing, motorbiking, playing crib, and socializing, but mostly spending time with his family.
He will be dearly missed and survived by his daughters Shelly (Larry) Walper, Sherry (Randy) Divins, and Cammy (Dana) Pariseau; beloved grandchildren Kristen (Peter) Phillips, Jeremy (Ashley) Walper, Shara-Lea (Dave) Lovas, Ryan (Haley) Divins, Jessica (Clayton) Ressler, Matthew Pariseau, and Tyson (Ainsley) Pariseau; ten great grandchildren; sister Mary-Pat Roberts; half-brother Jack (Shirley) Fleming; sister-in-law Cheryl Fleming; many nieces, nephews, cousins, as well as many other relatives and friends.
Besides his loving wife Judy, Harold is predeceased by his parents Mary and Alex Fleming; brother Doug Fleming; half-brother Howard Fleming; sisters-in-law Lois Fleming and Grace Fleming; brothers-in-law David Roberts, Les Valentine, and Jim Valentine; mother-in-law Hazel Valentine; as well as many other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the SANDMAN SIGNATURE LODGE, LETHBRIDGE, Alberta. There will be a short program beginning at 1:30 PM.
A private family Graveside Service will be held prior.
Donations in Harold’s memory may be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital, the Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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BERTE, Delores DELORES BERTE 1944 – 2024 Born March 15, 1944, to parents Arthur and Margaret Berte, passed away peacefully in Chinook Regional Hospital on Sunday, December 22nd at the age of 80.
She truly enjoyed many years of teaching at R.I. Baker Middle School; later to see how the students had progressed in their lives.
Delores, sibling to Beverly and Bruce, is survived by their sister Joyce, multiple nieces and nephews, and their families.
It was Delores’ wish that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donation to the Alberta SPCA.
https://www.albertaspca.org/ways-to-help/tribute-giving/
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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STOLK, William “Bill” Bill Stolk
1938 – 2024
William Stolk, beloved husband of Darlien Stolk, passed away in Taber on Monday, December 30, 2024 at the age of 86 years.
The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 – 50 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. 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 Bill’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 10:45 A.M. on Saturday, January 4, 2025. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 11:00 A.M. Bill was born March 19, 1938 in Naaldyk, Holland to Frank and Cora Stolk. In 1949, at the age of eleven, the family immigrated to Canada. They came by ship to Quebec then headed west by train to Lethbridge and settled in Picture Butte. In 1952, the family moved to the Purple Springs area to take up farming. In 1963 Bill bought his then first quarter of land and a few years later enlarged the farm to a half section. He found he preferred working cattle to grain and vegetables, so he grew his herd to ninety but still kept mixed farming as well. In later years as Bill began to slow down, he went from cow calf to bred heifers. He eventually was tired and moved into Taber to enjoy a little bit of life without the problems that follow a farmer. Bill loved his home in Taber. He loved to sit on the patio during the golfing season and watch the golfers go by. A few would even stop in for a beer before they would carry on through. Bill married Darlien on March 14, 1964 and they had four children, Shirley, Darren, Jacqueline and Shari Jo. In 1981, Bill and Darlien took their family on a bus trip to Disneyland. Over the years they took more trips to Hawaii, Venezuela and Barbados. He loved to travel but only if the farm was in good hands while he was away. Bill also loved fishing! Whether it be at Sherburne, Chin, The Forks, Port Hardy or Kitimat, he found fishing peaceful. He also played old timer’s hockey and enjoyed curling. Another love of Bill’s was hockey, especially watching Darren play. He would warm up the little truck to take Darren into town to practice in the early mornings. Sickness came for Bill starting in 2001 and he beat lung cancer four times thanks to the care of two specialists, one always calling Bill his miracle man. In August of 2011, Bill walked his youngest daughter down the aisle in Prince Edward Island and gained a son-in-law, Darren J. Bill also has a daughter-in-law Evelyn, who joined his family in 2001. His four grandchildren were the apple of his eye. Bill was a man of love and patience. He was always willing to lend a hand. He’d always say, “many hands make light work”. Bill taught his family to work hard, be proud and always give thanks. He also taught them to take care of one another, that everything has value and to rest every Sunday. He was very proud of his family and had a love for Darlien like no other. Bill will be dearly missed. If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Bill’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 – 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 (www.tdhf.ca). Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber. Telephone: (403) 223-8778.

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