Saturday, January 25, 2025

By Lethbridge Herald Obituaries on January 25, 2025.

FOSTER, Theresa THERESA FOSTER I, Lyndon Foster, Theresa’s Husband, with heavy heart advise that Joan my beloved wife of 66yrs and devoted mother to Michael (Doris) of Edmonton. Cynthia deceased. David (Amy) of Los Angeles. Karen (Greg) of Vernon. Catherine (David) of Lethbridge passed away suddenly January 3, 2025. All of the family took part in Catholic prayers at her bedside in the Victoria General hospital. Joan was an accomplished wife, mother, and singer in many choirs in Bathurst her birthplace. Lethbridge, Calgary, and the Gr. Victoria Area. She, the love of my life, will be sadly missed by all. No formal service will be held. Many thanks to all who helped me and our family during our time of need.
Thank you, Lyndon

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DUERKS, Elsie ELSIE DUERKS July 26, 1938 – January 16, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elsie Duerks on January 16, 2025, at the age of 86. Elsie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who brought joy and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Elsie was born on July 26, 1938, in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, where she grew up and cherished her early years. She later lived in Winnipeg, Manitoba, before marrying Eugene Duerks and embarking on a journey of building a loving family and a life full of warmth and adventure. Over the years, Elsie and her family called many places home, including Langley and Williams Lake in British Columbia, Camrose and Raymond in Alberta, before settling in Lethbridge in 1988.
A long-time resident of the Legion Arms Senior Living Apartments in Lethbridge, Elsie was known for her vibrant personality and her active involvement in the Legion Arms community. She loved her daily trips to the community room to play cards and socialize with neighbors. Her weekly outings to Pop’s Lounge for dinner, wings, and drinks with friends brought her immense joy and connection.
Elsie’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her son Terry (Joyce), her daughter Darlene, her grandchildren Connor and Sonja, and her great-grandchildren Ariel, Kingston, Juliette, and Evelyn. She is also survived by her siblings Linda (Dale), Arthur, and her sister-in-law Vicki. Elsie was predeceased by her husband Eugene, her siblings Delores, Oliver, and Delores’ spouse Raymond, as well as Faye’s husband Ralph who was a dear friend.
Elsie shared a special bond with her close friend Faye and Faye’s children, Amber and Thor, who considered Elsie a second mom.
Throughout her life, Elsie worked to make everyone around her feel loved, happy, and cared for. Her smile lit up every room, and her kindness and generosity touched countless lives. Her family, friends, and neighbors will deeply miss her presence but take comfort in the memories she leaves behind.
Elsie’s family would like to thank the staff and residents of Legion Arms Senior Living for the friendships and care they shared with her over the years.
A small celebration of Elsie’s life will be held January 27th, 2025 at the Legion Arms Community Room. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Lung Association, in honor of Elsie’s generous spirit.
Elsie was truly a blessing in the lives of all who knew her, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

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KING, Douglas “Doug” DOUGLAS “DOUG” NILSSON KING 1938 ~ 2025 Douglas “Doug” Nilsson King of Raymond, Alberta, beloved husband of Luella King, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on January 15, 2025, at the age of 86 years.
Doug was born in Lethbridge, Alberta to Gladys and Ross King, and he attended school in Raymond, Alberta.
After graduating high school, Doug joined the Airforce. After serving his duty in the Airforce, he moved to Seattle, Washington and began working for Rocket Research as a machinist. After that, he went on to be a licensed millwright.
Doug’s hobbies were golfing, skiing, woodwork, and betting on horses as he spent his retirement at the Lethbridge parimutuel racetrack where he sold his woodwork lamps every weekend with his wife, Luella.
Doug is survived by his siblings Tom (Jovi), Shelia (Dick), Ginny (Robert); his children Laurie (Art), Toni (Bruce), Mark (Serina); his grandchildren Michelle, Jamie, Kara, Travis, Derek, Chris, Josh, and Kael.
Doug has been predeceased by his daughter Lonnie (Ken).
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Funeral Chapels.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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DANIELS, Edward EDWARD DANIELS 1945 ~ 2025 We lost a great man. Mr. Edward “Ed” Paul Daniels of Coalhurst, beloved husband of Mrs. Olga Daniels, passed away in his home on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the age of 79 years.
Ed was born in Balcarres, Saskatchewan. He spent many years working at Jumping Pound and Waterton, AB along with other various Shell plants and he loved his career. He also spent many years coaching hockey in Bowness, Calgary, which has always been one of his best memories.
Edward leaves behind his loving wife and best friend Olga; sisters Elaine, Audrey, Kathy, Linda and Kelly; brother Bill; children Raelene and Aloysia; grandchildren Brooke, Paige, Cassie, Aaliyah, Alivia; great-grandchildren Chloe, Violet Rose and Lucy Anne and numerous members of his extended family. He was predeceased by his son Lee and his daughter Dawn.
May we remember Edward through our recollections of good times spent with him. There will be no service as per his request. Donations can be made to the “Bow River Hockey Association” on his behalf.
Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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VAN ESVELD, Gijsbertje “Betty” GIJSBERTJE (BETTY) VAN ESVELD (VAN OMME) 1932 – 2025 The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 With sadness, and yet with gratefulness for her life, the family of Betty Van Esveld share that she passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, two weeks after her 92nd birthday.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the BETHEL FREE REFORMED CHURCH OF MONARCH, 314 Eastman Avenue PO Box 10 Monarch, Alberta, with Pastor Jeff Overduin, officiating. The service will be livestreamed at https://web.sermonaudio.com/broadcasters/bethelfrc
A private family Interment will be held prior at the Monarch Cemetery.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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MATIS, Herbert “Herb” Herbert “Herb” Matis 1949 – 2025 Dad, Herb Matis, 75, passed away peacefully at home after a year or so of many ups and downs with his health.
Dad was born September 11, 1949, to Benjamin & Gertrude (nee Pauls) Matis. Our grandparents immigrated to Canada in 1948. He was the first member of his family to be born in Canada. He was born and raised in Coaldale with his 4 siblings. Dad was the middle child with brothers Richard, Eric, Rudy & sister Elvira. In 1970, he married our mom, Mavis (nee Roper) and we came along in 1971 & 1973.
By trade, he was a skilled carpenter and a wood magician! He followed in the footsteps of his dad. The boys worked with Grandpa from an early age learning their craft and building houses, including his house he lived in from 1973 until his death. He had a great pride in the house. Always, almost until his death, he was busy taking care of it and renovating it. The house holds a lot of his magnificent woodwork.
In 2001, Dad married Helga (nee Schneider) and they spent the last 24 years making memories together. They like to spend their time fishing at White Swan, BC, and Chinook Lake, AB. They also did a lot of travelling to Germany to see Helga’s children & grandchildren. In Germany, he was also able to find and build a relationship with one of Grandpa’s brothers – Willi -. I think Dad’s relationship with him made dad very happy as he was always talking about him. Dad and Helga also loved going for their daily Tim Horton’s for coffee and blueberry muffins.
He finally retired some years back. Yes, the man who had a work ethic the rivaled no one (well maybe his brothers), actually retired. In his retirement, he would do work around the home and kept his yard in immaculate shape to keep himself busy. Dad was never one to sit still for very long. In October 2023, he was working in the yard and took a major fall while pruning his trees. This started the year of ups and downs with his health. 2024 was a year of a different sort of work. He battled everything that was thrown at him like a champion.
Dad was predeceased by his parents, Ben & Gertrude as well as his older brothers Richard & Eric.
He is survived by us, his children, Jennifer (Joseph) Vadnais and Kevin (Marli Duncan) Matis; and grandchildren Kaden and Mykah; his wife Helga and her children, Tino Fritzsch (Manuela) and Claudia Fritzsch; and grandchildren Lea & Luis. Dad is also survived by his younger siblings Rudy Matis & Elvira (Albert) Penner and his nieces & nephews.
As per Dad’s wishes, we will not be having a funeral. He made clear to us he wanted to be scattered between his two favorite fishing spots – White Swan & Chinook Lake. We will be planning a private celebration of his life later this year.
In lieu of flowers, Dad would be please if you wish to make a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada. He had a valve replacement in 1997, so this was a charity he always supported.
Dad, enjoy your endless fishing. Crank up the music and say hi to all the family that has gone before us. Take it easy, you earned it! And we hope Hansi has found you at the Rainbow Bridge already. We will miss you!
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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HIGGINSON, Allan HIGGINSON ALLAN ANDREW HIGGINSON, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Gay Higginson, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit.
The family of Allan Higginson invites relatives and friends to attend an evening of fellowship and closure in Allan’s honour in the Fireside Room at CHRIST THE REDEEMER ANGLICAN CHURCH, 2820 – 18 Avenue North, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, January 25, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., with a short program to start at 6:00 P.M.
In memory of Allan, please honour him by doing a random act of kindness for someone in need.

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

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QUON, Vivian VIVIAN QUON 1959 ~ 2025 Vivian Quon of Lethbridge passed away at Chinook Regional Hospital on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at the age of 66 years.
Vivian was born on January 1, 1959, little sister to brothers Phil and Richard and cherished daughter of Frank and Marjory Quon. After graduating high school, Vivian studied business at the Lethbridge College, first working Datatron, then working several years at Smith’s Custom Audio Video. She finished her career working 35 years for the Palliser school division.
In her spare time, Vivian played soft ball and was an exceptional bowler, playing mixed league at Galaxy for several years. She was a devoted daughter, loving sister and doting aunt. Her love language was gifting gifts and her generosity was boundless.
Vivian is survived by her mother Marjory Quon; brothers Phil Quon and Richard (Alva) Quon; sister-in-law Sonia Quon; niece Paris Quon; nephew Xavier Quon and cousin Henry Mak. She is predeceased by her father Frank Quon.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM, on Friday, January 31, 2025, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Pastor Bruce Martin, officiating. To watch the service via livestream please go to, https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Vivian-Quon. A private family Interment will take place.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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QUESNELLE, Arnold “Adair” QUESNELLE February 26, 1981 – January 20, 2025 ARNOLD “ADAIR” QUESNELLE, beloved husband of Heather and father of Cheyenne (Kyzer Bird) (grandchildren Elliana and Kylo), Rylee, Skye, Max, Johnny, and Jack passed away on January 20, 2025 at the age of 43 years. A Wake Service will be held at the Tanner Center, Cardston, AB on Monday, January 27 from 5:00 – 11:00 pm and on Tuesday January 28 from 11:00 am – 11:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held at the Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve on Wednesday, January 29 at 1:00 pm. The interment will follow in the Bull Horn family cemetery, Blood Reserve.
To send a condolence please visit http://www.legacyfuneralhome.ca

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ENTZ, Darius ENTZ DARIUS G. ENTZ, beloved husband of Amanda Entz, passed away unexpectedly at the Crystal Spring Colony on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 at the age of 36 years.
A 2-day Wake will be held at the CRYSTAL SPRING COLONY, Magrath, AB on Saturday January 25, 2025 and Sunday January 26, 2025 both staring at 7:30 P.M
A Funeral Service will be held at the CRYSTAL SPRING COLONY, Magrath, AB on Monday January 27th, 2025 at 12:30 P.M
Interment will follow at the Crystal Spring Colony Cemetery.

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

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TENDLER, John TENDLER JOHN IVAN TENDLER of Lethbridge, AB, beloved Husband of the late Helen Tendler passed away peacefully at Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the age of 95.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Cornerstone Funeral Home, 2825-32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 11:00AM with Pat Siedlecki officiating.
Following the Celebration of Life, John will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery. Cremation entrusted to Cornerstone Funeral Home.
In Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.
https://crhfoundation.ca

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

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WILDE, Jane WILDE (Mary) Jane Wilde (nee Erickson) beloved wife of Ross Dale Wilde passed away peacefully Thursday morning January 23, 2025 at the age of 88 years.
She leaves her loving children, Jesse (Lawnee-deceased) (Angela) of Lethbridge, Barb (Jack) of Edmonton, Eric (Stacy) of Lethbridge, Ingrid (Peter) of Spokane, Doug (Rachell) of Lethbridge; 22 Grandchildren; 68 Great-grandchildren.
Jane was born July 3, 1936 in Lethbridge, Alberta. Daughter of Thomas Erickson and Mary Jane Dunn. Jane lived in Magrath until she married Ross Wilde on November 15, 1958 and moved to Welling, they later moved to Calgary and then on to Edmonton to pursue Ross’ law degree. After law school they moved to Lethbridge in 1966. Lethbridge has been their home ever since.
Jane’s life has been one of kindness and service. She will always be remembered for these principles which she selflessly exemplified.
Funeral Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2410 28 St South, Monday, January 27, 2025 at 11:00 am. Bishop Ed Wilson officiating. Friends may meet the family on Sunday, February 26 from 7-8 pm at Salmon and Sons Funeral Home, 433 Stubb Ross Rd, Lethbridge, AB or 10:00-10:45 am prior to the service at the church.
Our sincere appreciation to each of you who were in any way a part of the care, kindness, and love shown to Jane. To the doctors and staff of the medical care facilities (Edith Cavell), to friends and relatives, we thank you for your visits, concern and assistance. To the many who have shown kindness and thoughtfulness at the time of her passing and assisted in any way, we are truly grateful.
– The family of Jane Wilde To send a condolence, please visit http://www.salmonandsons.ca

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YACKOBECK, Keith KEITH YACKOBECK June 29, 1959 – January 21, 2025 It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Keith on January 21, 2025.
A Public Viewing will be held at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2424 5 Avenue, Fort Macleod, AB on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 12:00 – 3:00 PM. Friends and family are welcome to come and share in memorable moments.
To send a condolence, please visit http://www.edensfuneralhome.com

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JOHNSON, George George Johnson 1927 – 2025 George Leslie Arthur Johnson of Lethbridge passed away on Jan. 23, 2025, at the age of 97, beloved husband of Pam Johnson of Lethbridge, and dear father of Dale (Gloria), Geordie, and Cathy. Loving Grandad of Jarid (Lisa), and Tyler (Courtney). He was “George” to his two much loved great grand-sons and two much loved great grand-daughters.
George was born in Claresholm on Dec 27, 1927, and was raised and educated in the Porcupine Hills and Fort Macleod. He was married to Pam Syme on Aug 26, 1950, and they were fortunate enough to have celebrated 74 years together. His working years were spent in the family business, Johnson Brothers Sawmill, west of Fort Macleod and then in Cowley, until it was sold in 1984. He and Pam were interested in wind energy and they installed a turbine south of Cowley in 1993. In 1995 he and Pam moved to Pincher Creek, and in 2004 they moved to Lethbridge and enjoyed several winters in Arizona.
Besides his loving family, George is survived by two sisters-in-law: one brother-in-law, as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Margaret Johnson; his brother Gordon and wife Rose; his little brother Ray; his baby sister Helen; his nephew Tim Johnson, and his son-in-law Graeme Campbell.
A private Interment will take place at a later date. Cremation has been entrusted to Martin Brothers Riverview Chapel.
Flowers are gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to STARS.
A Prayer For Today
Thank you God for a pair of eyes
That I may see thy way,
And let me stop and gaze upon
The beauty of each day.
Thank you God for my two hands
That work I’ll surely do,
Let me toil from morn ’til night
And let it pleaseth you.
Thank you God for my two ears
That I may hear you say,
“Come my friend and follow me
And I will show the way.”
Thank you God for a pair of feet
That I may follow you,
And tread along life’s lonely path
In search of all that’s true.
Thank you God for health and strength
For food and friends and home,
Daily let me talk with you
And never walk alone.
Thank you God for love and hope.
I too, someday will die,
Then open up your gates for me
I pray, don’t pass me by.
We shall not mourn nor weep today
Truly God knows best,
For someday we will meet again
When all are laid to rest.
Visit http://www.mbfunerals.com to send a condolence.

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